A note regarding COVID-19
Upcoming Events in Austin
Austin
“American Modernism from the Charles Butt Collection: From Edward Hopper to Alma Thomas”
March 8-Aug. 2
Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
The Blanton Museum presents the first exhibition dedicated to the collection of businessman, philanthropist, and Texas native Charles Butt. “American Modernism from the Charles Butt Collection: From Edward Hopper to Alma Thomas” brings together more than 80 paintings and works on paper by icons of American modern art. The exhibition is organized by Amon Carter Museum of American Art in Fort Worth. A visionary collector, Butt has played a pivotal role in preserving and celebrating American modernism through his carefully curated collection of landmark works, which showcase the movement’s richness and reflect his vision of American creativity as well as his civic dedication and commitment to education. The exhibition also travels to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the McNay Art Museum in San Antonio.
The Drop-In Summer Concert Series
May 22-Aug. 14
Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive
See a free outdoor concert series every Thursday. This year’s artists include Andrew Cashen and The Disciples of Creation, Angelica Rahe, Blakchyl, Brownout, cheetah cheetah, Chicoselfie, Cilantro Boombox, Geto Gala, Hotel de Nova, Jo Alice, L.C. Franke, Mama Duke, Nane ft. Quentin Arispe, Next of Kin, Parker Woodland, Pelvis Wrestley, The Point., promqueen, Skateland, Starflake, and Superfonicos.
Hauntings, Apparitions, and Ashes of Austin Ghost Tour
June 1-Aug. 31
Various locations, 205 E. Eighth St.
From the infamous witch trials to tragic events that still echo through Austin’s streets, guides expertly weave together the supernatural with Austin’s historical tapestry, creating an experience that leaves you both fascinated and spooked.
“Seared”
June 5-28
Austin Playhouse, 405 W. 22nd St.
The heat is on in this sizzling new comedy. A brilliant but temperamental chef creates a dish so good it puts his struggling restaurant on the map, but success comes with a side of chaos. As business booms, egos clash and loyalties are tested in this fiery battle between passion and profit. Perfect for fans of “The Bear,” “Seared” is filled with sharp dialogue, mouthwatering stakes, and a feast for the senses. Audiences are close to the action as Austin Playhouse is transformed into the intimate kitchen of a New York City restaurant.
Sunset After Dark Comedy Show
June 19-26
Sunset Strip Comedy Club, 214 E. Sixth St., Unit C
Sunset Strip After Dark is a late-night comedy showcase featuring Austin’s funniest comedians performing their sharpest, most unfiltered material. Expect big laughs, bold sets, and a rotating lineup of established killers and rising stars. The shows are Friday nights, and there’s a full bar.
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show
June 20
Hotel Indigo, 810 Red River St.
Solve a hilarious mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. Just beware! The culprit is hiding in plain sight somewhere in the room, and you may find yourself as a prime suspect before you know it.
Juneteenth Celebration
June 21
Neill-Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St.
Join in for a day of celebration and reflection as you commemorate emancipation and the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom and the ongoing journey towards equality. This event is free and open to the public. Free parking is available behind the museum. The celebration includes a free barbecue lunch, live music, tours, and activities. Guests can tour the Neill-Cochran House and grounds as well.
Austin Asian American Film Festival
June 24-28
AFS Cinema and Event Hall, 6406 IH-35 North Frontage Road, Suite 3100
Feature filmmakers’ unique voices are celebrated in a forum where viewers come together to experience the wide array of Asian American Pacific Islander perspectives. Narrative features and shorts and documentary features and shorts are showcased throughout the festival.
“Annie”
June 24-Aug. 2
Zach Theater, 202 S. Lamar Blvd.
With unshakable hope, little orphan Annie sets out to find the family she’s always dreamed of. “Annie” is the musical phenomenon that has dazzled generations of fans with its show-stopping numbers, spunky spirit, and big heart. Featuring some of the most iconic songs in all of musical theater, like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” this cherished story is sure to leave you smiling. It’s a joyful celebration of belonging and a timeless reminder that sunshine is still just a day away.
Austin African American Book Festival
June 27
George Washington Carver Museum, 1165 Angelina St.
The annual Austin African American Book Festival promotes literature, reading, and writing within the African American community. Focusing on authors and cultural leaders who have been influenced by African American literature, the event includes a keynote address, local author showcases, and author interviews and discussions.
Del Castillo in Concert
June 27
Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Drive
Del Castillo is a cross-cultural power uniting music lovers of all ages, creeds, and colors. Their original music blends rock, Latin, blues, and world music into a cinematic celebration of sound that lifts your soul.
Star Spangled Fest
July 3-4
Auditorium Shores, 800 W. Riverside Drive
Celebrate Independence Day the Austin way with a two-day extravaganza of live music, local eats, games, and patriotic fun, all leading up to the city’s iconic lakefront fireworks show.
Outlaw Music Festival Tour/Willie’s Fourth of July Picnic
July 4
Germania Insurance Amphitheater, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd.
The tour enters its second decade on the road and includes Willie Nelson’s annual Fourth of July Picnic with special guests Billy Strings and Rodney Crowell. Other performers on the tour include Sheryl Crow, Wilco, Margo Price, and the Avett Brothers.
blackbirdpresents.com/concert/ outlaw-music-festival-tour-2026
Dinosaur Day
July 11
Texas Science and Natural History Museum, 2400 Trinity St.
Visit Texas Science and Natural History Museum to celebrate all things dino. Enjoy family-friendly educational activities, explore the museum’s interactive Discovery Center and newly updated Paleontology Gallery, and bring fossils for in-person identification by a paleontologist. Check out a 33-foot cast replica of a full tyrannosaur skeleton and see a wide assortment of paleontology specimens. Plus, get 20% off select dinosaur-themed merchandise in the Museum Store. All activities are included with admission.
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show
July 11
Hotel Indigo, 810 Red River St.
Solve a hilarious mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. Just beware! The culprit is hiding in plain sight somewhere in the room, and you may find yourself as a prime suspect before you know it.
Hot Summer Nights
July 24-26
Red River Cultural District, 900 Red River St.
Hot Summer Nights is back for another year to curate a three-day weekend filled with admission-free concerts for fans, taking place across 10 live music venues.
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show
July 25
Hotel Indigo, 810 Red River St.
Solve a hilarious mystery while you feast on a fantastic dinner. Just beware! The culprit is hiding in plain sight somewhere in the room, and you may find yourself as a prime suspect before you know it.
PBR Gambler Days
Aug. 21-23
Moody Center, 2001 Robert Dedman Drive
When professional bull riders compete on teams, the excitement level produced by the thrilling man-versus-beast matchups PBR is known for becomes even more intense. Bull riding games bring fans two hours of heart-pounding, edge-of-your-seat athletic competition in an atmosphere that provides fun, high-energy family entertainment.
Pride Festival and Parade
Aug. 22
Downtown, Congress Avenue
Celebrated during Austin Pride Month each August, don’t miss this giant parade down Congress Avenue during the largest annual LGBTQI advocacy and fundraising event in Central Texas.
Austin Women in Jazz Festival
Sept. 5
Austin PBS Pfluger Keller Soundstage Theatre, 6101 Highland Campus Drive, Building 3000
The fourth annual Austin Women in Jazz Festival brings nationally acclaimed jazz artists Gerald Albright, Jazmin Ghent, Althea Rene, Kayla Waters, and Pamela Hart to Austin PBS for an unforgettable Labor Day Weekend celebration of live jazz, culture, and community.
Bat Fest
Sept. 5
Congress Ave Bridge, 100 S. Congress Ave.
Celebrate this batty event as the world’s largest urban bat colony takes flight. Spectators can see bats take to the skies for their nightly flight, and enjoy live music, children’s activities, and family fun.
The Front Fest
Sept. 5-7
Various locations
The Front Fest is an end-of-summer festival featuring performances, films, and creative experiences curated by Future Front. Hosted annually in Austin, Future Front puts Texas women and LGBTQ+ creatives of all kinds at the front of their lineups.
Levitation Fest
Sept. 10-13
Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road
The psychedelic music and art festival is a four-day weekend of music that brings art to Austin’s diverse Red River Cultural District and east-side venues and art spaces.
Mind-Nature Connection Walk
Sept. 12
Nalle Bunny Run Wildlife Preserve, 4615 Bunny Run
An immersive walk through Nalle Bunny Run Preserve explores what our senses tune into, how the brain and body react, and when and how to apply simple practices. This is a 2-hour experience at a leisurely pace with opportunities to explore multiple habitats on the preserve and pauses for discussion.
hillcountryconservancy.org/event/nature-immersion-walk-at-bunny-run-wildlife-preserve
Fantastic Fest
Sept. 17-24
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema , 1911 Aldrich St., Suite 120
Fantastic Fest is the largest genre film festival in the U.S., specializing in horror, fantasy, sci-fi, action, and just plain fantastic movies from around the world.
Museum Day
Sept. 20
Various locations
The annual Museum Day is a free, citywide celebration of art, culture, history, music, nature, and science. More than 20 museums in the greater Austin area welcome visitors with special programming, including guided exhibition tours and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.
Pride in Local Music
Sept. 21
3Ten ACL Live, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd.
Pride in Local Music is a dynamic music festival that began during the pandemic as a way for the Austin LGBT Chamber to support Austin’s live music scene and creative economy. Since its inception, the Chamber has supported more than 20 local LGBTQIA artists through the festival.
HAAM Day Festival
Sept. 22
Various locations
Music lovers hear live music from grocery stores, restaurants, shops, rooftops, in parks, and live music venues in an effort to raise awareness and critical funds for the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM). Most performances are free, open to the public, and family-friendly.
Patricia Vonne’s “My Heart’s Got A Mind of Its Own” Official Album Release Show
Sept. 25
The Continental Club, 1315 S. Congress Ave.
Equal parts velvet and desert dust, songwriter, actress, and filmmaker Patricia Vonne continues her celebration of the music and culture of her beloved South Texas with the upcoming release of her tenth album, “My Heart’s Got A Mind of Its Own.” With this new project, she brings her signature magnetism to fans wrapped up in a noir-meets-fiesta package.
Banger’s Oktoberfest
Sept. 25-27
Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden, 79 Rainey St.
Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden, home to Austin’s widest selection of handmade sausages and craft beer, celebrates Oktoberfest with German-influenced food, beer, and live music.
Summer Carnival
Sept. 28
Venue ATX, 516 E. Sixth St.
Austin Summer Carnival is a vibrant celebration of African heritage with Brazilian, Latin, Caribbean, and African rhythms, hosted every last Saturday of summer.
Boz Scaggs in Concert
Oct. 1
Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive
Boz Scaggs is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist. An early bandmate of Steve Miller in The Ardells and the Steve Miller Band, he began his solo career in 1969, though he lacked a major hit until his 1976 album, “Silk Degrees.” He’s known for his 1976 songs “Lido Shuffle” and “Lowdown.”
Austin City Limits Music Festival
Oct. 2-11
Zilker Park , 2207 Lou Neff Road
Back for its 25th year, Austin City Limits Music Festival brings the magic of the famed public TV series “Austin City Limits” outside the studio and into Austin’s most beloved park. A diverse lineup of acts perform every year with nine stages, 100+ performances, and, best of all, two weekends.
Boo at the Zoo
Oct. 2-24
Austin Zoo, 10808 Rawhide Trail
Bring the kids in full costume to Boo at the Zoo, where they can experience the Austin Zoo in a whole new way: in the dark. Train rides, musical entertainment, and unlimited haunted house visits are also included in the fun.
Oktoberfest
Oct. 3
Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.
Hosted in tandem with the Austin Saengerrunde, the 2026 festival features live music, classic German-style beers, a massive sausage competition, and historic bowling lanes.
“My Hero Academia” in Concert
Oct. 9
Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive
Experience the heroism of “My Hero Academia,” celebrating 10 years of unforgettable adventures. From Deku’s first steps to the thrilling battles, this live concert brings the anime’s full eight-season journey to life on stage. Accompanied by a 15-piece live band performing Yuki Hayashi’s iconic score perfectly synced with striking visuals of your favorite scenes, every note captures the triumph, heartbreak, and courage of Class 1-A, creating an immersive concert experience for fans new and old alike.
texasperformingarts.org/event/my-hero-academia-2026-bass-concert-hall-austin-texas
Oktoberfest
Oct. 10
German-Texans Heritage Society, 507 E. 10th St.
Enjoy an afternoon of all things German with lot of kids activities, pumpkin painting, German music and food, and a beer garden.
The Roosevelt Room’s Master Class Series - Vodka, Gin, Genever, and Aquavit
Oct. 11
The Roosevelt Room, 307 W. Fifth St.
Join in for a guided tasting through the crisp, botanical, and beautifully nuanced world of vodka, gin, genever, and aquavit. Explore the surprisingly dramatic history of grain spirits, how they’re produced around the world, and why these clear spirits continue to dominate cocktail culture from dive bars to luxury hotel lounges. Guests receive a curated flight of 12 spirits, two classic cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres.
Planet KPOP: The Ultimate KPOP Tribute Concert
Oct. 14
Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive
Experience the music of KPop Demon Hunters, BTS, Huntr/x, Blackpink, and more in a high-energy tribute show brought to life by live singers and dancers.
“Be Like Blippi” Tour
Oct. 16
Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive
The Be Like Blippi Tour invites you to break out your orange Blippi glasses and ignite that spark of curiosity that lives inside every single one of us and share in an unforgettable experience that encourages kids to be like Blippi.
texasperformingarts.org/event/be-like-blippi-tour-2026-bass-concert-hall-austin-texas
Hot Luck Festival
Oct. 16-17
Franklin Barbecue, 900 E. Eleventh St.
Austin’s beloved Hot Luck Festival is returning for two days this fall. Hot Luck Festival is a fun, chef-driven celebration of fire, food, music, and camaraderie. Come hungry, thirsty, and bring your dancin’ boots. A wide variety of food and music events comprise the event.
Halloween Children’s Concert
Oct. 18
Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Drive
Austin Symphony Orchestra takes a daring voyage into pirate territory for this annual family favorite. Navigate the treacherous seas of pirate fears and delights as manifested in short works of beloved orchestral music. There’s a costume contest, so come dressed as your favorite character, ghost, or goblin.
Gem Capers
Oct. 23-25
Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road
Hosted by the Austin Gem and Mineral Society, this gem and mineral show offers over 30 vendors selling jewelry, beads, gemstones, minerals, crystals, fossils, and spheres. Exhibits include a touch table of rocks and fossils, fluorescent minerals, and members’ collections.
Formula 1 United States Grand Prix
Oct. 23-25
Circuit of The Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd
An action-packed experience fuses world-class racing with major championship implications. There’s no shortage of star power off-track as superstars hit the Super Stage with post-race performances each night. Maroon 5 is scheduled for Friday night, and Post Malone is scheduled for Saturday night.
Film Festival
Oct. 29-Nov. 5
Downtown
The Austin Film Festival (AFF) is a premier annual event that celebrates the art of storytelling through film, television, and digital media. Known for its focus on the craft of screenwriting, AFF brings together industry professionals, emerging filmmakers, and movie enthusiasts from around the world.
U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game
Oct. 31
H.E.B Center at Cedar Park, 2100 Avenue of the Stars
H-E-B Center at Cedar Park plays host to the 2026 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game between the University of North Dakota and Michigan State.
hebcenter.com/events/detail/2026-us-hockey-hall-of-fame-game
Garage and Estate Sale
Nov. 4-8
Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road
The annual Garage and Estate Sale gives attendees a unique opportunity to purchase from thousands of items at bargain prices. Ranging from jewelry, tools, vintage collectibles, and children’s clothing, there’s something for everyone. Shop 21 departments for treasures and walk away with great deals.
“After”
Nov. 5-22
Link and Pin Gallery, 2235 E. Sixth St., Suite 102
See a group exhibition during the Austin Studio Tour using landscape as a window to the possibilities of a post-human future.
Celtic Festival
Nov. 7-8
Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Drive
The Austin Celtic Festival is a premier celebration of Celtic culture, music, and arts. This vibrant festival brings together top-tier performers, musicians, dancers, and artists from around the world to showcase the rich traditions of Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and other Celtic nations.
Studio Tour
Nov. 8-16
Various locations
Austin Studio Tour is a free, city-wide event that invites the public into working artists studios, galleries, and creative spaces across the city. Anyone can browse listings online and in the print guide to find unique locations to visit, purchase art, learn about the creative process, and meet Austin’s most talented artists.
Run For The Water
Nov. 8
Downtown , 900 W. Cesar Chavez St.
Each November, over 5,000 runners and walkers take to the streets of downtown Austin for the annual Run For The Water 5K, 10-Miler, and Kids K through the beautiful West Austin course.
PGA Tour: Good Good Championship
Nov. 9-15
Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa Golf Courses, 8212 Barton Club Drive
This inaugural tournament features a field size of 120 players.
A Christmas Affair
Nov. 13-22
Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road
Come together under twinkling lights to shop, celebrate, and give back. The Junior League of Austin’s A Christmas Affair is more than a marketplace. It’s a cherished holiday tradition that celebrates the warmth of community and the joy of generosity while raising critical funds to empower women and strengthen lives across Central Texas.
Texas Book Festival
Nov. 14-15
Texas State Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave.
Founded in 1995, the book festival has evolved into one of the premier literary events in the country and hosts about 300 authors each year. Join other bookworms for readings, panel discussions, signings, cooking demonstrations, local food, an exhibitor marketplace, and the popular Saturday night Lit Crawl.
“Nurse John: Against Medical Advice Tour”
Nov. 14
Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive
John Dela Cruz, widely recognized by fans around the globe as Nurse John, is a stand-up comedian born in the Philippines and now based in Los Angeles. An actual nurse by profession turned viral creator, John is a comedian by heart. His comedy feels like talking to your work bestie, as his portrayals of life working in healthcare have proven to be hilariously relatable to those both in and out of the healthcare industry.
Texas Craft Brewers Festival
Nov. 14
Fiesta Gardens, 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St
Eighty five Texas craft breweries and more than 200 handcrafted beers are available for sampling. It’s the largest celebration of small and independent Texas craft brewers anywhere. There’s also food trucks and live music.
“Outlander” in Concert
Nov. 28
Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive
A live orchestra performs Bear McCreary’s acclaimed score from the television show, “Outlander,” while highlights from eight seasons illuminate the screen. Relive Claire and Jamie’s journey as Scotland’s Celtic sound takes the spotlight.
texasperformingarts.org/event/outlander-in-concert-2026-bass-concert-hall-austin-texas