Austin, TX
Best Fun Events In Austin This Weekend Of May 23, 2025
Best Fun Events in Austin this Weekend of May 23, 2025
Our top picks for the Best Fun Events in Austin this Weekend of May 23
Check out the full list below!
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Free Things To Do in Austin this Weekend
Two-Step Night
Lace up your dancing boots and get ready to tap, tap, tap along the dance floor in this two-steppin’ fun night! The night will feature interactive two-step lessons for all levels set to a lively Western playlist.
And for those who want to keep dancing into the night, this will be followed by a live band who’ll play until the end of the event.
When: Friday, May 23, 2025 | 7 pm – 1 pm
Where: Moody Amphitheater, 1401 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701
How Much: Free
Treaty Oak Distilling Memorial Day Block Party
Kick off summer while celebrating Memorial day with friends and family in this fun-coded block party! Get stuffed with amazing tacos from gourmet taco stations, say cheers to celebrated heroes with craft cocktails, and get to shop from local vendors at the farmers market.
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 12 pm – 4 pm
Where: Treaty Oak Distilling, 16604 Fitzhugh Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
How Much: Free
Memorial Day Community Bike Ride
Pedal your way into summer fun with Bastrop’s Memorial Day Community Bike Ride! This event is divided into two rides: one is a family-friendly ride that kids can join in the park and the other is an adults ride that will start from the park and go through Riverside Grove.
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 9 am
Where: Bob Bryant Park, 600 Charles Blvd, Bastrop, TX 78602
How Much: Free
Ice Cream Social and Summer Kick-Off
Cool the summer heat with some ice-cold and refreshing ice cream treats at Vista Brewing this weekend. Beanz Creamz are bringing the locally made, nostalgic treats to the ranch for guests to enjoy
While the kids can enjoy all kinds of push pops and freezy pops flavors, adults can go for the limited edition Ice Cream Beer Float.
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 1 pm – 5 pm
Where: Vista Brewing, 13551 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Driftwood, TX 78619
How Much: Free
Things To Do in Austin this Weekend – Friday Events
Broadway in Austin: Moulin Rouge the Musical
Image credit: Austin.broadway
Prepare to be swept away by the Tony Award®-winning sensation, Moulin Rouge! The Musical.
Step into a dazzling realm of romance and extravagance, where bohemians and aristocrats collide in an electrifying spectacle of love, music, and dance.
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, May 23 – 25, 2025
How Much: Not stated
Julius Caesar
Witness Austin Shakespeare’s bold take on Julius Caesar, where a powerful ensemble of women takes center stage as the conspirators.
Intrigued? Mark your calendars this weekend!
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, May 23 – 25, 2025 | 8 pm – 10:30 pm
How Much: Free
Memorial Day Weekend: Summer Hills Kickoff
Image credit: Omni Barton Creek Resort and Spa
Pack your Memorial Day weekend with high-energy music under the stars with the summer hills kickoff!
On Friday, country legend Jack Ingram will be delivering the ultimate summer soundtrack at Barton Creek Live.
On Sunday, Barton Fest will be taking over the spotlight, featuring live music, artisan vendors, and the rich flavors of Texas. Stroll through curated selections from local breweries, distilleries, and wineries, explore a vendor market presented by ATX Vendor Popups, and savor gourmet bites—all available for purchase.
There will also be interactive exhibits and performances by local artists.
When: Friday – Sunday, May 23 – 25, 2025 | 8 pm
Where: Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, 8212 Barton Club Dr, Austin, TX 78735
How Much: Not stated
Austin Greek Festival
Image credit: Austin Greek Festival
The Austin Greek Festival is your passport to authentic Greek culture. Experience the energy of live Greek music, learn lively new dances, and be captivated by stunning dance performances.
Don’t forget to savor delicious Greek cuisine, sip fine Greek wine, and indulge in delectable pastries.
Where: Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church, 414 St Stephen’s School Rd S, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, May 23 – 25, 2025
How Much: $5 | Free for kids 10 and under, military, and first responders
Hot Luck Live Food Festival
Image credit: Hot Luck
Imagine potlucks and backyard barbecues, but better and bigger. That’s what the much-anticipated Hot Luck Live Food Festival is.
In this chef-driven celebration of fire, food, music, and camaraderie, you’ll get to indulge in an a la carte eat-with-your-fingers picnic and party experience that highlights open-pit feats of culinary know how. So come hungry and with your best dancing shoes on!
Where: Various locations throughout Austin
When: Friday, May 23 – 25, 2025
How Much: Varies
MLP Austin Pickleball Tournament
Image credit: Major League Pickleball
For the first time since its groundbreaking debut in 2021 and 2022, MLP is returning to its Austin roots bigger and better than ever.
If you’re a pickleball fan, this will be four days of exciting competition among the world’s best players competing for a spot in the MLP playoffs this coming August. Grab your tickets now!
Where: Austin Pickle Ranch, 11000 Middle Fiskville Road, Austin, TX 78753
When: Friday, May 23 – 26, 2025
How Much: Starts at $30
Austin Sketch Fest
Get ready for one of the most hilarious festivals in Austin! Featuring the best scripted comedy from Austin and the wilderness beyond, the Austin Sketch Fest will surely lift your spirits.
Grab your tickets now and take the blues away for the weekend here!
Where: ColdTowne Theater, 1700 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, May 23 – 25, 2025
How Much: Not stated
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Saturday Events
Blue Genie Art Bazaar May Market
Dive into the fifth annual May Market and discover a vibrant collection of unique creations, showcasing the talents of nearly 200 regional artists and artisans.
Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Saturday, May 24 – June 1, 2025 | 10 am
How Much: Free entry
Touch the Art
At the transformed ART HQ, you’re invited to touch, explore, and truly connect with installations and pieces from over 50 artists. This includes unique collaborations with the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
Your ticket also includes a themed drink (cocktail or mocktail) plus a special edition “Touch the Art” sticker.
Where: Almost Real Things HQ, 820 Shelby Ln #103, Austin, TX 78745
When: Saturday, May 24 – 25, 2025 | 7 pm – 9 pm
How Much: $12 – $20
Memorial Day Freedom Run 5K/10K/13.1
Honor, remember, and run for freedom at the Memorial Day Freedom Run! Whether you’re running solo or with friends and family, this can be your unique way to honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed for your freedom.
All participants will have optional timing and personalized swag bags including running t-shirts, finishers medals, and digital training packs.
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 7:30 am
Where: Brushy Creek Lake Park, 3300 Brushy Creek Rd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
How Much: Starts at $32.80
Austin Margarita Festival
Head into a weekend bursting with flavor and fun at Austin’s margarita festival! Enjoy refreshing drinks and mouthwatering food while grooving to the electrifying live tunes of The Spazmatics.d
Where: Round Rock Amp, 3701 N Interstate Hwy 35, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 12 pm
How Much: $15 – $65
The Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show
Prepare for a fantastic dinner where a hilarious mystery unfolds around you. But be warned: the culprit lurks among you, and you might just become the prime suspect.
Your ticket unlocks not only the award-winning mystery show but also a delicious plated dinner, covers the waitstaff gratuity, and promises plenty of unexpected twists and turns.
Where: Double Tree Austin – University Area, 1617 N Interstate Hwy 35, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 6 pm – 9 pm
How Much: $69.99
Hot Luck Festival presents Al Fuego
Al Fuego is blazing its way back to Austin! Witness firsthand the artistry of chefs as they command the flames, transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes.
This open-air spectacle is a feast for the senses and a fantastic way to experience the heart of live-fire culinary culture.
Where: Jester King Brewery, 13187 Fitzhugh Rd, Austin, TX 78736
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Starts at $125
Radiohead Concert in the Dark with Live Strings
Hear Radiohead’s music come to life through violin, clarinet, piano, and acoustic guitar under the soft glow of candlelight.
Beyond the Radiohead you know and love, you’ll also hear original compositions by the show’s creator, Will Taylor, interwoven into the show.
Where: Casa de Luz Village, 1701 Toomey Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, May 24, 2025 | 8 pm – 9 pm
How Much: $0 – $30
City-Wide Vintage Sale
Hunt for hidden gems at the City-Wide Vintage Sale, the city’s legendary vintage market. Discover a treasure trove presented by over 80 unique vendors from across Texas and beyond.
Here, you’ll find everything from stylish mid-century furniture to rare collectibles and one-of-a-kind vintage clothing, promising something special for every taste.
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, May 24 – 25, 2025 | 8:30 am – 5 pm
How Much: $10
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Sunday Events
Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park
Escape the heat and discover the Austin Symphony Orchestra’s vibrant Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park.
This 23rd season offers FREE ensemble performances, a gift to the Austin community, allowing everyone to connect with the joy of classical music. Performances range from jazz and light classical tunes to familiar pops and film scores.
Where: South Steps of the State Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, May 25 – June 29, 2025 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Free
Hometown Half Marathon
Image credit: Bodies Race Company
Get the whole family into the fun of the annual hometown half-marathon!
The marathon includes swag (designer shirt & custom medal), chip-timing with live results and awards, pacers for the half marathon, free photos, and treats waiting at the finish line.
Where: Southeast Metropolitan Park – Softball Field 1, 4511 State Hwy 71, Del Valle, TX 78617
When: Sunday, May 25, 2025 | 7 am
How Much: $15
Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay
Listen to the music of Coldplay played in a whole other magical way this weekend with Candlelight concerts. Enjoy the sweet and soul-pulling renditions of some of their hits including “Clocks,” “Don’t Panic,” and more played by the string quartet.
Where: St. David’s Episcopal Church, 301 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, May 25, 2025 | 8:45 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Starts at $32.48
Floaties Fest
If you’re looking for something unique to do this weekend in Austin, then don’t miss this first-of-its-kind festival happening on the water on Lake Austin, hosted by local captains and creators Captain Austin and Grant of Floaties Flootin Saloon.
The only way to attend the event is by boat. Book through Boatsetter and secure front-row views to live performances from local artists Travis Green, Ruel Thomas, and DJ Sam Clarke, all playing from aboard Big Flo, a new 16-passenger party boat.
You can also purchase food, drinks, and merch on the original Floaties Saloon boat.
Where: Boatsetter on Lake Austin, Texas
When: Sunday, May 25, 2025 | 1 pm – 5 pm
How Much: Varies
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Travel on your mind? Check out Free and Cheap Events in Houston this Weekend and Best Fun Events in Austin this Weekend.
Lacey is a freelancer and Austin local who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try, fun activities to do, and local events to attend. She loves sharing her discoveries with others through her writing and hopes her work encourages both visitors and locals to be active in the community. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring one of the city’s many hiking trails with her Blue Heeler, Oreo, getting lost in a good book, or dancing the night away to some house or techno beats at one of her favorite rave spots.
AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Fourth of July is just around the corner, and with it being America’s 250th birthday this year, celebrations will be big. But before you stop at your local fireworks stand, you should be familiar with the laws surrounding fireworks.
In Austin, fireworks are illegal to possess or use within city limits, unless a permit has been issued for a professional display, according to the city. Requests for aerial fireworks must be submitted at least 30 days ahead of the event.
Most major cities in Texas have similar fireworks bans in city limits, too.
At the state level, Texas only allows the sale and use of consumer fireworks under specific conditions. The Texas Occupations Code § 2154 outlines the laws surrounding who can sell fireworks, when sales are permitted, and what types of fireworks are allowed.
According to the Texas Association of Counties, the state allows the sale of fireworks during nine periods annually.
Those times are Fourth of July, December holidays (Christmas through New Year’s), Lunar New Year, Texas Independence Day, San Jacinto Day, Cinco de Mayo (only counties not more than 150 miles from Texas-Mexico border), Memorial Day, Juneteenth and Diwali.
Commissioners’ courts typically have to approve the regulation of fireworks within a certain timeframe ahead of each holiday.
The 2026 fireworks calendar can be found here.
According to Daly & Black P.C. Trial Lawyers, violations of fireworks laws can result in fines of up to $2,000 per incident and, in certain cases, criminal charges.
When Texas does allow the sale of fireworks, it only includes “consumer fireworks,” which are things like:
- Roman candles
- Sparklers
- Ground spinners
- Aerial shells (under specific size limits)
However, Texas law outright prohibits certain fireworks, which are considered too dangerous for consumer use. Those typically include:
- Sky rockets and bottle rockets
- Missiles with fins or rudders for aerodynamic flight
- Explosive fireworks exceeding 200 grams of pyrotechnic composition
Always check local burn bans and fireworks restrictions before popping fireworks.
A long holiday weekend and America’s 250th birthday are giving Central Texans even more reasons to celebrate this Fourth of July. From fireworks over Lady Bird Lake and Willie Nelson’s annual picnic to hometown parades and rooftop parties, there are plenty of ways to spend the day around the Austin area.
Here’s a look at some of the biggest events, from Austin’s signature Star-Spangled Fest to neighborhood traditions and Hill Country celebrations. Unless otherwise noted, all events take place Saturday, July 4.
The main events
Star-Spangled Fest
Auditorium Shores & Long Center, 900 W. Riverside Dr.
Austin’s signature Fourth of July celebration stretches from morning to night as the city marks America’s 250th anniversary. The day begins with The Morning Spin from 10 am to 1 pm, featuring house music, craft coffee, cocktails, local vendors, and food trucks. The evening festival returns at 4:30 pm with kids’ activities, food trucks, and performances by Austin soul-funk favorites Tomar & the FCs, country singer Shelby Stone, a Veteran Recognition Celebration, and the Austin Symphony Orchestra’s annual patriotic concert before fireworks over Lady Bird Lake at 9:45 pm. The concert and fireworks will also be simulcast on KMFA 89.5. A number of parking garages are open around the park. General admission is free. VIP Lawn Access starts at $45, while reserved tables and private cabana experiences range up to $2,500. Tickets and VIP packages are available through the Star-Spangled Fest website.
Several downtown hotels and rooftops are offering elevated alternatives to the crowds below along Auditorium Shores.
- P6 at The Line Austin is hosting its “Creole Surf Riot” celebration with live music by Louisiana Surf Department, Creole-inspired food stations, and two complimentary drinks. Early bird tickets start at $75, with general admission at $90.
- The Loren at Lady Bird Lake is celebrating with a waterfront barbecue, curated beverages, and live music by Working Title. Reservations are available from 6-10 pm, with the band performing from 6-11 pm. Admission is $98 per person, plus a 17 percent gratuity. The hotel recommends making reservations in advance, as last year’s Fourth of July celebration sold out.
- Otopia Rooftop at The Otis Hotel in West Campus is hosting a Fourth of July party from 7 -11 pm, featuring specialty cocktails with Still Austin Whiskey Co., a complimentary welcome cocktail, light bites for purchase, and giveaways. Tickets start at $23.18. The rooftop offers skyline views, though organizers note the downtown fireworks display is not visible from the venue.
Willie Nelson’s Fourth of July Picnic
Germania Insurance Amphitheater, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Del Valle
Fresh off his 93rd birthday, Willie Nelson returns to Circuit of The Americas for the latest edition of his annual Fourth of July Picnic, a Texas tradition spanning more than five decades. This year’s lineup features Willie Nelson & Family, bluegrass phenom Billy Strings, alternative rock legends Wilco, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Sheryl Crow, Lukas Nelson, Stephen Wilson Jr., Rodney Crowell, Margo Price, and Lily Meola. The evening concludes with fireworks. Gates open at 2:30 pm and music begins at 3:30 pm. Most tickets are priced around $100, with options ranging from reserved seating to pit tickets and VIP packages. Tickets, VIP packages, and the full event lineup are available on Willie Nelson’s official website.
Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival
12700 Hill Country Blvd., Ste. T-100, Bee Cave
Families looking to avoid the downtown crowds can head west for one of the area’s biggest free celebrations honoring America’s 250th birthday. More than 40 artisan vendors, carnival rides, water games, and complimentary face painting fill the afternoon before an evening of live music. School of Rock opens the entertainment at 4 pm, followed by CAZAYOUX, Jeska Forsyth, Jo James, and Austin Latin rock veterans Vallejo. Then fireworks complete the event. Attendees are invited to bring a lawn chair or blanket. The festival runs from 4-10 pm, with fireworks scheduled for about 9:40 pm. Admission and parking are free.
Red, White & Buda
Buda Amphitheater & City Park, 204 San Antonio St., Buda
Buda turns Independence Day into an all-day celebration, beginning with the community’s annual Bike Parade at 9 am. Festivities resume at 4 pm with a DJ, bounce houses, a splash pad, food vendors, a vendor market, cornhole, sand volleyball, and rock climbing. Live music begins with Elle Townley at 6:30 pm, followed by Shinyribs, the Gulf Coast soul and swamp-funk band led by former Gourds frontman Kevin Russell, at 7:40 pm. The evening concludes with fireworks at about 9:15 pm. Admission is free.
Free neighborhood parades and hometown traditions
Northwest Austin Civic Association
Austin’s largest neighborhood Independence Day parade happens in the North Austin Civic Association, at the 53rd annual Fourth of July Parade and Freedom Fest. The festivities begin with a community breakfast at 7:30 am, followed by the parade at 9 am. Austin Mayor Kirk Watson will serve as grand marshal as decorated bicycles, antique cars, marching bands, community groups, and the popular Ladies Lawn Chair Brigade wind through Northwest Hills before the Freedom Fest continues with family activities.
Members of the Northwest Austin Civic Association’s Arm Chair Brigade gather with parade grand marshal Council Member Alison Alter before the neighborhood’s annual Fourth of July parade in Northwest Austin.Alison Alter/Facebook
Cedar Park
Cedar Park’s Sparktacular returns to Milburn Park with live music, carnival rides, inflatables, food trucks, and fireworks at 9:30 pm.
Georgetown
Georgetown’s celebrations last all day with amusement rides and games, a kiddie parade, arts and crafts booths, food vendors, live music, and a fireworks show to round it all out.
Lakeway
Lakeway’s Fourth of July Celebration begins with its annual parade at 8:30 am, followed by family activities before the city’s evening fireworks display.
Leander
Leander is getting things started early with Liberty Fest on July 3. There will be live music and food, plus activities for kids and fireworks to end the day.
Pflugerville
Pflugerville’s Pfireworks lights up Typhoon Texas with live music, food vendors, family activities, and one of the area’s largest fireworks displays.
Round Rock
Just north of Austin, Round Rock’s Frontier Days begins with the annual Sertoma Independence Day Parade at 8:30 am along Mays Street. Giant helium balloons, festive floats, marching bands, and community groups kick off a full day of carnival rides, pig races, live music, and festival food before the evening’s fireworks show.
America250
Want to keep celebrating America’s 250th birthday? The Fourth of July is only the beginning of the nation’s yearlong semiquincentennial celebration.
Texas America250 exhibit
Lorenzo de Zavala State Archives and Library Building, 1201 Brazos St.
This exhibit next to the Texas Capitol spotlights the Lone Star State’s outsized role in American history through historic photographs, maps, artifacts, sheet music, state records, and other treasures from the State Archives. From cowboys to astronauts, and from Beaumont to Big Bend, the exhibit explores how Texas helped shape the nation. The exhibit is on view throughout 2026.
Other things to see at the archives include:
For even more, the Texas America250 events calendar lists celebrations taking place across the state throughout the year.
“We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with the team at NRP and our focus on the Affordable Housing market in
The transaction represents Safehold’s second transaction with NRP in
Safehold established a dedicated Affordable Housing team in 2025 and has continued to expand its investment into the sector. Additional information is available at www.safeholdaffordablehousing.com.
About Safehold:
Safehold Inc. (NYSE: SAFE) is revolutionizing real estate ownership by providing a new and better way for owners to unlock the value of the land beneath their buildings. Having created the modern ground lease industry in 2017, Safehold continues to help owners of high quality multifamily, affordable housing, office, industrial, hospitality, student housing, life science and mixed-use properties generate higher returns with less risk. The Company, which is taxed as a real estate investment trust (REIT), seeks to deliver safe, growing income and long-term capital appreciation to its shareholders. Additional information on Safehold is available on its website at www.safeholdinc.com.
About The NRP Group:
The NRP Group is a vertically integrated developer, owner, builder, and manager of best-in-class multifamily housing with a mission to create exceptional rental housing communities for individuals and families, regardless of income. Since its founding in 1994, NRP has developed more than 62,000 apartment homes and currently manages over 30,000 residential units. Through its disciplined approach to vetting opportunities, NRP has established a track record of delivering impressive returns for investors. The company’s formidable size and depth of talent provide the experience and infrastructure necessary to execute developments of varying degrees of complexity and scope in both urban-infill and suburban locations, including market-rate, affordable, mixed-income, and senior housing. The NRP Group has been consistently named a largest developer and builder in the U.S. on the NMHC “Top 50” lists, the Top 5 on the Multi-Housing News’ “Top Multifamily Developers” list, named a Top Affordable Housing Developer by Affordable Housing Finance, and has won three NAHB Pillar awards since 2020 for Development, Construction and Ones to Watch. The NRP Group has become the top multifamily developer in the U.S. that creates both affordable and market-rate housing at a national scale. Based on over 30 years of experience and expertise, NRP provides construction and property management services to outside owners and developers. For additional information, visit www.nrpgroup.com.
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/safehold-closes-second-affordable-housing-ground-lease-in-texas-302809796.html
SOURCE Safehold
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