Free New Year’s Eve in Austin: Last-minute NYE plans that won’t break the bank

Somehow, New Year’s Eve is upon us. If you’re one of the many who has lost track of time amid the holiday haze and need something to do in Austin, Texas, for NYE, you’ve stumbled upon the right article.

It seems New Year’s Eve has become synonymous with dropping mad amounts of cash on a dazzling outfit, FOMO-proof plans and everything else one needs to ring in the new year.

But, contrary to what your group chat says, you don’t have to metaphorically light your bank account on fire to have a good time.

6 free things to do in Austin on New Year’s Eve

Below are six free things to do on Tuesday, Dec. 31, in Austin.

Keep in mind that CapMetro is offering free rides on all services starting at 5 p.m. CST on Dec. 31 to help people get safely to and from their respective celebrations. Learn more and plan your trip here.

Austin’s annual NYE Celebration at Auditorium Shores

What: Austin’s official New Year’s Eve celebration with live music, food and drinks for purchase and an epic fireworks show over Lady Bird Lake. The music headliner is Third Eye Blind, but several acts will take the stage leading up to their performance. The best part? It’s family-friendly and entirely free to attend.

Reminder: The countdown to fireworks will start at 11:55 p.m. Review allowed and prohibited items here.

Where: Auditorium Shores, 800 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas.

When: From 7 p.m. to midnight Tuesday, Dec. 31.

Cigar rolling and NYE countdown with Bobalu Cigar Co.

What: Start your New Year’s Eve celebrations early by watching a master cigar roller showcase their craft live at Bobalu Cigar Co. There will be cigars to smoke and guests are welcome to BYOB. This event is for those ages 21 and older. RSVP for free on Eventbrite to save your spot!

Where: Bobalu Cigar Co., 8501 Burnet Road, Austin, Texas.

When: 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31.

‘Wicked’-inspired NYE celebration at Half Step

What: An Emerald City-themed New Year’s Eve party on Rainey Street with no cover charge that’s sure to be “Popular.” There will be live music by The Michael Hale Trio featuring Mac Macintosh, a complimentary champagne toast, “Wicked”-inspired cocktails and decor, a balloon drop at midnight and more!

Where: Half Step, 75 1/2 Rainey St., Austin, Texas.

When: The party starts at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31.

New Year’s Eve Celebration at Pinballz Arcade

What: A New Year’s Eve celebration geared toward arcade fanatics! Pinballz Arcade is hosting a free, late-night New Year’s Eve celebration at all locations. There will be a free champagne toast at midnight and guests can pay to play all the arcade games their hearts desire.

Where: All Pinballz locations in Austin, Texas. There are three in the greater Austin area. Find the one nearest you here.

When: Starts at 9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31.

Y2K New Year’s Eve Party at Upstairs at Caroline

What: A 2000s-themed NYE party for those ages 21 and older at a rooftop bar in downtown Austin. There will be a DJ spinning 2000s pop bangers, a photo booth to capture the moments you may not remember and a champagne toast at midnight.

Where: Upstairs at Caroline, 109 E. Seventh St., Austin, Texas.

When: 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31.

New Bear’s Eve at The Iron Bear

What: A cover-free NYE party at an LGBTQ+ friendly bar featuring pop-up drag performances by Miss Good and Chique Fil-Atio, music by DJ Mike, a champagne toast at midnight and more.

Where: The Iron Bear, 301 W. Sixth St., Austin, Texas.

When: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31.