As we reach the peak of summer, we’re all searching for fun yet budget-friendly ways to make the most of the longer days and cool nights. So, we’ve compiled a list of free events and activities perfect for all ages. They’re a perfect way to make lasting memories, bond with loved ones, and get immersed with the local Austin community and culture.
Photos by organizations listed below
Umlauf Family Day
On the second Sunday of every month, UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum hosts a family day event for people of all ages to explore the arts. Activities include arts/crafts, sing-a-longs, yoga, trampolines, ice-sculpture demonstrations, and more! Everyone is welcome!
Where: UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Musem, 605 Azie Morton Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: July 14th (2nd Sunday of every month), 12pm – 4pm
Zilker Theater Productions: The Little Mermaid
Every summer, Zilker Theater Productions puts on a large-scale musical, and for their 61st season, they are performing a childhood classic, The Little Mermaid! Be sure to arrive early with blankets, chairs, snacks, and your best singing voice!
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Thursdays through Sundays, July 12th – August 17th
Africa Night by Zoumountchi & Rey Arteaga
A show featuring Kora music and African and Cuban Dance rhythms performed by Ibrahim Aminou, Rey Arteaga, and Zoumountchi. Come early for a free buffet dinner and stay late to dance to some groovy music!
Where: The Sahara Lounge, 1413 Webberville Rd, Austin, TX 78721
When: July 6th, 8pm – 2am
Austin Dance Social Meetups
Bring your families and friends to enjoy summer evenings with free salsa lessons taught by Dance U2! All ages and levels welcome. Parents can come dance with their kids or just enjoy free live Latin music by the lake. Make sure to RSVP!
Where: The Oasis, 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732
When: Every Sunday, 7pm – 10pm
Concerts in the Park by Austin Symphony Hartman Foundation
Every Sunday, a different ensemble from the Austin Symphony Orchestra will be performing music from jazz and light classical to pop and film scores. Bring your blankets, have a picnic, and enjoy a warm summer evening with live music.
Where: Hartman Concert Park at the Long Center, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sundays June 2nd – August 25th
Children’s Day Art Park
Celebrate the arts with a performance from the Austin Symphony Orchestra followed by activities such as arts/crafts, instrument making, creative exploration, storytelling, and coloring! A fun opportunity for the kids!
Where: Austin Central Library, 701 W Ceasar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Wednesdays, June 5th – July 24th, 10am – 12pm
Free Bollywood Dance Class
Rhythm on Stage and Ballet Austin are offering a free Bollywood dance class for the whole family! All ages and levels welcome. You can stay as long as you want, and you can just watch if you don’t feel like dancing!
Where: The Long Center, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: July 18th 7pm – 8:45pm
Stool Pigeon: Free Improv and Storytelling Show
A unique and hilarious show based on true experiences from the guest storyteller that week! With an all-star cast, this is a one-of-a-kind experience that’s sure to amuse and entertain!
Where: ColdTowne Theater, 4803 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
When: Sundays, July 7th – August 25th, 8:30pm
Artist and Industry Music Mixer
Enjoy a live performance of indie and alt-rock music by The Canvas People while getting to meet local artists, industry professionals, and other local creatives. All ages and experiences are welcome!
Where: Native Hostel and Bar & Cafe, 807 E. 4th St, Austin, TV 78702
When: July 17th, 7pm – 10pm
Blues on the Green
A local favorite for Austinites as you get to enjoy live homegrown music while relaxing on the grass with your favorite people or animals. It’s considered Austin’s largest concert series and a must-do for those in town for the summer.
Where: Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: July 17th and August 17th, Music starts at 8pm
Hot Summer Nights
Enjoy four nights of live music from a wide array of different artists and bands at this funky block party! Music from artists such as Holy Wave with Wrongbird, Marmalakes, Otis the Destroyer, Indoor Creature, Dossey, Walker Lukens, and tons more! Ages 21+ only.
Where: Various locations
When: July 25th-28th, 8pm – 2am
Sound & Cinema: Guardians of the Galaxy
Another one of those unforgettable experiences with your favorite people while sitting on a lawn enjoying live music. This event will feature music performed by Recovering combined with a Marvel fan-favorite, Guardians of the Galaxy.
Where: The Long Center, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: July 10th, Movie starts at 8:45pm