Austin, festival season is upon us. Before you get overloaded on options or let your FOMO take over, here's a quick guide to the top festivals of the fall.
Fantastic Fest
Watch some amazing films during this Alamo Drafthouse-curated festival featuring top-notch movies in the horror, science fiction, fantasy, and action genres. Badges are sold out, but you can still purchase individual tickets to screenings. Bonus: The Fantastic Arcade, a showcase of mind-blowing indie video games, is always free.
September 24 - October 1
Texas Teen Book Festival
Some of the best young-adult authors will converge at St. Edward's University for a free literary conference featuring keynote speakers, panels, book signings, and more.
September 26
Pecan Street Festival
The iconic semiannual Sixth Street fest returns with a stellar lineup of live music and artwork during one of Austin's longest-running traditions.
September 26-27
Austin City Limits Music Festival
Catch big acts like Foo Fighters, Drake, The Weeknd, The Strokes, Florence + the Machine, and more during the hottest music event of the year. Badges are sold out, but tickets to official late night shows are still up for grabs.
October 2-4 and 9-11
Texas Conference for Women
This conference brings together some of the brightest minds — including keynote speakers Robin Roberts, Patricia Arquette, and Candy Chang — with the aim to empower women through breakout and mentor sessions, social-media tips, and networking at the Austin Convention Center. Individual tickets cost $165.
October 15
La Dolce Vita Food and Wine Festival
Dozens of restaurants, wineries, and more from across Central Texas will be serving sips and bites during The Contemporary Austin's annual food and wine celebration at Laguna Gloria. General admission tickets are $200, but a $250 upgrade ensures access to the posh cocktail lounge.
October 15
Texas Tribune Festival
Listen to some of our most influential social and political leaders from all sides of the spectrum during this open-minded festival at the University of Texas campus. The walk-up rate to attend the fest is $350, but early bird passes are still available.
October 16-18
Dia de Los Muertos Festival
Celebrate the Latin tradition during this family-friendly fest at Fiesta Gardens. There will be tons of cultural performances, live music, fun activities, food, and more. Pre-sale tickets are just $15.
October 17
AustOberfest
Austin Saengerrunde is gathering some of the best sausage purveyors, Central Texas beers, and German-style musicians for an awesome Oktoberfest celebration. Pre-sale tickets are $45.
October 17
Oddball Comedy and Curiosity Festival
Top comedy acts Aziz Ansari, Amy Schumer, John Mulaney, Nick Kroll, Tim Minchin, and more are coming to the Austin360 Amphitheater during a nationwide tour. Tickets for this hilarious festival experience start at $35.
October 17
Texas Book Festival
Book lovers and acclaimed authors from Texas and beyond will converge on the Texas State Capitol grounds for this free annual celebration of literature.
October 17-18
Formula 1 United States Grand Prix
The Formula 1 experience brings in more than just high-speed drivers to Circuit of The Americas. Other attractions include parties, live music, and a performance from the one-and-only Elton John.
October 23-25
Pop Austin International Art Show
This year, Pop Austin presents "Illumination" for its second annual affair. Inspiring artists from across the globe will showcase their light-based work at Fair Market for one weekend only. One-day passes are around $48; three-day passes are also available.
October 23-25
Austin Fermentation Festival
This celebration of all things fermented will take over Barr Mansion with tasty fermented food and drinks, a lineup from the Texas Farmers Market, educational workshops, and a keynote presentation from Jennifer McGruther. General admission is $20, but VIP access is available for $40.
October 25
Austin Film Festival
Dubbed the "writers' festival," this wonderful film showcase not only screens stirring movies, but also celebrates the behind-the-scenes people that bring them to life. Film passes start at $50, and programming badges start at $125. Events will take place at various venues across town.
October 29 - November 5
Wizard World Comic Con
Nerds of all kinds will flock to the Austin Convention Center for panels, meet-and-greets, exhibits, and vendors that celebrate geek culture. Pre-sale two-day tickets are $75.
October 30-31
TMBBQ Fest
This mouthwatering festival offers barbecue fiends the opportunity to sample the best barbecue from across the state in one convenient location. Admission ranges from $80 to $145; kids 5 and under get in for $10.
November 1
Fun Fun Fun Fest
Music? Check. Comedy? Check. Extreme sports? Check. Taco cannon? Check. Enjoy all of that and more at this supremely fun fest at Auditorium Shores. Passes range from $89 to $450.
November 6-8
Zilker Park is prepping for Austin City Limits Music Festival.
