Weekend Event Guide
Here are the top 5 things to do in Austin this weekend
Festival season is most certainly in full swing in the ATX, and our top things to do this weekend are certain to pique any local’s interest. Enjoy four days of family-friendly fun at Old Settler’s Music Festival or discover new artists and their work at Republic Square Park. For a full listing of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, April 11
Old Settler’s Music Festival
Venture just outside the city limits to Dale, Texas, for the family-friendly Old Settler’s Music Festival. The four-day event will feature dozens of musical performances, workshops, kid’s activities, a youth talent competition, and more. Attendees can also enjoy a variety of gourmet eats, speciality wines, and craft beer. This year’s musical guests include Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit, Shinyribs, Hayes Carll, and Brandi Carlile. For a full list of events and to purchase passes, visit the festival website.
Zilker Botanical Garden presents Starlight Social
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Taniguchi Japanese Garden with fellow flora-loving locals under the night sky. The Starlight Social will include intimate after-hours tours of the garden and live music by The Jitterbug Vipers. Guests can enjoy Japanese-inspired food and drinks from Bento Picnic, sushi from Bamboo Bistro, and an onigiri station from Asahi Imports. Additional activities include a sake tasting by Genji Sake, an authentic tea ceremony in the garden, and Japanese calligraphy writing demos. Select tickets to this exclusive event are still available.
Friday, April 12
BookPeople presents Abby Wambach: Wolfpack
Soccer star Abby Wambach comes to Austin in support of her new book, Wolfpack. Based on her now viral, inspiring 2018 commencement speech to Barnard College graduates, the book is an empowering rally cry for women to unite, realize their individual power, and achieve their ambitions. Tickets to the discussion at First United Methodist Church — Downtown event are still available.
Saturday, April 13
LBJ Presidential Library presents “Motown: The Sound of Young America” opening day
The LBJ Presidential Library and Museum's newest exhibition highlights the cultural impact of the Motown era and its artists. “Motown: The Sound of Young America” traces the evolution of the genre, the musical achievements of the era’s greatest talents, and further explores its impact on the sounds and performers of today. Be among the first in the city to learn signature choreography from famous dance routines and see iconic stage outfits from legends including The Miracles, The Supremes, The Temptations, and others. Following opening weekend, the exhibit will be on display through January 2020.
Art Alliance Austin presents Art City Austin Festival
The Austin art scene is on display for two consecutive days at Republic Square Park. Art City Austin Festival returns for its 69th year, showcasing many of the city’s best creatives. Explore work from nearly 80 visual artists, designers, artisans, installation artists, and more makers. Additional happenings include performance artists, live food demonstrations, boozy bevies, kid activities, and live music.