Even though Free Week is still not close to a full week — despite being a wonderful festival — it's getting closer. The 2027 event, from January 7-9, adds an extra day this year for even more admission-free shows by local musicians.

Even when it was just two days, Free Week was a large undertaking. The 2026 festival platformed more than 80 acts across 14 venues in the Red River Cultural District (RRCD) — both a place and a nonprofit to preserve and evolve it.

The annual donation-based event and its summer equivalent, Hot Summer Nights, offer paid gigs for Austin musicians, drive local musical discovery at a low financial risk to attendees, and raise funds for RRCD's projects. Attendees are able to hop from venue to venue with no commitment, although it's smart to arrive early for some of the more popular sets. Food and beverage deals also encourage spending at local businesses and tipping staff during predictably slow seasons.

Artists still have time to apply for free online, and those accepted will be notified at least 30 days before the event. Bands, solo artists, and DJs are all welcome, and performers who haven't played at an event produced by RRCD in the past two years are encouraged to apply, a press release says.

“Free Week has always been about putting Austin’s music community first — creating meaningful opportunities for artists and venues while giving everyone in the city a chance to come experience the incredible talent happening right here in our backyard,” said RRCD executive director Nicole Klepadlo in the release. “We’re especially excited to now bring this beloved festival experience back for three days in 2027. See you soon, Austin.”