Free Summer Concerts
Music on a budget: Our picks for Austin's best free summer 2014 concert series
Free summer music series are always a popular choice for Austinites, but there’s more to it than Blues on the Green or KGSR’s Unplugged at the Grove. While we’ve already detailed the biggest and best concerts, here are a few more options that won't make you spend the big bucks for concerts this season.
Austin Symphony Presents Concerts in the Park: Sunday, June 1 – Sunday, August 24
Free concerts are about bringing a diverse community together, and no concert series is better at that than the Austin Symphony’s Concerts in the Park. Taking place on Sundays on the outdoor lawn of The Long Center, each event features a unique ensemble performing a different genre, whether it’s classical, jazz or your favorite movie sound track.
Pack a blanket and a picnic basket, then sit back, relax and soak in the Austin skyline.
KOKE FM Presents the Free Texas Concert Series: Wednesday, June 4 – Wednesday, July 2
If you're craving that Texas twang, make a quick drive out of town for this free music series. KOKE FM is back with their Free Texas Concert Series, which tells you everything you need to know in its name. The surrounding oak trees and rolling hills make the Nutty Brown Café the perfect spot to listen to free country music, providing a picturesque way to escape the hustle of city life.
KDRP Presents Texas Radio Live: Wednesday, June 4 – Wednesday, July 20
Sun Radio is committed to bringing the best in Texas and Americana music, and part of that are the live broadcasts from Guero’s Taco Bar. It’s a great free music option for anyone looking to kick back after a day of shopping on South Congress, and you get to enjoy some tacos and margaritas while tapping your toes to local musicians. Tacos, tequila and a toe-tapping good time? That’s a concert that can’t be beat.
Rain Live Music Series: Sunday, June 8 – Sunday, August 31
This Austin nightclub has attracted many partiers to its dance floor, but it is finally going all in with its own live music series. Rain is highlighting bands that celebrate the local LGBTQ community, starting off with Serafia and Night Drive on June 8. Each Sunday night features a different lineup with no cover charge, and considering Rain's dance party reputation, it’s safe to assume that their free concerts will be no different.
KVET Presents Roadhouse Live: Thursday, June 12 – Thursday, July 31
Just can’t get your fill of country music? KVET has you covered. Taking place at Graham Central Station in Pflugerville, Roadhouse Live is where you’ll want to head out and catch country favorites including Josh Abbott, Stoney LaRue, Roger Creager and other names yet to be announced. Graham Central Station even has a new outdoor patio for further summer fun, particularly if you like a friendly game of cornhole with friends.
The Wine Down at ACL Live: Monday, June 16 – Monday, August 25
A favorite of many Austin music lovers, The Wine Down is back again with a few minor changes. Instead of taking place on Wednesdays, The Wine Down moves to Mondays, helping you transition from the weekend with live music, free food samples from downtown restaurants, and happy hour-priced Thorny Rose Wine.
What’s the other small change? The music series is also relocating inside to the air conditioning, so don’t sweat about sweating too much while enjoying music from the likes of Shinyribs and Riders Against the Storm.