Free Summer Fun
10 totally free things every Austinite should do this summer
Summer is in session, which means lots of long days to fill with fun. From outdoor concert series to amazing views, here are 10 quintessential Austin activities to partake in this season. Oh, and they're totally free.
Join in on Blues on the Green
KGSR's annual concert series at Zilker Park is a longstanding Austin tradition. There are three shows remaining in the series on June 24, July 22 and August 5. Come early, claim a spot and enjoy the sweet lineup, featuring Bob Schneider, Shakey Graves and the Jamestown Revival.
Catch an outdoor flick
Austin has plenty of outdoor movie screenings this summer. You can check out Sound & Cinema at the Long Center, 101X's Summer Cinema at Central Market, Friday Night Films at the South Shore District or the City of Austin's Movies in the Park series.
Experience Concerts in the Park
Concerts in the Park offers a wonderful opportunity to hear the acclaimed Austin Symphony Orchestra for free. Head to the Long Center lawn most Sunday evenings through August 23 for a variety of performances.
Have a Star Party
See the stars up close and personal every Wednesday night through August 12. The University of Texas astronomy department opens up the telescope on the roof of the Robert Lee Moore Hall for free public viewings.
Swim for free at Barton Springs
From 9-10 pm each night, you can enjoy the cool, refreshing waters of Barton Springs for free. The crowd at this time is thin, so you won't have to wait try new moves on the diving board. Bonus: If you're an early riser, you can also swim for free from 5-8 am.
Listen to Music Under the Star
To celebrate Fun Fun Fun Fest's 10th anniversary, the Bullock Museum has teamed up with the festival for a special FFF-flavored edition of this music series. For three Fridays in July, see some of the best bands Texas has to offer, including Ben Kweller, Brownout and The Octopus Project.
Watch the Zilker Summer Musical
This year's free summer production at the Zilker Hillside Theater is Hairspray, the fantastic 1960s-themed musical with big numbers and even bigger hair. The production runs July 10 through August 15.
See the Skyspace
Experience the amazing Skyspace from acclaimed light artist James Turrell. This permanent installation on the rooftop of the University of Texas Student Activity Center enhances the sunrise/sunset experience. It's free, just make a reservation online.
Practice yoga outdoors
Join the Save Our Springs alliance for free yoga each Saturday at Barton Springs. Yoga takes place at 9:30 am outside the back gate of the pool through July 25. Bring your own water and yoga mat.
Get cheesy at The Quesoff
Get cheesy during this annual queso cook-off where the best queso in Austin will be crowned. New this year, a guacamole category called the "Guacoff." Entry for this favorite summer event is free, but the chips will cost you $5.
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For more summer suggestions, check out our events calendar.