Salute the birthday of America — Austin style — during the best things to do on the Fourth of July. Whether you’re interested in fireworks and fanfare or just some all-American certified eats, we’ve got you covered.
Witness the largest fireworks display in the 512 for free at Auditorium Shores or enjoy a full day of live music at Willie Nelson’s iconic 4th of July Picnic. For a full list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, July 4
Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic
Country music icon and Austin legend Willie Nelson hosts another year of partying in the name of patriotism. This year’s all-day event features a packed roster across two stages, including Willie Nelson & Family, Luke Combs, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Alison Krauss, and others. Guests can enjoy good eats and cold drinks on picnic tables near the second stage or shop unique goods from a variety of Texas-based vendors while the music plays. Stick around the Circuit of The Americas and enjoy a special fireworks display to celebrate America’s birthday. For tickets, visit the event website.
St. Elmo Brewing Company presents St. Elmo & Soursop July 4 Hot Doggin’ Party
Toast the new release of St. Elmo’s collaboration with Fairweather Cider Co, Hot Doggin’, on the most American day of the year. Sip the cider/double IPA hybrid while chowing down Soursop chili dogs for a truly patriotic picnic. Those with big appetites can test their mettle for a chance to win the crown during the hot dog eating contest. Admission is free.
Hill Country Galleria presents Independence Day Celebration
Family-friendly fun, live music, activities, and more await at the Hill Country Galleria. In celebration of Independence Day, attendees to this free event can get their faces painted, try their hand at arts and crafts, cool off in the splash pad, snack on barbecue festival goods, and more. Live music performances include sets by KP & The Boom Bom, Vallejo, and Austin’s School of Rock. Stick around after the sun sets for the fireworks finale. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets to enjoy the evening entertainment.
Blue Owl Brewing presents Red, White, & Blue Owl Indoor Picnic
Skip the sizzling summer temperatures and celebrate the Fourth of July in the cool comfort of Blue Owl Brewing. All the best parts of holiday cookouts are brought inside for a day of games, activities, and special release beers. Compete during the watermelon eating contest or practice your stroke during the putt-putt challenge, all while enjoying Pop Rocks-infused beers on tap. Guests can also snag their new favorite shirt by taking advantage of major discounts on red, white, and blue brewery merch.
The Carpenter Hotel presents 4th of July Luau
Give your Independence Day festivities an island twist inspired by the most far-out state in the union: Hawaii. Experience authentic luau entertainment, pool fun, and a delicious scoop of shaved ice at the Carpenter Hotel. Menu items for the evening will include traditional Hawaiian dishes, including kalua pork, lomi lomi tomato, spam musubi, and many more flavorful specialities. For tickets, visit the hotel website.
H-E-B Austin Symphony July 4th Concert & Fireworks
The largest Independence Day celebration in Austin returns for another year of awe-inspiring visuals and beloved, symphonic patriotic classics. Guests are invited to wear their best red, white, and/or blue as they settle onto the Auditorium Shores lawn in anticipation of a live performance. Admission is free.
Friday, July 5
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa presents Barton Creek Live
Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa hosts its annual summer music series kickoff with a live performance by Wade Bowen just in time for the holiday weekend. Award-winning American country singer Bowen is the voice behind top hits such as “If We Ever Make It Home” and “The Given” and has garnered a loyal fan base across Texas and beyond. In addition to live tunes, guests can feast on a Texas barbecue cookout complete with handcrafted cocktails. Finish the evening on the Pavilion Lawn and experience a glimmering fireworks show against the backdrop of the magnificent Texas Hill Country. For a full listing of performances, visit the series website.
Witness the largest fireworks display in Austin accompanied by symphonic patriotic classics at Auditorium Shores for free.
