There's a lot more than fireworks happening this holiday weekend. We've rounded up Austin's best events, from legendary music acts to big-time festivals. For a full list of happenings, visit our events calendar.
Second annual Lone Star Beer Texas Heritage Festival
This Thursday, the Texas Heritage Festival takes over Stubb’s with food, music, and fun curated by the "National Beer of Texas." Performers include Girl in a Coma, Delta Spirit frontman Matthew Logan Vasquez, and Shovels & Rope.
Babyface in concert
R&B crooner Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds returns to Austin for a night of sultry sounds and good vibes. This Thursday, the Grammy-winning singer-songwriter performs tunes from his 2015 album Return of the Tender Lover at ACL Live.
in.gredients presents July First Friday Block Party
Manor Road market in.gredients celebrates the first Friday of the month with a family-friendly evening of games, live music, and local treats. Benefiting the Workers Defense Project, this block party also features balloon animals and a giant Slip’N Slide.
Independence Brewing’s Star-Spangled Block Party
Independence Brewing's Star-Spangled Block Party this Sunday features a mash-up of basketball, comedy from Austin locals, an adult-sized bounce house, live music, and more. Splurge an extra dollar on your ticket to reserve your first beer before the shindig even starts.
Blue Starlite Drive-in presents July Fourth Weekend with The Sandlot and Twister
Revel in the American pastime of drive-in movies this Sunday when Blue Starlite screens The Sandlot and Twister for your vehicular viewing pleasure. Moviegoers will also witness a digital, hi-def Fourth of July fireworks display during this cinematic spectacular.
W Austin’s Soundwave: Fourth of July edition
The city’s hottest pool deck is throwing a party complete with drink specials and tunes. On Monday, celebrate with a dip in the pool and vibe to the sounds of DJ Bird Peterson from noon to sundown.
Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic
Austin’s favorite country-singing superstar hosts another epic 4th of July Picnic at Austin360 Amphitheater. Along with a performance by Willie himself, a star-studded roster of Brantley Gilbert, Shakey Graves, Asleep at the Wheel, and more is set to blaze the stage.
H-E-B Austin Symphony July 4th Concert and Fireworks
End the weekend with a bang at the Austin Symphony's concert and fireworks show at Auditorium Shores. This free, family-friendly event is a can't-miss experience. Don your red, white, and blue and enjoy a dazzling display of fireworks above the Austin skyline.
July Fourth Fireworks at Rattle Inn
If you want to avoid the hassle of crowds along Lady Bird Lake, take in the fireworks show with cocktail in hand from the Rattle Inn’s rooftop. Standing room for the viewing party is free, so arrive early for premium vantage points.
Party with Willie, Shakey Graves, Asleep at the Wheel, and more during Willie Nelson's 4th of July Picnic.
Happy holidays, Austin!
Photo courtesy of Licarione Photography