The long days and pool-perfect weather of a summer holiday weekend are ideal for gatherings, cookouts, and ice-cold beers. Luckily for us, July 4 lands on a Friday this year, giving Austininites numerous chances to celebrate Independence Day all weekend long.

In true Austin fashion, there’s something for everybody from rooftop pool parties, live music, eating contests, to elevated dining — and of course, the classic firework shows, parades, and family-friendly festivities.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, here are 10 top ways to enjoy the Fourth of July weekend in Austin.

Official city plans

Star Spangled Fest & Austin Symphony Orchestra concert
Thursday, July 3, and Friday, July 4
For a classic celebration that the entire family can enjoy, the Star Spangled Fest is the place to be. The Texas Music Scene Independence Eve Party features performers including Reckless Kelly, Jack Ingram, and Alejandro Escovedo. The next day, the Austin Symphony Orchestra plays patriotic music, the city sets off fireworks, and attendees enjoy food trucks, local vendors, games, and fun contests. Access to Vic Mathias Shores is free and open to the public, with additional access and VIP tickets available at starspangledfest.com.

Just July 4

Willie Nelson’s 4th of July Picnic & Fireworks
Willie Nelson’s epic Fourth of July party is back and better than ever with a star-studded lineup that includes Bob Dylan, The Avett Brothers, The Mavericks, and many more. Eight hours of live music and a fireworks spectacle guarantee a great time. Food and drinks will also be available for purchase. Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.com 

Zilker Brewing Co.
Field Day is back at Zilker Brewing Co. The annual event celebrates Independence Day with fun competitions including a balloon toss, eating contests, three-legged races, and more. Patrons can enjoy Zilker Brewing’s craft beer, food from local vendors including Spicy Boys Chicken and Patty Palace, and live music. This event is free to attend, and teams who want to compete can sign up here.

4th at The ABGB
Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co. has an entire day of fun to celebrate Independence Day the Austin way. Enjoy food specials, cold beers, live music, jello shots, hot dog and watermelon eating contests, and more. The festivities conclude with an optional bike ride to see the fireworks. This event is free to attend.

Launderette
For a more intimate celebration, Launderette will have its annual Lobster & Friends seafood boil available for dine-in and to-go. The menu includes the signature seafood boil with lobster, shrimp, sausage, clams, and potatoes, along with family-style sides and classic American desserts like key lime pie, strawberry rhubarb tarts, and cheesecake. Tickets ($78 per person) are available on Resy.

4th of July at Nido
Another option that doesn’t include spending the entire day out in the sun is Red, White, and Bougie at Loren Hotel’s Nido. The chic celebration includes champagne, live music, and a decadent BBQ (think mini wagyu sliders, roasted short ribs, lobster rolls, and more) along with rooftop views where patrons can enjoy fireworks. Tickets ($125 per person) are available on OpenTable.

Multiple Days

4th of July at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines
Thursday, July 3, to Saturday, July 5
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines promises the perfect weekend getaway for the entire family, full of classic Americana and Texan fun. The celebration starts on July 3 with a Star-spangled parade and myriad events throughout the weekend, including a cowboy gunfight show, a classic cookout, live music, fireworks, and more. Bookings are available here.

Mozart’s Pie Eating Contest
Friday, July 4, to Saturday, July 5
For a fun, laid-back weekend celebration, join Mozart’s annual cherry pie eating contest. Whether you want to participate or simply enjoy from the sidelines, there will be plenty of fun for everyone with live music, free face painting, ice cream sundaes, and more. Contestants will have a chance to win a sunset boat cruise along with other fun prizes. The event is free to attend. RSVP here.

Omni Downtown
Friday, July 4, to Saturday, July 5
Omni Downtown offers a fun staycation option for this holiday weekend. Enjoy the hotel’s rooftop pool and views with DJ spins, cookout classics like burgers and brats, and complimentary frozen treats, plus specialty cocktails from Cloud Bar. Hotel guests have complimentary access, and Austinites can purchase a day pass from ResortPass.

Swim Club
Friday, July 4, to Sunday, July 6
Cool down at Swim Club, the historic pool turned social club, which will be celebrating all weekend long. On Friday, enjoy a classic pool party with DJs, cocktails, and food. Saturday’s celebrations feature an All-American BBQ party until 10 pm. Sunday’s pool party includes DJ sessions from 2-6 pm, with more refreshing drinks and bites. These events are free to attend. RSVP on Eventbrite.