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The best things to do in Austin this weekend, May 15 – May 17, include 5th Street Vintage Market, Muddy Dash, and more!
I’ve rounded up the top events and activities happening across the city, from festivals and outdoor fun to live shows and family-friendly picks. Please scroll down for my picks or use the links above to skip to your favorite section!
Weather this Weekend – May 15 – May 17: Austin residents can expect a very warm and dry mid-May weekend with high temperatures consistently reaching near 90 degrees and only minimal chances for a stray afternoon shower.
Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information. However, all details are subject to change. Please verify information before heading out.
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Check out our recent updates to our guides: Date Ideas in Austin, Things To Do with Teens in Austin, and Best Summer Camps in Austin.
Free Things to Do in Austin this Weekend
SaulPaul’s Million Dollar Dreams Money, Music and Arts Festival
Downtown Austin comes alive for SaulPaul’s Million Dollar Dreams Money, Music, and Arts Festival, a vibrant collision of music, interactive experiences, and engaging exhibits that explore the connections between creativity, community, and possibility.
It’s a full sensory dive into everything the Austin community has to offer.
Come curious and leave inspired.
Where: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, May 15, 2026 | 10:00 am
How Much: Free
5th Street Vintage Market
The 5th Street Vintage Market is back at the Austin Visitor Center, and it’s bringing everything worth showing up for, including vintage pieces, statement jewelry, local vendors, and live DJ sounds to shop by.
Stop by the in-house café, 5th & Brew, for a fresh coffee or matcha right in the heart of downtown.
This market runs every third Saturday through July 18, 2026, so mark your calendar and make it a regular.
Where: Austin Visitor Center, 103 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026
How Much: Free
Much Ado About Nothing — Austin Shakespeare
Catch Shakespeare’s most beloved comedy under the Austin night sky at Zilker Hillside Theatre.
Austin Shakespeare will transport Much Ado About Nothing to 1950s Italy, drawing on the cinematic world of Fellini with sun-drenched piazzas, effortless style, and lively music woven throughout.
Watch as sharp-tongued Beatrice and sworn bachelor Benedick spar their way through love denial while the romance around them lurches toward chaos. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for a night of wit and warmth.
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, May 15 – 24, 2026
How Much: Free (donations welcome)
Blue Genie Art Bazaar’s Annual May Market Returns to Austin
Explore a vibrant local shopping experience at the sixth annual May Market by Blue Genie Art Bazaar. Held every weekend in May, this free, family-friendly event brings together nearly 200 regional artists and artisans under one roof.
Browse handcrafted gifts perfect for any occasion, and enjoy hands-on fun with DIY card printing every Saturday.
Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, May 15 – 31, 2026 | 10 am – 8 pm (Fridays – Sundays only)
How Much: Free
Austin Bat Cave’s Puppet Show and Book Faire
Head to Festival Beach Food Forest for a free morning of books and storytelling under the open sky.
Books for all ages are available to browse, and a live puppet story time, recommended for kids 12 and under, brings the fun to life with outdoor seating for the whole family.
Where: Festival Beach Food Forest, 29 Waller St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
How Much: Free
Muddy Dash
Image credit: Muddy Dash
Muddy Dash is exactly what it sounds like: a few muddy miles of kid-friendly obstacles where you run, walk, crawl, and slide your way to the finish line.
Parents and kids can tackle the course together as a team, with plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way and a post-race festival waiting at the end.
Come ready to get dirty and have the best time doing it.
Where: Travis County Exposition Center, 7311 Decker Ln, Austin, TX 78724
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 8:00 am
How Much: Free
City of Round Rock Arts and Culture presents Mainly Art
Stroll along historic Main Street in Round Rock and browse original work from 15 local visual artists at Mainly Art, the city’s monthly outdoor art market. It’s a relaxed, walkable way to discover new talent, support local makers, and spend a morning in the heart of downtown.
Where: Sharon Prete Main Street Plaza, 221 E Main St, Round Rock, TX 78664
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:00 am
How Much: Free
Austin Public Library presents Greater Austin Book Fest
The Austin Public Library is hosting the Greater Austin Book Festival, Austin’s only tri-county book festival dedicated to local small-press and self-published authors.
Spend the day meeting the writers behind the books, picking up signed copies, and exploring the Central Library while taking in a full lineup of panels, workshops, and interactive programs.
It’s a full day of books, ideas, and the people who bring them to life.
Where: Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:00 am
How Much: Free
5th Annual Driftwood Heritage Festival
Image credit: Vista Brewing
The Driftwood community gathers for its 5th Annual Heritage Festival, a celebration packed with live music, kids’ activities, a local market, community partners, and more. It’s a laid-back, all-ages day that brings out the best of what makes Driftwood worth celebrating.
Where: Vista Brewing, 13551 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Driftwood, TX 78619
When: Sunday, May 17, 2026 | 11:00 am
How Much: Free
Things to Do in Austin this Friday | Weekend Kickoff Events
Weather on Friday: Mostly sunny and hot with a high of 90°F, a low of 71°F, and a 10% chance of precipitation.
Austin Gay Men’s Chorus presents Freedom Unfinished: From Reckoning to Joy
The Austin Gay Men’s Chorus takes the stage for Freedom Unfinished: From Reckoning to Joy, a bold and moving spring concert that explores the ideals, complexities, and evolving story of freedom in American life.
At the heart of the program is a musical dialogue between two composers named Thompson, separated by more than 70 years. This includes selections from Randall Thompson’s Testament of Freedom (1943), inspired by Thomas Jefferson, woven together with movements from Joel Thompson’s Seven Last Words of the Unarmed (2015).
The contrast between the two works invites audiences to reflect on how the meaning of freedom continues to shift and deepen over time, and what it means to keep reaching for it.
Where: First Baptist Church of Austin, 901 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday – Saturday, May 15 – 16, 2026 | 8:00 pm (Fri) | 4:00 pm (Sat)
How Much: Starts at $20
Broadway in Austin presents The Wiz
Forty years after its last pre-Broadway tour, The Wiz is back, and it’s bringing every bit of the soul, gospel, rock, and finger-snapping ’70s funk that made it a Tony Award-winning game-changer.
This all-new production puts a groundbreaking spin on The Wizard of Oz, following Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world, set to a score packed with timeless hits like “Ease on Down the Road” and the classic “Home.”
Don’t miss your chance to catch a piece of Broadway history as it makes its return to the stage.
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Not stated
Affordable Art Fair
The Affordable Art Fair returns to the Palmer Events Center for its third year in Austin, and it’s bigger than ever, bringing together 22 local galleries alongside regional, national, and international galleries for a four-day showcase.
Over 500 works priced from $100 to $12,000, all by emerging and established living artists, will be available for purchase across paintings, prints, sculpture, and photography.
New this year, four artists will be live painting each evening of the fair. Donating to the fair’s charity partner, Dell Children’s Hospital, enters you to win one of those finished works.
Art duo ROXEHA also invites you to grab a pen and contribute directly to their booth walls, while the Smartist app offers an on-site activation that lets you see exactly how a piece would look hanging in your own home.
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $24.22
28th Annual Cine Las Americas International Film Festival
Now in its 28th year, Cine Las Americas returns to amplify underrepresented voices from across the Americas, spotlighting Latinx, Indigenous, and Texas independent stories through screenings, panels, and parties over five days.
This year’s highlights include the opening night film American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez, Street Smart: Lessons from a TV Icon featuring Sesame Street’s Sonia Manzano, a Music Video Showcase and Party curated by Gina Chavez, and more.
With this much on the program, five days might just feel like not enough.
Where: AFS Cinema, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $13
Touch the Art Experience
This is the one art show where touching everything is not just allowed, it’s encouraged — that’s the whole point!
Almost Real Things’ 4th annual Touch the Art Experience transforms the gallery into a fully immersive, all-senses installation featuring work from 83 artists, including collaborating students from the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
The Grand Opening on Friday kicks things off with live music, themed drinks, and interactive sound sculptures. Come back any day of the run to explore tactile installations, discover artwork for sale, and experience what it feels like when art truly includes everyone.
Where: ART Gallery at Canopy, 916 Springdale Rd, Bldg 2 #101, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, May 15 – July 5, 2026
How Much: Starts at $20
The Odd Couple
Catch the classic comedy The Odd Couple, where mismatched roommates Oscar and Felix navigate life after failed marriages. As their clashing habits collide, the pair must figure out whether their differences can coexist.
This Tony Award-winning play by Neil Simon delivers both sharp humor and heartfelt moments, making it as engaging as it is funny.
Where: Genesis Creative Collective, 1507 Wilshire Blvd, Unit #1, Austin, TX 78722
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $20
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder
Image credit: Austin Playhouse
Step into a wickedly funny musical where charm meets ambition and a growing body count. When a penniless young man discovers he’s ninth in line for the D’Ysquith family fortune, he sets his sights on moving up the ladder by removing the eight heirs ahead of him.
What follows is a fast-paced, witty ride filled with clever twists, a dazzling score, and a deliciously dark pursuit of love, legacy, and luxury.
Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $23
Dear Evan Hansen
Step into the emotional world of Dear Evan Hansen, the six-time Tony Award–winning musical that explores the complexities of connection in the digital age.
Follow high schooler Evan as a small lie unexpectedly spreads online, launching him into viral fame and forcing him to face difficult choices about truth, identity, and belonging.
This deeply personal and contemporary story captures the pressures of modern life while delivering a powerful message about loneliness, empathy, and the desire to be understood.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $28
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Top Picks Saturday
Weather on Saturday: Sunny to mostly sunny and humid with a high of 89°F, a low of 70°F, and a 5% chance of precipitation.
Feel Good Fest
SIMS Foundation brings Feel Good Fest to Radio / East for a night of music, connection, and community in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month.
A diverse lineup of rising artists from Austin, New York City, and North Carolina will take the stage in a showcase built around creativity and care. Every dollar from ticket sales goes directly to the SIMS Foundation’s mission of supporting the emotional wellness of the music community.
Come for the music, stay for the cause.
Where: Radio East, 3504 Montopolis Dr, Austin, TX 78744
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 6:00 pm
How Much: $35 in advance | $40 at the door
Haitian Flag Day 2026
Austin celebrates Haitian Flag Day at The Village Place with a full afternoon of music, dance, delicious food, and vibrant cultural performances. Whether you’re proud of your Haitian roots or simply curious about the culture, this is a joyful, open celebration meant for everyone.
Where: The Village Place, 8401 N Interstate Hwy 35 Ste 101, Austin, TX 78753
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
How Much: Not stated
The Chucho Valdés Royal Quartet
The ATX Chamber Music and Jazz season closes out with a legend on the Paramount stage. Chucho Valdés, a towering figure in Afro-Cuban jazz with seven Grammy and six Latin Grammy Awards. He has shaped the genre for more than six decades, and this performance promises to be one for the ages.
If you love Latin jazz, this is the show you don’t miss.
Where: The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $58
The Texas Wine Experience
For one day only, the Texas Hill Country comes to Austin.
Fifteen exceptional wineries will gather at Guad Haus in Central Austin, each pouring a curated selection that reflects the depth and sophistication of Texas wine, from expressive reds and elegant whites to unexpected varietals worth discovering.
There are no long lines and no rushed pours. Move through at your own pace, talk directly with the winemakers, compare vintages, find new favorites, and purchase bottles on-site to take home.
Four staggered entry times will keep the flow comfortable. It’s a relaxed, design-forward experience built for both wine lovers and the wine-curious.
Where: GuadHaus, 6201 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78752
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
How Much: $95
Arthritis Foundation presents Walk to Cure Arthritis
Image credit: Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk to Cure Arthritis brings communities together across the country to move, raise awareness, and fund better treatments and a cure.
In Austin, the walk is also a chance to connect with fellow arthritis warriors and caregivers who understand the journey firsthand.
Lace up, show up, and be part of the effort to change what’s possible.
Where: Concordia University Texas, 11400 Concordia University Dr, Austin, TX 78726
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 8:00 am
How Much: $Not stated
Panoramic Voices and Density512 Present “DIVAS”
Panoramic Voices and Density512 join forces for DIVAS, a bold concert that reimagines iconic pop anthems through choral and orchestral arrangements.
Five local Austin composers have crafted original arrangements of songs by Cher, Chappell Roan, Kate Bush, Celine Dion, and Dua Lipa. Fan favorites from Dolly Parton, Beyoncé, Prince, David Bowie, Whitney Houston, Madonna, and more will round out a program that celebrates the voices that have shaped generations.
Where: Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday – Sunday, May 16 – 17, 2026
How Much: Not stated
Ice Age in the Wild at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The Wildflower Center is about to get prehistoric. Starting May 9, 15 life-size, gigantic Ice Age mammals, including a 17,500-pound woolly mammoth, will take up residence throughout the gardens for a summer-long run.
Come face-to-face with a saber-toothed cat, a dire wolf, a woolly rhinoceros, and more as you wander the native plant gardens. New weekly Quest of the Week challenges keep every visit fresh, and general admission gets you in.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | runs through August 15
How Much: Included with general admission; free for members
Austin Sol Pro Ultimate Game
Catch the Austin Sol in action as they compete for the 2026 UFA Championship at Parmer Field. This fast-paced ultimate frisbee matchup delivers nonstop energy, backed by a live DJ, a full bar, and a wide selection of food delivered right to your seat.
Where: Parmer Field, 13000 Harris Ridge Blvd, Austin, TX 78753
When: Saturday, May 16 – July 18, 2026
How Much: $15 for adults | $10 for youth
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Sunday Funday
Weather on Sunday: Partly cloudy and remaining very warm with a high of 87°F, a low of 71°F, and a 15% chance of precipitation.
The Austin Margarita Festival
At the Austin Margarita Festival, you’re not just a guest, you’re a judge.
Hosted by the International Margarita Organization, this one-day tasting competition brings together 2,500 margarita lovers and Austin’s top bars and restaurants for a head-to-head showdown to crown the best margarita in the city.
Your entry ticket includes ten 3.5 oz margarita samples, the largest pours allowed by law, spanning styles from sweet and sultry to spicy, bold, and wildly creative.
After tasting, cast your vote, then stick around for a live DJ, street food vendors, a beer garden, and a raffle for a dream trip to Mexico, with a portion of proceeds benefiting children’s charities.
General Admission and VIP tickets with early entry and extra perks are both available.
Where: Armadillo Den, 10106 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748
When: Sunday, May 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $25.27
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend with Kids – Family Friendly Events
5th Street Vintage Market
The 5th Street Vintage Market is back at the Austin Visitor Center, and it’s bringing everything worth showing up for, including vintage pieces, statement jewelry, local vendors, and live DJ sounds to shop by.
Stop by the in-house café, 5th & Brew, for a fresh coffee or matcha right in the heart of downtown.
This market runs every third Saturday through July 18, 2026, so mark your calendar and make it a regular.
Where: Austin Visitor Center, 103 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026
How Much: Free
Broadway in Austin presents The Wiz
Forty years after its last pre-Broadway tour, The Wiz is back, and it’s bringing every bit of the soul, gospel, rock, and finger-snapping ’70s funk that made it a Tony Award-winning game-changer.
This all-new production puts a groundbreaking spin on The Wizard of Oz, following Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world, set to a score packed with timeless hits like “Ease on Down the Road” and the classic “Home.”
Don’t miss your chance to catch a piece of Broadway history as it makes its return to the stage.
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Tuesday, May 12 – 17, 2026
How Much: Not stated
Touch the Art Experience
This is the one art show where touching everything is not just allowed, it’s the whole point.
Almost Real Things’ 4th annual Touch the Art Experience transforms the gallery into a fully immersive, all-senses installation featuring work from 83 artists, including collaborating students from the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
The Grand Opening on Friday kicks things off with live music, themed drinks, and interactive sound sculptures. Come back any day of the run to explore tactile installations, discover artwork for sale, and experience what it feels like when art truly includes everyone.
Where: ART Gallery at Canopy, 916 Springdale Rd, Bldg 2 #101, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, May 15 – July 5, 2026
How Much: Starts at $20
Dear Evan Hansen
Step into the emotional world of Dear Evan Hansen, the six-time Tony Award–winning musical that explores the complexities of connection in the digital age.
Follow high schooler Evan as a small lie unexpectedly spreads online, launching him into viral fame and forcing him to face difficult choices about truth, identity, and belonging.
This deeply personal and contemporary story captures the pressures of modern life while delivering a powerful message about loneliness, empathy, and the desire to be understood.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $28
Arthritis Foundation presents Walk to Cure Arthritis
The Arthritis Foundation’s Walk to Cure Arthritis brings communities together across the country to move, raise awareness, and fund better treatments and a cure.
In Austin, the walk is also a chance to connect with fellow arthritis warriors and caregivers who understand the journey firsthand.
Lace up, show up, and be part of the effort to change what’s possible.
Where: Concordia University Texas, 11400 Concordia University Dr, Austin, TX 78726
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 8:00 am
How Much: $Not stated
Austin Bat Cave’s Puppet Show and Book Faire
Head to Festival Beach Food Forest for a free morning of books and storytelling under the open sky.
Books for all ages are available to browse, and a live puppet story time, recommended for kids 12 and under, brings the fun to life with outdoor seating for the whole family.
Where: Festival Beach Food Forest, 29 Waller St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
How Much: Free
Muddy Dash
Muddy Dash is exactly what it sounds like: a few muddy miles of kid-friendly obstacles where you run, walk, crawl, and slide your way to the finish line.
Parents and kids can tackle the course together as a team, with plenty of photo-worthy moments along the way and a post-race festival waiting at the end.
Come ready to get dirty and have the best time doing it.
Where: Travis County Exposition Center, 7311 Decker Ln, Austin, TX 78724
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 8:00 am
How Much: Free
City of Round Rock Arts and Culture presents Mainly Art
Stroll along historic Main Street in Round Rock and browse original work from 15 local visual artists at Mainly Art, the city’s monthly outdoor art market. It’s a relaxed, walkable way to discover new talent, support local makers, and spend a morning in the heart of downtown.
Where: Sharon Prete Main Street Plaza, 221 E Main St, Round Rock, TX 78664
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:00 am
How Much: Free
Ice Age in the Wild at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The Wildflower Center is about to get prehistoric. Starting May 9, 15 life-size gigantic Ice Age mammals, including a 17,500-pound woolly mammoth , will take up residence throughout the gardens for a summer-long run.
Come face-to-face with a saber-toothed cat, a dire wolf, a woolly rhinoceros, and more as you wander the native plant gardens. New weekly Quest of the Week challenges keep every visit fresh, and general admission gets you in.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | runs through August 15
How Much: Included with general admission; free for members
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend for Adults
SaulPaul’s Million Dollar Dreams Money, Music and Arts Festival
Downtown Austin comes alive for SaulPaul’s Million Dollar Dreams Money, Music and Arts Festival, a vibrant collision of music, interactive experiences, and engaging exhibits that explore the connections between creativity, community, and possibility.
It’s a full sensory dive into everything the Austin community has to offer.
Come curious and leave inspired.
Where: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, May 15, 2026 | 10:00 am
How Much: Free
Austin Gay Men’s Chorus presents Freedom Unfinished: From Reckoning to Joy
The Austin Gay Men’s Chorus takes the stage for Freedom Unfinished: From Reckoning to Joy, a bold and moving spring concert that explores the ideals, complexities, and evolving story of freedom in American life.
At the heart of the program is a musical dialogue between two composers named Thompson, separated by more than 70 years. This includes selections from Randall Thompson’s Testament of Freedom (1943), inspired by Thomas Jefferson, woven together with movements from Joel Thompson’s Seven Last Words of the Unarmed (2015).
The contrast between the two works invites audiences to reflect on how the meaning of freedom continues to shift and deepen over time, and what it means to keep reaching for it.
Where: First Baptist Church of Austin, 901 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday – Saturday, May 15 – 16, 2026 | 8:00 pm (Fri) | 4:00 pm (Sat)
How Much: Starts at $20
28th Annual Cine Las Americas International Film Festival
Now in its 28th year, Cine Las Americas returns to amplify underrepresented voices from across the Americas, spotlighting Latinx, Indigenous, and Texas independent stories through screenings, panels, and parties over five days.
This year’s highlights include the opening night film American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez, Street Smart: Lessons from a TV Icon featuring Sesame Street’s Sonia Manzano, a Music Video Showcase and Party curated by Gina Chavez, and more.
With this much on the program, five days might just feel like not enough.
Where: AFS Cinema, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $13
Affordable Art Fair
The Affordable Art Fair returns to the Palmer Events Center for its third year in Austin, and it’s bigger than ever, bringing together 22 local galleries alongside regional, national, and international galleries for a four-day showcase.
Over 500 works priced from $100 to $12,000, all by emerging and established living artists, will be available for purchase across paintings, prints, sculpture, and photography.
New this year, four artists will be live painting each evening of the fair. Donating to the fair’s charity partner, Dell Children’s Hospital, enters you to win one of those finished works.
Art duo ROXEHA also invites you to grab a pen and contribute directly to their booth walls, while the Smartist app offers an on-site activation that lets you see exactly how a piece would look hanging in your own home.
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $24.22
Texas Burlesque Festival 2026!
The Texas Burlesque Festival is back in Austin for a multi-night celebration of tease, talent, and theatrical flair.
Thursday night opens with a showcase headlined by Eros Sea alongside a lineup of boundary-pushing performers setting the tone for what’s ahead.
Friday night’s headliner is Jessabelle Thunder of Los Angeles, internationally renowned, freshly crowned Miss Exotic World, Queen of Burlesque 2025 at the Burlesque Hall of Fame, and a performer whose résumé spans 11 countries and stages shared with icons like Lizzo and Dita Von Teese.
Closing the festival Saturday night is Madame E, a living legend who began her career in 1970 as Pearl Divine in Honolulu, performed across the Pacific, entertained U.S. troops during the Vietnam era, and earned her place in the Burlesque Hall of Fame.
Bold, body-positive, and equal parts glamour and grit, the 2026 Texas Burlesque Festival is three nights of unforgettable performances you won’t want to miss.
Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, May 15 – 16, 2026
How Much: Starts at $25
Much Ado About Nothing — Austin Shakespeare
Catch Shakespeare’s most beloved comedy under the Austin night sky at Zilker Hillside Theatre.
Austin Shakespeare will transport Much Ado About Nothing to 1950s Italy, drawing on the cinematic world of Fellini with sun-drenched piazzas, effortless style, and lively music woven throughout.
Watch as sharp-tongued Beatrice and sworn bachelor Benedick spar their way through love denial while the romance around them lurches toward chaos. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for a night of wit and warmth.
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, May 15 – 24, 2026
How Much: Free (donations welcome)
Blue Genie Art Bazaar’s Annual May Market Returns to Austin
Explore a vibrant local shopping experience at the sixth annual May Market by Blue Genie Art Bazaar. Held every weekend in May, this free, family-friendly event brings together nearly 200 regional artists and artisans under one roof.
Browse handcrafted gifts perfect for any occasion and enjoy hands-on fun with DIY card printing every Saturday.
Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, May 15 – 31, 2026 | 10 am – 8 pm (Fridays – Sundays only)
How Much: Free
The Odd Couple
Catch the classic comedy The Odd Couple, where mismatched roommates Oscar and Felix navigate life after failed marriages. As their clashing habits collide, the pair must figure out whether their differences can coexist.
This Tony Award-winning play by Neil Simon delivers both sharp humor and heartfelt moments, making it as engaging as it is funny.
Where: Genesis Creative Collective, 1507 Wilshire Blvd Unit #1, Austin, TX 78722
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $20
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder
Step into a wickedly funny musical where charm meets ambition and a growing body count. When a penniless young man discovers he’s ninth in line for the D’Ysquith family fortune, he sets his sights on moving up the ladder by removing the eight heirs ahead of him.
What follows is a fast-paced, witty ride filled with clever twists, a dazzling score, and a deliciously dark pursuit of love, legacy, and luxury.
Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, May 15 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $23
Feel Good Fest
SIMS Foundation brings Feel Good Fest to Radio / East for a night of music, connection, and community in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month.
A diverse lineup of rising artists from Austin, New York City, and North Carolina will take the stage in a showcase built around creativity and care. Every dollar from ticket sales goes directly to SIMS Foundation’s mission of supporting the emotional wellness of the music community.
Come for the music, stay for the cause.
Where: Radio East, 3504 Montopolis Dr, Austin, TX 78744
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 6:00 pm
How Much: $35 in advance | $40 at the door
Haitian Flag Day 2026
Austin celebrates Haitian Flag Day at The Village Place with a full afternoon of music, dance, delicious food, and vibrant cultural performances. Whether you’re proud of your Haitian roots or simply curious about the culture, this is a joyful, open celebration meant for everyone.
Where: The Village Place, 8401 N Interstate Hwy 35 Ste 101, Austin, TX 78753
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
How Much: Not stated
The Chucho Valdés Royal Quartet
The ATX Chamber Music and Jazz season closes out with a legend on the Paramount stage. Chucho Valdés, a towering figure in Afro-Cuban jazz with seven Grammy and six Latin Grammy Awards. He has shaped the genre for more than six decades, and this performance promises to be one for the ages.
If you love Latin jazz, this is the show you don’t miss.
Where: The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $58
Panoramic Voices and Density512 Present “DIVAS”
Panoramic Voices and Density512 join forces for DIVAS, a bold concert that reimagines iconic pop anthems through choral and orchestral arrangements.
Five local Austin composers have crafted original arrangements of songs by Cher, Chappell Roan, Kate Bush, Celine Dion, and Dua Lipa. Fan favorites from Dolly Parton, Beyoncé, Prince, David Bowie, Whitney Houston, Madonna, and more will round out a program that celebrates the voices that have shaped generations.
Where: Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday – Sunday, May 16 – 17, 2026
How Much: Not stated
The Texas Wine Experience
For one day only, the Texas Hill Country comes to Austin.
Fifteen exceptional wineries will gather at Guad Haus in Central Austin, each pouring a curated selection that reflects the depth and sophistication of Texas wine, from expressive reds and elegant whites to unexpected varietals worth discovering.
There are no long lines and no rushed pours. Move through at your own pace, talk directly with the winemakers, compare vintages, find new favorites, and purchase bottles on-site to take home.
Four staggered entry times will keep the flow comfortable. It’s a relaxed, design-forward experience built for both wine lovers and the wine-curious.
Where: GuadHaus, 6201 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78752
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
How Much: $95
Austin Sol Pro Ultimate Game
Catch the Austin Sol in action as they compete for the 2026 UFA Championship at Parmer Field. This fast-paced ultimate frisbee matchup delivers nonstop energy, backed by a live DJ, a full bar, and a wide selection of food delivered right to your seat.
Where: Parmer Field, 13000 Harris Ridge Blvd, Austin, TX 78753
When: Saturday, May 16 – July 18, 2026
How Much: $15 for adults | $10 for youth
Austin Public Library presents Greater Austin Book Fest
The Austin Public Library is hosting the Greater Austin Book Festival, Austin’s only tri-county book festival dedicated to local small-press and self-published authors.
Spend the day meeting the writers behind the books, picking up signed copies, and exploring the Central Library while taking in a full lineup of panels, workshops, and interactive programs.
It’s a full day of books, ideas, and the people who bring them to life.
Where: Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:00 am
How Much: Free
5th Annual Driftwood Heritage Festival
The Driftwood community gathers for its 5th Annual Heritage Festival, a celebration packed with live music, kids’ activities, a local market, community partners, and more. It’s a laid-back, all-ages day that brings out the best of what makes Driftwood worth celebrating.
Where: Vista Brewing, 13551 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Driftwood, TX 78619
When: Sunday, May 17, 2026 | 11:00 am
How Much: Free
The Austin Margarita Festival
At the Austin Margarita Festival, you’re not just a guest, you’re a judge.
Hosted by the International Margarita Organization, this one-day tasting competition brings together 2,500 margarita lovers and Austin’s top bars and restaurants for a head-to-head showdown to crown the best margarita in the city.
Your entry ticket includes ten 3.5 oz margarita samples, the largest pours allowed by law, spanning styles from sweet and sultry to spicy, bold, and wildly creative.
After tasting, cast your vote, then stick around for a live DJ, street food vendors, a beer garden, and a raffle for a dream trip to Mexico, with a portion of proceeds benefiting children’s charities.
General Admission and VIP tickets with early entry and extra perks are both available.
Where: Armadillo Den, 10106 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748
When: Sunday, May 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $25.27
Looking for more local fun? Check out our master guide to Things to do in Austin this weekend!
- Things to do in Austin this Weekend | May 15 – May 17 - May 11, 2026
- Austin Highlights: May 11 to May 14 – Food, Music, Arts & More - May 10, 2026
- 65+ Best Mother’s Day Brunch Austin 2026: Dinner & Verified Deals - May 9, 2026
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