Austin Highlights: October 12 To October 15

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The best free and fun events in Austin, October 12 – October 15, include Buda Arts Festival, ATXplained Live, and more!

Austin turns up the energy long before the weekend hits, and this list rounds up the can’t-miss events keeping the city buzzing all week long. Explore what’s happening from September 28 to October 1, and keep your weekdays packed with Austin’s signature spirit and creativity!

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 Things To Do this Summer in Austin.

Free and Fun Events in Austin this Monday, October 12, 2026

Buda Arts Festival

Image credit; Inspired Minds Art

Immerse yourself in a vibrant, six-day celebration of the arts as Inspired Minds Art Center brings the community together in Buda.

Originally born as an outdoor plein air painting and music gathering during a time of social restrictions, the festival has blossomed into an expansive showcase featuring live outdoor art competitions, busking musicians, interactive art demonstrations, bustling artisan markets, gallery exhibits, artist meet-ups, kids’ activities, film screenings, and live theater performances.

Discover something inspiring around every corner while enjoying the fresh air and creative energy.

Where: Inspired Minds Art Center, 121 Main St, Buda, TX 78610
When: Monday, October 12 – 17, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
How Much: Free

Davy Jones’ Locker Haunted Tiki Takeover

Step into a spooky nautical realm as Davy Jones’ Locker rises from the dead for a thrilling Halloween pop-up experience.

The Copperhead Club transforms its space with shipwrecked surroundings, flaming specialty drinks, and plenty of eerie mysteries lurking beneath the surface.

Gather friends for a chillingly fun night out and explore the depths of this immersive seasonal takeover. The locker is ready to reopen. Are you brave enough to enter?

Where: The Copperhead Club, 2120 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
When: Monday, October 12 – 31, 2026
How Much: Free entry

Fall Festival

Explore a massive 4.5-acre themed corn maze and a Texas-sized pumpkin patch boasting over 40 unique varieties of pumpkins.

Your ticket includes daily pig races, a petting zoo, pony rides, wagon rides, apple cannons, and over 30 exciting farm-themed activities, alongside thrilling fireworks displays every Friday and Saturday night in October.

There will also be weekend shows like Ember Fire Show, Sky Kings Falconry, and Zoofari.

Where: Sweet Eats Adventure Farm, 14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Monday, October 12 – November 8, 2026
How Much: Starts at $16

Esquina’s Fall Youth Dance Classes

Ignite your child’s passion for movement with Esquina’s Fall Youth Dance Classes, titled “La Juventud”!

Designed for ages 7 to 11, these vibrant sessions feature exciting weekly rhythms including Ritmos Latinos on Mondays, Samba on Wednesdays, and Tango on Thursdays, leading up to a special performance opportunity on Saturday, October 17.

Snacks are provided, so remember to bring water and secure your spot by adding your child as a family member through your Wellness Living account.

Where: Esquina Tango, 209 Pedernales Street, Austin, TX 78702
When: Monday, October 12 – 15, 2026 | 5:30 PM to 6:15 PM
How Much: Free

Yoga & Sound

Re-center your mind and body amidst the natural beauty of Waterloo Park with a revolving series of energizing vinyasa flows, gentle yoga, mindful movement, and restorative sound experiences!

Open to all ages and abilities, with beginners and experts welcome, modifications are offered throughout each class to help every participant move, breathe, connect, and unwind.

Bring a yoga mat, water, and friends to enjoy this community-supported wellness program presented at no cost.

Where: Waterloo Park, 500 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Every Monday from October 12 – November 2, 2026 | 6 pm
How Much: Free

Austin Psycho

Suit up in blood-splattered gear and release your inner action star by smashing your way through a late-night thriller homage at Rage Room Austin.

Grab your friends and dive right into the heart-pounding scene for an unforgettable adrenaline rush!

Where: Rage Room Austin, 1716 E Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78747
When: Monday, October 12 – 31, 2026 | 7:00 PM
How Much: $40

Free and Fun Events in Austin this Tuesday, October 13, 2026

AWC Wine Dinner and Pairings – The Food and Wine of Provence

Savor the sun-drenched culinary traditions of Provence, France, during an exclusive evening hosted by the Austin Woman’s Club at historic Chateau Bellevue.

Indulge in a meticulously crafted menu featuring a grilled shrimp Provençal, an artichoke and goat cheese tartlet, a vibrant Provençal bean salad, a rich daube de bœuf Provençal, and a delicate fig mille-feuille, all complemented by world-class wines.

Reserve a seat for a truly exquisite gastronomic journey.

Where: Chateau Bellevue, 708 San Antonio St., Austin, TX 78701
When: Tuesday, October 13, 2026 | 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
How Much: AWC Members and Guests – $95 | Non-AWC Members – $115

Sip + Solder Spiders and Webs: Contracommon’s Stained Glass Workshop

Unleash inner creativity during a hands-on stained glass workshop hosted by Deke Cameron at Meanwhile Brewing Co.

In this immersive three-hour beginner-friendly class, participants assemble and solder a stunning stained glass spiderweb suncatcher paired with a hanging glass glob spider charm, choosing from an assortment of pre-cut glass shapes in various colors and textures.

Learn the basics of lead-came construction and unique soldering techniques while enjoying a relaxed brewery atmosphere.

Where: Meanwhile Brewing Co., 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744
When: Tuesday, October 13, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $8

The Paramount Theatre presents Panic

Delight in spine-chilling cinema and cozy seasonal fun as the annual Panic horror series takes over local venues with favorite fright flicks, special guests, and expanded screenings at the Bullock Museum IMAX.

Upcoming highlights include screenings of Dracula and Frankenstein on October 14, followed by Master Pancake vs. The Lost Boys on October 15, among other thrilling cinematic events throughout the month.

Where: State Theatre, 719 N Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
When: Tuesday, October 13 – 15, 2026
How Much: $15 for regular admission

Kylie Cantrall in concert

Catch pop sensation Kylie Cantrall live in concert as she takes the stage in Austin in support of her energetic new album, Valley Girl Problems.

Where: Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live), 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: Tuesday, October 13, 2026 | 8:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $33

Tuesday Twilights

Spend a peaceful evening surrounded by stunning blooms as the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center stays open late every Tuesday this fall. Make it a charming date night, pack a relaxing picnic with friends, or enjoy some quiet solo time soaking in the beauty of nature.

Every single visit features delightful live music from local artists to serenade your stroll through the gardens.

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Tuesday, October 13, 2026 – November 10, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: $15 for adults | $12 for seniors | $9 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids 2 and under

Pumpkin Nights

Skip the traditional scares and step into a stunning Halloween art experience as you follow a half-mile path through nine immersive pumpkin lands, ranging from the fiery Forbidden City to the electric underwater world of Neon Reef.

They all feature larger-than-life installations built from over 10,000 hand-carved and custom-designed pumpkins. The journey continues in Pumpkin Village with festive food, a live fire show, and games for the whole family to enjoy.

Where: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: Tuesday, October 13 – 31, 2026 | 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $12

Free and Fun Events in Austin this Wednesday, October 14, 2026

Randy Travis: The More Life Tour

Image credit: Randy Travis

Witness a deeply moving celebration of country music royalty as legendary singer Randy Travis is honored on his More Life Tour alongside co-star James Dupré from The Price.

Travis’s long-time touring band and Dupré perform iconic chart-topping number ones like On the Other Hand, Forever and Ever, Amen, and Three Wooden Crosses, while Travis makes a special appearance to engage with the audience.

Fans can also anticipate the upcoming November release of his new album, Same Old Way, featuring unreleased archival recordings.

Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: Starts at $16

Haunted Shores: Family Halloween Walk-Through

Explore a spooky water park transformed into a thrilling Halloween walk-through filled with haunted scenes, creepy characters, and ghostly encounters!

You can come early for delicious dinner options, spooky cocktails, and themed snacks by the water before embarking on a family-friendly adventure designed for all ages. Stick around after your walk for even more seasonal fun and thrills.

Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Wednesday, October 14 – 31, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $10

Music on the Trail Series

Every week, the Rainey Street Trailhead lawn transforms into Austin’s coolest outdoor concert spot featuring a new local musician. Grab a blanket, bring some friends, and let’s make Wednesdays the best night of the week!

This September 9 will feature Jennifer Foster & The Audacity.

Where: Rainey Street Trailhead, Cummings St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Wednesday, October 14, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
How Much: Free

Two-Step Lessons at Sagebrush: Beginner + Intermediate

Step onto the dance floor and learn Austin’s signature honky-tonk two-step style with drop-in classes hosted by Double or Nothing Two-Step.

Whether arriving solo, as a couple, or with a group, no partner or prior experience is required to join the beginner lesson at six in the evening or the intermediate class at seven.

Your partners will rotate throughout the session, and your admission covers both the instruction and the live country music that follows.

Where: Sagebrush, 5500 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
When: Wednesday, October 14 – November 24, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: $10

Driftwood Fall Festival

Celebrate the crisp autumn season by joining a wonderful new family tradition nestled across a gorgeous 21-acre ranch.

Wander through a charming boutique pumpkin patch, lose yourself in the haze maze, conquer the hay mountain, and enjoy delightful outdoor games and farm animal petting zoo experiences. You can also grab some local food and drinks while soaking in the festive fall atmosphere with your favorite people!

Where: Vista Brewing, 13551 Ranch to Market Rd 150, Driftwood, TX 78619
When: Wednesday, October 14 – November 1, 2026
How Much: $5 – $15 | Free for babies and kids 3 and under

Free and Fun Events in Austin this Thursday, October 15, 2026

Paint and Sip: Paint Night Done Right

Image credit: classpop

Transform an ordinary evening into an unforgettable creative adventure with a lively paint and sip experience at Blue Owl Brewing.

A friendly local artist guides the room step-by-step through painting a canvas. Leave perfection behind, enjoy plenty of laughs, and take home a personal masterpiece.

Where: Blue Owl Brewing, 2400 E Cesar Chavez St #300, Austin, TX 78702
When: Thursday, October 15, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: $43.99

Night of 1000 Nikki’s

Experience an evening of performance art and community support at an obsession-themed benefit market and show presented by Lezzz B. Honest in aid of SAFE.

Explore incredible local vendors and talented performers, and join a welcoming crowd dedicated to raising funds and awareness for a vital cause.

Where: Ani’s Day and Night, 7107 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
When: Thursday, October 15, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: $10

ESPERANZA by Rupert Reyes

Experience the world premiere of a compelling new play written and directed by award-winning Austin playwright, artistic director, and actor Rupert Reyes at Trinity Street Playhouse.

The story follows Mercedes, an undocumented immigrant arriving from Mexico who finds work in the home of a grieving affluent couple still reeling from a devastating loss, setting off a chain of hidden secrets, a failed romance, and an impulsive betrayal.

When Mercedes reveals her pregnancy, longing and desperation collide in a powerful exploration of how far people will go to claim a child.

Where: Trinity Street Playhouse, 901 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Thursday, October 15 – 24, 2026 | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
How Much: $25 for GA | $20 for students and seniors | $35 for VIP

Gov’t Mule and Ziggy Marley in concert

Image credit: Gov’t Mule

Experience an incredible co-headlining evening of rock and reggae as Gov’t Mule and Ziggy Marley bring the Dreaming The Same Dream Tour to Austin.

Warren Haynes leads Gov’t Mule through a celebrated catalog spanning 25 albums, including their 2023 release Peace…Like A River, while Ziggy Marley brings inspiring rhythms in support of his album Brightside.

Where: Moody Amphitheater, 1401 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Thursday, October 15, 2026 | 7:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $24

Ken Ludwig’s Sullivan & Gilbert

Enjoy a delightful blend of part-docudrama and part-period comedy as Gilbert & Sullivan Austin presents Ken Ludwig’s witty theatrical revue.

Queen Victoria demands a new revue from her favorite feuding composers, setting off a hilarious chain of events involving secret crushes, royal bumbling, and familiar songs paired with fresh dances.

Authored by the acclaimed playwright behind Lend Me a Tenor and Leading Ladies, this charming production is guaranteed to amuse.

Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Thursday, October 15 – 18, 2026
How Much: Starts at $26

KUT presents ATXplained Live

Discover the hidden stories and fascinating secrets of the capital city during KUT’s award-winning ATXplained Live.

Bringing journalism off the radio and onto the stage, favorite KUT reporters share brand-new, community-inspired stories through captivating words, images, and a few delightful surprises. Join fellow curious minds for an engaging evening that deepens appreciation and understanding of Austin.

Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Thursday, October 15, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: Please check the website for available tickets

Already planning for the weekend? Browse our latest picks for Friday through Sunday in Austin — concerts, food festivals, date ideas, and more await!