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The best things to do in Austin this weekend, October 9 – October 11, include the Texas Pumpkin Fest, Origins of Fear, 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 – October 9 – October 11: Austin will enjoy classic mid-October weather with comfortable warmth, pleasant evening dips into the 60s, crisp sunshine, and negligible rain potential.
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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We only recommend experiences we truly believe in! Curious about how we choose our content? Here’s our process.
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 or Cheap Things to Do in Austin this Weekend
Move, Groove, Bubbles Family Yoga Festival
Image credit: Hotel Viata
Join ATX Yoga Girl Cynthia Bernard for a joyful morning of movement, music, and mindfulness designed for families of all abilities at Hotel Viata.
This playful session blends guided partner poses, dancing, breathing exercises, and mindful moments, followed by an all-out bubble party on the hotel courtyard.
No yoga experience is needed. Just bring your people and your playful spirit, and enjoy light bites and refreshments provided by Bakeful, Lifeway Kefir, and Magic Milk.
Where: Hotel Viata, 320 S Capital of Texas Hwy, West Lake Hills, TX 78746
When: Friday, October 9, 2026 | 10:00 AM
How Much: Free
Homegrown Games Market
Discover what Austin is playing next at the Homegrown Games Market, a one-day indie tabletop bazaar celebrating games made right here in Central Texas at The Brewtorium.
Local designers take over the venue with independently created board games, card games, role-playing games, and other tabletop creations, sold directly by the people who made them.
Many are produced in small batches and limited editions, offering visitors a chance to find unusual games they won’t see on the shelves at big retailers.
Where: The Brewtorium, 6015 Dillard Cir A, Austin, TX 78752
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
How Much: Free
Oktoberfest at Old Gregg Brewing
Oktoberfest returns to Old Gregg’s Brewing Co. in Pflugerville, bringing a full evening of German-inspired festivities including a new beer release, Oktoberfest food features, a stein-holding contest, spirited live polka music, and face painting!
The festivities kick off following the UT vs. OU football game, giving fans a chance to watch the rivalry game and then stick around.
Where: Old Gregg Brewing Co., 1900 E Howard Ln, Building H, Pflugerville, TX 78660
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 5:00 PM
How Much: Free
The Austin Flea at Mañana Dos
Discover the Austin Flea at Mattina Coffee + Wine, featuring all local handmade items and vintage wares from some of Austin’s most amazing and talented vendors.
Find one-of-a-kind gifts for any occasion, including jewelry, bath/body products, vintage items, original artwork, paper goods, textiles, and so much more.
Where: Mattina Coffee + Wine, 111 Sandra Muraida Way Ste 101, Austin, TX 78703
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 10:00 AM
How Much: Free
Things to Do in Austin this Friday | Weekend Kickoff Events
Weather on Friday: Mostly sunny and warm with light northerly breezes, a high of 88°F, a low of 66°F, and a 7% chance of precipitation.
Dive-in Movies: Spooky Edition
Celebrate spooky season under the stars with Dive-In Movie: Spooky Edition, featuring iconic Halloween favorites poolside every Friday night at Fairmont Austin.
Settle in for a nostalgic lineup of Beetlejuice, Hocus Pocus, The Addams Family, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Practical Magic.
Where: Fairmont Austin, 101 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, October 9 – 30, 2026 | 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $25
My Hero Academia In Concert
Experience the heroism of My Hero Academia In Concert at Bass Concert Hall, celebrating 10 years of unforgettable adventures!
From Deku’s first steps to the thrilling battles, this live concert brings the anime’s full eight-season journey to life on stage.
Accompanied by a 15-piece live band performing Yuki Hayashi’s iconic score perfectly synced with striking visuals of your favorite scenes, every note captures the triumph, heartbreak, and courage of Class 1-A, creating an immersive concert experience for fans new and old alike.
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, October 9, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: Starts at $175
Phoebe Robinson: Feral & Fired Up! Tour
Image credit: Phoebe Robinson
Catch standup comedian, best-selling author, producer, actress, and publisher Phoebe Robinson live on stage at the Paramount Theatre.
Her second standup special, “I Don’t Wanna Work Anymore,” premiered exclusively on YouTube, and she is the celebrated author of essay collections including “You Can’t Touch My Hair,” “Everything’s Trash, But It’s Okay,” and “Please Don’t Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes.”
Where: The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, October 9, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: Starts at $38
Origins of Fear
It’s long been known that evil lurks within the walls of Mortis Manor. Now see where the story began, when evil tipped the scales in its favor through trickery, reaching its poisonous fingers through time and distance, and explore the Origins of Fear in an all-new immersive experience presented by Fatal Fear Haunted House.
Your admission ticket grants you access to a timed-entry experience (unless otherwise specified), along with access to designated selfie/group photo areas.
We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early to allow for parking and check-in, as you may not enter the attraction before your designated time and late arrivals may have longer wait times.
Where: Fatal Fear Haunted House, 15701 La Hacienda Dr., Austin, TX 78734
When: Friday, October 9 – October 31, 2026 | 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM
How Much: $25
Cap City Comedy Club presents Nico Carney
Spend an evening laughing out loud with Brooklyn-based stand-up comedian, writer, and actor Nico Carney! Hear hilarious stories covering his experiences growing up as a trans man in Georgia alongside plenty of other wonderfully silly observations.
Where: Cap City Comedy Club, 11506 Century Oaks Terrace Unit 100, Austin, TX 78758
When: Friday, October 9 – 10, 2026
How Much: Please check the website for tickets
Dance Carousel
Enjoy a wonderfully inventive showcase featuring works by 24 brilliant choreographers presenting fast-paced, one-minute dances in a round!
Over the course of forty-eight minutes, experience a diverse mix of humorous, poignant, virtuosic, and deliciously subversive performances across two unique programs. Come support local contemporary dance and let yourself be surprised by boundary-pushing movement.
Where: Ground Floor Theater, 979 Springdale Rd #122, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, October 9 – 10, 2026 | 8:00 PM
How Much: Please check the website for tickets
The Baron’s Men presents The Taming of the Shrew
Step back into the hustle, bargaining, and vibrant romance of the Italian Renaissance with Shakespeare’s classic comedy!
Follow the fiery, headstrong Katerina and the witty suitors desperate to win her hand or unlock the path to her sister Bianca.
Where: Austin Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W 18th St., Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, October 9 – 11, 2026
How Much: Please check the website for tickets
Boo at the Zoo
Slip into your favorite costume and join an evening out at the Austin Zoo for “Boo at the Zoo!” where the grounds will be fully illuminated and decorated for the Halloween season.
Your ticket includes a scenic Haunted Train pass and unlimited visits to the spooky Haunted House.
Please note that advance reservations are required for train rides and are subject to availability, so call ahead to schedule your ride and purchase tickets.
Where: Austin Zoo, 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736
When: Friday, October 9 – Saturday, October 24, 2026
How Much: $25
Austin City Limits Music Festival
It is that time of year again as the Austin City Limits Music Festival returns for its landmark 25th year to bring the magic of the famed public TV series outside the studio and into Austin’s most beloved park.
Spanning two exciting weekends from October 2 to 4 and October 9 to 11, 2026, the festival features a diverse lineup across nine stages with over 100 incredible performances.
The 2026 lineup boasts phenomenal headliners like Charli XCX, Rufus Du Sol, Twenty One Pilots, Lorde, and Skrillex for Weekend 1, Kings of Leon for Weekend 2, and The XX.
Fans can also catch amazing sets from The Chainsmokers, Lola Young, Turnstile, Geese, Bleachers, The War on Drugs, Suki Waterhouse, Steve Aoki, Audrey Hobert, Brandon Flowers, Parcels, and many more.
Where: Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, October 9 – 11, 2026
How Much: Please check the website for available tickets
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: Friday, October 9 – November 1, 2026
How Much: $5 – $15 | Free for babies and kids 3 and under
Pumpkin Nights
Transform your autumn evenings with a magical half-mile journey through nine immersive pumpkin lands, ranging from the glowing Forbidden City to the underwater wonderland of Neon Reef, featuring larger-than-life installations built from over 10,000 hand-carved and custom pumpkins.
Afterward, explore Pumpkin Village for festive food, games for the whole family, and a thrilling live fire show in this celebration of Halloween artistry.
Where: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: Friday, October 9 – 31, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $12
Scream Hollow Wicked Halloween Park
Venture into a sprawling wicked Halloween park featuring four bone-chilling haunted houses, including the Mansion of Terror: Coven, Sinister Circus, Lost Pines Asylum, and Encounter.
You can also enjoy the thrilling Hell on Wheels Haunted Hayride. Additionally, you can wander eerie museums, consult on-site mystics, warm up by the fire pit with a drink, and feast on sinister eats amid the park’s dark nightlife energy.
Where: Scream Hollow, 149 Split Rail Ln, Smithville, TX 78957
When: Friday, October 9 – November 1, 2026 | 7:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $37.83
Clue
Step into a dark and stormy night where an eccentric cast of characters gathers for a very unusual dinner party in Boddy Manor.
Based on the cult classic film and popular board game, you can follow iconic personalities like Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard as they race against time to uncover the murderer before the body count rises.
Throughout the evening, unexpected twists and hidden motives will keep you guessing right up until the final reveal.
Where: Penfold Theatre Company, 2120 N. Mays Street, Suite 290, Round Rock, TX 78708
When: Friday, October 9 – 11, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Top Picks Saturday
Weather on Saturday: Abundant daylight sunshine giving way to crisp, clear night skies, a high of 87°F, a low of 65°F, and a 4% chance of precipitation.
Austin Oktoberfest
Image credit: germantexans
Grab your Lederhosen and Dirndl for the 22nd annual Austin Oktoberfest hosted by the German-Texans Heritage Society at the historic German Free School in the heart of the Red River Cultural District.
This family-friendly event features Oktoberfest-themed live music, activities for kids, and plenty of delicious German food and drinks.
Where: German-Texans Heritage Society, 507 E 10th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM
How Much: $20
Movies Behind the Museum: Hoppers
Join Texas Science & Natural History Museum for a special outdoor screening of the family favorite “Hoppers”!
Your ticket includes access to both the museum and the movie, so come early to explore the exhibits and pick a perfect spot. You can bring blankets for the lawn or camp chairs for the patio, and you are welcome to bring your own snacks (no glass containers).
Museum doors open at 6:00 PM, and the movie starts at 7:30 PM.
Where: Texas Science and Natural History Museum, 2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $6
Texas Pumpkin Fest
Head to the Austin area’s largest pumpkin festival for a magical fall experience filled with pumpkins, exciting attractions, live entertainment, and good ol’ family fun in Leander, Texas.
The festival runs every Saturday and Sunday, plus Oct. 12 & Oct. 30. Military and veterans receive half off admission, children in diapers are free, and every child receives a free small pumpkin.
Where: VFW 10427, 8760 FM 2243, Leander, TX 78641
When: Saturday, October 10 – November 1, 2026 | 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
How Much: $15
Did I Win? Live Game Show
Step into Fallout Theater for Did I Win?, the unpredictable live game show where audience members are chosen to participate in fun games for the chance to win real prizes!
With each round offering unique twists and turns, contestants will never know what’s coming next. Exciting prizes await the winners, but everyone will leave with an unforgettable experience, so get ready to ask yourself, “Did I Win?”
Where: Fallout Theatre, 616 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 10:00 PM to 11:00 PM
How Much: $15
It’s Sumo Time!
Experience Sumo Championship League’s Inaugural Event in Austin! As the newly launched professional sumo league bringing live, authentic competition and a modern, family-friendly event experience to the U.S., SCL officially launches its inaugural season here.
Expect authentic professional sumo competition where elite heavyweight athletes meet one-on-one inside the dohyō, with each wrestler looking to force his opponent out of the ring or off his feet in matches that can end in seconds or turn into dramatic battles of strength and leverage.
Every match counts toward SCL’s season-long standings for prize money and championship positioning leading into the first Annual Championship in late 2027.
Where: H-E-B Center, 2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $44.15
Make Your Own Dumplings – Austin
Join a dumpling-making master class hosted by Fever at Café Crème, where you’ll delve into the art of creating mouthwatering dumplings.
The session starts with a demonstration on crafting the perfect dumpling dough, allowing you to roll, fill, and cook your way to deliciousness in a fun, hands-on environment.
Where: Café Crème, 1834 East Oltorf Street, Austin, TX 78741
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 6:30 PM to 7:45 PM
How Much: $65
Ballet Austin presents The Seventh Night Sky
Image credit: Ballet Austin
In Vietnam, the Double Seventh Festival (Thất Tịch) is celebrated as a day honoring love, inspired by the enduring legend of Ngưu Lang (Altair) and Chức Nữ (Vega).
Separated by the vast Milky Way, the humble Cowherd Ngưu Lang longs to reunite with the celestial Weaver Chức Nữ once each year when a bridge of magpies spans the heavens on the seventh night of the seventh lunar month.
Ballet Austin Two’s special one-hour production created for kids and families reimagines this beloved Vietnamese tale where a festival celebration brings the community together amid glowing lanterns, colorful costumes, music, and dance.
As the evening ends, a lonely young man’s dream carries him up into the world of Altair and Vega, offering a meditation on love and hope that reminds us how love endures across great distances and the passage of time.
Where: Ballet Austin’s Butler Dance Education Center, 501 W 3rd St, Austin, TX 78701
When: October 10 – 18, 2026 | Showtimes at 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays
How Much: $25
Haunted Shores: Family Halloween Walkthrough
Looking for a family-friendly Halloween event or a unique haunted attraction near Austin? Come experience Haunted Shores: The Abandoned Waterpark at Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark on Lake Travis.
Explore a spooky Halloween walk-through filled with haunted scenes, creepy characters, ghostly encounters, unexpected scares, and plenty of Halloween fun designed for kids, teens, parents, and adults alike.
Come early for dinner at Beachside Billy’s, the attached restaurant, where you can simply grab an open table, scan the QR code, and have your order delivered right to your table.
Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Saturday, October 10 – 31, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $10
Judy Moody & Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt
When the Moody family takes a weekend trip to Artichoke Island, third-grader Judy and her little brother Stink encounter a real pirate who sends them on a high-stakes treasure hunt racing against rivals Tall Boy and Smart Girl.
Come see if they can find the hidden clues, crack secret codes, and solve tricky puzzles before time runs out in this funny, adventurous play for young audiences based on the popular books by Megan McDonald.
Where: Austin Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W 18th St., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, October 10 – November 1, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
How Much: $24 for adults | $17 for children | Free for kids under 2
Uhland Fall Fest
Immerse yourself in autumn cheer at the second annual Uhland Fall Fest, featuring fall-inspired activities, food, games, live music, foam parties, a Wild West spectacular, magic shows, and butterfly releases across multiple festive weekends!
Where: UHLAND FALL FEST, 2400 Cotton Gin Rd, Kyle, TX 78640
When: Saturday, October 10 – November 1, 2026 | 10:00 AM
How Much: Starts at $15
Bat City Scaregrounds
Enter a fully immersive, 15-acre entertainment complex dedicated to all things Halloween and horror with a trip to Bat City Scaregrounds in Buda!
Explore three highly detailed haunted houses, including the brand-new Ritual for 2026, Castle Orlock, and Slaughter Mall 3D, alongside live performances, music, and seasonal food.
Where: Bat City Scaregrounds, 14101 S Turnersville Rd, Buda, TX 78610
When: Saturday, October 10 – 31, 2026
How Much: Starts at $33.37
Traitors – killer improv comedy
Enjoy a high-stakes, fully improvised murder mystery game where Austin’s sharpest comedians assume secret roles as Faithfuls or Traitors in a hilarious spin on reality television.
Watch as the cunning players scheme to uncover and banish the culprits before the secret saboteurs steal the final prize.
Where: Fallout Theatre, 616 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, October 10 – 17, 2026 | 10:00 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $10
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Sunday Funday
Weather on Sunday: Sun mixing with a few high fair-weather clouds, keeping conditions pleasant, a high of 84°F, a low of 64°F, and a 5% chance of precipitation.
Welcome to Terror Terrace: A Halloween Variety Show
Your new fear (and home) is unlocked at Terror Terrace, downtown Austin’s newest “luxury” “highrise” “apartment” featuring a pool of blood, ghosts, goblins, ghouls, and an in-unit washer/dryer!
This sexy show will have you saying Home Sweet Horror as a group of monsters (plus a token human) put on the Halloween show of the century featuring sketch comedy, burlesque, drag, dance, original music, and more.
Where: Fallout Theatre, 616 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, October 11, 29, 30, 31, and November 1, 2026
How Much: Starts at $20
Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Adventure Farm
Explore a massive 4.5-acre themed corn maze and a Texas-sized pumpkin patch featuring over 40 unique varieties of pumpkins at Sweet Eats Adventure Farm.
Your admission covers more than 30 farm-themed activities, including daily pig races, a petting zoo, pony rides, wagon rides, apple cannons, and spectacular fireworks displays on Friday and Saturday nights in October.
There will also be weekend shows like the Ember Fire Show, Sky Kings Falconry, and Zoofari.
Where: Sweet Eats Adventure Farm, 14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Sunday, October 11 – November 8, 2026
How Much: Starts at $16
House of Torment
Venture into three terrifying haunted attractions where cutting-edge special effects and original horror storylines collide to test your absolute courage.
You can navigate the deadly realm of Jason Universe: Survive The Night, fight your way through the post-apocalyptic mutant tribes of Return of the Abominations, uncover forbidden secrets in Beyond the Veil, and enjoy extra thrills like axe throwing and the Nocturne Sanctum Secret Bar.
Where: House of Torment, 2632 Ridgepoint Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: Sunday, October 11 – November 8, 2026 | 7:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $19.99
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend with Kids – Family-Friendly Events
Dive-in Movies: Spooky Edition
Celebrate spooky season under the stars with Dive-In Movie: Spooky Edition, featuring iconic Halloween favorites poolside every Friday night at Fairmont Austin.
Settle in for a nostalgic lineup of Beetlejuice, Hocus Pocus, The Addams Family, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Practical Magic.
Where: Fairmont Austin, 101 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, October 9 – 30, 2026 | 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $25
My Hero Academia In Concert
Experience the heroism of My Hero Academia In Concert at Bass Concert Hall, celebrating 10 years of unforgettable adventures!
From Deku’s first steps to the thrilling battles, this live concert brings the anime’s full eight-season journey to life on stage.
Accompanied by a 15-piece live band performing Yuki Hayashi’s iconic score perfectly synced with striking visuals of your favorite scenes, every note captures the triumph, heartbreak, and courage of Class 1-A, creating an immersive concert experience for fans new and old alike.
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, October 9, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: Starts at $175
Move, Groove, Bubbles Family Yoga Festival
Join ATX Yoga Girl Cynthia Bernard for a joyful morning of movement, music, and mindfulness designed for families of all abilities at Hotel Viata.
This playful session blends guided partner poses, dancing, breathing exercises, and mindful moments, followed by an all-out bubble party on the hotel courtyard.
No yoga experience is needed. Just bring your people and your playful spirit, and enjoy light bites and refreshments provided by Bakeful, Lifeway Kefir, and Magic Milk.
Where: Hotel Viata, 320 S Capital of Texas Hwy, West Lake Hills, TX 78746
When: Friday, October 9, 2026 | 10:00 AM
How Much: Free
Boo at the Zoo
Slip into your favorite costume and join an evening out at the Austin Zoo for “Boo at the Zoo!” where the grounds will be fully illuminated and decorated for the Halloween season.
Your ticket includes a scenic Haunted Train pass and unlimited visits to the spooky Haunted House.
Please note that advance reservations are required for train rides and are subject to availability, so call ahead to schedule your ride and purchase tickets.
Where: Austin Zoo, 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX 78736
When: Friday, October 9 – Saturday, October 24, 2026
How Much: $25
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: Friday, October 9 – November 1, 2026
How Much: $5 – $15 | Free for babies and kids 3 and under
Pumpkin Nights
Transform your autumn evenings with a magical half-mile journey through nine immersive pumpkin lands, ranging from the glowing Forbidden City to the underwater wonderland of Neon Reef, featuring larger-than-life installations built from over 10,000 hand-carved and custom pumpkins.
Afterward, explore Pumpkin Village for festive food, games for the whole family, and a thrilling live fire show in this celebration of Halloween artistry.
Where: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: Friday, October 9 – 31, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $12
Scream Hollow Wicked Halloween Park
Venture into a sprawling wicked Halloween park featuring four bone-chilling haunted houses, including the Mansion of Terror: Coven, Sinister Circus, Lost Pines Asylum, and Encounter.
You can also enjoy the thrilling Hell on Wheels Haunted Hayride. Additionally, you can wander eerie museums, consult on-site mystics, warm up by the fire pit with a drink, and feast on sinister eats amid the park’s dark nightlife energy.
Where: Scream Hollow, 149 Split Rail Ln, Smithville, TX 78957
When: Friday, October 9 – November 1, 2026 | 7:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $37.83
Homegrown Games Market
Discover what Austin is playing next at the Homegrown Games Market, a one-day indie tabletop bazaar celebrating games made right here in Central Texas at The Brewtorium.
Local designers take over the venue with independently created board games, card games, role-playing games, and other tabletop creations, sold directly by the people who made them.
Many are produced in small batches and limited editions, offering visitors a chance to find unusual games they won’t see on the shelves at big retailers.
Where: The Brewtorium, 6015 Dillard Cir A Austin, TX 78752
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
How Much: Free
Austin Oktoberfest
Grab your Lederhosen and Dirndl for the 22nd annual Austin Oktoberfest hosted by the German-Texans Heritage Society at the historic German Free School in the heart of the Red River Cultural District.
This family-friendly event features Oktoberfest-themed live music, activities for kids, and plenty of delicious German food and drinks.
Where: German-Texans Heritage Society, 507 E 10th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM
How Much: $20
Movies Behind the Museum: Hoppers
Join Texas Science & Natural History Museum for a special outdoor screening of the family favorite “Hoppers”!
Your ticket includes access to both the museum and the movie, so come early to explore the exhibits and pick a perfect spot. You can bring blankets for the lawn or camp chairs for the patio, and you are welcome to bring your own snacks (no glass containers).
Museum doors open at 6:00 PM, and the movie starts at 7:30 PM.
Where: Texas Science and Natural History Museum, 2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $6
Texas Pumpkin Fest
Head to the Austin area’s largest pumpkin festival for a magical fall experience filled with pumpkins, exciting attractions, live entertainment, and good ol’ family fun in Leander, Texas.
The festival runs every Saturday and Sunday, plus Oct. 12 & Oct. 30. Military and veterans receive half off admission, children in diapers are free, and every child receives a free small pumpkin.
Where: VFW 10427, 8760 FM 2243, Leander, TX 78641
When: Saturday, October 10 – November 1, 2026 | 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
How Much: $15
Oktoberfest at Old Gregg Brewing
Oktoberfest returns to Old Gregg’s Brewing Co. in Pflugerville, bringing a full evening of German-inspired festivities including a new beer release, Oktoberfest food features, a stein-holding contest, spirited live polka music, and face painting!
The festivities kick off following the UT vs. OU football game, giving fans a chance to watch the rivalry game and then stick around.
Where: Old Gregg Brewing Co., 1900 E Howard Ln, Building H, Pflugerville, TX 78660
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 5:00 PM
How Much: Free
The Austin Flea at Mañana Dos
Discover the Austin Flea at Mattina Coffee + Wine, featuring all local handmade items and vintage wares from some of Austin’s most amazing and talented vendors.
Find one-of-a-kind gifts for any occasion, including jewelry, bath/body products, vintage items, original artwork, paper goods, textiles, and so much more.
Where: Mattina Coffee + Wine, 111 Sandra Muraida Way Ste 101, Austin, TX 78703
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 10:00 AM
How Much: Free
Haunted Shores: Family Halloween Walkthrough
Looking for a family-friendly Halloween event or a unique haunted attraction near Austin? Come experience Haunted Shores: The Abandoned Waterpark at Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark on Lake Travis.
Explore a spooky Halloween walk-through filled with haunted scenes, creepy characters, ghostly encounters, unexpected scares, and plenty of Halloween fun designed for kids, teens, parents, and adults alike.
Come early for dinner at Beachside Billy’s, the attached restaurant, where you can simply grab an open table, scan the QR code, and have your order delivered right to your table.
Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Saturday, October 10 – 31, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $10
Judy Moody & Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt
When the Moody family takes a weekend trip to Artichoke Island, third-grader Judy and her little brother Stink encounter a real pirate who sends them on a high-stakes treasure hunt racing against rivals Tall Boy and Smart Girl.
Come see if they can find the hidden clues, crack secret codes, and solve tricky puzzles before time runs out in this funny, adventurous play for young audiences based on the popular books by Megan McDonald.
Where: Austin Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W 18th St., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, October 10 – November 1, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
How Much: $24 for adults | $17 for children | Free for kids under 2
Uhland Fall Fest
Immerse yourself in autumn cheer at the second annual Uhland Fall Fest, featuring fall-inspired activities, food, games, live music, foam parties, a Wild West spectacular, magic shows, and butterfly releases across multiple festive weekends!
Where: UHLAND FALL FEST, 2400 Cotton Gin Rd, Kyle, TX 78640
When: Saturday, October 10 – November 1, 2026 | 10:00 AM
How Much: Starts at $15
Bat City Scaregrounds
Enter a fully immersive, 15-acre entertainment complex dedicated to all things Halloween and horror with a trip to Bat City Scaregrounds in Buda!
Explore three highly detailed haunted houses, including the brand-new Ritual for 2026, Castle Orlock, and Slaughter Mall 3D, alongside live performances, music, and seasonal food.
Where: Bat City Scaregrounds, 14101 S Turnersville Rd, Buda, TX 78610
When: Saturday, October 10 – 31, 2026
How Much: Starts at $33.37
Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Adventure Farm
Explore a massive 4.5-acre themed corn maze and a Texas-sized pumpkin patch featuring over 40 unique varieties of pumpkins at Sweet Eats Adventure Farm.
Your admission covers more than 30 farm-themed activities, including daily pig races, a petting zoo, pony rides, wagon rides, apple cannons, and spectacular fireworks displays on Friday and Saturday nights in October.
There will also be weekend shows like the Ember Fire Show, Sky Kings Falconry, and Zoofari.
Where: Sweet Eats Adventure Farm, 14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Saturday, October 10 – November 8, 2026
How Much: Starts at $16
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend for Adults
Phoebe Robinson: Feral & Fired Up! Tour
Catch standup comedian, best-selling author, producer, actress, and publisher Phoebe Robinson live on stage at the Paramount Theatre.
Her second stand-up special, “I Don’t Wanna Work Anymore,” premiered exclusively on YouTube, and she is the celebrated author of essay collections including “You Can’t Touch My Hair,” “Everything’s Trash, But It’s Okay,” and “Please Don’t Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes.”
Where: The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, October 9, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: Starts at $38
Origins of Fear
It’s long been known that evil lurks within the walls of Mortis Manor. Now see where the story began, when evil tipped the scales in its favor through trickery, reaching its poisonous fingers through time and distance, and explore the Origins of Fear in an all-new immersive experience presented by Fatal Fear Haunted House.
Your admission ticket grants you access to a timed-entry experience (unless otherwise specified), along with access to designated selfie/group photo areas.
We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early to allow for parking and check-in, as you may not enter the attraction before your designated time and late arrivals may have longer wait times.
Where: Fatal Fear Haunted House, 15701 La Hacienda Dr., Austin, TX 78734
When: Friday, October 9 – October 31, 2026 | 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM
How Much: $25
Cap City Comedy Club presents Nico Carney
Spend an evening laughing out loud with Brooklyn-based stand-up comedian, writer, and actor Nico Carney! Hear hilarious stories covering his experiences growing up as a trans man in Georgia alongside plenty of other wonderfully silly observations.
Where: Cap City Comedy Club, 11506 Century Oaks Terrace Unit 100, Austin, TX 78758
When: Friday, October 9 – 10, 2026
How Much: Please check the website for tickets
Dance Carousel
Enjoy a wonderfully inventive showcase featuring works by 24 brilliant choreographers presenting fast-paced, one-minute dances in a round!
Over the course of forty-eight minutes, experience a diverse mix of humorous, poignant, virtuosic, and deliciously subversive performances across two unique programs. Come support local contemporary dance and let yourself be surprised by boundary-pushing movement.
Where: Ground Floor Theater, 979 Springdale Rd #122, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, October 9 – 10, 2026 | 8:00 PM
How Much: Please check the website for tickets
The Baron’s Men presents The Taming of the Shrew
Step back into the hustle, bargaining, and vibrant romance of the Italian Renaissance with Shakespeare’s classic comedy!
Follow the fiery, headstrong Katerina and the witty suitors desperate to win her hand or unlock the path to her sister Bianca.
Where: Austin Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W 18th St., Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, October 9 – 11, 2026
How Much: Please check the website for tickets
Austin City Limits Music Festival
It is that time of year again as the Austin City Limits Music Festival returns for its landmark 25th year to bring the magic of the famed public TV series outside the studio and into Austin’s most beloved park.
Spanning two exciting weekends from October 2 to 4 and October 9 to 11, 2026, the festival features a diverse lineup across nine stages with over 100 incredible performances.
The 2026 lineup boasts phenomenal headliners like Charli XCX, Rufus Du Sol, Twenty One Pilots, Lorde, and Skrillex for Weekend 1; Kings of Leon for Weekend 2, and The XX.
Fans can also catch amazing sets from The Chainsmokers, Lola Young, Turnstile, Geese, Bleachers, The War on Drugs, Suki Waterhouse, Steve Aoki, Audrey Hobert, Brandon Flowers, Parcels, and many more.
Where: Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, October 9 – 11, 2026
How Much: Please check the website for available tickets
Clue
Step into a dark and stormy night where an eccentric cast of characters gathers for a very unusual dinner party in Boddy Manor.
Based on the cult classic film and popular board game, you can follow iconic personalities like Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard as they race against time to uncover the murderer before the body count rises.
Throughout the evening, unexpected twists and hidden motives will keep you guessing right up until the final reveal.
Where: Penfold Theatre Company, 2120 N. Mays Street, Suite 290, Round Rock, TX 78708
When: Friday, October 9 – 11, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29
Did I Win? Live Game Show
Step into Fallout Theater for Did I Win?, the unpredictable live game show where audience members are chosen to participate in fun games for the chance to win real prizes!
With each round offering unique twists and turns, contestants will never know what’s coming next. Exciting prizes await the winners, but everyone will leave with an unforgettable experience, so get ready to ask yourself, “Did I Win?”
Where: Fallout Theatre, 616 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 10:00 PM to 11:00 PM
How Much: $15
It’s Sumo Time!
Experience Sumo Championship League’s Inaugural Event in Austin! As the newly launched professional sumo league bringing live, authentic competition and a modern, family-friendly event experience to the U.S., SCL officially launches its inaugural season here.
Expect authentic professional sumo competition where elite heavyweight athletes meet one-on-one inside the dohyō, with each wrestler looking to force his opponent out of the ring or off his feet in matches that can end in seconds or turn into dramatic battles of strength and leverage.
Every match counts toward SCL’s season-long standings for prize money and championship positioning leading into the first Annual Championship in late 2027.
Where: H-E-B Center, 2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $44.15
Make Your Own Dumplings – Austin
Join a dumpling-making master class hosted by Fever at Café Crème where you’ll delve into the art of creating mouthwatering dumplings.
The session starts with a demonstration on crafting the perfect dumpling dough, allowing you to roll, fill, and cook your way to deliciousness in a fun, hands-on environment.
Where: Café Crème, 1834 East Oltorf Street Austin, TX 78741
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 6:30 PM to 7:45 PM
How Much: $65
Ballet Austin presents The Seventh Night Sky
In Vietnam, the Double Seventh Festival (Thất Tịch) is celebrated as a day honoring love, inspired by the enduring legend of Ngưu Lang (Altair) and Chức Nữ (Vega).
Separated by the vast Milky Way, the humble Cowherd Ngưu Lang longs to reunite with the celestial Weaver Chức Nữ once each year when a bridge of magpies spans the heavens on the seventh night of the seventh lunar month.
Ballet Austin Two’s special one-hour production created for kids and families reimagines this beloved Vietnamese tale where a festival celebration brings the community together amid glowing lanterns, colorful costumes, music, and dance.
As the evening ends, a lonely young man’s dream carries him up into the world of Altair and Vega, offering a meditation on love and hope that reminds us how love endures across great distances and the passage of time.
Where: Ballet Austin’s Butler Dance Education Center, 501 W 3rd St, Austin, TX 78701
When: October 10 – 18, 2026 | Showtimes at 2:00 PM and 4:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays
How Much: $25
Traitors – killer improv comedy
Enjoy a high-stakes, fully improvised murder mystery game where Austin’s sharpest comedians assume secret roles as Faithfuls or Traitors in a hilarious spin on reality television.
Watch as the cunning players scheme to uncover and banish the culprits before the secret saboteurs steal the final prize.
Where: Fallout Theatre, 616 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, October 10 – 17, 2026 | 10:00 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $10
Welcome to Terror Terrace: A Halloween Variety Show
Your new fear (and home) is unlocked at Terror Terrace, downtown Austin’s newest “luxury” “highrise” “apartment” featuring a pool of blood, ghosts, goblins, ghouls, and an in-unit washer/dryer!
This sexy show will have you saying Home Sweet Horror as a group of monsters (plus a token human) put on the Halloween show of the century featuring sketch comedy, burlesque, drag, dance, original music, and more.
Where: Fallout Theatre, 616 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, October 11, 29, 30, 31, and November 1, 2026
How Much: Starts at $20
House of Torment
Venture into three terrifying haunted attractions where cutting-edge special effects and original horror storylines collide to test your absolute courage.
You can navigate the deadly realm of Jason Universe: Survive The Night, fight your way through the post-apocalyptic mutant tribes of Return of the Abominations, uncover forbidden secrets in Beyond the Veil, and enjoy extra thrills like axe throwing and the Nocturne Sanctum Secret Bar.
Where: House of Torment, 2632 Ridgepoint Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: Sunday, October 11 – November 8, 2026 | 7:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $19.99
Looking for more local fun? Check out our master guide to Things to do in Austin this weekend!
