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20 Restaurants Open Late in Austin – Best Late Night Food Places For Tasty Eats

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Best Restaurants Open Late in Austin – Image Credit: Halcyon Facebook Page

Looking for restaurants open late in Austin? Whether you’ve spent a night on the town or you’re just getting off work, you will eventually find yourself hungry late at night. No need to stress about finding hours and locations online, we’ve got you covered. We’ve rounded up a list of hot spots with late night eats in Austin to satisfy you even after the sun goes down.

Read on below for our VERIFIED list of the Best Restaurants Open Late in Austin

Austin Restaurants Open until 10 PM

Home Slice Pizza

Image Courtesy: Facebook/Home Slice Pizza

Grab a New York slice all the way in Austin! The South Congress location of Home Slice Pizza now makes this possible till 10 PM every Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday and 11 PM every Friday and Saturday. Their other location at North Loop also works by similar hours.

Open late till: 10 PM
Location: 1415 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Magnolia Cafe

Image Credit: Instagram/Magnolia Cafe

Quite likely an Austin institution, the Magnolia Cafe still stands as tall as the day of its inception in 1979. You’ll find it open these days till 10 PM.

Open Until: 10 PM.
Address: 1920 South Congress Ave Austin TX 78704

Kebabalicious

Image Credit: Twitter/Kebabalicious

Open from times when large cones of meat rotating on a broiler were not yet commonplace in Texas, Kebabalicious has grown into an Austin favourite. Their Turkish style preparations make a great meal any time of the day.

Open Late Until: 10 PM Mon-Thursday and 11 PM on the weekends
Where: 3rd &  Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

24 Diner

Giving a modern twist to the goodness of the wholesome diner experience, 24 Diner is about fresh food, new experiments and an altogether novel experience. The diner closes at 11 PM but we recommend going in before they start taking last orders.

Open till: 11 PM.
Address: 600 N. Lamar Blvd #200 Austin, Texas 78703

Food Places Open until Midnight in Austin

Kerbey Lane Cafe

Image Credit: Facebook/Kerbey Lane Cafe

This local eatery which specialises in fresh and wholesome meals made from scratch has multiple outlets across Austin. The South Lamar location is open all the way up to midnight, all days of the week. Additionally, their pet friendly patio is a welcome bonus.

*Staff Note: Most other Kerbey Lane locations shut down much earlier, at 3 PM, so make sure you’ve pinned the right one before heading over.

Open until: 12 AM
Location: 300 South Lamar, Austin, TX 78704

The Buzz Mill

Image Credit: Facebook/The Buzz Mill

This community oriented cafe has two outlets in Austin, one on East 7th Street open till midnight and a Riverside one which is open 24×7. A must visit joint to enjoy a drink or a coffee with a side of Austin’s local culture if you’re ever in the neighborwood, as they like to say.

Open Late till: 12 AM.
Location: 1209 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702

El Taccorido

Image Credit: Facebook/El Taccorido

What’s better than an authentic Mexican Tacqueira in Austin, Texas? One that’s open late into the night! El Taccorido’s delectable tacos pair superbly with their famous green sauce, which Foursquare users tout as a must have with every meal.

Open Until: 12 AM
Where: 9320 North Lamar Blvd,Austin, TX 78753

Epoch Coffee

Image Credit: Webpage/Epoch Coffee

With two outlets in Austin, this lively space which also hosts artists and events is great if you want to grab a lovingly made hand crafted brew. The North Loop location is open till midnight. Make sure you’re headed to the right location though–the Epoch at the Village closes much earlier, at 6 PM.

Open till: 12 AM at North Loop
Where: 221 W North Loop Blvd, Austin, Texas 78751

Austin Restaurants Open Past Midnight & 24 Hour Food Places

Austin Onion

This not so serious pizza place serves up a serious pizza pie for downtown dwellers until 3 AM Tuesday through Saturday, and even delivers in the downtown area until 11 PM (for a minimum order of $15 with a $2 delivery charge).
Open late till: 3AM
Where: 408 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701

Yalla Burger

Open till 4 AM everyday, this Halal Food Truck hits the streets to serve up fresh, tender and juicy meat dishes. Besides the all beef burgers and famed chicken wings, the Yalla menu also has vegan options, hot dogs, sandwiches, sides and dessert options.

Open Until: 4 AM

Zombie Taco

Image Credit: Instagram/Zombie Taco

It’s never a bad time for a taco-calypse in Austin, thanks to this 24 hour joint and it’s sprawling menus. They have 5 menus depending on the time of your visit: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner and Overnight.

Open: 24 Hours
Location: 2552 Guadalupe Street, Unit 100 Austin TX

The Little Darlin

Image Credit: Facebook/The Little Darlin

Locally sourced ingredients and classic southern fares in a nice outdoor setting await at The Little Darlin, which stays open well after midnight every day.

Open Until: 2 AM
Where: 6507 Circle S Rd, Austin, TX 78745.

Vodoo Doughnut

Image Credit: Facebook/Vodoo Doughnut

Open till 3 AM every day of the week, Vodoo Doughnut is the perfect marriage between sweet hankerings and late night cravings. From tarty strawberries to indulgent bacon maple, Vodoo blows your palette open to new culinary charms.

Open Late Till: 3 AM
Where: 212 East 6th Street, Austin, Texas 78701 Austin, TX

Halcyon Coffee & Bar

Image Credit: Facebook/Halcyon Coffee & Bar

Craving a snack, coffee or something stronger past midnight? The Halcyon Coffee & Bar operates past midnight every day for those late night food and beverage hops.

Open Until: 2 AM
Where: 218 West 4th Street Austin, TX 78701

Casino El Camino

Casino El Camino is the go-to place for those special nights that warrant sloppy burgers at downtown dive.

Open Till: 2 AM.
Where: 517 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701.

Rosita’s Al Pastor

Image Courtesy: Foursquare/Annie A

This well-liked Mexican place serves a mean plate of tacos, faijtas, freshly baked tortillas–the works. It’s perfect for those late night cravings that are also easy on the pocket.

Open Till: 3 AM Fridays and Saturdays and till Midnight otherwise.

Seoulju

Image Courtesy: Facebook/Seoulju

This late night restaurant cum dive bar is perfect for those looking to dip into excellent Korean comfort food. Many rave about their authentic preparations, especially the Korean double fried chicken.

Open Until: 1:30 AM on Friday and Saturday and 11:30 PM on Thursdays and Sundays. Closed Monday – Wednesday.
Where: 9515 N. LAMAR BLVD. #230 AUSTIN, TX 78753.

Via Pizzeria

Via’s delectable footprint is sprawled across five locations in Austin, but the outlet on Rainey Street is open the longest, an hour or so past midnight.

Late Hours: Friday & Saturday: 1 AM. Monday to Thursday: Midnight
Location: 96 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701

La Mexicana Bakery

Image credit: La Mexicana Facebook Page

La Mexicana Bakery is best known for authentic Mexican pastries, including empanadas, pan de huevo, bunuelos and more.  Yet this 24-hour kitchen is also filled with the savory aromas of breakfast tacos, barbacoa and other traditional Mexican street food.

Unfortunately, this Austin icon will close in February 2022! So, if you want to try it out or go back, better hurry up!

Hours of Operation: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!
Located at: 1924 S 1st St. Austin, TX 78704

Yellow Jacket Social Club

Good food, good vibes and a fully stocked bar awaits you everyday at Yellow Jacket, which is open comfortably past midnight. Whether it’s a drink or a bite, this relaxed “social club” will not disappoint.

Open Late Till: 2 AM
Located at: 1704 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78702

Spicy Boys Fried Chicken

Fried chicken sandwiches, nugs and tater tots–essentially all the good stuff– is what you get with a late night food run at Spicy Boys. The Rainey location stays open till 1:30 am on Fridays and Saturdays, so that’s the one you want to visit.

Late Hours: 1:30 AM @ Rainey St
Where: 75 1/2 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701

Know of any more drool worthy late night eats in Austin? Let us know below in the comments!

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Annual Black Fret Black Ball Returns to the Moody Theater in Austin

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Black Ball Group Shot
Black Fret Black Ball 2018 was a celebration of music, giving, and community. (credit: Bill Tucker)

If you follows this site with any regularity, you know we love Black Fret. A music organization with a heart towards sponsoring and supporting the local music community, Black Fret is a shining example of what people can do when they get together for a united cause. When their annual year-end extravaganza was cancelled in 2020, we were crestfallen. Today, we’re happy to report, it’s back! Whether you’re a long time member or someone who wants to give back to local musicians, the Black Ball is a great opportunity support and enjoy live Austin music.

Black Fret Black Ball Back at the Moody

Jonathan Terrell performs at Black Ball 2019 (credit: Bill Tucker)

Started by Matt Ott and Colin Kendrick in 2013, Black Fret’s primary mission is supporting the Austin music community through member supported grants. Black Fret members pay yearly dues and in exchange gain access to unique listening sessions throughout the year. All of the artists at these shows are 100% local and are fairly paid for the gig.

With that money, Black Fret provides grants to a set number of artists as voted by the members. Every year this number’s increased, along with the grant values. Not only do winning artists receive their funds (to be used and allocated for music related endeavors), they receive counseling and mentorship from industry pros.

This year, in spite of the pandemic and the financial turmoil caused by it, Black Fret will be awarding over $200,000 in grants to twenty artists. And they’ll all be present and performing during the Black Ball. In what’s been aptly labeled as “a real life mix tape”, each artist will perform two to three songs between the awards. Take it from someone’s who’s been to a few Black Ball’s – it’s an amazing showcase of our vibrant and diverse music community.

And the Winners Are…

Zach Person performing at the Long Center during a Black Fret event in May 2021. (credit: Bill Tucker)

This year’s list of grant awardees could be one of the best in recent memory. If you’ve never heard of these artists, check out my Black Ball 2021 Spotify playlist to get a feel for all of them:

  • American Dreamer
  • BLK Odyssy
  • Clarence James
  • Darkbird
  • Deezie Brown
  • Eimaral Sol
  • Guy Forsyth & Jeska
  • Harry Edohoukwa
  • Jake Lloyd
  • James Robinson
  • Jon Muq
  • Jonathan Terrell
  • Lisa Morales
  • Motenko
  • Nane
  • Pat Byrne
  • PR Newman
  • Primo the Alien
  • The Reverent Few
  • Zach Person

I’m Sold! How Do I Attend Black Fret Black Ball 2021?

Daniel Sahad of Nane performs during a 2021 Black Fret showcase. (credit: Bill Tucker)

The Black Ball is a private event for Black Fret members, guests, sponsors, and former recipients. But that doesn’t mean you’re out in the cold! The best way is becoming a member. Doing so is easy. With three tiers of access (single, duo, and party), you can get in on the fun for not only the Black Ball, but a year’s worth of exclusive music experiences. I’ve been attending Black Fret events for well over 6 years and some of my most cherished show memories come from those performances.

And if you want to attend without committing to a membership, single event tickets are available for $100 at blackfret.org/donate. Just add “Black Fret Ball 2021 Donation” to the comments and you’re in!

Whether you sign up for a membership or attend the event as a first timer, you’re doing an immeasurable service to the Austin music community. The past year’s been hard on our local talent. Anything we can do to support them not only through our listenership but financially proves Austin is still the Live Music Capital of the World.

And, in the end, the Black Ball is an absolute blast. I’ve always described it as an Austin music homecoming where past and current winners meet up under a cool December sky and celebrate this great community. More a hang than a show, the Black Ball is one of my musical highlights of the year. I highly encourage you to make it yours as well.

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Fall Festivals in Austin: Things To Do, Events and Activities in Fall 2021

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What is there not to love about Fall? Crisp weather, warm sweaters, and all the Fall decor. Let’s not forget about the Fall Festivals that happen! If you’re looking for a Fall Festival in Austin, be assured there’s at least one on the weekend now through November that you can make it to so you can experience everything Fall.

Fall Festival in Austin – October 2021

Texas Hemp Harvest Fest

Woman with product
Image courtesy: Sweet Sensi

This is the first Hemp Harvest Fest hosted by Sweet Sensi. Here you’ll be able to listen to live local bands. Besides live music, there will also be food trucks, games, and more! This event is all about celebrating the Harvest in Texas. Kids are allowed but must be accompanied by an adult.

  • When: Saturday, Oct 23 | 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
  • Where: 9507 Sherman Road, Austin, TX 78742
  • How much: $40 and up

Austin Fall Harvest Vendor Market

Flyer
Image courtesy: Texas Shoppers Market

If you’re looking for a place where you can shop all things Fall, head to this vendor market. With the theme of Fall Harvest, you’re sure to find something that screams Austin in Fall. If you have children, enter them in the costume contest or let them trick or treat from each vendor.

  • When: Saturday, Oct 23 | 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Where: Barton Creek Square, 2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin
  • How much: Free

Community Pumpkin Carving

Get together with the community at this fun community pumpkin carving event. Carving pumpkins in one of the best Fall activities in Austin. You’ll get into the spirit by roasting smores along with the fire, all you have to do is bring your pumpkin!

  • When: Sunday, Oct 24 | 5:00 p.m.
  • Where: 13100 Turkey Roost Rd, Manchaca, TX 78652
  • How much: Free

Pumpkin Nights

Group photo
Image courtesy: Pumpkin Nights

Track along a half-mile path during Pumpkin Night. This path will lead you to a Forbidden City, Pirate’s Cove, and other lands made out of pumpkins. It’s one of the popular things to do during Fall in Austin. Get your camera ready to take photos of these insanely carved pumpkins and to snack on food from local vendors.

  • When: Now through Oct 31 | 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
  • Where: 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr., Austin, TX 78754
  • How much: Free and up

Whispering Pines Harvest Festival

Head out to Whispering Pines for their weekend Harvest Fest. Every weekend in October, families, and people of all ages can enjoy hayrides, a pumpkin patch, and more at this outdoor event. Make sure to dress like Fall because there will be many photo ops with Fall displays.

  • When: Every Saturday & Sunday in October | 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Where: 178 Crafts Prairie Road, Bastrop, TX 78602
  • How much: Free and up

Crowe’s Nest Farm

Farm
Image courtesy: Crowes Nest Farm

Animals, pumpkins, and hayrides! Need we say more? This weekend’s Fall Festival is perfect when you’re ready to get into the celebrations. Take a little drive to pick a pumpkin and then some and get ready to have some fun.

  • When: Every Saturday & Sunday in October | 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Where: 10300 Taylor Lane, Manor, TX 78653
  • How much: Free and up to $40

Fall Festival in Austin – November 2021

Fall Festival, Pumpkin Patch, and Corn Maze

It’s the 10th anniversary of the Barton Hill Farms Pumpkin Patch! There will be a corn maze, pumpkin fields, hayrides, and more fun fall activities. Make sure to come hungry because there will also be plenty of food for the family. Get ready for this Fall festival in Austin.

  • When: Weekends in Oct & Nov | 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Where: 1115 FM 969, Bastrop, TX 78602
  • How much: $21

Georgetown Fall Festival

Fall festival in Austin
Image courtesy: Sweet Eats Fruit Farm

Head over to the Sweet Eats Farm to celebrate Fall! This Fall Festival near Austin has a corn maze, pumpkin patch of over 2 acres, and more. You can also decorate the pumpkin right at the farm to save your home from the mess! General admission will get you activities included.

  • When: Now until November | 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
  • Where: 14400 E State Hwy 29, Georgetown, TX 78626
  • How much: $16 and up

Community Fall Festival

Grab your family or friends, and head to this Fall Festival in Austin! It’ll be the peak time of cool temperature, making it perfect to walk around. There will be fun games, food, and live entertainment.

  • When: Saturday, Nov 20 | 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Where: 7501 Blessing Avenue, Austin, TX 78752
  • How much: Free

Austin – Cedar Park Music & Arts Fall Festival

family
Image courtesy: Outlaw Nation Festivals

This Fall event features a classic car show, custom motorcycle show, vintage antique market, and more! Soon the live performers will be announced, and you can get ready to plan your day full of fun. Parking is free!

  • When: November 20 & 21 | 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
  • Where: 1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
  • How Much: $10 and up

Wondering what else you can do this Fall in Austin? Bookmark Austinot so you can stay up to date with the latest things to do in Austin!

5th Annual Mermaid Capital of Texas Fest (Formerly titled Mermaid SPLASH SMTX) Returns to San Marcos

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The Mermaid Fest of San Marcos, an annual festival celebrating the city’s designation (Mermaid Capital Of Texas – San Marcos), art, culture and heritage is returning this year!!!

Mermaid Fest San Marcos is back for its 2021 edition with a host of events in store for all its residents. The festival is a celebration of the city’s most important resource, the San Marcos River. There will be multiple events as a part of the festival including the two feature events: Mermaid Promenade and Downtown Street Faire.

The Mermaid Society of Texas hosts this annual family friendly event in celebration of a vibrant and creative eco-driven community united by the empowering symbol of the Mermaid.

What is the Mermaid Fest San Marcos?

The parades at the San Marcos festival are a must attend. Image via Facebook@Mermaid Society SMTX

The annual festival will see a vibrant display of culture in its parade which will feature floats, marches, music and of course, a ton of mermaids.

Among the events is the Downtown Street Faire you can encounter over 100 artisan vendors placed on the Hays County Courthouse grounds. This is the spot to enjoy local cuisine, supporting downtown eateries and pubs and swaying to live music.

Mermaids on Stairs

There are a host of other mermaid-themed activities in store for family and friends as well. After a hiatus in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival has returned with its usual excitement but a few of the events have been dropped keeping in mind social distancing norms.

Mermaid Capital of Texas Fest 2021 – Event Details Including COVID Guidelines

When: Saturday, 25 September 2021 | 10:00 a.m. – Noon – Parade, Noon – 8:00 p.m. Downtown Street Faire

Where: Downtown San Marcos, Texas

How much: FREE to the Public

COVID-19 Guidelines: In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, certain events have been eliminated from the festival. Free mermaid-themed disposable masks and hand sanitizing stations available throughout the parade route. There will also be an on-site pop-up vaccination site available for public during the festival.

For More Information: www.mermaidsocietysmtx.com 

Event Contact: July Moreno 512-825-2819

Event Sponsors:  

HEB Title Sponsor of the Mermaid Capital of Texas Fest

San Marcos Lions Club – Presenting Sponsor of The Mermaid Promenade

La Cima San Marcos – Presenting Sponsor of The Downtown Street Faire

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Top 10 Live Music Venues in Austin

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While the world’s still wrestling with the realities of COVID-19, our music community is still a great place to experience live music in Austin. Whether it’s classic joints or new, hip locations, music is best enjoyed with a crowd of people. Here’s ten of our favorites.

NOTE: In light of the ongoing pandemic, it’s important to note not every venue has a firm mask policy in place. Restrictions can change show to show at the behest of the artist, so be sure to call ahead before attending any performance and PLEASE stay safe.

Best Live Music Places in Austin, Texas

1/ Mohawk

Megafauna Black Fret
Megafauna rocked Black Fret’s 2108 season opening show at Mohawk. (credit: Bill Tucker)

My favorite Red River club never disappoints. With a unique multi-tiered amphitheater outside and a more intimate stage inside, Mohawk is great for multiple band showcases. It also has solid cocktails and great craft beer, a rarity in many rock clubs. And their lineup is a wonderful mix of local favorites and national acts. A must visit venue.
Located: 912 Red River, Austin, Texas

2/ The Parish

CAPYAC Band at The Parish in Austin
The Parish (Credit: Katie McDowell Photography)

From the layout to the sound to the location, The Parish always manages to impress, especially during busy events like SXSW. Striking a delicate balance of intimate and roomy, there’s ample space to navigate, grab a drink at the bar, and check out some live music.

And while its location smack dab in the middle of Sixth Street may be a turn-off for some, I’d still recommend braving the crazy to check out some exceptional shows.
Located: 214 E. 6th Street Austin, TX 78701

3/ Empire Control Room & Garage

Taylor Muse Playing Empire Control Room
Taylor Muse rocks the Empire Control Room on February 22nd. (credit: Holp Photography)

Another multi-stage live music venue in Austin, Empire Control Room & Garage’s sweet location and exceptional selection of artists make it a fine place to visit for the evening, and get barraged by awesome music. This is where I was first introduced to Quiet Company and CAPYAC, among others, so it holds a special place in my heart. Even the relatively tiny Control Room puts on great shows with high-quality sound. Highly recommended.
Located: 606 E. 7th Street Austin, TX 78701

4/ Continental Club

Continental Club South Congress
The Continental Club on South Congress Avenue (Credit: Jim Nix/Nomadic Pursuits)

Old school Austin is rapidly deteriorating in the face of urban sprawl and gentrification. The small yet sensational Continental club is one of our enduring musical landmarks. More than a time machine to the days of Stevie Ray Vaughn and Joe Ely, The Continental Club’s intimate layout brings the music close to the listener, providing an experience like none other.
Located: 1315 South Congress Avenue – Austin, Texas

5/ Swan Dive

Dream Attics On Stage
Dream Attics takes the Swan Dive stage during their first ATX show. (credit: Katie McDowell)

A lovely blend of dive bar snarl with an elegant smirk, Swan Dive produces great shows with a laid back vibe. During SXSW, this is one of my go-to’s to discover new acts and dig exciting music. Add to the mix a spacious backyard second stage and there’s no reason to avoid this Red River mainstay.
Located: 615 Red River St. Austin, TX 78701

Check out these deals on upcoming concerts in Austin

Best Live Music Places in Austin – Continued

6/ Hotel Vegas

TC Superstar SXSW 2019
TC Superstar performing at the Hotel Vegas during SXSW 2019. (credit: Bill Tucker)

Never mind the punk rock aesthetic, the eclectic schedule, or the incredible sound. Hotel Vegas just feels like an Austin venue. One of the spots I’d sob over if it ever went under, Hotel Vegas is another “must visit” if you need to check out an East Austin show. TC Superstar at Hotel Vegas during SXSW 2019 was a highlight of my festival experience that year and it wouldn’t have been the same at any other venue.
Located: 1502 E. 6th Street Austin, TX 78702 

7/ Cheer Up Charlies

HOVVDY plays Cheer Up Charlies during SXSW 2018 (credit: Bill Tucker)

Another perennial live music favorite in Austin, Cheer Up Charlies has a heart for local talent. From midnight performance by Moving Panoramas to Mobley’s label signing celebration, Cheer Up lifts up ATX artists in a major way. Just last week, Mamaduke, Melat, Felt Out, Van Mary, and CAPYAC graced their stages. Proof enough Cheer Up Charlies loves locals!
Located: 900 Red River St. Austin, TX 78701

8/ Broken Spoke

The Broken Spoke Austin Dancehall

Call me basic all you like, The Broken Spoke kinda rules. One of the few legit dance halls left in our fair town, The Spoke may feel like a tourist trap, but spend an evening dancing with the regulars, and your tune will change. At the center of the documentaries, the museum, and the chicken fried steak, are kind hearted people who love the art and connection of a good two-step. And if I didn’t convince you, check out The White Horse.
Located: 3201 S. Lamar Blvd. Austin, Texas 78704

9/ Antone’s

Antone’s stage hosts some of Austin’s best blues. (credit: Marco Figueroa)

Now in it’s 6th iteration, the modern day Antone’s carries the legacy of its former locations with an awesome blend of blues club cool and ATX weird. Surprising for what’s essentially a rectangular room, the acoustics are astounding. And while most of the shows are ticketed, it’s worth popping in after work to check out their amazing house band. Legend for a reason!
Located: 305 E 5th Street Austin, TX 78701

10/ ACL Live at The Moody Theater

Singer Eric Burton of Black Pumas
Singer Eric Burton of the Black Pumas performs during the Austin City Limits taping at ACL Live on August 28, 2019 in Austin, Texas. [Suzanne Cordeiro for AUSTIN360]

Another live music Austin pick that feels like cheating. Checking out an ACL Live taping is an experience and much of that vibe is thanks to the venue. The acoustics are unrivaled, every seat is a good one, and the artists are first rate. It’s considered an honor to play the Moody and the fact we have an iconic venue on our backyard is something to be respected and appreciated.
Located: 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701

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Entry to ACL 2021 will require negative COVID test or proof of vaccination

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The iconic ACL Fest sign looks stunning at night. (credit: Bill Tucker)

ACL Festival Organizers announced that they will need either a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination for entry. 2021 ACL is scheduled for October 1-3 and 8-10 and will be held at the Zilker Park

According to information published on the website – The negative COVID-19 printed test result must be obtained within 72 hours (3 days) of attending ACL Festival.  Patrons who are fully vaccinated may show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination instead of proof of negative test.  

Information related to masks will be released closer to the festival dates. 

ACL 2021 Entry Procedures – COVID & Other

  • Comply with the ACL Festival Fan Health Pledge
  • Each day, bring a printed copy of your Negative COVID-19 test, Vaccine Card, or Vaccine Record.
  • Bring your Festival Wristband
  • Please also remember our updated bag policy – CLEAR BAGS ONLY – and NO liquids are allowed to be brought into ACL Festival.

ACL 2021 Festival Fan Health Pledge – COVID Guidelines

Do not attend the festival if any of the following is true for you or anyone in your party

  • Within 14 days before attending the festival you have tested positive, or been exposed to someone who has tested positive for, COVID-19;
  • Within 48 hours prior to attending the festival, you have experienced symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g., a fever of 100.4F or higher, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking muscle pain/achiness, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, nasal congestion, runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue or any other symptoms associated with COVID-19 identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
  • Within 14 days prior to attending the festival, you have travelled to any international territory identified by federal or applicable state or local governments as being subject to travel or quarantine advisories due to COVID-19.

For news related to music scene in Austin, bookmark the Music page of the Austinot

Classic Game Fest: More Than a Trip Down Memory Lane

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A variety of classic game controllers at Classic Game Fest 2019 (credit: Bill Tucker)

When COVID-19 hit in March of 2020, it devoured events like a termite chews through wood. The rash of cancellations made sense given the seriousness of the pandemic, but it still stung thousands of organizers, venue owners, and attendees. Classic Game Fest, a yearly celebration of all things retro videogames, was one of the casualties.

Now with the pandemic slowed and restrictions lifted, Classic Game Fest is on with no limitations to the fun. Bigger than ever before in both size and scope, this love letter to the games of old offers something for everybody. Whether you’re an NES junkie or an Atari nerd, there’s something for everyone this year.

[Read more…]

Black Fret Keeps Live Music Alive With a New Festival

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Nakia SXSW 2018 Black Fret
Nakia enlivened an amazing Black Fret showcase during SXSW 2018. (credit: Bill Tucker)

For more than eight years, Black Fret supported the Austin music community with an unstoppable sense of purpose and accomplishment. When COVID brought live music to a near standstill, many of us wondered who would step up and take a stand. Black Fret came to the table and their brand new music festival, “Keep Live Music Alive,” is the comeback party we’ve been asking for since March of 2020. And with news of the 2021 class of grant nominees around the corner, there has never been a better time to become a member and support the music.

Doing The Right Thing Since 2013

Matt and Colin Black Ball 2018
Colin Kendrick (L) and Matt Ott (R) pose before the 2018 Black Ball (credit: Bill Tucker)

Founded by Colin Kendrick and Matt Ott in 2013, Black Fret aims to support the local music scene through member support. Members pay a flat fee that goes toward yearly grants. In return, members get access to unique, intimate listening room style performances. Every year, members nominate twenty artists to receive either a minor ($5,000) or major ($20,000) grant. The year culminates in the Black Ball, a sensational awards show and concert blowout at the Moody Theater. I’ve been to multiple Black Balls over the years, and trust me. They are experiences!

And while COVID kicked the Austin live music scene in the gut, Black Fret fought back with the Happy Hour Concert series. The program paid out over $250,000 to over 150 musicians for playing shows for companies and businesses over Zoom. It’s that sort of innovation that helped Black Fret stay helpful and relevant during the pandemic.

How’s this for numbers? To date, Black Fret has awarded $2,000,000 to local musicians and $1,500,000 to Austin-area venues and music businesses. Every artist playing a Black Fret showcase gets paid as does every venue. And for the first time, this year’s season dues is $750. While that may seem steep, it’s a hefty discount from years past. And consider the amount of live shows you get exclusive access to, along with knowing you’re supporting the art that keeps Austin the “Live Music Capital of the World. It’s a donation worth considering if you have the means to do so.

The Keep Live Music Alive Festival

Buffalo Hunt during the Black Fret SXSW 2021 showcase.

Now that COVID restrictions are relaxing enough for Austin to dip its collective toe back into live music, Black Fret is launching its first membership drive of the season in the form of a festival. The “Keep Live Music Alive” festival will take place from May 14-16th at the Long Center Terrace. While the event is listed as members only, single-day tickets are available for non-members. But that’s not the point. With an incredible lineup to offer, becoming a member is the best way to experience this three-day extravaganza.

The jam packed schedule reads like a who’s who of new Austin music. While ATX staples like Ley Line and Darkbird make me smile, I’m dying to check out Zach Person. I’ve heard nothing but good things about this local up-and-comer. The full schedule is as follows:

Day 1Time
Eimarl Sol4:00
Darkbird4:45
Mike Melinoe5:30
Miggy Milla6:15
Zach Person7:00
Buffalo Hunt7:45
Nane8:30
Day 2
Night Blooms3:00
Motenko4:00
Ley Line4:45
Clarence James5:30
Lisa Morales6:15
Harry Edohoukwa7:00
American Dreamer7:45
Sam Houston & Blk Odyssy8:30
Jake Lloyd9:00
Day 3
Special Tribute to Bob Dylan11:00 AM
Jon Muq2:00
Casey McPherson3:00
Dom Fisher3:45
Pat Byrne4:30
J Soulja5:15
Matt the Electrician6:00
The Reverent Few6:45
Deezie Brown7:30

Looking Forward to the Season Ahead

Austin band Motenko performing during Black Fret’s SXSW 2021 showcase.

And the festival is a jumping-off point. On June 11th via a private event at the Moody Theatre, Black Fret will announce this year’s class of artists. After months of live shows, the season will culminate in this year’s Black Ball on December 4th. As a fan of this wonderful organization, it’s great to see it up and running as intended: promoting and stewarding Austin live music. And if Black Fret’s re-emergence is the goal, the Keep Live Music Alive festival is its proof of concept.

“Black Fret is all about supporting our local music as the art that it is and we thank the Long Center for hosting our first ‘Keep Live Music Alive’ festival,” said Matt Ott, Co-founder of Black Fret. “COVID knocked our music community on our collective ass and it is time for us all to come together to support our artists, venues, and vendors that create our amazing music ecosystem in Austin. Joining Black Fret is a great way to accomplish that.”

When the music community was sucker-punched by COVID over a year ago, it hit everyone hard. From artists to venues and everyone in between, it was a time of uncertainty and anxiety. Despite it all, Black Fret continued to do what it does best—provide a lifeline to Austin’s cherished and storied music scene when it needed it most. And with this weekend’s celebration, the Austin music community hopes to turn the page on the year that was, and look forward to a great season of sounds ahead.

To become a member and attend the festival, visit https://www.blackfret.org/klma/ for everything you need to do so.

@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:

Ever been to a Black Fret event? Tell us about your experience!

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As a life long East Coaster turned Austinite, rugby’s been a mystery. Outside of catching a match at a British pub at 11:00 AM or the rare highlight on TV, this punishing yet fascinating sport has been lost on me. And I think if I took an informal poll, most locals would feel the same way.

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JaRon Marshall performing during the KUTX The Breaks showcase at SXSW Online 2021

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