Best Fun Events in Austin this Weekend of July 18, 2025
Last Updated: 14th July 2025
Jump to: Free | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Kids
The best free, fun, and cheap events in Austin this Weekend (July 18-20) include Summer Stock Austin 2025, EmpowHER Music Arts and Festival, 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. Scroll down for my picks or use the links above to skip to your favorite section!
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Check out our recent articles on Best Arcades in Austin and National French Fry Day Free Fries in Austin!
Free Things To Do in Austin this Weekend
66th Annual Zilker Summer Musical: Bring It On
Image credit: Zilker Theatre Productions
Looking for the best events in Austin in July? Get ready to celebrate a beloved summer tradition as Zilker Theatre Productions presents the 66th annual Zilker Summer Musical: “Bring It On: The Musical.”
Pack your picnic blankets and snacks, gather your friends and family, and enjoy an evening of dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and show-stopping music, all completely free.
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, July 18 – August 16, 2025 | 8:15 pm – 11 pm
How Much: Free
Into the Woods
Experience James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods, a captivating musical playing right here in Austin this July. This rare modern classic weaves together beloved storybook characters, like Cinderella, Jack, and a determined Baker and his wife, as they chase their deepest desires.
Witness their exciting journey as their wishes are granted, only to discover the surprising and often hilarious consequences that follow.
Where: Buda Amphitheater & City Park, 204 San Antonio St, Buda, TX 78610
When: Friday, July 18 – 27, 2025 | 8 pm
How Much: Free
Sama Sama Art Festival
Get ready to celebrate a brand-new sound at the Sama Sama Art Festival, the first of its kind! This event is a dynamic showcase of Asian-American artists from the South, celebrating how their unique heritage and regional influences have created a distinct, unforgettable musical style.
Explore a new, exciting niche of artists who are shaping the sound of Southern culture.
Where: Moontower Cider Co, 1916 Tillery St, Austin, TX 78723
When: Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 5 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
Things To Do in Austin this Weekend – Friday Events
Lizzie, The Musical
Image credit: Doctuh Mistuh Productions
By popular demand, DMP is bringing back Lizzie: The Musical this July, a must-see among July events in Austin. This award-winning rock musical plunges you into the chilling true story of the 1893 Borden family murders, as you experience the intense drama of Lizzie Borden’s infamous trial.
Written by Steven Cheslik-deMeyer, Tim Maner, and Alan Steven Hewitt, Lizzie has electrified audiences in over 60 cities across six countries, earning numerous “Best Musical” honors.
Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, July 18 – 20, 2025
How Much: Starts at $24
Pedal & Pool Party!
Get ready to pedal and plunge into ultimate weekend fun! Your Pedal & Pool Party adventure starts with a guided bike tour, hitting all of Austin’s fantastic highlights from historic spots and vibrant murals to Lady Bird Lake’s beauty, quirky Moontowers, and charming hidden gems, all set to a cool local soundtrack.
After your invigorating 5-7 mile ride, you’ll cool off in style with a complimentary pool pass and towel at the super chic East Austin Hotel, enjoying poolside vibes, delicious food, and happy hour drinks.
Where: Austin Bike Tours and Rentals, 1710 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, July 18 – August 1, 2025 | 2 pm – 6 pm
How Much: $75
Summer Stock Austin 2025: Season Sneak Peek
Don’t miss this exciting evening of performance, community, and celebration! This is your chance to see an incredible company perform numbers from Mary Poppins and Jesus Christ Superstar, along with a glimpse into future productions the theatre hopes to bring to life.
You’ll also get to see a few alumni return to the stage, making this night even more meaningful. It’s a moment that will only happen once.
Where: McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, July 18, 2025 | 8 pm
How Much: $25
We Might Be Struck By Lightning
This July, discover one of the best events in Austin as LOLA presents the return of We Might Be Struck by Lightning! This bold, choreographed chamber opera will redefine your typical evening out.
Expect genre-blurring work, set to music arranged for piano, cello, and violin, promises an intimate, witty, and deeply human experience.
Where: Ground Floor Theatre, 979 Springdale Rd #122, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, July 18 – 19, 2025 | 4 pm – 10 pm
How Much: $0 – $100
ACL Live presents George Lopez
George Lopez, a true trailblazer in television, film, and stand-up, is bringing his electrifying humor to the stage. You’ll experience firsthand how he confronts stereotypes and champions his community, all while delivering non-stop laughs.
Where: Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live), 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, July 18, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Not stated
Dinos in the Wild
Dive back into a time when giant dinosaurs roamed the earth at Ladybird Johnson’s Dinos in the Wild exhibit. Marvel at 14 animatronic dinosaurs, including a 40-foot-long Tyrannosaurus rex, designed by “Dino” Don Lessem, who advised Steven Spielberg during the making of “Jurassic Park.”
These towering giants are as close to the real thing as can be. So come see them before they see you.
Where: Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, July 18 – August 17, 2025
How Much: Included in general admission
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!
Austin’s weekend is about to get hilariously feathered! Straight from the pages of Mo Willems’ cherished books, this adventure unfolds when a bus driver takes a break and a feisty pigeon takes the wheel. Chaos ensues as the musical turns into a cacophony of songs, laughter, and feathery fun.
Where: Zach Theatre, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, July 18 – 20, 2025
How Much: Not stated
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Saturday Events
EmpowHER Music & Arts Festival
Image credit: thecourtyardatfourth
Austin, get ready for an extraordinary weekend that celebrates the power and spirit of women! EmpowHER is a vibrant call to awaken your authentic self.
Hosted by Anna Madewell at The Courtyard, you’ll be immersed in powerful performances from dynamic DJs, soulful vocalists, captivating dancers, mesmerizing fire-led flow artists, dazzling burlesque, and live musicians.
Prepare to be inspired by visionary women speakers and explore a curated market filled with incredible local entrepreneurs.
Where: The Courtyard, 208 W 4th St Suite C, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 8 pm – 2 am
How Much: $41.59
Jessie Reyez in concert
Jessie Reyez is bringing her highly anticipated Paid In Memories tour to the city, making it one of the best July events in Austin. You won’t want to miss your chance to hear new tracks and fan favorites live.
Where: Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, 801 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Starts at $145
Tomorrow Bars @ Central Machine Works 5k: Run. Beer. Recover.
Get ready for a 5K that winds through East Austin, presented by Tomorrow Bars and Central Machine Works. Your entry into this unique run includes a custom race shirt, a Tomorrow Bar for a quick recovery, and a complimentary drink ticket for CMW’s brand-new summer brew.
After your timed race, you can celebrate your finish with prizes in various age and gender categories, all while enjoying the post-run party right at a local bar.
Where: Central Machine Works Brewery, 4824 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, July 19, 2025 | 10:30 am – 1:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $35
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Sunday Events
Movies in the Park
Image credit: austinparks org
The beloved Movies in the Park series, brought to you by Austin Parks Foundation, is splashing down at Deep Eddy Municipal Pool. You and your kids can unwind by the water, bringing your coziest blankets or lawn chairs, and settling in for a relaxed evening under the stars.
You can also enjoy fun activities, explore vendors, and connect with partners before the movie magic begins at dusk.
Where: Deep Eddy Pool, 401 Deep Eddy Ave, Austin, TX 78703
When: Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 8 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
Superhero Party
This weekend, Volente Beach Resort is transforming into your ultimate superhero headquarters.
Dress as your favorite hero and prepare for a day packed with thrilling activities: enjoy tasty food from the food truck (think burgers, hot dogs, and more!), jam out to awesome music, craft your own superhero mask, and sharpen your super skills with exciting games.
Where: Volente Beach Water Park, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 11 am – 2 pm
How Much: $20
Jane Austin Improv: Austenerton
You’re cordially invited to Austenerton, a completely improvised one-act play presented by Jane Austen Improv. Prepare to be whisked away into a world of scandalous debutantes, brooding lords, and meddling matchmakers, all unscripted and fueled by your suggestions.
Each show is a one-of-a-kind adventure, promising juicy gossip and high-stakes romance. Arrive early for complimentary tea!
Where: ColdTowne Theater, 1700 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 4 pm – 5 pm
How Much: $12
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend for Kids
Dinos in the Wild
Dive back into a time when giant dinosaurs roamed the earth at Ladybird Johnson’s Dinos in the Wild exhibit. Marvel at 14 animatronic dinosaurs, including a 40-foot-long Tyrannosaurus rex, designed by “Dino” Don Lessem, who advised Steven Spielberg during the making of “Jurassic Park.”
These towering giants are as close to the real thing as can be. So come see them before they see you.
Where: Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, July 18 – August 17, 2025
How Much: Included in general admission
Summer Stock Austin 2025: Season Sneak Peek
Don’t miss this exciting evening of performance, community, and celebration! This is your chance to see an incredible company perform numbers from Mary Poppins and Jesus Christ Superstar, along with a glimpse into future productions the theatre hopes to bring to life.
You’ll also get to see a few alumni return to the stage, making this night even more meaningful. It’s a moment that will only happen once.
Where: McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, July 18, 2025 | 8 pm
How Much: $25
66th Annual Zilker Summer Musical: Bring It On
Looking for the best events in Austin in July? Get ready to celebrate a beloved summer tradition as Zilker Theatre Productions presents the 66th annual Zilker Summer Musical: “Bring It On: The Musical.”
Pack your picnic blankets and snacks, gather your friends and family, and enjoy an evening of dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and show-stopping music, all completely free.
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, July 18 – August 16, 2025 | 8:15 pm – 11 pm
How Much: Free
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!
Austin’s weekend is about to get hilariously feathered! Straight from the pages of Mo Willems’ cherished books, this adventure unfolds when a bus driver takes a break and a feisty pigeon takes the wheel. Chaos ensues as the musical turns into a cacophony of songs, laughter, and feathery fun.
Where: Zach Theatre, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, July 18 – 20, 2025
How Much: Not stated
Into the Woods
Experience James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods, a captivating musical playing right here in Austin this July. This rare modern classic weaves together beloved storybook characters, like Cinderella, Jack, and a determined Baker and his wife, as they chase their deepest desires.
Witness their exciting journey as their wishes are granted, only to discover the surprising and often hilarious consequences that follow.
Where: Buda Amphitheater & City Park, 204 San Antonio St, Buda, TX 78610
When: Friday, July 18 – 27, 2025 | 8 pm
How Much: Free
Movies in the Park
The beloved Movies in the Park series, brought to you by Austin Parks Foundation, is splashing down at Deep Eddy Municipal Pool. You and your kids can unwind by the water, bringing your coziest blankets or lawn chairs, and settling in for a relaxed evening under the stars.
You can also enjoy fun activities, explore vendors, and connect with partners before the movie magic begins at dusk.
Where: Deep Eddy Pool, 401 Deep Eddy Ave, Austin, TX 78703
When: Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 8 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Free
Puppet-Making Workshop
Image credit: small_wonders_puppets
Head over to the air-conditioned Tudor Cottage for a fantastic puppet-making workshop with Small Wonders Puppet Theater. You’ll get to craft your very own unique puppet, and all the supplies you need are provided, so just bring your imagination.
Where: Pease District Park, 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX 78703
When: Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 10 am – 11 am
How Much: Free
Superhero Party
This weekend, Volente Beach Resort is transforming into your ultimate superhero headquarters.
Dress as your favorite hero and prepare for a day packed with thrilling activities: enjoy tasty food from the food truck (think burgers, hot dogs, and more!), Jam out to awesome music, craft your own superhero mask, and sharpen your super skills with exciting games.
Where: Volente Beach Water Park, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 11 am – 2 pm
How Much: $20
Looking for fun things around ATX? Check out our weekly updates with the best picks for Things to Do in Austin this Weekend — all curated by a local.
- Best Fun Events in Austin July 18 -20 - July 14, 2025
- 20 Best Museums in Austin, TX – Art, History, & Unique Gems 2025 - July 13, 2025
- 40 Best Indoor Things to Do in Austin – Fun for Rainy Days, Summer Heat & More - July 12, 2025
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