Free and Cheap Events in Austin – August 15-17, 2025
Updated: 11th August 2025.
Jump to: Free | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Kids
The best free, fun, and affordable events in Austin this Weekend (August 15-17) include the HERPS Taylor Exotic Reptile and Pet Show, Pop Cats Austin, 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!
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 National Hot Dog Day Deals in Austin, 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
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, August 15 – 16, 2025 | 8:15 pm – 11 pm
How Much: Free
Fitness in the Park: Summer Series with Habitat
Image credit: Austin Parks
Kickstart your Fridays in Austin with Austin Parks Foundation’s Fitness in the Park Habitat Summer Series. Head to Zilker Park at 7 am for a 45-minute yoga session suitable for all levels, then dive into the refreshing waters of Barton Springs for a cold plunge.
Where: Zilker Metropolitan Park, Austin, TX 78746
When: Recurring every Friday, August 15 – 29, 2025 | 7 am – 8 am
How Much: Free
Big Gay Austin Pride Bazaar at Rain
Celebrate Austin Pride at the Big Gay Austin Pride Bazaar! You can support local queer businesses and connect with the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community.
Plus, you’ll get to see special guest Plane Jane from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16!
Where: Rain on 4th, 217 W 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, August 15, 2025 | 4 pm
How Much: Free
Beat 4 Beat 10-Year Anniversary Party
Join Austin’s lively music community this weekend for an unforgettable event full of live performances from local favorites like Nakia and Deer Fellow, with beats from DJ Jensen.
Celebrate a decade of empowering local youth through music education and witness special guest appearances and surprises as we honor past and present students.
Where: Meanwhile Brewing Co., 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | 6 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free | Donations appreciated
Things To Do in Austin this Weekend – Friday Events
Performa/Dance presents ANTHROPOCENE
Get ready for a captivating mix of dance and humor, anxiety, and wonder as you explore humanity’s perspective on the end of the world with ANTHROPOCENE.
This amazing show is brought to you by a top-notch artistic team, including playwright Alexandra Bassiakou Shaw and composer Henna Chou.
Where: Ballet Austin’s Butler Dance Education Center, 501 W 3rd St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday – Saturday, August 15 – 16, 2025
How Much: $25 – $50
Stargaze Theater Festival
Enjoy a night of incredible storytelling and live performances at the Stargaze Theater Festival! Here, you’ll witness five original short plays written by some of Austin’s most creative and diverse playwrights.
Where: Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday – Saturday, August 15 – 16, 2025
How Much: $25
Amy and the Orphans
See Amy and the Orphans, a heartwarming and hilarious play about three adult siblings who must reunite to deliver some difficult news. Experience a funny and riotous look inside the complicated dynamics of family as they discover how little they truly know about each other.
Where: Ground Floor Theatre, 979 Springdale Rd #122, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, August 15 – 30, 2025
How Much: $30 or pay what you can
Cap City Comedy Club presents Trae Crowder
Get ready for a night of laughs with the one and only Trae Crowder, also known as the “Liberal Redneck!” After going viral for his hilarious rants, he’s toured the country and appeared on countless shows. Now, he’s bringing his unique brand of comedy to Austin this weekend.
Where: Capitol City Comedy Club, Bldg B, 11506 Century Oaks Terrace Unit 100, Austin, TX 78758
When: Friday, August 15 – 17, 2025
How Much: Starts at $35.99
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. Come see them before they see you!
Where: Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, August 15 – 17, 2025
How Much: Included in general admission
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Saturday Events
The Wizard of Oz
Follow the yellow brick road into The Topfer for a dazzling journey over the rainbow! Experience a one-of-a-kind Austin staging of the classic tale with a Dust Bowl-era cowboy band and a glittering mirror ball experience. Get ready for plenty of chances to get in on the action and sing along with the cast!
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 – September 21, 2025
How Much: Starts at $27
Austin Shorts Fest
Get ready for a spectacular cinematic experience this weekend, featuring an incredible lineup of short films from talented Texas filmmakers and across the country.
Grab some popcorn, mingle with other film enthusiasts, and cheer on your favorites to celebrate the best in filmmaking at the can’t-miss awards ceremony.
Where: Hyperreal Film Club, 301 Chicon St Suite A, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | 1 pm – 8 pm
How Much: $20
BATTLE OF THE DECADES – 80s, 90s & 2000s Hits
Travel through time and experience the ultimate musical showdown! Mixtape Time Machine is hitting the stage for a Battle of the Decades Live Concert, performing three incredible sets of hit songs from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s.
Where: Haute Spot, 1501 E New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, TX 78641
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | 5 pm – 11 pm
How Much: $15.28
HERPS Taylor Exotic Reptile and Pet Show
Image credit: HERPS Exotic Reptile and Pet Shows
Come to Taylor, TX, and dive into the amazing world of reptiles and exotic pets at the HERPS Exotic Reptile and Pet Show. You can browse and buy thousands of fascinating creatures like reptiles, amphibians, and insects, plus all the supplies you’ll need.
Where: Williamson County Expo Center, 5350 Bill Pickett Trail, Taylor, TX 76574
When: Saturday – Sunday, August 16 – 17, 2025 | 10 am – 5 pm
How Much: $10 for adults | $5 for children | 4 and under are FREE
POP Cats Austin
Image credit: POP Cats
Dive into a world where art meets cats, featuring a Punk Cats Cattoo Parlor, hands-on workshops, and other artistically designed environments.
Don’t forget to explore the POP Cats Experience, a special market filled with cat-inspired creations from local artists and makers. While you’re there, make a real difference by supporting cat organizations and finding a new furry friend to take home.
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday – Sunday, August 16 – 17, 2025 | 11 am – 5 pm
How Much: Starts at $15
Austin Empty Bowl Summer Concert
Get ready for an awesome night of music with the Austin Empty Bowl Summer Concert! This weekend, you can hear some incredible tunes from Terry Klein, Hardened and Tempered, and Jenny Reynolds.
Best of all, you’ll be making a difference just by being there. Every single penny from the concert goes directly to a great cause, supporting the Kids Cafe program and the Meals for Kids program.
Where: Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, 2200 Justin Ln, Austin, TX 78757
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | 1 pm
How Much: $10 suggested donation
Jason Aldean In Concert
Image credit: Jason Aldean
Jason Aldean, the country superstar, is bringing his electrifying music to Austin. You’ll hear hits from his latest album, Highway Desperado, along with classics from his incredible 12-album career.
Where: Moody Center, 2001 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | 7:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $65
Chris Botti in concert
This weekend, the Grammy Award-winning trumpeter and composer Chris Botti is taking the stage in Austin. Experience his mesmerizing talent live as he performs selections from his chart-topping albums, including his Grammy-winning album, Impressions.
Where: The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | 8 pm
How Much: Starts at $65
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend – Sunday Events
City-Wide Vintage Sale
Dive into a massive 45,000-square-foot space filled with incredible vintage treasures. You’ll find everything from unique furniture and retro clothing to timeless collectibles, so come prepared to hunt for your next great find.
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, August 17 – 31, 2025
How Much: $10 for adults | Free for kids 12 and under
Benise In Concert
Image credit: BENISE
The one and only Benise, known as “The Prince of Spanish Guitar,” is celebrating his 25th anniversary with a special concert this weekend in Austin.
You’ll be transported on a musical journey, as Benise and his incredible band of musicians and dancers perform a captivating blend of Spanish Flamenco, Brazilian Samba, Cuban Salsa, and more.
Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, August 17, 2025 | 6 pm
How Much: Starts at $64.30
Miranda Lambert & Parker McCollum present Band Together Texas
Head over to the star-studded Band Together Texas concert, where some of Texas’s biggest names in music and entertainment are coming together.
See amazing performances from artists like Miranda Lambert, Parker McCollum, Kelly Clarkson, and more, all to support communities recovering from the devastating July 4 flooding.
Where: Moody Center, 2001 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Sunday, August 17, 2025 | 7 pm
How Much: Starts at $178
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
You absolutely cannot miss Beautiful, the captivating musical that brings to life the remarkable journey of a girl who dared to become a King.
This stunning production features a stirring book by the late Douglas McGrath, brought to life with the timeless music and lyrics of icons like Carole King, Gerry Goffin, Barry Mann, and Cynthia Weil.
Where: Georgetown Palace Theatre, 810 S Austin Ave, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Sunday, August 17, 2025 | 8:30 am – 5 pm
How Much: Starts at $18
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend for Kids
Big Gay Austin Pride Bazaar at Rain
Celebrate Austin Pride at the Big Gay Austin Pride Bazaar! You can support local queer businesses and connect with the vibrant LGBTQIA+ community.
Plus, you’ll get to see special guest Plane Jane from RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 16!
Where: Rain on 4th, 217 W 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, August 15, 2025 | 4 pm
How Much: Free
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. Come see them before they see you!
Where: Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, August 15 – 17, 2025
How Much: Included in general admission
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, August 15 – 16, 2025 | 8:15 pm – 11 pm
How Much: Free
The Wizard of Oz
Follow the yellow brick road into The Topfer for a dazzling journey over the rainbow! Experience a one-of-a-kind Austin staging of the classic tale with a Dust Bowl-era cowboy band and a glittering mirror ball experience. Get ready for plenty of chances to get in on the action and sing along with the cast!
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 – September 21, 2025
How Much: Starts at $27
Beat 4 Beat 10-Year Anniversary Party
Join Austin’s lively music community this weekend for an unforgettable event full of live performances from local favorites like Nakia and Deer Fellow, with beats from DJ Jensen.
Celebrate a decade of empowering local youth through music education and witness special guest appearances and surprises as we honor past and present students.
Where: Meanwhile Brewing Co., 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025 | 6 pm – 9 pm
How Much: Free | Donations appreciated
HERPS Taylor Exotic Reptile and Pet Show
Come to Taylor, TX, and dive into the amazing world of reptiles and exotic pets at the HERPS Exotic Reptile and Pet Show. You can browse and buy thousands of fascinating creatures like reptiles, amphibians, and insects, plus all the supplies you’ll need.
Where: Williamson County Expo Center, 5350 Bill Pickett Trail, Taylor, TX 76574
When: Saturday – Sunday, August 16 – 17, 2025 | 10 am – 5 pm
How Much: $10 for adults | $5 for children | 4 and under are FREE
The SpongeBob Musical
Get ready for an extraordinary evening under the starlit sky as you experience the SpongeBob Musical, a spectacular Broadway-style outdoor performance! This fantastic, free event promises an unforgettable show, celebrating friendship, kindness, and community through incredible singing, dazzling dancing, and vibrant costumes.
Where: Bee Cave Public Library, 4000 Galleria Pkwy, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Saturday, August 16, 2025
How Much: Free
City-Wide Vintage Sale
Dive into a massive 45,000-square-foot space filled with incredible vintage treasures. You’ll find everything from unique furniture and retro clothing to timeless collectibles, so come prepared to hunt for your next great find.
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, August 17 – 31, 2025
How Much: $10 for adults | Free for kids 12 and under
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.
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