Last Updated On – 12th November, 2025
Jump to: Free | Friday | Saturday | Sunday | Kids
The best free and fun events in Austin, November 14 – 16, include the Panda Fest, Austin Mac & Cheese Festival 2025, Austin Pickle 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. 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.
Free and Cheap Events in Austin
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Image credit: Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Join Austin’s beloved holiday shopping experience, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar (BGAB), as it returns for its spectacular 25th year!
You can find unique handmade jewelry, beautiful artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your list, all featuring the work of more than 200 talented regional artists.
As always, BGAB offers a family-friendly, hassle-free environment where you can easily purchase holiday gifts while supporting local vendors.
Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, November 14 – December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Asmbly Maker Market
Join the annual Assembly Maker Market, a fantastic outdoor showcase that brings together local artists, designers, and inventors to share their unique handcrafted goods.
You can browse and discover one-of-a-kind pieces, ranging from jewelry and ceramics to woodworking, textiles, and 3D-printed creations. You can also meet the makers, learn about their process, and support local talent.
Where: Assembly Makerspace, 9701 Dessau Rd, Suite 304, Austin, TX 78754
When: Friday, November 15 – 16, 2025
How Much: Free
Austin Studio Tour, Repair Fair, and Vendor Market
Come get your clothes repaired, shop for incredible art, learn about solar panels, and check out vintage threads from a great variety of local vendors. Then, return for Weekend 2 to see familiar faces and discover some new ones!
Where: The Museum of Human Achievement, 3600 Lyons Rd, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, November 15 – 16, 2025
How Much: Free
Passport to the World Festival
Image credit: Austin Sister Cities International ASCI
Join the Austin Sister Cities International (ASCI) for the amazing 10th Annual Passport to the World International Family-Friendly Festival!
The festivities kick off at 11:15 am with the vibrant Parade of Cultures at City Hall.
The Passport to the World Festival proper runs from 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm at the Austin Central Library, featuring FREE programming exploring Austin’s rich international community through live performances, interactive games, crafts, and much more.
You can also learn all about Austin’s incredible Sister Cities with fun, hands-on booths and activities.
Where: Austin Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, November 15, 2025 | 11 am – 4 pm
How Much: Free
Free and Cheap Events in Austin this Friday, November 14, 2025
Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar
Step into a winter wonderland at Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar, the most festive and nostalgic setting in the city!
This Christmas-themed cocktail bar features dazzling wall-to-wall holiday decor, multiple bars, and a whole lot of Christmas spirits.
You can sip one of the many Christmas cocktails crafted by the jolly staff, take your next profile picture in Santa’s Throne, and connect with friends and family in the city’s most decked-out holiday bar, enjoying Christmas cheer like you’ve never seen it before.
This is a ticketed event with first-come, first-served seating for tables/seats. For parties fewer than 8, you can skip the General Admission line by purchasing limited-quantity Dasher Passes!
Where: The Eleanor, 307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, November 14 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $13.30
Ethereal Horror Fest
Prepare for a spine-tingling experience at Ethereal Horror Fest, a full weekend of chills and thrills right here in Austin, Texas!
You will see hand-picked horror films from around the world, including shorts, features, and Texas-made gems, and gain direct filmmaker access during Q&As, panels, and a networking mixer designed for emerging creators.
One of the main features this year is the 50th Anniversary Celebration of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, with Austin’s famed shadow cast, O’Brien’s Orchestra, emceeing all weekend and hosting the awards show.
Apart from that, enjoy after-dark experiences, including paranormal-themed activations and a community mixer, all delivered with a distinctive, woman-owned, and Austin-grown vibe.
Where: AFS Cinema, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, November 14 – 16, 2025
How Much: Starts at $20
Panda Fest
Panda Fest, one of the nation’s fastest-growing Asian food and culture festivals, is making its highly anticipated Austin debut!
The festival will feature over 40 Asian food vendors serving more than 100 delicious dishes.
There will also be non-stop entertainment, including traditional music, exciting lion dances, high-energy K-pop showcases, a cultural marketplace with over 10 vendors, and panda-themed attractions, including a massive 15-foot inflatable panda!
Where: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, November 14 – 16, 2025
How Much: Starts at $14 | Free for kids under 6
The Light Park
Buckle up, turn up the volume, and prepare for a dazzling experience at The Light Park! You will immerse yourself in a mile-long light show featuring millions of stunning LED lights perfectly synchronized to high-energy holiday music presented by DJ Polar Ice.
This resident mixologist spins re-imagined holiday favorites blended with fresh beats to keep the energy high from start to finish, and you can even tune in before arrival to set the festive tone on your drive to The Light Park.
From giant illuminated tunnels to towering animated trees and dancing reindeer, every night promises an unforgettable spectacle of color and sound designed to delight all ages.
Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: Friday, November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29
The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail
Step into the magical world of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Austin is one of only two cities in the entire country to host this innovative, walk-through experience, giving you a rare chance to see beloved characters like Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero brought to life right here in Texas.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, November 14 – 29, 2025
How Much: Starts at $31
Wurstfest
Head to Wurstfest for a truly unique annual celebration rich in German culture and absolutely full of Texas fun!
You will enjoy incredible food, lively music, energetic dancing, exciting carnival rides and games, and plenty of German, Texan, and domestic beer! There will also be plenty of special events and the finest in Alpine and Bavarian-style entertainment.
Where: 120 Landa St, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: Friday, November 14 – 16, 2025
How Much: Free – $30
A Charlie Brown Christmas
See the beloved holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, come magically to life on stage!
Follow the wonderful journey of Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas. The entire Peanuts gang, including Snoopy and Linus, will be joining him on his quest.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, November 14 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $30
Surreal Luck
Prepare to have your reality bent at The Surreal Luck, a dimension-bending neon art experience ready to electrify the Texas Hill Country this fall!
For two full weeks, culture connoisseurs can experience a western wonder that brings larger-than-life Ion Art installations, unique music, and incredible culinary moments to this mostly private town.
Where: Luck Ranch, 1100 Bee Creek Rd, Spicewood, TX 78669
When: Friday, November 14 – 16, 2025 | 5 pm – 11 pm
How Much: $40
Hill Country Flyer: A Vintage Train Ride for the Whole Family
All aboard the Hill Country Flyer, your ticket to a full-day adventure through the gorgeous Texas Hill Country!
Your journey begins at the Austin Steam Train Association’s Cedar Park Depot. Then, you’ll go on a 66-mile round trip aboard a beautifully restored vintage train pulled by a diesel locomotive.
Along the way, you’ll cross the scenic trestle bridge over the South San Gabriel River and wind through Short Creek Canyon, all from the comfort of a historic railcar!
Mid-trip, you get a two-hour layover in the charming town of Burnet, where you can explore the historic square, browse local shops, and grab lunch at a local restaurant before settling in for a relaxed ride back.
Where: Austin Steam Train Association, 401 E Whitestone Blvd C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Friday, November 14 – 22, 2025 | 9 am – 3:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $35
Fortlandia
Discover your new secret hideout at Fortlandia, an exciting interactive exhibit waiting for you this fall at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! Connect directly with the environment by climbing upon, crawling through, and exploring a brand-new lineup of unique forts designed by local artists.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, November 14, 2025 – February 1, 2026
How Much: $18 for adults | $15 for seniors and military | $12 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids under 3
Free and Cheap Events in Austin this Saturday, November 15, 2025
Austin Pickle Festival
On National Pickle Weekend, we are bringing you the Most Dill-icious Festival. Everything from Pickle snow cones to pickle pizzas.
IT’S A BIG DILL, AUSTIN! Get ready for a one-of-a-kind family celebration that’s all about everyone’s favorite briny bite — the PICKLE! The Austin Pickle Festival is the juiciest, crunchiest, most delicious day of the summer — and it’s happening in air-conditioned comfort at The St Elmos Brewery on Springdale.
Where: 8110 Springdale Rd, Austin, TX 78724
When: Friday, November 15, 2025 | 12 pm – 6 pm
How Much: $0 – $33.84
Texas Craft Brewers Festival
Image credit: Texas Craft Brewers Festival
Get ready for the largest celebration of small and independent Texas craft brewers as the Texas Craft Brewers Festival returns to East Austin’s Fiesta Gardens this Saturday!
Organized by the Texas Craft Brewers Guild, this amazing event features 85 Texas craft breweries with over 200 handcrafted beers available for you to sample.
Aside from the drinks, the festival is also complete with delicious food trucks, fantastic live music, and much more!
Where: Fiesta Gardens, 2101 Jesse E. Segovia St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, November 15, 2025 | 12 pm – 6:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $20
Home Slice Pizza’s Carnival O’ Pizza
Image credit: Home Slice Pizza
Come one, come all, because Home Slice Pizza’s Carnival O’ Pizza is back this fall! In a massive celebration of 20 years of Austin’s favorite slice, the iconic pizza joint is bringing back its beloved carnival for one day only on Saturday in the South Congress location’s parking lot.
There will be games, live music, raffles, and plenty of pizza. Best of all, this family-friendly event benefits Foundation Communities, a local nonprofit that provides essential affordable homes and free support services to thousands in need.
Where: Home Slice Pizza (South Congress locations)
When: Friday, November 15, 2025 | 12 pm – 6 pm
How Much: Not stated
My Children! My Africa!
Join Austin Shakespeare for two performances only of the staged reading of Athol Fugard’s acclaimed play, My Children! My Africa!
Witness the powerful tale of a spectacular Black teacher in a segregated township struggling to persuade a brilliant young man that education, not violence, is the only answer to South Africa’s profound problems.
The tension escalates as the teacher coaches his teenage students to join together in a significant literary competition.
Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, November 15 – 16, 2025
How Much: Starts at $23
Wordplay Fest
Wordplay Fest is a one-day festival that empowers artists, performers, educators, and leaders to expand their self-expression and create positive change through language arts!
Experience jaw-dropping performances by conscious hip hop artist Azlon and comedian rapper Scoochie Boochie, engage in workshops and performances by talented improv and standup artists, and learn compelling storytelling frameworks with public speaking trainer Colleen Schell.
Back by popular demand, you can also witness a heated war of words during the Human vs. ChatGPT Pun Competition!
There will also be local vendors of food, clothing, and accessories.
Where: ColdTowne Theater, 1700 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Friday, November 15, 2025 | 10 am – 10 pm
How Much: $40
Free and Cheap Events in Austin this Sunday November 16, 2025
Austin Mac & Cheese Festival 2025
Image credit: macncheesefest
Get ready for the cheesiest event in Texas as the Austin Mac & Cheese Festival returns on Sunday! This year, the festival is going totally tropical, blending the bold flavors of coastal Mexico, Hawaii, and the Caribbean with Austin’s signature laid-back energy.
Expect incredible tropical surf and turf cheese creations, including recipes like Jerk Chicken Mac and Cheese, Mac and Cheesy al Pastor, and maybe even a creative spin on Spam and Pineapple Mac & Cheese.
Where: Star Hill Ranch, 15000 Hamilton Pool Rd, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Sunday, November 16, 2025 | 11 am – 3 pm
How Much: $55
Much Ado About Nothing
After years of war, you can step into an idyllic Italian town that is finally back in bloom for this performance.
Watch as the young lovers Claudio and Hero, along with the sparring singletons Beatrice and Benedick, discover that all is not as it seems in their beautiful surroundings. This classic comedy entangles them all in a series of mischievous games, pranks, and cunning plots.
Where: Mary Moody Northen Theatre, 3001 S Congress Ave Building THAR, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, November 16, 2025
How Much: $15 – $28
Free and Cheap Events in Austin for Kids
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Join Austin’s beloved holiday shopping experience, the Blue Genie Art Bazaar (BGAB), as it returns for its spectacular 25th year!
You can find unique handmade jewelry, beautiful artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your list, all featuring the work of more than 200 talented regional artists.
As always, BGAB offers a family-friendly, hassle-free environment where you can easily purchase holiday gifts while supporting local vendors.
Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, November 14 – December 24, 2025
How Much: Free
Panda Fest
Panda Fest, one of the nation’s fastest-growing Asian food and culture festivals, is making its highly anticipated Austin debut!
The festival will feature over 40 Asian food vendors serving more than 100 delicious dishes.
There will also be non-stop entertainment, including traditional music, exciting lion dances, high-energy K-pop showcases, a cultural marketplace with over 10 vendors, and panda-themed attractions, including a massive 15-foot inflatable panda!
Where: Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, November 14 – 16, 2025
How Much: Starts at $14 | Free for kids under 6
The Light Park
Buckle up, turn up the volume, and prepare for a dazzling experience at The Light Park! You will immerse yourself in a mile-long light show featuring millions of stunning LED lights perfectly synchronized to high-energy holiday music presented by DJ Polar Ice.
This resident mixologist spins re-imagined holiday favorites blended with fresh beats to keep the energy high from start to finish, and you can even tune in before arrival to set the festive tone on your drive to The Light Park.
From giant illuminated tunnels to towering animated trees and dancing reindeer, every night promises an unforgettable spectacle of color and sound designed to delight all ages.
Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: Friday, November 14, 2025 – January 4, 2026
How Much: Starts at $29
Wurstfest
Head to Wurstfest for a truly unique annual celebration rich in German culture and absolutely full of Texas fun!
You will enjoy incredible food, lively music, energetic dancing, exciting carnival rides and games, and plenty of German, Texan, and domestic beer! There will also be plenty of special events and the finest in Alpine and Bavarian-style entertainment.
Where: 120 Landa St, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: Friday, November 14 – 16, 2025
How Much: Free – $30
A Charlie Brown Christmas
See the beloved holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas, come magically to life on stage!
Follow the wonderful journey of Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas. The entire Peanuts gang, including Snoopy and Linus, will be joining him on his quest.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, November 14 – December 28, 2025
How Much: Starts at $30
Hill Country Flyer: A Vintage Train Ride for the Whole Family
All aboard for the Hill Country Flyer, your ticket to a full-day adventure through the gorgeous Texas Hill Country!
Your journey begins at the Austin Steam Train Association’s Cedar Park Depot. Then, you’ll go on a 66-mile round trip aboard a beautifully restored vintage train pulled by a diesel locomotive.
Along the way, you’ll cross the scenic trestle bridge over the South San Gabriel River and wind through Short Creek Canyon, all from the comfort of a historic railcar!
Mid-trip, you get a two-hour layover in the charming town of Burnet, where you can explore the historic square, browse local shops, and grab lunch at a local restaurant before settling in for a relaxed ride back.
Where: Austin Steam Train Association, 401 E Whitestone Blvd C-100, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Friday, November 14 – 22, 2025 | 9 am – 3:30 pm
How Much: Starts at $35
Fortlandia
Discover your new secret hideout at Fortlandia, an exciting interactive exhibit waiting for you this fall at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center! Connect directly with the environment by climbing upon, crawling through, and exploring a brand-new lineup of unique forts designed by local artists.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, November 14, 2025 – February 1, 2026
How Much: $18 for adults | $15 for seniors and military | $12 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids under 3
The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail
Step into the magical world of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Austin is one of only two cities in the entire country to host this innovative, walk-through experience, giving you a rare chance to see beloved characters like Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero brought to life right here in Texas.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Friday, November 14 – 29, 2025
How Much: Starts at $31
Home Slice Pizza’s Carnival O’ Pizza
Come one, come all, because Home Slice Pizza’s Carnival O’ Pizza is back this fall! In a massive celebration of 20 years of Austin’s favorite slice, the iconic pizza joint is bringing back its beloved carnival for one day only on Saturday in the South Congress location’s parking lot.
There will be games, live music, raffles, and plenty of pizza. Best of all, this family-friendly event benefits Foundation Communities, a local nonprofit that provides essential affordable homes and free support services to thousands in need.
Where: Home Slice Pizza (South Congress locations)
When: Friday, November 15, 2025 | 12 pm – 6 pm
How Much: Not stated
Passport to the World Festival
Join the Austin Sister Cities International (ASCI) for the amazing 10th Annual Passport to the World International Family-Friendly Festival!
The festivities kick off at 11:15 AM with the vibrant Parade of Cultures at City Hall.
The Passport to the World Festival proper runs from 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the Austin Central Library, featuring FREE programming exploring Austin’s rich international community through live performances, interactive games, crafts, and much more.
You can also learn all about Austin’s incredible Sister Cities with fun, hands-on booths and activities.
Where: Austin Central Library, 710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, November 15, 2025 | 11 am – 4 pm
How Much: Free
Austin Mac & Cheese Festival 2025
Get ready for the cheesiest event in Texas as the Austin Mac & Cheese Festival returns on Sunday! This year, the festival is going totally tropical, blending the bold flavors of coastal Mexico, Hawaii, and the Caribbean with Austin’s signature laid-back energy.
Expect incredible tropical surf and turf cheese creations, including recipes like Jerk Chicken Mac and Cheese, Mac and Cheesy al Pastor, and maybe even a creative spin on Spam and Pineapple Mac & Cheese.
Where: Star Hill Ranch, 15000 Hamilton Pool Rd, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Sunday, November 16, 2025 | 11 am – 3 pm
How Much: $55
- Free and Fun Events in Austin from November 14th include Panda Fest, Passport to the World Festival, and more! - November 11, 2025
- Veterans Day Free Meals and Deals in Austin 2025 - November 11, 2025
- How to Spend Veterans Day 2025 in Austin – Parades, Free Meals & Things to Do - November 11, 2025
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.