New Year Fireworks Austin: Where To Watch On NYE

Last Updated – 27th December 2025

Jump to: Fireworks at Auditorium Shores | Free Places to Watch NYE Fireworks in Austin | Ticketed Fireworks Viewing| Weather Forecast

Ready to ring in midnight under a sky full of color? Austin offers scenic overlooks, cozy gathering spaces, and lively public celebrations. So, pick your spot from our list of the best viewing spots for New Year fireworks Austin below, join the countdown, and watch the year begin with sparkle.

And if you are looking for more ways to spend the break, explore concerts, pop-ups, markets, and local outings in our latest guide to the Best Weekend Events in Austin.

Editor’s Note: We strive to keep listings up to date, but details are subject to change. Always verify with event organizers or participating locations before heading out.

This article may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through them may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Official New Year Fireworks Austin at Auditorium Shores

Image credit: Austin’s New Year

Ring in 2026 at Austin’s New Year celebration, a night packed with live music, delicious local food, and a spectacular fireworks show! Headlined by The Head and the Heart, and joined by local favorites Chaparelle, Tameca Jones, and The Point, this event promises nonstop entertainment.

The festivities begin at 7 PM with food trucks, bars, and vendors, and live performances opening to fuel your night. Then get ready for Austin’s New Year Drone Show at 11:45 PM, leading into a thrilling midnight countdown and fireworks display.

Be sure to arrive early, as there will be secure entrances and a safety check upon entry. Bring a blanket or chair, and get ready for an incredible night in the heart of Austin!

When: December 31, 2025 | 7 pm – 12:30 am
Where: Auditorium Shores, 800 W Riverside Dr., Austin, TX 78704
How much: FREE

How to Get to Austin’s New Year Celebration

Hike-and-Bike Trail — Be sure to bring a light, as vehicles are not allowed on the trail.
Bike to the event — You can easily ride your bike to Auditorium Shores since the park is open for cycling.
CapMetro — On Dec. 31 after 5 p.m., all CapMetro services (except Bikeshare) are free. Bus routes will operate normally, and rail service will run until 2:30 a.m. on Jan. 1. Use the Transit app for planning, tracking, and riding.
Shared Mobility / Dockless Devices — Drop-offs are available at the southwest corner of Riverside Drive and South First Street.

Parking

Image credit: City of Austin Government

You can park in the following areas:

Public Parking north of Lady Bird Lake
One Texas Center
Palmer Events Center Garage
RiverSouth Garage at Riverside Drive and South First Street
City Hall Garage
State Garage Options

There will be ADA-accessible parking at the Palmer Event Center Garage and One Texas Center.

Best Free Places to Watch New Year Fireworks in Austin

Image Credit: City of Austin Government

Zilker Park

Zilker Park is one of the top destinations in Austin for enjoying New Year’s Eve fireworks. Located just a few minutes from downtown, the park offers plenty of wide, open spaces, making it perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to enjoy the show in a relaxed, scenic environment.

To get the best view of the fireworks, head to the south end of the park near the river for a clear, unobstructed view of the downtown skyline. Arrive early to claim a spot, especially if you want to have a good view near the Austin Nature & Science Center or around the Zilker Hillside Theater.

Make sure to bring blankets, snacks, and a light jacket for a comfortable night under the stars.

Where: Austin, TX 78746

360 Bridge Overlook

The 360 Bridge Overlook (also known as the Pennybacker Bridge) offers a stunning panoramic view of Austin’s skyline and the Colorado River, making it a prime spot for watching the NYE fireworks.

To get there, you’ll need to hike a short trail from the parking area, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a bit of a climb. Arriving early is key to securing a good spot since the area can get crowded.

The best view is from the overlook itself, where you can see the fireworks in their full glory over the city and the lake.

Where: N Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78730:

South 1st Street Bridge

The South 1st Street Bridge offers a fantastic location for watching fireworks, especially with its prime position near downtown Austin and the Colorado River. From this spot, you’ll get a direct view of the fireworks reflecting off the water, adding to the spectacle. It’s also a quieter location compared to some other popular spots, so you can avoid large crowds and still enjoy the show.

Arriving early is important to claim a good spot along the bridge, where you can stand or sit along the railing for the best view.

Where: Lady Bird Lake Trail, Austin, TX 78701

Congress Avenue Bridge

Congress Avenue Bridge is one of the most iconic spots in Austin, and it’s a fantastic place to watch the NYE fireworks display. However, the bridge is often packed with people for major events, so try to arrive early to secure a good spot.

You can also walk along the trail underneath the bridge for an alternative view, or even bring a chair and sit on the bridge itself. If you want a quieter experience, consider finding a spot along the nearby Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail for a great view, too.

Where: Austin, TX:

Barton Creek Square Mall

While Barton Creek Square Mall might not offer a classic outdoor experience, it’s still a great spot to watch fireworks, especially if you want a more laid-back environment. The mall’s parking lots and outdoor areas give a wide view of the sky, and it’s a convenient place to gather with friends and family.

You can watch the fireworks from the comfort of your car or hang out near the outdoor mall entrances for an easygoing evening. Parking may fill up fast, so arrive early to grab a spot, and consider bringing folding chairs or blankets to sit on.

Where: 2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746

Ticketed & Special Viewing Experiences for Austin NYE Fireworks

Image credit: Austin’s New Year

Lady Bird Lake Fireworks Cruises

The Lady Bird Lake Fireworks Cruises offer a unique and unforgettable way to experience Austin’s New Year’s Eve fireworks. Guests aboard these special cruises get an up-close and personal view of the fireworks as they light up the skyline from the water.

The cruises also typically feature a relaxing, festive atmosphere with drinks and snacks available for purchase, and some even offer a full bar and light hors d’oeuvres.

Tickets for these cruises usually sell out quickly, so it’s essential to book in advance if you want to secure your spot.

Downtown Rooftop Bars & Hotels

Downtown Austin’s rooftop bars and hotels are premium spots for a more sophisticated NYE fireworks experience. With sweeping views of the city and the fireworks lighting up the sky, these venues provide a more upscale atmosphere for watching the celebration.

Many rooftop bars and hotel lounges also offer special NYE packages that may include access to an open bar, a buffet, or even live entertainment before the fireworks. Some popular spots include The Rooftop at the Fairmont, The Aviary at The LINE, and The P6 at The Proper Hotel, where you’ll have a direct view of the downtown fireworks and an incredible ambiance for ringing in the new year.

These venues often feature exclusive entry, so be sure to make reservations ahead of time to guarantee access. Keep in mind that dress codes may apply, so check the venue’s requirements before heading out.

What to expect in terms of weather on 31st December 2025 in Austin?

Late December evenings in Austin are typically cool to mild, with nighttime temperatures often dropping after sunset. While severe weather is uncommon, it can feel chilly near the water and on open bridges once fireworks begin around midnight. As of now the weather forecast for the 31st December, 2025 calls for clear to mostly clear skies through the evening and fireworks period in Austin, with temperatures dropping from the mid-50s in the early evening to the upper 40s around midnight and into the low 40s afterward.

For planning purposes:

Bring layers or a light jacket, especially for outdoor viewing spots
Expect cooler conditions near Lady Bird Lake and elevated overlooks
Consider wind exposure on bridges and rooftop venues
Pack blankets if you plan to arrive early and wait for the show

If you’re looking for other events you and your loved ones can enjoy, check out more upcoming events and local fun in our Austin weekend guide.

Planning where to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks in Texas? Whether you’re celebrating Houston’s budget-friendly fireworks and events or finding the best spots to ring in the new year with a dazzling skyline show in San Antonio, we’ve got you covered across the Lone Star State.

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Lacey Morris

Lacey is a freelancer and Austin local who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try, fun activities to do, and local events to attend. She loves sharing her discoveries with others through her writing and hopes her work encourages both visitors and locals to be active in the community. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring one of the city’s many hiking trails with her Blue Heeler, Oreo, getting lost in a good book, or dancing the night away to some house or techno beats at one of her favorite rave spots.