Spring Break Austin 2026: 15+ Best Events & Things To Do

Jump to: Creative & Artistic | Educational | Sports & Nature | Entertainment & Outdoors | Free & Low-Cost

Sun’s out, school’s out, and it’s time for some fun! Austin offers a fantastic variety of activities to keep kids and teens entertained during Spring Break. Whether your child is a budding artist, a future robotics engineer, or a nature lover, there’s something for everyone in the Greater Austin area.

Read on to discover our exhaustive guide to spring break Austin events, ensuring you and the family form more unforgettable spring memories this year!

Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information. However, all details are subject to change. Please verify information before heading out.

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Creative and Artistic Spring Break Austin Activities

Sistine Chapel Experience

Step inside a breathtaking recreation of the Vatican’s most famous masterpiece at the Sistine Chapel Experience in Austin.

You can see Michelangelo’s legendary frescoes in a full-scale replica that brings every brushstroke and hidden detail within reach, accompanied by cinematic storytelling that explores the lives of Renaissance masters.

When: March 14 – April 26, 2026
Where: Barton Creek Square, 2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746
How much: Not stated

Kids Create: Pet Paintings Inspired by Tsuguharu Foujita

Head over to the Austin Public Library to celebrate its 100th birthday with a creative tribute to the art of the 1920s. You can explore the unique style of Tsuguharu Foujita and use his historic techniques as inspiration to create your own charming pet paintings.

When: March 17, 2026 | 1 pm – 2 pm
Where: Austin Public Library – Terrazas Branch, 1105 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
How much: Free

Educational and STEM Experiences

Spring Break: Trains at the Bullock

Image credit: Bullock Texas State History Museum

Hear the whistles blow and the axles grind as locomotives from the Austin Model Railway Society and Tinplate Trackers of Austin chug through intricate scenes of detailed cities, rural landscapes, and even a tiny carnival.

You can also talk with local enthusiasts and admire the expertly crafted railroads that turn the Austin Room into a bustling miniature hub.

When: March 13 – 16, 2026 | 11 am – 4 pm
Where: Texas Science and Natural History Museum, 2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712
How much: Included in museum admission

Kid’s Rock Club: For Rock Collectors

Head over to the Kid’s Rock Club for an engaging, hands-on experience designed for young rock collectors and budding geologists. You can bring a favorite specimen from your own collection to be tumbled and polished, or join in the excitement of breaking open geodes to reveal the hidden treasures inside.

While the transformation takes a full month to complete, caregivers can follow along with photo updates sent via email after each stage.

When: March 16, 2026 | 1 pm – 2 pm
Where: Austin Public Library – Terrazas Branch, 1105 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
How much: Free

Austin Spring Break – Sports and Fitness Activities

Time to Paddy 5k/10k & Lucky 13.1

Image credit: runsignup

Lace up for the annual Time to Paddy 5k/10k and Lucky 13.1, a St. Patrick-themed run packed with festive spirit and great perks. Expect a premium swag bag featuring a designer shirt and custom medal, along with professional chip-timing, live results, and free photos to capture your big finish.

Whether you are aiming for a personal best in the half-marathon or bringing the little ones for the untimed kids’ dash, there is a distance for everyone to enjoy. You are also invited to join the “biggest team” contest and stay for the delicious post-race food to celebrate your achievement with the community.

When: March 15, 2026 | 8 am
Where: Pfennig Park, 1201 W Pfennig Ln, Pflugerville, TX 78660
How much: Starts at $17

Entertainment, Fairs, and Outdoor Fun

SXSW Film & TV Festival

Join a global gathering of creatives and industry experts for an unforgettable cinematic experience at the SXSW Film and TV Festival. Catch high-profile premieres like the Apple TV series Margo’s Got Money Trouble or star-studded films featuring icons such as Keke Palmer, Jason Segel, and Vince Vaughn.

Explore hundreds of programs across iconic Austin venues, ranging from gripping documentaries and shorts to vibrant music videos and animations.

When: March 12 – 18, 2026
Where: The Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
How much: Varies

SXSW Music Festival

Image credit: SXSW

Dive into the heart of Austin as the SXSW Music Festival transforms the city into a massive stage featuring thousands of acts across more than 100 unique venues. Discover an incredible mix of legendary performers and rising international stars playing everywhere from intimate bars and historic churches to sprawling outdoor parks.

Soak in the electric atmosphere and find your new favorite band at one of the world’s most influential musical gatherings.

When: March 12 – 18, 2026
Where: Multiple venues in Austin
How much: Varies

Rodeo Austin

Image credit: Rodeo Austin

Get ready for Rodeo Austin! Enjoy a full-blown family affair featuring thrilling ProRodeo events, a massive carnival, and daily concerts with a star-studded 2026 lineup including Clint Black, Midland, and the Eli Young Band.

While you explore the fairgrounds starting at 10 a.m. daily, you can dive into hours of entertainment with shopping, delicious food, and educational shows for all ages. You can also bring the kids to Kidztown for the petting zoo or join the community for special highlights like the Cowboy Breakfast and BBQ Austin.

When: March 13 – May 28, 2026
Where: Travis County Exposition Center, 7311 Decker Lane, Austin, TX 78724
How much: Starts at $5

Sips & Sounds Music Festival

Image credit: Sips & Sounds Music Festival

The Coca-Cola Sips & Sounds Music Festival is back this spring for an incredible weekend of live performances featuring a star-studded lineup that spans across pop, electronic, and indie genres.

On Friday, you can catch the legendary Christina Aguilera headlining a night that includes Major Lazer Soundsystem and GroupLove, while Saturday brings the massive beats of Calvin Harris alongside Foster the People and Stephen Sanchez.

Secure your spot at this premier Austin event to enjoy world-class music against the beautiful city skyline and celebrate the season with a spectacular outdoor concert experience!

When: March 13 – 14, 2026
Where: Auditorium Shores, 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
How much: Starts at $65

St Patricks Day Weekend Festival

Head over to Lake Travis for the Second Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Volente Beach, where you can celebrate the holiday with green beer and high-energy lake vibes. The weekend will feature live music, themed food and drink specials, and pre-season access to the waterpark, weather permitting.

Wear your best green attire and join the fun at this lakeside shamrockin’ celebration.

When: March 13 – 14, 2026
Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769, Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
How much: Starts at $10

Carmela Full of Wishes

Head over to the theater for a poetic and playful journey that celebrates the power of hope and imagination in Carmela Full of Wishes. Follow Carmela on her special birthday as she finally joins her older brother for a day of errands, only to find that a single sidewalk dandelion can transform a simple outing into a whirlwind of dreams.

When: March 14 – 16, 2026
Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
How much: Not stated

Storybook Ball

Step into a world of imagination at the Austin Scottish Rite Theater for the Storybook Ball, a day dedicated to book-loving fun for the whole family.

Enjoy live storytimes with local children’s authors, dance to live music, and explore a cozy reading nook while your kids dive into creative crafts and take home free books.

You are invited to dress up as your favorite storybook character to earn a free entry into the raffle and join the grand costume parade and dance party. By participating in the virtual silent auction and attending this magical event, you help provide vital funding for youth programming and scholarships in the community.

When: March 14, 2026 | 12 pm
Where: Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W 18th St, Austin, TX 78701
How much: $10 | Kids 2 and under are FREE

Charlotte’s Web

Watch this classic story of friendship take flight at the Main Street Theater through a unique production featuring live bluegrass music and stunning aerial performances.

After Fern rescues Wilbur, the tiny runt of the litter, Charlotte the spider uses her extraordinary weaving skills to protect him in a heartwarming display of hope and loyalty. Experience this imaginative staging of a beloved tale that promises to enchant audiences of all ages with its blend of music and circus arts.

When: March 14 – May 17, 2026
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
How much: Starts at $31

The Great Gatsby

Image credit: Texas Performing Arts

Dive into the glamour of the Roaring Twenties as The Great Gatsby brings F. Scott Fitzgerald’s legendary novel to life in a “Broadway extravaganza.” Experience this Tony Award®-winning musical’s unforgettable journey of love and wealth, featuring a vibrant jazz- and pop-influenced score and spectacular choreography.

Secure your tickets now to witness the extravagance and longing of Jay Gatsby’s world through the vision of director Marc Bruni.

When: March 14 – 15, 2026
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
How much: Starts at $48

Attack on Titan: Beyond the Walls

Join this once-in-a-lifetime journey into a world of gripping battles and raw emotion, where the epic saga is brought to life through an awe-inspiring fusion of rock and orchestral music.

Having already graced prestigious global stages like Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House, this concert offers you a front-row seat to the power and intensity of the Attack on Titan legacy.

When: March 18, 2026 | 7:30 pm
Where: Bass Concert Hall, Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
How much: Starts at $85.40

Free and Low-Cost Spring Break Fun

The Arboretum Food and Artisan Market

Explore a vibrant showcase featuring over 40 local vendors and artisans. You can browse a diverse selection of fresh seasonal vegetables, local meats, and artisanal baked goods while discovering unique home goods, jewelry, and handcrafted art.

When: March 14, 2026 | 11 am – 3 pm
Where: Arboretum, 10000 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78759
How much: No cover

Kid’s Rock Club: For Rock Collectors

While the transformation takes a full month to complete, caregivers can follow along with photo updates sent via email after each stage.

When: March 16, 2026 | 1 pm – 2 pm
Where: Austin Public Library – Terrazas Branch, 1105 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
How much: Free

Kids Create: Pet Paintings Inspired by Tsuguharu Foujita

When: March 17, 2026 | 1 pm – 2 pm
Where: Austin Public Library – Terrazas Branch, 1105 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
How much: Free

Looking for more fun events? Check out our always up-to-date guide to Things to Do in Austin this Weekend.

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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.