Things To Do In Austin This Weekend

The best things to do in Austin this weekend, July 31 – August 2, include Disney’s Newsies, Latino Moonlight Serenades, 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!

Weather this Weekend – July 31 – August 2: Austin will endure baking temperatures near 100°F on Friday before tropical moisture slightly moderates daytime highs and introduces minor, scattered rain chances across the Hill Country over Saturday and Sunday.

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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We only recommend experiences we truly believe in! Curious about how we choose our content? Here’s our process.

Check out our recent updates to our guides: Date Ideas in Austin, Things To Do with Teens in Austin, and Best Summer Camps in Austin.

Free Things to Do in Austin this Weekend

Disney’s Newsies

Step into the true story of the historic 1899 Newsboys Strike as dynamic young performers take center stage in a bold, exhilarating musical about standing together and demanding a better tomorrow.

Where: McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026
How Much: Free

Drink + Draw

Image credit: Contracommon

Unwind and spark your creativity during a monthly community gathering combining art-making with refreshing drinks and good company at Contracommon.

You can bring your own drawing project or start something new with supplied materials while browsing the current gallery exhibition titled Shifting Terrain for extra inspiration. Grab a drink, make some art, and enjoy a relaxing evening!

Where: Contracommon, 12912 Hill Country Blvd f140, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Friday, July 31, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: Free

Magnolia Musical Theatre presents The Addams Family

Embrace the delightful wackiness of everyone’s favorite spooky clan as Magnolia Musical Theatre presents its fourth annual free summer production at the Hill Country Galleria.

Bring your blankets and lawn chairs out to the Central Lawn and Pavilion for a laugh-out-loud musical spectacle under the open sky.

Where: Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Friday, July 31 – August 15, 2026 | 8:00 PM
How Much: Free

Annual Zilker Summer Musical: Singin’ in the Rain

Experience a beloved summer tradition as Zilker Theatre Productions brings the timeless magic of Singin’ in the Rain to the hillside.

Pack your favorite picnic blankets and snacks, and join the crowd for an evening filled with dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and unforgettable musical numbers under the stars.

Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, July 31 – August 15, 2026 | 8:15 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: Free

Pickle-Palooza

Pucker up for an afternoon dedicated to all things pickled as Zilker Brewing Company teams up with la Barbecue for a lively celebration of flavor and community.

You can sample creative pickle creations from local favorites like The Grackle, Liberty Bar, Canje, and Distant Relatives during the tasting competition before casting your vote to help crown the next Pickle-Palooza champion.

Where: Zilker Brewing Company, 1701 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: Free

Things to Do in Austin this Friday | Weekend Kickoff Events

Weather on Friday: Sizzling conditions under mostly sunny skies with oppressive afternoon heat indices, a high of 100°F, a low of 78°F, and a 10% chance of precipitation.

Latino Moonlight Serenades

Image credit: Texas Rowing Center

Glide across Lady Bird Lake under the magic of the summer full moon during this festive evening featuring live music from The Latin Dukes, dancing, and paddleboarding on the water.

You can enjoy kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax by the water with friends and family for an unforgettable night celebrating the twenty-first year of this cherished Austin tradition.

Grab your snacks, sunscreen, and dancing spirit to join the celebration for an incredible evening under the stars!

Where: Texas Rowing Center, 1541 West Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78703
When: Friday, July 31, 2026 | 6:15 PM – 9:00 PM
How Much: $15

Dance Waterloo presents Kinetic Threads

Explore the invisible networks connecting individuals and communities through six original contemporary dance works that invite you to participate directly in the performance.

You can anonymously share a question before the show, ranging from practical household tips to personal advice, and then move between seats to experience different vantage points and shared knowledge.

Where: Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, July 31 – August 1, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: $9

The Stage Austin presents Fool For Love

Observe two former lovers collide in a tense, raw encounter inside a seedy Mojave Desert motel room where old wounds reopen, buried family secrets emerge, and love and hate become impossible to separate.

You will be drawn into Sam Shepard’s explosive drama as the characters fight through a relationship neither can survive nor leave behind.

Where: Stage Austin, 6134 E Hwy 290, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, July 31 – August 2, 2026
How Much: Starts at $22.43

Sally & Tom

Dive into the messy, hilarious rehearsals of a scrappy theater company tackling the complex relationship between Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings in Pulitzer Prize-winning Suzan-Lori Parks’ brilliant play.

Making its regional premiere at Zach Theater, Sally & Tom flips historical mythmaking on its head by sliding seamlessly between present-day backstage tensions and the past.

Where: ZACH North, 14010 US-183 Suite 540, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Friday, July 31 – August 23, 2026
How Much: Starts at $12

4TH Annual Pan African Film Festival

Experience the cultural power of global Black cinema as the Austin Film Society welcomes Los Angeles’ renowned Pan African Film Festival to AFS Cinema for an incredible weekend showcase.

Over four days, you can explore a robust slate of compelling feature narratives, documentaries, and short films accompanied by engaging filmmaker Q&As. Secure your tickets to support diverse storytelling and join a vibrant community of movie lovers right here in Austin.

Where: AFS Cinema, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, July 30 – August 2, 2026
How Much: $14 per film

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Prepare for a sizzling summer experience as The City Theatre Company transforms Shakespeare’s most beloved romantic comedy into a high-energy musical reimagining.

You will find yourself immersed in a world where fairies harmonize, lovers belt out chart-topping anthems, and backstage rivalries collide with onstage romance to create the ultimate theatrical mash-up.

Where: Genesis Creative Collective, 1507 Wilshire Blvd Unit #1, Austin, TX 78722
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026 | 8:00 PM; Sunday: 3:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $20

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Enchanted Edition)

Rediscover the magic of a timeless fairy tale in this vibrant production inspired by the beloved 1997 musical starring Brandy and Whitney Houston.

This enchanted journey celebrates courage and hope, following Cinderella as she realizes she holds the power to shape her own destiny rather than waiting for life to happen to her.

Come be reminded that dreams are only the beginning, and that once a wish is granted, it is up to us to turn that possibility into reality.

Where: McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026
How Much: $26.40

TexARTS presents Rock of Ages

Dust off your leather jacket and prepare for a blast from the past with the ultimate ‘80s rock-n-roll love story. Rock of Ages delivers a high-octane mix of big hair, bigger dreams, and the iconic anthems that defined a generation.

It is outrageous, hilarious, and the perfect dose of nostalgia for anyone who loves a powerful ballad.

Where: TexARTS Theater and Academy, 1110 Ranch Rd 620 S, Lakeway, TX 78734
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026
How Much: Starts at $45

Summer Stock

Dive into a summer of spectacular musical theater with Summer Stock Austin’s latest repertory season.

For over two decades, this program has brought professional-caliber productions to the stage, and this year is no exception. With multiple performances scheduled throughout late July and August, there are plenty of opportunities to catch these incredible shows.

Special accommodations, including ASL interpreted, audio-described, and sensory-friendly performances, ensure everyone can enjoy the magic of live theater.

Where: McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026
How Much: Starts at $28.80

Clay Handbuilding Night with Emily Hohertz

Discover your inner artist with this hands-on introduction to clay sculpting at the Inspired Minds Art Center.

Over the course of this workshop, you will learn the fundamental techniques of hand-building, including coiling, slab building, and pinching, enabling you to craft everything from functional planters to unique figurines.

While the sculpting happens during this Friday evening session, the process is a multi-step journey: after your piece is sculpted, it will dry and undergo its first kiln firing.

You will then be invited to return during walk-in pottery glazing hours to add your own personal touch, followed by a final firing before your creation is ready for pickup.

Where: Inspired Minds Art Center, 121 Main St, Buda, TX 78610
When: Friday, July 31, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
How Much: $61.50

TexARTS presents Rock of Ages

Get ready to rock out with an ultimate ’80s love story packed with big hair, huge dreams, and legendary anthems.

This musical is a nostalgic and hilarious journey that brings the electric energy of rock-and-roll to the stage. Whether you grew up in the era or just love a great rock ballad, you will want to grab your tickets for this vibrant and boisterous production.

Where: TexARTS Theater and Academy, 1110 Ranch Rd 620 S, Lakeway, TX 78734
When: Friday, July 31 – August 2, 2026
How Much: Starts at $52.50

Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Top Picks Saturday

Weather on Saturday: Sun mixed with afternoon clouds and remaining stiflingly hot, a high of 98°F, a low of 78°F, and a 20% chance of an isolated pop-up thunderstorm.

Dorothy’s Quest: The Trials of Oz in Austin

Image credit: feverup

Transform the streets of Austin into an enchanted pathway of adventure as you solve puzzles, break spells, and hunt for clues hidden throughout the city’s architecture.

You can explore at your own pace over a two- to three-kilometer walk while collecting legendary artifacts, uncovering hidden gems, and competing in an optional costume contest for a special prize.

Step into the magic, download the Questo app, and start your journey today!

Where: Domain NORTHSIDE, 11821 Rock Rose Ave. Austin, TX 78758
When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 12:00 AM – 1:15 AM
How Much: $39.99

Georgetown presents Annual Blazin’ Beer Crawl

Image credit: Visit Georgetown, Texas

Stroll through charming streets and enjoy self-paced craft beer tastings hosted by local retail stores and restaurants throughout the historic district.

You can explore neighborhood merchants using an electronic map, check out delicious food truck options, and take advantage of special event-day restaurant menus. Grab your map and join the stroll today!

Where: Georgetown Visitors Center, 505 S Austin Ave, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 1:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $30

Dogstar in concert

Catch the rock band Dogstar live in concert as they hit the stage in Austin in support of their brand new album titled All In Now.

Where: Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live), 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 8:00 PM
How Much: Not stated

Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Sunday Funday

Weather on Sunday: Muggy with filtered sunshine and a slight bump in humidity-driven shower activity, a high of 95°F, a low of 77°F, and a 25% chance of precipitation.

Magical Mystical Michael

Experience a magic show designed specifically for grown-ups, featuring the eccentric humor, charm, and elusive logic of an unconventional illusionist.

You will be captivated by mind-bending mysteries crafted through wit and a delightfully unique attitude that brings entirely new entertainment to the magic of the mind, eyes, and hands.

Where: The VORTEX, 2307 Manor Rd #2135, Austin, TX 78722
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $15

Sip + Solder Mushrooms: Contracommon’s Stained Glass Workshop at Austin Beerworks

Design and assemble your very own stained glass mushroom suncatcher or garden stake during a comprehensive four-hour, beginner-friendly crafting class at Austin Beerworks.

You will learn the basics of lead-came construction and soldering techniques while choosing from an assortment of pre-cut glass pieces in vibrant colors and textures.

Grab a seat, enjoy a completely hands-on experience, and create your own piece of art!

Where: Austin Beerworks Sprinkle Valley, 10300 Springdale Road, Austin, TX 78754
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
How Much: $80 each, $140 for two

Music Mixer ATX

Connect with local musicians, artists, and creators during an energetic evening of live performances and creative networking rooted in a tradition that started back in 2022.

You can discover new bandmates, enjoy short sets from talented performers, and immerse yourself in Austin’s thriving live music scene.

Where: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – South Lamar, 1120 South Lamar, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: Not stated

Zach Theater presents Annie

Rediscover the heart-warming tale of a young orphan searching for family in this high-energy, contemporary production of a beloved classic.

Featuring iconic anthems like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” this show reminds every member of the audience that sunshine is still just a day away.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026
How Much: Not stated

Things to Do in Austin this Weekend with Kids – Family Friendly Events

Disney’s Newsies

Step into the true story of the historic 1899 Newsboys Strike as dynamic young performers take center stage in a bold, exhilarating musical about standing together and demanding a better tomorrow.

Where: McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026
How Much: Free

Latino Moonlight Serenades

Glide across Lady Bird Lake under the magic of the summer full moon during this festive evening featuring live music from The Latin Dukes, dancing, and paddleboarding on the water.

Grab your snacks, sunscreen, and dancing spirit to join the celebration for an incredible evening under the stars!

Where: Texas Rowing Center, 1541 West Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78703
When: Friday, July 31, 2026 | 6:15 PM – 9:00 PM
How Much: $15

Magnolia Musical Theatre presents The Addams Family

Embrace the delightful wackiness of everyone’s favorite spooky clan as Magnolia Musical Theatre presents its fourth annual free summer production at the Hill Country Galleria.

Bring your blankets and lawn chairs out to the Central Lawn and Pavilion for a laugh-out-loud musical spectacle under the open sky.

Where: Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Friday, July 31 – August 15, 2026 | 8:00 PM
How Much: Free

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Enchanted Edition)

Rediscover the magic of a timeless fairy tale in this vibrant production inspired by the beloved 1997 musical starring Brandy and Whitney Houston.

This enchanted journey celebrates courage and hope, following Cinderella as she realizes she holds the power to shape her own destiny rather than waiting for life to happen to her.

Come be reminded that dreams are only the beginning, and that once a wish is granted, it is up to us to turn that possibility into reality.

Where: McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026
How Much: $26.40

Summer Stock

Dive into a summer of spectacular musical theater with Summer Stock Austin’s latest repertory season.

Special accommodations, including ASL interpreted, audio-described, and sensory-friendly performances, ensure everyone can enjoy the magic of live theater.

Where: McCullough Theatre, 2375 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026
How Much: Starts at $28.80

TexARTS presents Rock of Ages

It is outrageous, hilarious, and the perfect dose of nostalgia for anyone who loves a powerful ballad.

Where: TexARTS Theater and Academy, 1110 Ranch Rd 620 S, Lakeway, TX 78734
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026
How Much: Starts at $45

Annual Zilker Summer Musical: Singin’ in the Rain

Experience a beloved summer tradition as Zilker Theatre Productions brings the timeless magic of Singin’ in the Rain to the hillside.

Pack your favorite picnic blankets and snacks, and join the crowd for an evening filled with dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and unforgettable musical numbers under the stars.

Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, July 31 – August 15, 2026 | 8:15 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: Free

Zach Theater presents Annie

Rediscover the heart-warming tale of a young orphan searching for family in this high-energy, contemporary production of a beloved classic.

Featuring iconic anthems like “Tomorrow” and “It’s the Hard-Knock Life,” this show reminds every member of the audience that sunshine is still just a day away.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, July 31 – August 2, 2026
How Much: Not stated

Pickle-Palooza

Pucker up for an afternoon dedicated to all things pickled as Zilker Brewing Company teams up with la Barbecue for a lively celebration of flavor and community.

Where: Zilker Brewing Company, 1701 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: Free

Dorothy’s Quest: The Trials of Oz in Austin

Transform the streets of Austin into an enchanted pathway of adventure as you solve puzzles, break spells, and hunt for clues hidden throughout the city’s architecture.

You can explore at your own pace over a two to three kilometer walk while collecting legendary artifacts, uncovering hidden gems, and competing in an optional costume contest for a special prize.

Step into the magic, download the Questo app, and start your journey today!

Where: Domain NORTHSIDE, 11821 Rock Rose Ave. Austin, TX 78758
When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 12:00 AM – 1:15 AM
How Much: $39.99

Things to Do in Austin this Weekend for Adults

Drink + Draw

Unwind and spark your creativity during a monthly community gathering combining art-making with refreshing drinks and good company at Contracommon.

Where: Contracommon, 12912 Hill Country Blvd f140, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Friday, July 31, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: Free

Sally & Tom

Making its regional premiere at Zach Theater, Sally & Tom flips historical mythmaking on its head by sliding seamlessly between present-day backstage tensions and the past.

Where: ZACH North, 14010 US-183 Suite 540, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Friday, July 31 – August 23, 2026
How Much: Starts at $12

4TH Annual Pan African Film Festival

Experience the cultural power of global Black cinema as the Austin Film Society welcomes Los Angeles’ renowned Pan African Film Festival to AFS Cinema for an incredible weekend showcase.

Where: AFS Cinema, 6259 Middle Fiskville Rd, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, July 30 – August 2, 2026
How Much: $14 per film

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Prepare for a sizzling summer experience as The City Theatre Company transforms Shakespeare’s most beloved romantic comedy into a high-energy musical reimagining.

Where: Genesis Creative Collective, 1507 Wilshire Blvd Unit #1, Austin, TX 78722
When: Friday, July 31 – August 9, 2026 | 8:00 PM; Sunday: 3:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $20

Clay Handbuilding Night with Emily Hohertz

Discover your inner artist with this hands-on introduction to clay sculpting at the Inspired Minds Art Center.

Over the course of this workshop, you will learn the fundamental techniques of hand-building, including coils, slabs, and pinching, allowing you to craft everything from functional planters to unique figurines.

While the sculpting happens during this Friday evening session, the process is a multi-step journey: after your piece is sculpted, it will dry and undergo its first kiln firing.

You will then be invited to return during walk-in pottery glazing hours to add your own personal touch, followed by a final firing before your creation is ready for pickup.

Where: Inspired Minds Art Center, 121 Main St, Buda, TX 78610
When: Friday, July 31, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
How Much: $61.50

TexARTS presents Rock of Ages

Get ready to rock out with an ultimate ’80s love story packed with big hair, huge dreams, and legendary anthems.

Where: TexARTS Theater and Academy, 1110 Ranch Rd 620 S, Lakeway, TX 78734
When: Friday, July 31 – August 2, 2026
How Much: Starts at $52.50

Dance Waterloo presents Kinetic Threads

Explore the invisible networks connecting individuals and communities through six original contemporary dance works that invite you to participate directly in the performance.

Where: Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, July 31 – August 1, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: $9

The Stage Austin presents Fool For Love

You will be drawn into Sam Shepard’s explosive drama as the characters fight through a relationship neither can survive nor leave behind.

Where: Stage Austin, 6134 E Hwy 290, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, July 31 – August 2, 2026
How Much: Starts at $22.43

Georgetown presents Annual Blazin’ Beer Crawl

Stroll through charming streets and enjoy self-paced craft beer tastings hosted by local retail stores and restaurants throughout the historic district.

Where: Georgetown Visitors Center, 505 S Austin Ave, Georgetown, TX 78626
When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 1:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $30

Dogstar in concert

Catch the rock band Dogstar live in concert as they hit the stage in Austin in support of their brand new album titled All In Now.

Where: Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live), 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 8:00 PM
How Much: Not stated

Magical Mystical Michael

Experience a magic show designed specifically for grown-ups, featuring the eccentric humor, charm, and elusive logic of an unconventional illusionist.

You will be captivated by mind-bending mysteries crafted through wit and a delightfully unique attitude that brings entirely new entertainment to the magic of the mind, eyes, and hands.

Where: The VORTEX, 2307 Manor Rd #2135, Austin, TX 78722
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $15

Sip + Solder Mushrooms: Contracommon’s Stained Glass Workshop at Austin Beerworks

Design and assemble your very own stained glass mushroom suncatcher or garden stake during a comprehensive four-hour, beginner-friendly crafting class at Austin Beerworks.

You will learn the basics of lead-came construction and soldering techniques while choosing from an assortment of pre-cut glass pieces in vibrant colors and textures.

Grab a seat, enjoy a completely hands-on experience, and create your own piece of art!

Where: Austin Beerworks Sprinkle Valley, 10300 Springdale Road Austin, TX 78754
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
How Much: $80 each, $140 for two

Music Mixer ATX

Connect with local musicians, artists, and creators during an energetic evening of live performances and creative networking rooted in a tradition that started back in 2022.

You can discover new bandmates, enjoy short sets from talented performers, and immerse yourself in Austin’s thriving live music scene.

Where: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – South Lamar, 1120 South Lamar, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: Not stated

Looking for more local fun? Check out our master guide to Things to do in Austin this weekend!