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The best things to do in Austin this weekend, May 8 – May 10, include Touch the Art Experience, Pecan Street 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!
Weather this Weekend – May 8 – May 10: Austin will transition from a soggy and cooler Friday to a much warmer and mostly sunny Mother’s Day weekend as high pressure builds over Central Texas.
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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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
Much Ado About Nothing — Austin Shakespeare
Catch Shakespeare’s most beloved comedy under the Austin night sky at Zilker Hillside Theatre.
Austin Shakespeare will transport Much Ado About Nothing to 1950s Italy, drawing on the cinematic world of Fellini with sun-drenched piazzas, effortless style, and lively music woven throughout.
Watch as sharp-tongued Beatrice and sworn bachelor Benedick spar their way through love denial while the romance around them lurches toward chaos. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for a night of wit and warmth.
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, May 8 – 24, 2026
How Much: Free (donations welcome)
Blue Genie Art Bazaar’s Annual May Market Returns to Austin
Explore a vibrant local shopping experience at the sixth annual May Market by Blue Genie Art Bazaar. Held every weekend in May, this free, family-friendly event brings together nearly 200 regional artists and artisans under one roof.
Browse handcrafted gifts perfect for any occasion, and enjoy hands-on fun with DIY card printing every Saturday.
Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, May 8 – 31, 2026 | 10 am – 8 pm (Fridays – Sundays only)
How Much: Free
Henry Pun-Off World Championships
It’s the most groan-worthy event of the year and we mean that as the highest compliment.
The 49th Annual O. Henry Pun-Off World Championships returns to Brush Square Park for a full day of competitive wordplay, live music, and a silent auction.
Watch 32 contestants battle it out in the Punniest of Show competition before the PunSlingers take the stage for spontaneous five-second pun battles that escalate to an absolutely absurd degree. It’s free, it’s outside, and you’ll leave quoting it for weeks.
Where: Brush Square Park (beside O. Henry Museum), 409 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | Live music begins at 10 am
How Much: Free
Pecan Street Festival
Image credit: Pecan Street Festival
One of Austin’s longest-running and most beloved free festivals is back for spring. Pecan Street Festival is taking over Hill Country Galleria with 200 visual artists, 30 food vendors, live music, carnival rides, and art workshops for kids.
Wander, eat, listen, shop! There’s no agenda here except to have a good time.
Where: Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 11 am – 9 pm | Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 11 am – 8 pm
How Much: Free
Art-O-Rama 2026
The Dougherty Arts Center is turning the street art world into a party you can walk right into.
Art-O-Rama 2026 celebrates the vibrant and inclusive spirit of murals, graffiti, buskers, and public art with a free afternoon full of hands-on creativity.
Contribute to a large-scale community mural, catch a live graffiti demo, screen-print your own tote bag, create a mini mosaic or custom stickers, and get wowed by roaming street magicians and typewriter poets. Donuts and lemonade seal the deal.
Where: Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
How Much: Free
Second Saturday: Art Walk with Mom & Mimosas
Give Mom something better than flowers this year. Art For The People Gallery invites you to kick off Second Saturday with a complimentary “Momosa” before wandering through 100+ artist studios in the area to find a piece of art that actually means something.
It’s a laid-back, creative way to spend a morning with Mom, exploring local makers, discovering one-of-a-kind art, and making a memory that lasts longer than a bouquet.
Where: Art For The People Gallery, 2801 S I-35 Frontage Rd #130, Austin, TX 78741
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
How Much: Free
Family Art Fun by MINDPOP
Get hands-on with your kids at this interactive art-making event from MINDPOP, where teaching artists guide families through imaginative projects designed for all ages.
Explore, play, and create together in an environment built for curiosity and creativity.
Where: 1165 Angelina St Austin
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
How Much: Free
Morning Glories: Earth Day at Waterloo Park
Bring the kids to this free family morning at Waterloo Park, where Waterloo Greenway’s childhood education series comes to life with hands-on games, crafts, and activities all centered on conservation and nature appreciation.
The featured book is Earth Day, Every Day by Lisa Bullard, and Families in Nature joins to lead park tours. Free snacks for children, plus Hometown Coffee on-site with pastries and drinks for the grownups.
Where: Meredith Heritage Tree Deck, Waterloo Park, 1011 E 3rd St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
How Much: Free
Movies in the Park: Mother’s Day Edition
Grab your blanket and settle in on the Moody Amphitheater lawn for a free outdoor screening of Steel Magnolias, the most heartfelt, funny, and perfectly chosen film for Mother’s Day. Before the movie starts, spend the first two hours wandering the park and soaking in the evening.
It’s a magical night for the moms in your life, and it’s completely free.
Where: Waterloo Park, 500 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
How Much: Free
Refugee Mother’s Day Arts & Food Bazaar
The North Austin YMCA transforms into an international bazaar for one morning, showcasing the handmade work of refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Cuba, and other communities who have recently settled in Austin.
Browse jewelry, handbags, leather goods, paintings, candles, and fresh-baked pastries and traditional foods.
Every dollar of proceeds goes directly to the vendors. This is free, family-friendly, and a genuinely meaningful way to show up for Austin’s newest neighbors.
Where: North Austin YMCA, 1000 W Rundberg Ln, Austin, TX 78758
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
How Much: Free
UMLAUF Family Day: Take Flight!
Inspired by the winged sculptures throughout UMLAUF’s sculpture garden, from Spirit of Flight to Icarus and Rooster, this free all-ages Family Day invites you to wander the grounds, discover sculptures, and let your creativity take off.
Join storytime at noon, 1, and 2 pm, build your own kinetic butterfly toy with Rosebud Workshops, grab something from The Enchanted Waffle food truck, and hunt for sculptures with your family all afternoon.
Where: Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum, 605 Azie Morton Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
How Much: Free
Things to Do in Austin this Friday | Weekend Kickoff Events
Weather on Friday: Mostly cloudy with scattered showers and thunderstorms likely, a high of 77°F, a low of 60°F, and a 60% chance of precipitation.
Austin Psych Fest 2026
Image credit: LEVITATION
Psych rock, shoegaze, cumbia, and experimental sounds is taking over South Austin’s most beloved outdoor backyard this May. Austin Psych Fest brings two stages of indie icons and tripped-out sounds to The Far Out Lounge for a three-day run under the oak trees and open sky.
The trees, the stage, and the venue will get drenched in liquid light and video art from visual artists near and far. Whether you’re going all three days or picking just one, this is the kind of festival that turns strangers into lifelong music companions.
Where: The Far Out Lounge & Stage, 8504 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
When: Friday–Sunday, May 8–10, 2026 | Fri & Sat: 2:30 pm – 12 am | Sun: 2:30 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Single Day GA $79.50 + tax | 3-Day GA $225 + tax | Deluxe and Super Deluxe passes available
Gimme Gimme Disco
Dust off your sequins because the disco ball is back. Gimme Gimme Disco is brining its ABBA-inspired dance party to the velvet-curtained cabaret of 29th Street Ballroom, and you will not be sitting down.
Expect a night of iconic hits from “Dancing Queen” to Donna Summer and the Bee Gees in a room full of people who came dressed to dance. Whether you’re a disco devotee or a first-timer, this is your invitation to shake off the week and move.
Where: 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, May 8, 2026 | 10:15 pm
How Much: $26 in advance
Angels, Time, and Other Things with Wings at The Vortex
Violet Crown Players and DSYDT will close out their season with this moving exploration of humans’ connection to time and other intangibles.
Choreographed by Toni Bravo, three-time Austin Chronicle Best Choreographer, this youth performance company delivers a true artistic experience built from months of research, collaboration, and creative discovery in Berlin and beyond.
Don’t expect sequins or high kicks. Expect something real.
Where: The VORTEX, 2307 Manor Rd #2135, Austin, TX 78722
When: Friday–Sunday, May 8 – 10, 2026
How Much: Not stated
The Jigglewatts Burlesque: Surreal Masquerade
The Jigglewatts Burlesque Revue invites you to surrender to the exquisite unknown at a one-night-only masquerade ball reimagined as a living work of art.
Sensual, sculptural, and thrillingly untamed, this is where aristocrats and apparitions mingle and dazzling creatures drift through the shadows.
Guests 21+ are summoned to dress the part: metallics, dramatic silhouettes, celestial flourishes, or whatever your otherworldly alter ego desires. At Surreal Masquerade, you’re not just watching, you’re part of the fantasy.
Where: 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, May 8, 2026 | Doors 6:00 pm | Show 7:00 pm
How Much: Starts at $19.32
Ali Siddiq at ACL Live
Houston comedian Ali Siddiq brings his signature brand of long-form storytelling comedy to ACL Live at The Moody Theater for two shows on Friday night.
Known as stand-up comedy’s most prolific storyteller, with over 40 million combined YouTube views, Siddiq’s performances are as much captivating narrative as they are laugh-out-loud funny.
Where: Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live), 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, May 8, 2026 | 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm
How Much: Starting at $67+
Bridgerdown at the Butterfly Bar
Image credit: La Fenice Theatre Company
La Fenice’s irreverent Commedia dell’arte spin on Bridgerton is playing its final weekend at the Butterfly Bar. This original script by the cast pairs mask work, physical comedy, and sharp satire for a night of theatrical chaos that’s wildly fun and genuinely skilled.
Touch tours are available upon request, and pre-reserved tickets get priority seating.
Where: The Butterfly Bar, 2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
When: Fridays & Saturdays at 10 pm
How Much: Starting at $30
Ballet Austin: The Magic Flute
Image credit: Ballet Austin
Ballet Austin closes out its 63rd season with a whimsical adventure fit for all ages.
Stephen Mills’ playful choreography meets the luminous artistry of Cambodian shadow puppetry in this dazzling adaptation of Mozart’s beloved opera.
Follow Prince Tamino and Princess Pamina through enchanted trials, fantastical creatures, and the scheming Queen of the Night all set to a stunning reimagined score with live accompaniment by the Austin Symphony Orchestra.
Arrive early for pre-show activities, selfie stations, and a peek behind the scenes.
Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday – Sunday, May 8 – 10, 2026
How Much: Starts at $25
Touch the Art Experience
Image credit: almostrealthings
This is the one art show where touching everything is not just allowed, it’s the whole point.
Almost Real Things’ 4th annual Touch the Art Experience transforms the gallery into a fully immersive, all-senses installation featuring work from 83 artists, including collaborating students from the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
The Grand Opening on Friday kicks things off with live music, themed drinks, and interactive sound sculptures. Come back any day of the run to explore tactile installations, discover artwork for sale, and experience what it feels like when art truly includes everyone.
Where: ART Gallery at Canopy, 916 Springdale Rd, Bldg 2 #101, Austin, TX 78702
When: Grand Opening Friday, May 8
How Much: Starts at $20
ATX Fashion Week
Austin’s premier fashion event is back at The Domain for three days of runway shows, pop-up shops, and style.
ATX Fashion Week features 5–7 major runway shows with 12–15 designers each, bringing some of the most exciting independent and emerging fashion brands to the stage.
Whether you come for one show or make it a multi-day affair, this is the place to see Austin’s creative fashion scene in full force.
Where: The Domain, 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Austin, TX 78758
When: Friday, May 8 – 9, 2026
How Much: Pricing varies by show
The Odd Couple
Catch the classic comedy The Odd Couple, where mismatched roommates Oscar and Felix navigate life after failed marriages. As their clashing habits collide, the pair must figure out whether their differences can coexist.
This Tony Award-winning play by Neil Simon delivers both sharp humor and heartfelt moments, making it as engaging as it is funny.
Where: Genesis Creative Collective, 1507 Wilshire Blvd Unit #1, Austin, TX 78722
When: Friday, May 8 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $20
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder
Step into a wickedly funny musical where charm meets ambition and a growing body count. When a penniless young man discovers he’s ninth in line for the D’Ysquith family fortune, he sets his sights on moving up the ladder by removing the eight heirs ahead of him.
What follows is a fast-paced, witty ride filled with clever twists, a dazzling score, and a deliciously dark pursuit of love, legacy, and luxury.
Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, May 8 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $23
Dear Evan Hansen
Step into the emotional world of Dear Evan Hansen, the six-time Tony Award–winning musical that explores the complexities of connection in the digital age.
Follow high schooler Evan as a small lie unexpectedly spreads online, launching him into viral fame and forcing him to face difficult choices about truth, identity, and belonging.
This deeply personal and contemporary story captures the pressures of modern life while delivering a powerful message about loneliness, empathy, and the desire to be understood.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, May 8 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $28
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Top Picks Saturday
Weather on Saturday: Partly cloudy and warmer with lingering humidity, a high of 82°F, a low of 65°F, and a 20% chance of precipitation.
Campfire at ZACH North
Gather ’round the indoor campfire for a brand-new interactive show designed for the tiniest theatergoers: ages zero to five and their caregivers.
Campfire at ZACH North combines original songs, live music, and dance in a cozy, playful experience that invites little ones to move, sing along, and soak it all in.
Where: ZACH North, 14010 US-183 Suite 540, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 4:00 pm
How Much: $13
Motherhood in Full Bloom
Slow down and celebrate the mothers in your life at this intimate, intentional outdoor gathering at Pease District Park.
With only 25 family spots available, this experience is designed to feel unhurried. Think hands-on family crafting, a meaningful Mother’s Day gift, and real connections with other Austin families in a beautiful park setting.
Dress in florals or spring pastels and come ready to create, connect, and celebrate.
Where: Pease District Park, 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX 78703
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
How Much: $25 per family
Fae Fest
Step through the portal into a full-day enchanted market where faeries, goblins, witches, and wanderers are all welcome.
Fae Fest is a first-of-its-kind immersive marketplace featuring two stages of live music, storytelling, dance performances, ritual theater, and costume showcases, plus 45+ artisan vendors with handmade jewelry, botanical creations, fantasy art, herbal goods, and magical tools.
Come in costume, come curious, or just come hungry. The food, the vibes, and the people-watching are all a spectacle.
Where: 7107 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
How Much: $15
She Sings: Still I Rise – Chorus Austin
Chorus Austin’s Women’s Chorus performs an uplifting 90-minute concert featuring powerful choral works including Rise Up by Jake Runestad and Be Like the Bird by Abbie Betinis.
Led by Artistic Director Ryan Heller, this is the kind of performance that fills a room and a chest at the same time.
Where: KMFA: Draylen Mason Music Studio, 41 Navasota St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 4:00 pm
How Much: Not stated
The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Think you’ve got what it takes to solve a murder over dinner? North America’s largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner show puts a criminal in plain sight, somewhere in the room, and makes you the detective.
The script is “Game Over,” the dinner is included, and no two shows are ever quite the same. Expect sharp improv, wild twists, and a very good chance you’ll end up as a prime suspect.
Where: Hotel Indigo, 810 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
How Much: Starting at $69.99 + taxes and fees
Ice Age in the Wild at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The Wildflower Center is about to get prehistoric. Starting May 9, 15 life-size gigantic Ice Age mammals, including a 17,500-pound woolly mammoth , will take up residence throughout the gardens for a summer-long run.
Come face-to-face with a saber-toothed cat, a dire wolf, a woolly rhinoceros, and more as you wander the native plant gardens. New weekly Quest of the Week challenges keep every visit fresh, and general admission gets you in.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Opens Saturday, May 9, 2026 | runs through August 15
How Much: Included with general admission; free for members
National Mini Golf Day at Monster Mini Golf
National Mini Golf Day falls on the second Saturday in May, and Monster Mini Golf in Round Rock is celebrating with youth pricing for all guests all day long.
That means glow-in-the-dark, monster-themed mini golf, arcade games, and all the fun, for less.
Bring the whole family for a round (or three) in this interactive, spooky-fun indoor venue. No reservation needed.
Where: Monster Mini Golf, Round Rock, 3916 Gattis School Rd, Round Rock, TX 78664
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026
How Much: Youth pricing for all guests (varies)
Austin Sol Pro Ultimate Game
Catch the Austin Sol in action as they compete for the 2026 UFA Championship at Parmer Field. This fast-paced ultimate frisbee matchup delivers nonstop energy, backed by a live DJ, a full bar, and a wide selection of food delivered right to your seat.
Where: Parmer Field, 13000 Harris Ridge Blvd, Austin, TX 78753
When: Saturday, May 9 – July 18, 2026
How Much: $15 for adults | $10 for youth
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Sunday Funday
Weather on Sunday: Mostly sunny and very warm for Mother’s Day with a high of 88°F, a low of 66°F, and a 5% chance of precipitation.
Cannon+Belle: Mother’s Day Brunch
Treat Mom to a three-course prix fixe brunch at Cannon+Belle, the vibrant Texas-fresh restaurant inside the Hilton Austin downtown.
Think spring pea and burrata toast, crab and asparagus benedict, and strawberry-rose Pavlova, plus a complimentary carafe of mimosas at the table.
The menu is thoughtfully crafted for the occasion, and the restaurant’s open-view kitchen and lively indoor biergarten make for a setting as special as the meal.
Where: Cannon+Belle, 500 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, May 10, 2026
How Much: $26 – $72
Junie B. Jones: The Musical
Join Junie B. Jones for a lively musical adventure based on four of Barbara Park’s beloved books.
It’s her first day of first grade, and everything feels different as friendships shift, new classmates appear, and school challenges begin.
Follow Junie through a whirlwind of classroom moments, kickball tournaments, and secret journal entries while she navigates growing up with humor, curiosity, and plenty of excitement.
Where: Austin Scottish Theater, 207 W 18th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, May 10, 2026
How Much: $17 for kids 3 and above | $22 for seniors | $24 for adults
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend with Kids – Family Friendly Events
Touch the Art Experience
This is the one art show where touching everything is not just allowed, it’s the whole point.
Almost Real Things’ 4th annual Touch the Art Experience transforms the gallery into a fully immersive, all-senses installation featuring work from 83 artists, including collaborating students from the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
The Grand Opening on Friday kicks things off with live music, themed drinks, and interactive sound sculptures. Come back any day of the run to explore tactile installations, discover artwork for sale, and experience what it feels like when art truly includes everyone.
Where: ART Gallery at Canopy, 916 Springdale Rd, Bldg 2 #101, Austin, TX 78702
When: Grand Opening Friday, May 8
How Much: Starts at $20
Dear Evan Hansen
Step into the emotional world of Dear Evan Hansen, the six-time Tony Award–winning musical that explores the complexities of connection in the digital age.
Follow high schooler Evan as a small lie unexpectedly spreads online, launching him into viral fame and forcing him to face difficult choices about truth, identity, and belonging.
This deeply personal and contemporary story captures the pressures of modern life while delivering a powerful message about loneliness, empathy, and the desire to be understood.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, May 8 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $28
Campfire at ZACH North
Gather ’round the indoor campfire for a brand-new interactive show designed for the tiniest theatergoers: ages zero to five and their caregivers.
Campfire at ZACH North combines original songs, live music, and dance in a cozy, playful experience that invites little ones to move, sing along, and soak it all in.
Where: ZACH North, 14010 US-183 Suite 540, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 4:00 pm
How Much: $13
Motherhood in Full Bloom
Slow down and celebrate the mothers in your life at this intimate, intentional outdoor gathering at Pease District Park.
With only 25 family spots available, this experience is designed to feel unhurried. Think hands-on family crafting, a meaningful Mother’s Day gift, and real connections with other Austin families in a beautiful park setting.
Dress in florals or spring pastels and come ready to create, connect, and celebrate.
Where: Pease District Park, 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin, TX 78703
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
How Much: $25 per family
Pecan Street Festival
One of Austin’s longest-running and most beloved free festivals is back for spring. Pecan Street Festival is taking over Hill Country Galleria with 200 visual artists, 30 food vendors, live music, carnival rides, and art workshops for kids.
Wander, eat, listen, shop! There’s no agenda here except to have a good time.
Where: Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave, TX 78738
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 11 am – 9 pm | Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 11 am – 8 pm
How Much: Free
Art-O-Rama 2026
The Dougherty Arts Center is turning the street art world into a party you can walk right into.
Art-O-Rama 2026 celebrates the vibrant and inclusive spirit of murals, graffiti, buskers, and public art with a free afternoon full of hands-on creativity.
Contribute to a large-scale community mural, catch a live graffiti demo, screen-print your own tote bag, create a mini mosaic or custom stickers, and get wowed by roaming street magicians and typewriter poets. Donuts and lemonade seal the deal.
Where: Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
How Much: Free
Morning Glories: Earth Day at Waterloo Park
Bring the kids to this free family morning at Waterloo Park, where Waterloo Greenway’s childhood education series comes to life with hands-on games, crafts, and activities all centered on conservation and nature appreciation.
The featured book is Earth Day, Every Day by Lisa Bullard, and Families in Nature joins to lead park tours. Free snacks for children, plus Hometown Coffee on-site with pastries and drinks for the grownups.
Where: Meredith Heritage Tree Deck, Waterloo Park, 1011 E 3rd St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
How Much: Free
Movies in the Park: Mother’s Day Edition
Grab your blanket and settle in on the Moody Amphitheater lawn for a free outdoor screening of Steel Magnolias, the most heartfelt, funny, and perfectly chosen film for Mother’s Day. Before the movie starts, spend the first two hours wandering the park and soaking in the evening.
It’s a magical night for the moms in your life, and it’s completely free.
Where: Waterloo Park, 500 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
How Much: Free
Refugee Mother’s Day Arts & Food Bazaar
The North Austin YMCA transforms into an international bazaar for one morning, showcasing the handmade work of refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Cuba, and other communities who have recently settled in Austin.
Browse jewelry, handbags, leather goods, paintings, candles, and fresh-baked pastries and traditional foods.
Every dollar of proceeds goes directly to the vendors. This is free, family-friendly, and a genuinely meaningful way to show up for Austin’s newest neighbors.
Where: North Austin YMCA, 1000 W Rundberg Ln, Austin, TX 78758
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
How Much: Free
Ice Age in the Wild at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The Wildflower Center is about to get prehistoric. Starting May 9, 15 life-size gigantic Ice Age mammals, including a 17,500-pound woolly mammoth , will take up residence throughout the gardens for a summer-long run.
Come face-to-face with a saber-toothed cat, a dire wolf, a woolly rhinoceros, and more as you wander the native plant gardens. New weekly Quest of the Week challenges keep every visit fresh, and general admission gets you in.
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Opens Saturday, May 9, 2026 | runs through August 15
How Much: Included with general admission; free for members
National Mini Golf Day at Monster Mini Golf
National Mini Golf Day falls on the second Saturday in May, and Monster Mini Golf in Round Rock is celebrating with youth pricing for all guests all day long.
That means glow-in-the-dark, monster-themed mini golf, arcade games, and all the fun, for less.
Bring the whole family for a round (or three) in this interactive, spooky-fun indoor venue. No reservation needed.
Where: Monster Mini Golf, Round Rock, 3916 Gattis School Rd, Round Rock, TX 78664
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026
How Much: Youth pricing for all guests (varies)
UMLAUF Family Day: Take Flight!
Inspired by the winged sculptures throughout UMLAUF’s sculpture garden, from Spirit of Flight to Icarus and Rooster, this free all-ages Family Day invites you to wander the grounds, discover sculptures, and let your creativity take off.
Join storytime at noon, 1, and 2 pm, build your own kinetic butterfly toy with Rosebud Workshops, grab something from The Enchanted Waffle food truck, and hunt for sculptures with your family all afternoon.
Where: Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Museum, 605 Azie Morton Rd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Sunday, May 10, 2026 | 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
How Much: Free
Junie B. Jones: The Musical
Join Junie B. Jones for a lively musical adventure based on four of Barbara Park’s beloved books.
It’s her first day of first grade, and everything feels different as friendships shift, new classmates appear, and school challenges begin.
Follow Junie through a whirlwind of classroom moments, kickball tournaments, and secret journal entries while she navigates growing up with humor, curiosity, and plenty of excitement.
Where: Austin Scottish Theater, 207 W 18th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, May 10, 2026
How Much: $17 for kids 3 and above | $22 for seniors | $24 for adults
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend for Adults
Austin Psych Fest 2026
Psych rock, shoegaze, cumbia, and experimental sounds is taking over South Austin’s most beloved outdoor backyard this May. Austin Psych Fest brings two stages of indie icons and tripped-out sounds to The Far Out Lounge for a three-day run under the oak trees and open sky.
The trees, the stage, and the venue will get drenched in liquid light and video art from visual artists near and far. Whether you’re going all three days or picking just one, this is the kind of festival that turns strangers into lifelong music companions.
Where: The Far Out Lounge & Stage, 8504 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
When: Friday–Sunday, May 8–10, 2026 | Fri & Sat: 2:30 pm – 12 am | Sun: 2:30 pm – 10 pm
How Much: Single Day GA $79.50 + tax | 3-Day GA $225 + tax | Deluxe and Super Deluxe passes available
Gimme Gimme Disco
Dust off your sequins because the disco ball is back. Gimme Gimme Disco is brining its ABBA-inspired dance party to the velvet-curtained cabaret of 29th Street Ballroom, and you will not be sitting down.
Expect a night of iconic hits from “Dancing Queen” to Donna Summer and the Bee Gees in a room full of people who came dressed to dance. Whether you’re a disco devotee or a first-timer, this is your invitation to shake off the week and move.
Where: 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, May 8, 2026 | 10:15 pm
How Much: $26 in advance
Angels, Time, and Other Things with Wings at The Vortex
Violet Crown Players and DSYDT will close out their season with this moving exploration of humans’ connection to time and other intangibles.
Choreographed by Toni Bravo, three-time Austin Chronicle Best Choreographer, this youth performance company delivers a true artistic experience built from months of research, collaboration, and creative discovery in Berlin and beyond.
Don’t expect sequins or high kicks. Expect something real.
Where: The VORTEX, 2307 Manor Rd #2135, Austin, TX 78722
When: Friday–Sunday, May 8 – 10, 2026
How Much: Not stated
The Jigglewatts Burlesque: Surreal Masquerade
The Jigglewatts Burlesque Revue invites you to surrender to the exquisite unknown at a one-night-only masquerade ball reimagined as a living work of art.
Sensual, sculptural, and thrillingly untamed, this is where aristocrats and apparitions mingle and dazzling creatures drift through the shadows.
Guests 21+ are summoned to dress the part: metallics, dramatic silhouettes, celestial flourishes, or whatever your otherworldly alter ego desires. At Surreal Masquerade, you’re not just watching, you’re part of the fantasy.
Where: 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, May 8, 2026 | Doors 6:00 pm | Show 7:00 pm
How Much: Starts at $19.32
Ali Siddiq at ACL Live
Houston comedian Ali Siddiq brings his signature brand of long-form storytelling comedy to ACL Live at The Moody Theater for two shows on Friday night.
Known as stand-up comedy’s most prolific storyteller, with over 40 million combined YouTube views, Siddiq’s performances are as much captivating narrative as they are laugh-out-loud funny.
Where: Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live), 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: Friday, May 8, 2026 | 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm
How Much: Starting at $67+
Bridgerdown at the Butterfly Bar
La Fenice’s irreverent Commedia dell’arte spin on Bridgerton is playing its final weekend at the Butterfly Bar. This original script by the cast pairs mask work, physical comedy, and sharp satire for a night of theatrical chaos that’s wildly fun and genuinely skilled.
Touch tours are available upon request, and pre-reserved tickets get priority seating.
Where: The Butterfly Bar, 2307 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
When: Fridays & Saturdays at 10 pm
How Much: Starting at $30
Ballet Austin: The Magic Flute
Ballet Austin closes out its 63rd season with a whimsical adventure fit for all ages.
Stephen Mills’ playful choreography meets the luminous artistry of Cambodian shadow puppetry in this dazzling adaptation of Mozart’s beloved opera.
Follow Prince Tamino and Princess Pamina through enchanted trials, fantastical creatures, and the scheming Queen of the Night, all set to a stunning reimagined score with live accompaniment by the Austin Symphony Orchestra.
Arrive early for pre-show activities, selfie stations, and a peek behind the scenes.
Where: The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday – Sunday, May 8 – 10, 2026
How Much: Starts at $25
ATX Fashion Week
Austin’s premier fashion event is back at The Domain for three days of runway shows, pop-up shops, and style.
ATX Fashion Week features 5–7 major runway shows with 12–15 designers each, bringing some of the most exciting independent and emerging fashion brands to the stage.
Whether you come for one show or make it a multi-day affair, this is the place to see Austin’s creative fashion scene in full force.
Where: The Domain, 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, Austin, TX 78758
When: Friday, May 8 – 9, 2026
How Much: Pricing varies by show
Much Ado About Nothing — Austin Shakespeare
Catch Shakespeare’s most beloved comedy under the Austin night sky at Zilker Hillside Theatre.
Austin Shakespeare will transport Much Ado About Nothing to 1950s Italy, drawing on the cinematic world of Fellini with sun-drenched piazzas, effortless style, and lively music woven throughout.
Watch as sharp-tongued Beatrice and sworn bachelor Benedick spar their way through love denial while the romance around them lurches toward chaos. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for a night of wit and warmth.
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746
When: Friday, May 8 – 24, 2026
How Much: Free (donations welcome)
Blue Genie Art Bazaar’s Annual May Market Returns to Austin
Explore a vibrant local shopping experience at the sixth annual May Market by Blue Genie Art Bazaar. Held every weekend in May, this free, family-friendly event brings together nearly 200 regional artists and artisans under one roof.
Browse handcrafted gifts perfect for any occasion and enjoy hands-on fun with DIY card printing every Saturday.
Where: Blue Genie Art Bazaar, 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752
When: Friday, May 8 – 31, 2026 | 10 am – 8 pm (Fridays – Sundays only)
How Much: Free
The Odd Couple
Catch the classic comedy The Odd Couple, where mismatched roommates Oscar and Felix navigate life after failed marriages. As their clashing habits collide, the pair must figure out whether their differences can coexist.
This Tony Award-winning play by Neil Simon delivers both sharp humor and heartfelt moments, making it as engaging as it is funny.
Where: Genesis Creative Collective, 1507 Wilshire Blvd Unit #1, Austin, TX 78722
When: Friday, May 8 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $20
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder
Step into a wickedly funny musical where charm meets ambition and a growing body count. When a penniless young man discovers he’s ninth in line for the D’Ysquith family fortune, he sets his sights on moving up the ladder by removing the eight heirs ahead of him.
What follows is a fast-paced, witty ride filled with clever twists, a dazzling score, and a deliciously dark pursuit of love, legacy, and luxury.
Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, May 8 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $23
Henry Pun-Off World Championships
It’s the most groan-worthy event of the year and we mean that as the highest compliment.
The 49th Annual O. Henry Pun-Off World Championships returns to Brush Square Park for a full day of competitive wordplay, live music, and a silent auction.
Watch 32 contestants battle it out in the Punniest of Show competition before the PunSlingers take the stage for spontaneous five-second pun battles that escalate to an absolutely absurd degree. It’s free, it’s outside, and you’ll leave quoting it for weeks.
Where: Brush Square Park (beside O. Henry Museum), 409 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | Live music begins at 10 am
How Much: Free
Family Art Fun by MINDPOP
Get hands-on with your kids at this interactive art-making event from MINDPOP, where teaching artists guide families through imaginative projects designed for all ages.
Explore, play, and create together in an environment built for curiosity and creativity.
Where: 1165 Angelina St Austin
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
How Much: Free
Fae Fest
Step through the portal into a full-day enchanted market where faeries, goblins, witches, and wanderers are all welcome.
Fae Fest is a first-of-its-kind immersive marketplace featuring two stages of live music, storytelling, dance performances, ritual theater, and costume showcases, plus 45+ artisan vendors with handmade jewelry, botanical creations, fantasy art, herbal goods, and magical tools.
Come in costume, come curious, or just come hungry. The food, the vibes, and the people-watching are all a spectacle.
Where: 7107 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
How Much: $15
She Sings: Still I Rise – Chorus Austin
Chorus Austin’s Women’s Chorus performs an uplifting 90-minute concert featuring powerful choral works including Rise Up by Jake Runestad and Be Like the Bird by Abbie Betinis.
Led by Artistic Director Ryan Heller, this is the kind of performance that fills a room and a chest at the same time.
Where: KMFA: Draylen Mason Music Studio, 41 Navasota St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 4:00 pm
How Much: Not stated
The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Think you’ve got what it takes to solve a murder over dinner? North America’s largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner show puts a criminal in plain sight, somewhere in the room, and makes you the detective.
The script is “Game Over,” the dinner is included, and no two shows are ever quite the same. Expect sharp improv, wild twists, and a very good chance you’ll end up as a prime suspect.
Where: Hotel Indigo, 810 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, May 9, 2026 | 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
How Much: Starting at $69.99 + taxes and fees
Austin Sol Pro Ultimate Game
Catch the Austin Sol in action as they compete for the 2026 UFA Championship at Parmer Field. This fast-paced ultimate frisbee matchup delivers nonstop energy, backed by a live DJ, a full bar, and a wide selection of food delivered right to your seat.
Where: Parmer Field, 13000 Harris Ridge Blvd, Austin, TX 78753
When: Saturday, May 9 – July 18, 2026
How Much: $15 for adults | $10 for youth
Cannon+Belle: Mother’s Day Brunch
Treat Mom to a three-course prix fixe brunch at Cannon+Belle, the vibrant Texas-fresh restaurant inside the Hilton Austin downtown.
Think spring pea and burrata toast, crab and asparagus benedict, and strawberry-rose Pavlova, plus a complimentary carafe of mimosas at the table.
The menu is thoughtfully crafted for the occasion, and the restaurant’s open-view kitchen and lively indoor biergarten make for a setting as special as the meal.
Where: Cannon+Belle, 500 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Sunday, May 10, 2026
How Much: $26 – $72
Looking for more local fun? Check out our master guide to Things to do in Austin this weekend!
- Things to do in Austin this Weekend | May 8 – May 10 - May 4, 2026
- Austin Highlights: May 4 to May 7 – Food, Music, Arts & More - May 3, 2026
- 10+ Best Tex Mex in Austin: Top Spots for Queso & Fajitas - May 2, 2026
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