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The best things to do in Austin this weekend, Mar 13 – Mar 15, include Rodeo Austin, Peelander Fest, Sips and Sounds Music 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 – Mar 13 – Mar 15: Austin will see a warm weekend with high temperatures reaching the low 80s and 70s. You can expect scattered clouds on Friday, followed by a chance of isolated thunderstorms on Saturday before clearing up for a sunny Sunday.
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Check out our recent updates to Spring Break 2026 in Austin guide and Spring Break Camps in Austin guide.
Free Things to Do in Austin this Weekend
Peelander Fest
Make your way to Peelander Fest 2026 for an energetic day of music and creativity. This all-ages celebration features a lineup of live performances starting at noon and culminating in a high-octane set by Peelander-Z.
You can also explore a variety of live art installations created by talented Texas artists throughout the event, making it a vibrant destination for fans of all styles.
Where: Zilker Brewing Company, 1701 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 12 pm
How Much: Free
Things to Do in Austin this Friday | Weekend Kickoff Events
Weather on Friday: Scattered clouds and warm with a high of 82°F, a low of 61°F, and a 0% chance of precipitation.
Rodeo Austin
Image credit: Rodeo Austin
Experience the ultimate family tradition at the Travis County Expo Center as Rodeo Austin returns with its signature blend of high-octane ProRodeo events and livestock shows.
You can explore the sprawling fairgrounds starting at 10 a.m. daily, where a world of carnival rides, games, and educational activities awaits. Make sure to swing by Kidztown to visit the petting zoo or browse the diverse shopping and food stalls that capture the true spirit of Texas.
Additionally, prepare for a stellar musical experience with a 2026 concert lineup featuring heavy hitters like the Eli Young Band, Midland, Clint Black, and Aaron Watson. You can also catch performances by 49 Winchester, Hudson Westbrook, and Flatland Cavalry, alongside many other celebrated artists throughout the two-week celebration.
Where: Travis County Exposition Center, 7311 Decker Ln, Austin, TX 78724
When: Friday, March 13 – 28, 2026
How Much: Starts at $5
Kick Open the Chutes
Step onto the hallowed arena floor for Kick Open the Chutes, an exclusive pre-opening celebration at Rodeo Austin.
Fulfill the dream of standing inside a rodeo clown’s barrel or walking the dirt where the pros compete, all before the official fifteen-day fair kicks off.
Your general admission ticket grants rare access to behind-the-scenes areas of the main arena, complete with live music performed right on the dirt.
You can also satisfy your cravings with a variety of local food truck favorites and visit the cash bars if you are over 21. Grab your friends and be among the first to experience the energy of the arena before the gates officially swing open.
Where: Rodeo Austin, 9100 Decker Lake Rd, Austin, TX 78724
When: Friday, March 13, 2026
How Much: $20 per car | $25 admission
Sips & Sounds Music Festival
Image credit: Sips & Sounds Music Festival
Head to Auditorium Shores for the 2026 return of Coca-Cola’s Sips & Sounds Music Festival.
Catch Christina Aguilera headlining a massive Friday night roster that includes Major Lazer Soundsystem, Ravyn Lenae, and Grouplove. The high-energy performances continue into Saturday with a lineup led by Calvin Harris and Foster the People, alongside rising stars like Stephen Sanchez and Flipturn.
Where: Auditorium Shores, 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, March 13 – 14, 2026
How Much: Starts at $55
St Patricks Day Weekend Festival
Head to Volente Beach for the Second Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival, where you can enjoy a full weekend of lakeside festivities at Lake Travis.
Don your best green attire and dive into the spirit of the holiday with themed food and drink specials, including plenty of green beer. For a pre-season special admission of $10, you can even access the waterpark, which will be open for guests as weather permits.
There will also be a high-energy Beer Olympics on Saturday at 2:00 PM. You can join the duck races later that evening at 6:00 PM or simply relax to the sounds of live music performing all weekend long.
Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Friday, March 13 – 14, 2026 | 12 pm – 7 pm
How Much: $10
Broadway in Austin presents The Great Gatsby
Step back into the high-stakes world of the Roaring Twenties as F. Scott Fitzgerald’s legendary novel explodes onto the stage in a whirlwind of love, wealth, and tragedy. Prepare to be swept away by an original jazz- and pop-influenced score that perfectly captures the era’s frantic energy and deep longing.
With electrifying choreography by Dominique Kelley and a compelling book by Kait Kerrigan, this production brings Gatsby’s extravagant parties to life with modern flair.
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, March 13 – 15, 2026
How Much: Not stated
SXSW Music Festival
Image credit: SXSW
Dive into one of the world’s most influential cultural takeovers as the SXSW Music Festival turns Austin into a sprawling stage for seven consecutive days and nights.
Prepare to discover thousands of acts, ranging from emerging international talent to legends like The All-American Rejects and Gogol Bordello, performing in iconic clubs, historic churches, and local parks across the city.
Running alongside the live performances, the SXSW Music and Media Conference offers you a chance to learn directly from visionaries like Michelle Obama and industry leaders through workshops and mentor sessions.
Where: Multiple locations around Austin
When: Friday, March 13 – 18, 2026
How Much: Varies
SXSW Film & TV Festival
Dive into the vanguard of storytelling at the SXSW Film & TV Festival, where high-profile premieres meet groundbreaking independent cinema.
Start your week with the opening night world premiere of Boots Riley’s I Love Boosters starring Keke Palmer, or head to the Paramount Theatre for the debut of Apple TV’s Margo’s Got Money Trouble with Elle Fanning and Nicole Kidman.
The lineup continues to push boundaries with must-see screenings like Jorma Taccone’s dark comedy Over Your Dead Body and the time-traveling heist Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice.
Beyond the screen, you are invited to a rare keynote conversation where legendary director Steven Spielberg discusses his upcoming project, Disclosure Day.
Where: Multiple locations around Austin
When: Friday, March 13 – 18, 2026
How Much: Varies
Austin Playhouse presents Carmela Full of Wishes
Step into a world where a simple sidewalk dandelion transforms a mundane afternoon of errands into a whirlwind of dreams and discovery.
Follow young Carmela on her birthday as she finally joins her older brother in the vibrant streets of her neighborhood, finding magic in the most unexpected places.
Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, March 13 – 15, 2026
How Much: Not stated
Pioneer Farms presents Friday the 13th
Venture into the shadows of Pioneer Farms for an after-dark paranormal investigation this Friday the 13th. You can participate in a two-and-a-half-hour session designed to harness the potent energy of a date often associated with transformation and heightened intuition.
Rather than viewing the day through the lens of superstition, this event invites you to explore the deeper, more sacred meanings historically tied to the number thirteen.
Where: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: Friday, March 13, 2026 | 7 pm
How Much: $45
Hyde Park Theatre presents Witch
Watch a darkly clever performance of Witch, a sharp and modern take on a classic village legend, and see the mystery unfold as a charming, affable Devil arrives to tempt the locals, only to find that the outcast Elizabeth is the only one who might be truly beyond his reach.
Where: Hyde Park Theatre, 511 W 43rd St, Austin, TX 78751
When: Friday, March 13 – 21, 2026
How Much: Starts at $25
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Top Picks Saturday
Weather on Saturday: Cloudy with isolated thunderstorms, a high of 70°F, a low of 56°F, and a 50% chance of precipitation.
Trains at the Bullock
Image credit: Bullock Texas State History Museum
Venture to the third floor of the Bullock Museum to explore a sprawling Texas-sized model train display in the Austin Room. You can watch as miniature locomotives from the Austin Model Railway Society and Tinplate Trackers of Austin chug along intricate rails, complete with the sounds of blowing whistles and grinding axles.
These expertly crafted scenes feature everything from bustling cities and quiet rural landscapes to a detailed miniature carnival, offering a fascinating look at the art of model railroading.
You can also take the opportunity to talk with passionate enthusiasts and channel your inner engineer as you admire the precision of each tiny town.
Where: Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, March 14 – 16, 2026
How Much: Included in museum admission
Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Step into a world of intrigue at The Dinner Detective, where you can unravel a complex crime while enjoying a full multi-course meal. A cunning culprit is hidden among the diners, meaning you might find yourself under investigation as a prime suspect at any moment.
Your ticket covers the entire evening of murder mystery entertainment and the full dinner service, with waitstaff gratuity already included for your convenience.
Where: Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown – University by IHG, 810 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 6 pm
How Much: Starts at $69.99
Story Starts: Improv for kids and their adults
Step into a world where the script hasn’t been written yet and your wildest suggestions take center stage at ColdTowne’s “Story Starts.” Here, kids and adults alike become the architects of the story.
Watch as a stellar adult cast from Excused Absence Comedy transforms your ideas into a high-energy, one-of-a-kind theatrical experience where the plot could veer in a million hilarious directions.
Where: ColdTowne Theater, 1700 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, March 14 – 28, 2026 (Every Saturday)
How Much: $6
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 a litter of pigs, 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.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, March 14 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $31
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend | Sunday Funday
Weather on Sunday: Sunny and pleasant with a high of 72°F, a low of 51°F, and a 5% chance of precipitation.
Time to Paddy 5k/10k & Lucky 13.1
Image credit: runsignup
Embrace the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day by hitting the pavement for the annual Time to Paddy 5k/10k and Lucky 13.1 Half Marathon.
Cross the finish line to claim exclusive swag, including a designer shirt and a custom medal, while enjoying the precision of chip-timing and live results. Younger runners can join the action in the kids’ dash, an untimed event for ages 10 and under that provides each participant with a mini bib, a youth-sized shirt, and a specially crafted medal.
For those looking for a shorter distance, the 1-mile option offers a relaxed pace without missing out on the designer shirt and finisher medal.
Beyond the race itself, you can dive into the festivities with free photos, a “biggest team” contest, and a spread of post-race food to refuel your energy.
Where: Pfennig Park, 1201 W Pfennig Ln, Pflugerville, TX 78660
When: Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 8 am
How Much: Starts at $17
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.
Where: Barton Creek Square, 2901 S Capital of Texas Hwy, Austin, TX 78746
When: Sunday, March 15 – April 26, 2026
How Much: Not stated
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend with Kids – Family Friendly Events
Rodeo Austin
Experience the ultimate family tradition at the Travis County Expo Center as Rodeo Austin returns with its signature blend of high-octane ProRodeo events and livestock shows.
You can explore the sprawling fairgrounds starting at 10 a.m. daily, where a world of carnival rides, games, and educational activities awaits. Make sure to swing by Kidztown to visit the petting zoo or browse the diverse shopping and food stalls that capture the true spirit of Texas.
Additionally, prepare for a stellar musical experience with a 2026 concert lineup featuring heavy hitters like the Eli Young Band, Midland, Clint Black, and Aaron Watson. You can also catch performances by 49 Winchester, Hudson Westbrook, and Flatland Cavalry, alongside many other celebrated artists throughout the two-week celebration.
Where: Travis County Exposition Center, 7311 Decker Ln, Austin, TX 78724
When: Friday, March 13 – 28, 2026
How Much: Starts at $5
St Patricks Day Weekend Festival
Head to Volente Beach for the Second Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival, where you can enjoy a full weekend of lakeside festivities at Lake Travis.
Don your best green attire and dive into the spirit of the holiday with themed food and drink specials, including plenty of green beer. For a pre-season special admission of $10, you can even access the waterpark, which will be open for guests as weather permits.
There will also be a high-energy Beer Olympics on Saturday at 2:00 PM. You can join the duck races later that evening at 6:00 PM or simply relax to the sounds of live music performing all weekend long.
Where: Volente Beach Waterpark, 16107 Farm to Market Rd 2769 Suite D, Leander, TX 78641
When: Friday, March 13 – 14, 2026 | 12 pm – 7 pm
How Much: $10
Austin Playhouse presents Carmela Full of Wishes
Step into a world where a simple sidewalk dandelion transforms a mundane afternoon of errands into a whirlwind of dreams and discovery.
Follow young Carmela on her birthday as she finally joins her older brother in the vibrant streets of her neighborhood, finding magic in the most unexpected places.
Where: Austin Playhouse, 405 W 22nd St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Friday, March 13 – 15, 2026
How Much: Not stated
Trains at the Bullock
Venture to the third floor of the Bullock Museum to explore a sprawling Texas-sized model train display in the Austin Room. You can watch as miniature locomotives from the Austin Model Railway Society and Tinplate Trackers of Austin chug along intricate rails, complete with the sounds of blowing whistles and grinding axles.
These expertly crafted scenes feature everything from bustling cities and quiet rural landscapes to a detailed miniature carnival, offering a fascinating look at the art of model railroading.
You can also take the opportunity to talk with passionate enthusiasts and channel your inner engineer as you admire the precision of each tiny town.
Where: Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, March 14 – 16, 2026
How Much: Included in museum admission
Story Starts: Improv for kids and their adults
Step into a world where the script hasn’t been written yet and your wildest suggestions take center stage at ColdTowne’s “Story Starts.” Here, kids and adults alike become the architects of the story.
Watch as a stellar adult cast from Excused Absence Comedy transforms your ideas into a high-energy, one-of-a-kind theatrical experience where the plot could veer in a million hilarious directions.
Where: ColdTowne Theater, 1700 E 2nd St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Saturday, March 14 – 28, 2026 (Every Saturday)
How Much: $6
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.
Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Saturday, March 14 – 17, 2026
How Much: Starts at $31
Peelander Fest
Make your way to Peelander Fest 2026 for an energetic day of music and creativity. This all-ages celebration features a lineup of live performances starting at noon and culminating in a high-octane set by Peelander-Z.
You can also explore a variety of live art installations created by talented Texas artists throughout the event, making it a vibrant destination for fans of all styles.
Where: Zilker Brewing Company, 1701 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
When: Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 12 pm
How Much: Free
Time to Paddy 5k/10k & Lucky 13.1
Embrace the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day by hitting the pavement for the annual Time to Paddy 5k/10k and Lucky 13.1 Half Marathon.
Cross the finish line to claim exclusive swag, including a designer shirt and a custom medal, while enjoying the precision of chip-timing and live results. Younger runners can join the action in the kids’ dash, an untimed event for ages 10 and under that provides each participant with a mini bib, a youth-sized shirt, and a specially crafted medal.
For those looking for a shorter distance, the 1-mile option offers a relaxed pace without missing out on the designer shirt and finisher medal.
Beyond the race itself, you can dive into the festivities with free photos, a “biggest team” contest, and a spread of post-race food to refuel your energy.
Where: Pfennig Park, 1201 W Pfennig Ln, Pflugerville, TX 78660
When: Sunday, March 15, 2026 | 8 am
How Much: Starts at $17
Things to Do in Austin this Weekend for Adults
Kick Open the Chutes
Step onto the hallowed arena floor for Kick Open the Chutes, an exclusive pre-opening celebration at Rodeo Austin.
Fulfill the dream of standing inside a rodeo clown’s barrel or walking the dirt where the pros compete, all before the official fifteen-day fair kicks off.
Your general admission ticket grants rare access to behind-the-scenes areas of the main arena, complete with live music performed right on the dirt.
You can also satisfy your cravings with a variety of local food truck favorites and visit the cash bars if you are over 21. Grab your friends and be among the first to experience the energy of the arena before the gates officially swing open.
Where: Rodeo Austin, 9100 Decker Lake Rd, Austin, TX 78724
When: Friday, March 13, 2026
How Much: $20 per car | $25 admission
Sips & Sounds Music Festival
Head to Auditorium Shores for the 2026 return of Coca-Cola’s Sips & Sounds Music Festival.
Catch Christina Aguilera headlining a massive Friday night roster that includes Major Lazer Soundsystem, Ravyn Lenae, and Grouplove. The high-energy performances continue into Saturday with a lineup led by Calvin Harris and Foster the People, alongside rising stars like Stephen Sanchez and Flipturn.
Where: Auditorium Shores, 900 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704
When: Friday, March 13 – 14, 2026
How Much: Starts at $55
Broadway in Austin presents The Great Gatsby
Step back into the high-stakes world of the Roaring Twenties as F. Scott Fitzgerald’s legendary novel explodes onto the stage in a whirlwind of love, wealth, and tragedy. Prepare to be swept away by an original jazz- and pop-influenced score that perfectly captures the era’s frantic energy and deep longing.
With electrifying choreography by Dominique Kelley and a compelling book by Kait Kerrigan, this production brings Gatsby’s extravagant parties to life with modern flair.
Where: Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Friday, March 13 – 15, 2026
How Much: Not stated
SXSW Music Festival
Dive into one of the world’s most influential cultural takeovers as the SXSW Music Festival turns Austin into a sprawling stage for seven consecutive days and nights.
Prepare to discover thousands of acts, ranging from emerging international talent to legends like The All-American Rejects and Gogol Bordello, performing in iconic clubs, historic churches, and local parks across the city.
Running alongside the live performances, the SXSW Music and Media Conference offers you a chance to learn directly from visionaries like Michelle Obama and industry leaders through workshops and mentor sessions.
Where: Multiple locations around Austin
When: Friday, March 13 – 18, 2026
How Much: Varies
SXSW Film & TV Festival
Dive into the vanguard of storytelling at the SXSW Film & TV Festival, where high-profile premieres meet groundbreaking independent cinema.
Start your week with the opening night world premiere of Boots Riley’s I Love Boosters starring Keke Palmer, or head to the Paramount Theatre for the debut of Apple TV’s Margo’s Got Money Trouble with Elle Fanning and Nicole Kidman.
The lineup continues to push boundaries with must-see screenings like Jorma Taccone’s dark comedy Over Your Dead Body and the time-traveling heist Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice.
Beyond the screen, you are invited to a rare keynote conversation where legendary director Steven Spielberg discusses his upcoming project, Disclosure Day.
Where: Multiple locations around Austin
When: Friday, March 13 – 18, 2026
How Much: Varies
Pioneer Farms presents Friday the 13th
Venture into the shadows of Pioneer Farms for an after-dark paranormal investigation this Friday the 13th. You can participate in a two-and-a-half-hour session designed to harness the potent energy of a date often associated with transformation and heightened intuition.
Rather than viewing the day through the lens of superstition, this event invites you to explore the deeper, more sacred meanings historically tied to the number thirteen.
Where: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX 78754
When: Friday, March 13, 2026 | 7 pm
How Much: $45
Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Step into a world of intrigue at The Dinner Detective, where you can unravel a complex crime while enjoying a full multi-course meal. A cunning culprit is hidden among the diners, meaning you might find yourself under investigation as a prime suspect at any moment.
Your ticket covers the entire evening of murder mystery entertainment and the full dinner service, with waitstaff gratuity already included for your convenience.
Where: Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown – University by IHG, 810 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, March 14, 2026 | 6 pm
How Much: Starts at $69.99
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 | Mar 13 – Mar 15 - March 9, 2026
- Austin Highlights: Mar. 9 to 12 – Food, Music, Arts & More - March 8, 2026
- The 10 Best Pizza in Austin: Where to Find the Perfect Slice - March 8, 2026
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