Free summer concerts in Austin

Austin's Free Summer Concert Season is Here

There's nothing better than cool tunes to power through a hot summer night. We're built differently here in Austin — triple digits don't scare us away from a good time. Our summer concert season is rife with free music to make the most of these balmy nights. From the legendary Blues on the Green to weekly music with skyline views, get ready to beat the heat with some of the best bands in town.

Blues on the Green (dates TBA)

Blues on the Green brings the community together at Zilker Park's Great Lawn for evenings of live music. The family- and pet-friendly event encourages attendees to enjoy local artists in a chill outdoor setting. While the official dates for this year's series have yet to be announced, the highly anticipated annual tradition usually takes place during the summer months. Keep an eye on the 93.3 KGSR website for updates on the lineup and schedule.

Zilker Botanical Garden's Bands in Bloom

Zilker Botanical Garden's free Bands in Bloom concert series brings live music into Austin's beloved park in the heart of the city. The family-friendly series kicks off on May 30 with local singer-songwriter Elijah Delgado. The next show is alt-rock band KONGOS on June 6, followed by Americana singer Rob Baird on June 13. Shows start at 6 p.m. While there is no fee to attend Bands in Bloom, you must register before attending to secure your spot for the event. In true Zilker fashion, bring your own blankets, chairs, and a picnic to enjoy while listening to the music. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash, and complementary sips will be provided by Rambler.

Fridays in June: Bullock Museum's Music Under The Star

Have you seen the new Capitol Mall in front of the Bullock Museum yet? The construction was worth it. The stunning new design also came with the Capitol Mall Amphitheater, now set to host the free outdoor concert series, Music Under The Star, every Friday in June from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The series begins with Luke Bulla and the Sentimental Family Band on June 6, San Gabriel and Pedal Steel Noah on June 13, the Tiarras and Llamativa on June 20 and Ian Moore with Brodie Lane on June 27. Pack chairs and blankets for this family-friendly concert series. Food and drinks will be available for purchase on site.

Thursdays, through August 14: The Drop-In concert series

The Long Center's popular Drop-In concert series offers another fantastic option for free summer entertainment in Austin. The series begins on May 22 and runs every Thursday through August 14, providing live music and downtown views. Featuring a lineup of local artists like Quentin Arispe, Next of Kin, promqueen, and Superfónicos, it's a great way to unwind and enjoy live music on the lawn. Keep an eye on the Long Center's social media each Friday for the following week's artist reveal, and remember that RSVPs open on The Long Center's website every Monday.

Sundays, through June 29: Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park

Another free summer tradition in Austin is the Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park, presented by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. Already in progress, the concerts continue on Sunday evenings at the Hartman Concert Lawn at the Long Center (701 W. Riverside Drive). These small ensemble concerts bring a variety of music, from jazz and light classical, to pops and film scores. All ages are welcome to bring picnic blankets and dinner for an evening of music under the stars. Pets are also welcome. No tickets are required. The event runs through June 29. All weather-related cancellations are announced on the Symphony's website and social media accounts by 6 p.m. on show days.

July 4: Fourth of July at Auditorium Shores

Star Spangled Fest is back at Auditorium Shores for the 48th annual Austin Symphony Orchestra July 4th free concert and fireworks show. Music starts at 5 p.m. this Independence Day, and there will also be family-friendly activities, yard games, and food trucks to enjoy throughout the day. The event includes a taco eating contest presented by Planet Fitness at 7:25 p.m. The Austin Symphony Orchestra concert will start at 8:30 p.m., before the fireworks show at 9:30 p.m. The event is free, but there are upgraded ticket options that will get you closer to the stage and shoreline and a private bar.

Tuesdays in July: Pan Am Hillside Concert Series (dates TBA)

The Pan Am Hillside Concert Series, Austin's longest-running free concert series, is returning for its 67th year at the Oswaldo A.B. Cantu Pan American Recreation Center and Neighborhood Park with support from the ESB Mexican American Cultural Center. While 2025's lineup and dates are still to come, the outdoor shows typically take place every Tuesday in July with music programming that reflects the neighborhood's Mexican American roots. Last year, the series hosted the Tiarras, Ruben Ramos & the Mexican Revolution, David Marez, and more. Get your lawn chairs and coolers ready for this free annual concert series perfect for the entire familia.

July 24-26: Red River Cultural District's Hot Summer Nights

Red River Cultural District's free music festival Hot Summer Nights is making its triumphant yearly return with over 150 Austin bands playing shows at more than 10 local music venues for three nights on July 24 to 26. This year will also feature new daytime programming for families, food and drink specials, vendor markets, wellness activities, and more. While we are still waiting on this year's music and venue lineup to drop, you can RSVP and make a small donation in advance for a chance to win a special ski