Willie Nelson's 2025 Fourth of July Picnic Returns to Austin

Willie Nelson's iconic Fourth of July Picnic and Fireworks is making its highly anticipated return to Austin for 2025, setting up shop at the Germania Insurance Amphitheater on July 4. This beloved annual event, a tradition since 1973, promises a day of star-studded music and festive celebrations.

Tickets for this all-ages event start at $77.70. They can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com.

Who is playing Willie's Fourth of July picnic in Austin?

True to its reputation, this year's picnic boasts a roster of talent curated by Willie Nelson himself. The lineup features Willie Nelson & Family, Bob Dylan, The Avett Brothers, The Mavericks, Asleep At The Wheel and Tami Neilson.

Doors for the Picnic open at 3 p.m., with the show kicking off at 4 p.m. Willie and Family traditionally close the event. Attendees can look forward to a full day of music, food and drinks, and a fireworks display to cap off the holiday.

Does the picnic happen in Austin every year?

No. The Fourth of July Picnic has a rich and sometimes chaotic history.

Inspired by the 1972 Dripping Springs Reunion, Willie Nelson launched the first Picnic in 1973 at the same ranch outside Dripping Springs. While the event has deep roots in Texas, it hasn't always been held in the Lone Star State. Past locations have included Tulsa, Syracuse, Atlanta and Kansas City. Last year's picnic ventured to New Jersey. However, Austin remains a frequent and cherished host for the annual celebration.

The Picnic is also known for featuring a recurring cast of musical guests over the years, including Ray Price, Johnny Bush, Leon Russell and Billy Joe Shaver.

Getting to Circuit of the Americas: Parking, transportation

Standard parking in Lot F and Lot H is included with admission. For those seeking a closer spot, upgraded parking in Lot D and Lot C is available for purchase online, with all upgraded lots offering ADA parking.

Charter vehicles, buses and shuttles have a designated drop-off and pick-up area in the north cutout behind Lot C. Bicycle parking is also available along the bridge near the Grand Plaza Box Office, directly outside the main entrance gates.

For ride-share services and taxis, the designated drop-off and pick-up area is located in Lot E.

What is the bag policy at Circuit of the Americas? What items can't I bring?

Large storage bags and large clear totes are permitted. You can also bring small clutch bags or purses, which do not need to be clear, as long as they do not exceed 4.5" x 6.5" x 2". Several types of bags are prohibited, including all backpacks, camera/binocular cases, large grocery/reusable totes, mesh or straw bags, duffle bags and fanny packs.

Prohibited items include:

• Weapons of any kind (firearms, even with a permit, are not allowed).
• Animals (except certified service animals).
• Alcohol, illegal and illicit substances, or drug paraphernalia.
• Outside food or beverages (reusable, collapsible water bottles and cups 20oz or smaller are allowed if empty upon entry).
• Audio and video recording equipment (including iPads, Go-Pros, drones, cameras with detachable lenses, selfie sticks, tripods).
• Laptops and tablets.
• Fireworks, smoke bombs and other explosives.
• Ice chests, coolers and thermoses.
• Signs on posts, flags and banners.

Germania Insurance Amphitheater is a cashless venue. All points of sale, including the box office, parking, and concessions, will only accept credit cards.