April 15, 2016

What are you doing this summer? Maybe you have a rigorous internship or job with a long 40-hour workweek. Maybe you’re taking an entire semester’s worth of difficult classes in only two months. Maybe you don’t have anything planned except sleeping and binge-watching Netflix, which is somehow still just as exhausting. No matter what your plans are, set aside some time to have fun. You’re living in Austin, known for it’s live music, beautiful outdoors, and exciting nightlife. Use your summer in Austin, one of the most exciting cities in America, to attend some great events it has has planned!

Blues on the Green

blues on the greenVia Blues on the Green Facebook page

One of the best free events in Austin this summer, that’s going on its 26th anniversary, is 93.3 KGSR’s Blues on the Green. Hosted a 4-5 times throughout the summer, Blues on the Green is an evening long musical festival held in the beautiful Zilker Park. While this summer’s lineup has not yet been released, previous guests have included Bob Schneider, Walker Lukens, Jamestown Revival, Riders Against the Storm, and even Shakey Graves! Bring a blanket, a couple of lawn chairs, and some great friends for a super fun evening. When they release this summer’s lineup, check it out here!

X-Games

blues on the greenVia X-Games Facebook page

For the third year in a row, the Austin will be the home of 2016 X Games. Hosted June 2nd – 5th at the Circuit of Americas, you’ll be able to witness a world-class sports competition, interactive experiences from amazing sponsors, and some incredible music performances. This year’s performers include All Time Low, Logic, G-Eazy and blink-182, who will be headlining at the Austin360 Amphitheater. See how you can get tickets here.

Keep Austin Weird Festival & 5K

blues on the green

Via Keep Austin Weird Festival & 5K Facebook page

We’ve all heard the iconic phrase “Keep Austin Weird.” Well you can be apart of that by entering the 2016 Keep Austin Weird Festival & 5K! On June 25th, venture to downtown Austin where you’ll be able to taste some famous Austin foods, listen to music, and partake in tons of weird attractions. Around 6 pm, the 5K race will begin with wacky characters and odd costumes. And when the night is over, enjoy a live musical performance and relax with a few drinks. If you’d like to register to run the weirdest 5K ever, follow this link.

Austin Symphony Fourth of July

blues on the greenPhoto by John Gutierre

Be sure to add this to your Austin Summer Bucket List! Head to Vic Mathias Shores (formally known as Auditorium Shores) for the exciting Austin’s Symphony’s July 4th Concert and Fireworks show. Starting at 4 pm, you’ll be able to walk around to many different Austin vendors, enjoy some delicious Austin eats, and relax on the grove while listening to some amazing music. The symphony will begin around 8 pm and the fireworks will be set off at 9:30 pm. Check out more info here.

blues on the greenVia Austin Ice Cream Festival Facebook page

Bring your summer to a sweet end at the 10th Annual Austin Ice Cream Festival on August 13th. Hosted at Fiesta Gardens in East Austin, this event has games, activities, contests, delicious food, live music, and of course, ice cream! The best part of the festival is that it benefits some amazing local charities such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Austin’s Children Shelter. Enter the ice cream eating contest, test your skills at building a Popsicle stick sculpture, or mix your very own batch of ice cream at home and have it judged to win the highly acclaimed “Spoon” Award. You can find out more info here. If you go, don’t get a brain freeze!

Of all the exciting things to do in Austin, these events are sure to keep you stuffed and exhausted all summer long. Keep in mind, however, that these are only a fraction of the awesome things going on this summer. There’s always places to go, food to try, and music to be heard. Don’t get a tan sitting by the pool all summer. Get out and experience all the beauty and excitement Austin has to offer.

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