June Curated: Austin’s Top 10 Events This Month
The summer is heating up with plenty of museum events, music and dance performances, and more cultural events to add to your calendar
June is heating up with exciting events in Austin! With Pride month celebrations, concerts, dance performances, plenty of fun at local museums, and festivals focused on film, books, and music, here’s our list of top events to add to your calendar.
UMLAUF After Dark: PRIDE
UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum
June 3, 6 – 8 p.m.
Step into a night of art, music and celebration at UMLAUF After Dark: PRIDE. This special evening highlights LGBTQ+ artists and performers, bringing the community together through live entertainment, creative experiences, and vibrant energy.
The Drop-In Summer Concert Series
Long Center
Every Thursday
The Long Center is bringing Austin audiences a free weekly concert series on the Long Center lawn all summer long. The event features a diverse lineup of well-known and emerging artists in the heart of downtown. More info.
RELATED: Five Austin Acts to Catch at This Summer’s Drop-In Concert Series
McLennon Pen Co. Gallery New Location Opening Celebration
McLennon Pen Co. Gallery
June 5
McLennon Pen Co. Gallery has moved to a new, expanded home at 1114 W 5th St, Suite 202, at the gateway to Clarksville and Old West Austin. The 2,300-square-foot space marks a major new chapter for the gallery, which first opened two years ago in a house gallery in East Austin. The inaugural exhibition will feature new work by ten artists now officially represented by the gallery: Rosie Clements, Andy Coolquitt, Lindsey Lascaux, Peter McRury, Patrick Quinn, Slater Reid Sousley, Audrey Rodriguez, Ben Siekierski, Ashley Swarts, and Alexandra Valenti.
“Waitress”
Zach Theatre
June 11 – July 13
With an original score by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, “Waitress” serves up a heartfelt and uplifting musical about finding the courage to create a life that’s truly sweet. Jenna, a small-town waitress and gifted pie maker, is stuck in a loveless marriage, dreaming of a fresh start. When an unexpected pregnancy shakes up her plans, a baking contest and a charming new doctor offer a taste of possibility. With the support of her quirky coworkers and loyal customers, Jenna stirs up the strength to follow her own recipe for happiness.
Summer of Friendship Festival
Laguna Gloria
June 26, 6-10 p.m.
Summon your besties for The Contemporary Austin’s Summer of Friendship Festival where things kick off with high-energy line dancing led by Double or Nothing Two-Step and summer camp inspired family-friendly art making activities. Then, wind down with BIG BAD Karaoke in the amphitheater, led by artists Alexis Hunter and Jane Hervey, with special guest performers. And savor bites and drinks from local vendors for purchase.
Blanton All Day: Summer Dance Series
The Blanton Museum of Art
June 14, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
This summer, The Blanton hosts a Summer Dance series that kicks off with bachata lessons and live DJ sets, and much more! Instructors from Planet Music Austin will lead an hour-long Bachata lesson. You can also enjoy guided museum tours and a family craft activity/workshop.
Neon Range: Pop Visions of the New West Exhibition
West Chelsea Contemporary
June 14, 2 – 4pm
Kicking off June 14, the first phase of WCC’s summer exhibition features Miles Glynn and Cyrus Walker, two artists making their Austin debut with bold, cinematic, and textural reinterpretations of cowboy iconography. Think vintage rodeo posters meets Warhol gloss – layered with grit, glamour, and a wink.
Central Texas Juneteenth 2K, Parade & Celebration
Historic East Austin and Rosewood Park
June 19, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day,” is the oldest known African American celebration commemorating the end of slavery. This annual event features a parade with floats and entertainment, and a celebration with food and local vendors at Rosewood Park.
DRUMLine Live
Bass Concert Hall
June 22, 3p.m.
DRUMLine Live is an international tour based on the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching band tradition. With riveting rhythms, bold beats and ear-grabbing energy, this stage show is a synchronized musical showcase of the HBCU experience. Incorporating original compositions and soul-infused interpretations of top 40 hits, group performances range from colorful, choreographed routines to heavy doses of drum riffs and cadences.
Austin African American Book Festival
George Washington Carver Museum
June 29, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
This free literary event showcases new works by and about African Americans. Notable speakers and authors will discuss their works and facilitate conversations.
Much More to Explore this June in Austin
Of course, there are far more than ten amazing events to enjoy this month, and you can browse our online events calendar for even more ideas on things to see and do this June in Austin. Also, be sure to check out: