The Best Free Events in Austin This Week
Six free ways to enjoy live music, art, theater and more around town
The best things in life are free, and this week in Austin proves it. Catch an outdoor musical, browse work by more than 100 local artists, spend an evening listening to records poolside or discover a new favorite band — all without paying admission. Here are six free events worth adding to your calendar this week.
Free Week at The Contemporary Austin — Jones Center
Jones Center, 700 Congress Ave.
July 22-26
The Contemporary Austin is opening the Jones Center to visitors for free this week, offering one of the final opportunities to see “Sable Elyse Smith: Clockwork” before it closes Aug. 2. Smith’s first solo exhibition in Texas uses sculpture, video, neon and works on paper to reveal how systems of power quietly shape culture, behavior and everyday life. The gallery is open from noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday and noon to 6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.
Zilker Summer Musical
Zilker Hillside Theater, 2206 William Barton Drive
Thursday-Sunday through Aug. 15 at at 8:15 p.m.
Zilker Theatre Productions is back for its 67th annual summer production at the Hillside Theater, and this year’s show is “Singin’ in the Rain.” Catch it Thursdays through Sundays through Aug. 15. Admission is free with donations encouraged.
The Drop-In
The Long Center
Thursdays through Aug. 13 at 8 p.m.
The Drop-In pairs live local music with one of the city’s best skyline views each Thursday at the Long Center. This week, Gus Baldwin & The Sketch take the stage following an opening set by Magic Rockers of Texas. The evening also includes a DJ, food trucks, drinks, lawn games and photo opportunities.
Vinyl Night Swim With KOOP Radio
Carpenter Hotel
July 22, 6-8 p.m.
Bring a favorite jazz record and cool off at Carpenter Hotel’s monthly Vinyl Night Swim. KOOP Radio hosts Miss Buttercup and Sonic George will spin selections by the pool, with free swimming beginning at 5:30 p.m. and half-price bottles of wine available throughout the evening.
Austin Summer Artisan Market
Distribution Hall
July 25-26 at 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
More than 110 local artists and makers will fill Distribution Hall for a two-day celebration of Austin’s creative community. Browse jewelry, ceramics, slow fashion, artwork and handcrafted home goods while enjoying a vinyl DJ set, a walkable gallery, coffee, cocktails and food from globally inspired chefs. RSVP here.
Deer Fellow
Meanwhile Brewing
July 22, 7:30 p.m.
Austin indie-folk band Deer Fellow will bring its warm harmonies and acoustic sound to Meanwhile Brewing for a free, all-ages concert. Seating will be available near the stage, with drinks from the taproom and food from the brewery’s on-site trucks.
More events in Austin to explore
Check out our top event picks for July and browse our online events calendar for even more ideas on what to see and do in Austin this summer.