Top Labor Day Weekend Events in Austin

This Labor Day Weekend, Austin is packed with events catering to all interests, from festivals to sports and food celebrations. Whether it’s catching a live performance, indulging in local cuisine, or cheering on a favorite team, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some standout events to add to the calendar this weekend:

For music and film lovers

Bat Fest

The world’s largest urban bat colony gets its own celebration at the 20th annual Bat Fest, held Sept. 5 directly on the Congress Avenue Bridge. Live music, food vendors, a kids zone and a costume contest lead up to the main event, when roughly 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge for their nightly flight.

Float Films at Austin Motel

Film enthusiasts can catch Austin Motel’s final Float Films screening of the summer on Sept. 4 with “The Mummy,” starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. Doors open at 5 p.m., the movie starts at dusk and tickets are $18.

Brandi Carlile at Moody Center

Brandi Carlile brings The Human Tour to Moody Center on Sept. 6, joined by The Head and the Heart. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter takes the stage at 7 p.m., with tickets starting at $47.

Cool off at a hotel pool

Labor Day Weekend Rooftop Pool Party at Fairmont Austin

Labor Day weekend gets a rooftop sendoff with poolside DJ sets, pop-ups and special food and drink menus overlooking downtown Austin. On Saturday, Sept. 5, Fairmont Austin’s Saturdaze party brings a Corona pop-up and guest DJ to the pool from noon to 5 p.m., with day passes and cabanas available.

Carpenter Family Reunion

Carpenter Hotel is throwing a Labor Day weekend hoedown on Sept. 5, featuring a Disko Cowboy DJ set, line dancing and two-step lessons from Breakin’ Boots, flash tattoos and vintage shopping. The party runs from 1 to 5 p.m., with burgers and hot dogs from Carpenters Hall.

Zanzibar’s Labor Day Pool Party

DJ King Louie will soundtrack Labor Day at Zanzibar’s rooftop pool on Sept. 7, with music, skyline views and food and drink service from 2 to 6 p.m. Pool passes are $15, with cabana packages available for groups of up to 12.

For the sports fans

Texas Longhorns vs. Texas State Bobcats

The Texas Longhorns will face Texas State in their season opener on Saturday, Sept. 5. Kickoff is at 2:30 p.m., with watch parties scheduled around Austin for fans to catch the game.

Austin FC vs. San Jose Earthquakes

Later that evening, Austin FC takes on the San Jose Earthquakes at Q2 Stadium. The match, starting at 7:30 p.m., offers another thrilling sports event for the weekend.

RELATED: Where to Watch UT Austin Football Games

More community events

Austin Restaurant Weeks

Food enthusiasts can explore Austin Restaurant Weeks from August 28 to September 13. Enjoy specially priced meals and drinks at participating restaurants, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Central Texas Food Bank.

H-E-B Free First Sunday at Bullock Texas State History Museum

Enjoy free admission all day at the Bullock Museum, where visitors can explore hands-on activities centered on Texas waterways, watersheds and conservation. Moviegoers can make a day of it, too: the museum has extended screenings of Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” through Sept. 16, offering another chance to see the epic on the largest screen in Texas.

Barton Fest at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa will host a summer send-off on Sunday, Sept. 6, from 5 to 8 p.m., featuring live music, food and drinks from local breweries and distilleries, and artisan vendors. The family-friendly event also includes kids’ activities such as balloon twisting, face painting and animal encounters. Admission is free, with food, drinks and parking sold separately.

Thinkery Carnival

The Thinkery in Mueller is turning into a one-day carnival on Sept. 7, with a petting zoo, aerial performances, face painting, spin art, balloon creations and classic carnival games. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is included with general admission, which is $21.95 for the day.

More to Discover in Austin This Labor Day Weekend

This weekend offers a wealth of activities, far beyond the featured events. Check out our online events calendar for even more ideas on what to see and do in Austin this Labor Day weekend.