Top 10 Highlights of 2024 That Shaped Austin’s Year
A look back at the memorable events and highlights in Austin this year, from culinary triumphs to cultural milestones
With the new year approaching, it’s a fitting time to reflect on some of Austin’s most memorable moments from 2024. While no single list can capture all the noteworthy events that defined the year, these ten highlights stand out as milestones that shaped the city’s cultural and community landscape. From the much-anticipated debut of the Michelin Guide in Texas to the rare and awe-inspiring total solar eclipse, these moments defined a year of growth and celebration for Austin. As the city continues to evolve, we look ahead with anticipation for what the coming year will bring.
Austin City Limits celebrates 50 years
Austin City Limits marked its 50th anniversary this year, celebrating the groundbreaking music series that has defined Texas culture for half a century. On Oct. 17, exactly 50 years after Willie Nelson headlined the show’s pilot episode, Nelson returned to lead a birthday bash at The Long Center alongside Asleep at the Wheel. The milestone included expanded studio tours and performances from country music legends like Garth Brooks, who became the sole 2024 inductee into the ACL Hall of Fame. Season 50 featured a mix of returning legends and rising stars, from Kacey Musgraves and Gary Clark Jr. to Jelly Roll and Jacob Collier.
Total solar eclipse
On April 8, Austinites joined millions across North America to witness a rare total solar eclipse. Starting at 12:17 p.m., the event peaked at 1:36 p.m., casting the city in eerie twilight and revealing the sun’s corona in a breathtaking display. With no total eclipse expected over Texas until 2078, this once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon drew thousands to parks, rooftops and watch parties.
UT Austin joins the SEC
On July 1, the University of Texas at Austin officially joined the Southeastern Conference (SEC), ushering in a transformative chapter for Longhorn athletics. The transition, celebrated with a campus-wide celebration featuring a performance by Pitbull, places UT among the nation’s elite collegiate programs.
Dazed and Confused cast reunites for 30th anniversary
The cult classic “Dazed and Confused” celebrated its 30th anniversary with a sold-out reunion at the Paramount Theatre on Sept. 28. Director Richard Linklater and 15 cast members reminisced about the iconic film’s production in Austin, sharing behind-the-scenes stories during a Q&A session. The reunion underscored the enduring appeal of a movie that launched careers and captured the spirit of a generation.
Zilker Eagle returns to Zilker Park
After an almost five-year hiatus, the Zilker Eagle miniature train made its long-awaited return to Zilker Park. For decades, families have enjoyed the leisurely 20-minute ride, feeling the wind in their hair and waving to park-goers along the way. The revitalized Zilker Eagle features a new locomotive, upgraded tracks, wheelchair accessibility and a rainbow mural adorning the tunnel under Barton Springs Road.
Chappell Roan draws massive crowd, Dua Lipa shows love for Austin at ACL Fest
The 2024 Austin City Limits Music Festival drew its usual massive crowds, with Chappell Roan emerging as a standout act. The pop star’s dazzling outfits and viral hits brought a vibrant energy to the festival. Fellow performer Dua Lipa made headlines too, donning a burnt-orange Longhorns jersey and exploring Austin’s famed eateries and landmarks.
Michelin Guide debuts in Texas
Austin cemented its status as a global culinary destination with the Michelin Guide’s first Texas edition. Unveiled on Nov. 11 at Houston’s 713 Music Hall, the guide recognized 44 Austin restaurants across various categories. Seven establishments earned coveted Michelin Stars, while two received Green Stars for sustainability. Fourteen more were awarded Bib Gourmand status for exceptional quality at accessible prices.
Pease Park welcomes a giant troll
A whimsical troll sculpture, crafted by Copenhagen artist Thomas Dambo, made its debut at Pease Park’s Kingsbury Commons in March. Built from recycled materials, including wood from UT’s J.J. Pickle Research Campus, the troll reflects Dambo’s commitment to sustainability and environmental storytelling. The installation quickly became a beloved attraction, blending art and nature in an imaginative display.
Glen Powell look-alike contest at Auditorium Shores
Part of a growing trend of celebrity doppelgänger events, the Glen Powell look-alike contest drew a lively crowd of participants and spectators to Auditorium Shores on Nov. 24. Contestants showcased their best impressions of the actor’s signature charm and charisma, captivating hundreds of onlookers who gathered to cheer them on. Max Braunstein, dressed as Glen Powell’s “Top Gun: Maverick” character, Hangman, claimed victory in the contest. While Powell couldn’t attend due to filming commitments, he sent a video announcing the grand prize: a cameo for the winner’s family member in his next film, valued humorously at “$6 billion.” His prizes also included a custom cowboy hat and a year’s supply of Torchy’s Tacos.
“WaterWork” illuminates Seaholm Intake Facility
In September, the Seaholm Intake Building became a canvas for “WaterWork,” a large-scale video installation utilizing projection mapping technology to create stunning visuals along Lady Bird Lake. Curated by Design Austin and The Trail Conservancy, the event featured short films by local artists that explored the connection between nature and urban life.
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- Step Inside Chip and Joanna Gaines’s Hotel 1928 Where Luxury Meets History and Charm
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