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Waterloo Greenway’s Pop-Up Picnic Returns for 12th Annual Celebration at Waterloo Park

Basket sales are now open for Austin's beloved community event

Waterloo Greenway Conservancy’s Annual Pop Up Picnic
Waterloo Greenway Conservancy's Annual Pop Up Picnic (photo by Mill Photography)

Waterloo Greenway Conservancy’s 12th Annual Pop-Up Picnic will return to Austin on Saturday, April 5, 2025, promising another unforgettable evening at the stunning Waterloo Park.

This cherished event invites Austinites to enjoy a night of delicious food, great company, and lively entertainment, all in support of Waterloo Greenway’s mission to build, operate, activate, and sustain a vibrant urban greenspace in the heart of downtown Austin.

Open to all, the picnic will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. at Waterloo Park and Moody Amphitheater. Attendees can enjoy curated picnic baskets crafted by some of Austin’s finest chefs and restaurants, spread blankets on the lawn, and enjoy live music under the scenic sunset over Waller Creek.

Waterloo Greenway Conservancy's Annual Pop Up Picnic
Waterloo Greenway Conservancy’s Annual Pop Up Picnic (photo by Mill Photography)

“We are thrilled to partner with Waterloo Greenway once again for this incredible event! Waterloo Park is the ultimate downtown hangout spot, perfect for outdoor adventures, playtime, and laid-back picnics with your favorite people. Supporting this amazing legacy project is our way of helping keep Austin’s unique vibe alive and thriving,” says Stacy Franklin, one of the co-chairs of this year’s Pop-Up Picnic and owner of Franklin BBQ. Additional co-chairs are Anne Campbell, Alex and Miguel Garza, Jennifer Sioski, Katherine Stinson, and Katherine Farmer Thornhill.

2025 Co-Chairs

Anne Campbell, Stacy Franklin, Alex and Miguel Garza, Jennifer Sinski, Katherine Stinson, and Katherine Farmer Thornhill

Austin’s Pop Up Picnic (photo by Mill Photography)
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Waterloo Greenway Conservancy’s Pop Up Picnic (photo by Mill Photography)
Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park
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Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)
Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)
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Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)
Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)
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Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)
Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park
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Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)
Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park
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Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)
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Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)

Curated Picnic Baskets

The highlight of the evening is the curated picnic baskets, featuring offerings from some of Austin’s most celebrated chefs and restaurants. Past participants include Antonelli’s Cheese Shop, Clark’s Oyster Bar, Swedish Hill, Home Slice Pizza, Franklin Barbecue, Uchiba, and more.

This year’s chef and restaurant participants include Aba Austin, Bar Toti, Best of MML Hospitality, Franklin Barbecue, Justine’s, Lee’s Kitchen + Cocktails, Lutie’s, Nido at The Loren, Teddy’s and more.

Basket sales open Monday, March 3, 2025, at 10 a.m., and are expected to sell out quickly.

This year, all attendees will need an entry ticket to join the event. Each picnic basket includes two entry tickets, with additional tickets available for $25 each or $100 for a bundle of five.

While bringing your own food is welcome, purchasing a basket is a meaningful way to support

Waterloo Greenway and its mission to sustain this beloved park. Please note, that no glass or outside alcohol is allowed in the park.

Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park
Pop Up Picnic at Waterloo Park (photo by Mill Photography)

Supporting the Mission

Pop-Up Picnic is an annual fundraiser that unites friends and families for a fun-filled evening while supporting Waterloo Greenway Conservancy’s mission to maintain, activate, and enhance the park as a vibrant public space for all.

Every ticket and basket purchase directly supports this mission, helping to provide free, family-friendly programming and cultural events throughout the year.