Austin, Texas, is a city that knows how to celebrate, and 2024 is packed with a variety of festivals and events that showcase the city’s vibrant culture. From music and film festivals to art and food fairs, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, mark your calendar for Austin’s best festivals and events in 2024. Here’s your guide to the must-attend events this year, including iconic gatherings like South by Southwest (SXSW), Austin City Limits (ACL), and the Pecan Street Festival.
Austin’s Best Festivals and Events: Your 2024 Calendar
1. South by Southwest (SXSW)
- Date: March 8-17, 2024
- Location: Various venues across Austin
SXSW is one of Austin’s best festivals and events that attracts visitors from around the world. This iconic event is a convergence of music, film, and interactive media, offering a unique blend of concerts, film screenings, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities. Whether you’re a fan of discovering new music, an aspiring filmmaker, or a tech enthusiast, SXSW offers an immersive experience that spans across multiple venues in downtown Austin.
Highlights:
- Discover new music from up-and-coming artists and established bands.
- Attend film premieres and panels with filmmakers and actors.
- Explore the latest in technology and innovation at the Interactive Festival.
Pacaya Tip: Use Pacaya to join group activities and events during SXSW, making it easy to connect with others who share your interests.
2. Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival
- Date: October 4-6 & October 11-13, 2024
- Location: Zilker Park
One of the most anticipated events in Austin’s music calendar, the ACL Music Festival spans two weekends and features an impressive lineup of artists across multiple genres. With eight stages and over 100 bands, ACL is a must-attend event for music lovers. The festival also offers local food, art, and activities for kids, making it one of Austin’s best festivals and events for all ages.
Highlights:
- Enjoy performances by top artists and emerging talents across various stages.
- Explore local food vendors and sample Austin’s culinary delights.
- Check out the art market featuring works by local artisans.
Pacaya Music Meetup: Plan a group meetup on Pacaya to enjoy the festival with other music enthusiasts and explore the best that ACL has to offer.
3. Pecan Street Festival
- Date: May 4-5 & September 21-22, 2024
- Location: Sixth Street Historic District
The Pecan Street Festival is one of the oldest and largest arts and crafts festivals in the country, and it’s one of Austin’s best festivals and events that celebrates the city’s creative spirit. Held twice a year in the Sixth Street Historic District, the festival showcases the work of hundreds of local and national artisans. Visitors can browse through an array of handcrafted items, enjoy live music performances, and indulge in delicious food from local vendors.
Highlights:
- Shop for unique, handmade goods from over 300 artisans and vendors.
- Enjoy live music and entertainment on multiple stages.
- Sample a variety of food and drinks from local eateries.
Art and Craft Walk: Use Pacaya to join a group walk through the Pecan Street Festival, discovering art, crafts, and local flavors with fellow festival-goers.
4. Austin Food + Wine Festival
- Date: April 26-28, 2024
- Location: Auditorium Shores and Republic Square Park
Foodies rejoice! The Austin Food + Wine Festival is a culinary extravaganza that features renowned chefs, sommeliers, and culinary personalities. Attendees can enjoy cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and sampling dishes from some of Austin’s top restaurants. This festival is a paradise for anyone interested in food, wine, and the art of cooking, making it one of Austin’s best festivals and events for gourmands.
Highlights:
- Attend cooking demonstrations and workshops by celebrity chefs.
- Enjoy tastings of food, wine, and spirits from local and international purveyors.
- Participate in hands-on grilling and BBQ experiences.
Pacaya Foodie Group: Join a Pacaya foodie group to explore the Austin Food + Wine Festival together, sampling the best culinary offerings the city has to offer.
5. Austin Film Festival
- Date: October 24-31, 2024
- Location: Various theaters across Austin
The Austin Film Festival (AFF) is a premier event for filmmakers, screenwriters, and cinephiles. Known for its focus on the art of storytelling, AFF offers a diverse lineup of film screenings, panel discussions, and workshops. It’s a great opportunity to see new films, engage with industry professionals, and gain insight into the filmmaking process, making it one of Austin’s best festivals and events for film enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- Watch film premieres, indie films, and documentaries from around the world.
- Attend panels and Q&A sessions with filmmakers, writers, and actors.
- Network with industry professionals and fellow film lovers.
Film Buff Meetup: Plan a film buff meetup through Pacaya to attend screenings and panels with fellow movie enthusiasts.
6. Austin Marathon & Half Marathon
- Date: February 18, 2024
- Location: Downtown Austin
For those who enjoy combining fitness with a festival atmosphere, the Austin Marathon & Half Marathon is a must. This event brings together runners from all over the world to race through Austin’s scenic streets and neighborhoods. With live music along the route and a vibrant finish line festival, it’s one of Austin’s best festivals and events for fitness enthusiasts and spectators alike.
Highlights:
- Run or cheer along the scenic marathon and half-marathon routes.
- Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the race.
- Celebrate at the finish line festival with food, drinks, and live music.
Pacaya Running Group: Use Pacaya to join a running group and participate in the Austin Marathon & Half Marathon together, supporting each other through the race.
7. Zilker Park Kite Festival
- Date: March 3, 2024
- Location: Zilker Park
As one of the longest-running traditions in Austin, the Zilker Park Kite Festival is a family-friendly event that fills the sky with colorful kites. It’s a beautiful sight and a fun activity for all ages, making it one of Austin’s best festivals and events for those looking for a unique outdoor experience. Bring your own kite or simply enjoy watching the spectacle unfold.
Highlights:
- Fly your own kite or watch the sky fill with a variety of colorful kites.
- Participate in kite-making workshops and contests.
- Enjoy food and activities in the park.
Pacaya Family Day: Organize a family day out with Pacaya, flying kites and enjoying the festivities at the Zilker Park Kite Festival.
Conclusion
From music and film festivals to food and cultural events, Austin’s best festivals and events in 2024 offer a diverse and exciting lineup that reflects the city’s vibrant spirit. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, a film buff, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Austin has something for everyone. Use Pacaya to join group activities, connect with fellow festival-goers, and make the most of your time at these amazing events. Download the app today and start planning your year around Austin’s incredible festival scene!
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