Things to do this weekend in and around Austin
Friendly fun in Austin and Central Texas for Friday, August 7, 2026 – Sunday, August 9, 2026. Check out these highlights!
(Scroll down for full list of weekend activities.)
Friday, August 7, 2026
Texas America250 Reading Challenge - August 5–31, 2026 - Austin, TX. Dive into books that celebrate America’s history and heritage in this ongoing, all-ages reading challenge hosted by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.
Ice Age in the Wild - August 5–15, 2026 - Austin, TX. Explore life-size Ice Age creatures and learn about ancient Texas landscapes on a family-friendly outdoor adventure at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Happy Hour - 1/2 Off Apps - $5 Frozens - Unforgettable Lake Views - August 5–9, 2026 (and additional dates) - Leander, TX. Enjoy discounted appetizers and frozen drinks while taking in gorgeous Lake Travis views at Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark.
SUMMER MADNESS - August 5–7, 2026 (and additional dates) - Pflugerville, TX. Spend the day at Spare Time Texas with bowling, games, and attractions during extended summer hours from morning until midnight.
Rock of Ages - August 6–9, 2026 - Lakeway, TX. Catch a high-energy musical packed with classic rock hits at TexARTS Theater & Academy, perfect for fans of big hair and big anthems.
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Free summer mini photo session with Shoott! - Austin - August 8–30, 2026 (select dates) - Austin, TX. Book a free 30-minute outdoor photo shoot and only pay for the professionally edited images you love, ideal for family portraits or summer memories.
Paramount Summer Classic Film Series - August 6–30, 2026 (select dates) - Austin, TX. Experience beloved classics, special guests, and 35mm screenings, plus IMAX showings on Texas’s biggest screen as part of this iconic Austin film series.
Texas Festivals: Creating Community Through Celebration Exhibition - August 5–September 27, 2026 - Austin, TX. Discover how festivals across Texas bring people together through music, food, and tradition at this immersive exhibit at the Bullock Texas State History Museum.
Lake Travis Zipline Adventures 2026 Season - August 5–November 29, 2026 (select dates) - Volente, TX. Fly over Lake Travis on thrilling zip lines and enjoy a lakefront day with hiking, beaches, and scenic views.
Summer Stock Austin - Disney’s Newsies - August 5–9, 2026 - Austin, TX. Watch talented young performers bring the Broadway hit Newsies to life with energetic dance numbers and inspiring music.
Sunday, August 9, 2026
ResortPass Experience - August 5–31, 2026 - Multiple hotels, NY (day-pass, trip idea). Plan a mini vacation by booking day access to top hotel pools, spas, and private beaches without an overnight stay, perfect inspiration for a family getaway.
Music/ Movement Storytime - August 7–December 11, 2026 (Fridays and select dates) - Liberty Hill, TX. Little ones can sing, move, and listen to stories in an engaging library program that builds early literacy through music and motion.
Live Music on Lake Travis - Raul Ochoa - August 7, 2026 - Leander, TX. Relax by the water and enjoy an evening of live music at Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark overlooking Lake Travis.
Party in Your Park - August 7, 2026 - San Marcos, TX. Join neighbors for games, music, and family activities in the park at this community celebration hosted by the City of San Marcos.
Movies in the Park - August 7, 2026 - Manor, TX. Pack blankets and snacks for a relaxed outdoor movie night at Timmermann Park as the sun goes down.