How to celebrate Fourth of July weekend in Austin

How to celebrate Fourth of July weekend in Austin

Austin is gearing up for a lively July Fourth as America celebrates its 250th anniversary.

The big picture: From Willie Nelson's annual picnic to fireworks over Lady Bird Lake, here are our favorite shows, celebrations and giveaways all weekend long.

Pro tip: An Austin law firm is offering 1,000 Uber vouchers to prevent drunken driving.

  • Fill out the form on this webpage to receive your voucher — while supplies last.

    • 🏊‍♀️ Pool parties

    Looking to lounge? There are plenty of spots to cool off, whether you're after rooftop vibes or a front-row seat to the city's fireworks.

  • Austin Proper Hotel's La Piscina pool deck will host DJ sets Friday and Saturday at 6pm. RSVP for free, but arrive early to make sure you get a spot.
  • Watch Austin's fireworks display from the newly renovated Hyatt Regency pool, featuring live music and cabana rentals. Locals are invited all day. Free.
  • Hotel Magdalena's pool is open to hotel guests and locals Friday and Saturday, with live music, food and drinks. Music starts at 3pm Friday and 1pm Saturday. Free.

    • 🎆 Firework shows

    Think twice before lighting your own fireworks. It's illegal to possess or use them within city limits. Instead, head to one of these displays for a safer (and bigger) show:

  • The city is hosting its annual fireworks show and concert from the Austin Symphony Orchestra at Auditorium Shores. Entertainment starts at 4:30pm, free.
  • The Hill Country Galleria will host its July 4 party with fireworks, backyard games and live music. 4-10pm, free.

    • 🎶 Live music

    From country legends to sunrise dance parties, Austin's music scene is in full swing this Fourth of July weekend.

  • The Mushroom Cowboy and The Concourse Project are hosting "The Morning Spin" Saturday, with house music, drinks, food trucks and exclusive merch at Auditorium Shores. 10am-1pm, tickets start at $38.
  • Catch music from Wilco, Sheryl Crow, Billy Strings and more at Willie Nelson's annual Fourth of July picnic and fireworks at Germania Insurance Amphitheater. 3:30pm, $78.

    • 🍽️ Restaurant and bar deals

    Bars and restaurants are serving up holiday specials, themed parties and family-friendly fun.

  • Hotel Vegas and Volstead Lounge will host its annual hotdog eating contest Saturday, along with a World Cup viewing party beginning at 11am. Hotdog contest signups are at 6pm. Glizzy guzzling starts at 8pm. Free.
  • Hole in the Wall's annual Hole-A-Palooza 4th of July 90s tribute fest brings a day of nostalgic music and food vendors. Music starts at 4pm, $24.
  • Meanwhile Brewing Co. will host World Cup watch parties and a family-friendly Fourth of July Fest, with face painting, a cornhole tournament and specials from the brewery's food trucks. 10:30am-7pm, free.