- March 30, 2016

50+ “Don’t Miss” April Events in Austin

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Spring has sprung and the fun just keeps on coming! This April in Austin you can celebrate all month long, from April Fools’ Day to Eeyore’s Birthday, and plenty of other days in between!

50 Don't Miss April Events in Austin and Beyond

Bluebonnets are blooming! Find out where to take the best bluebonnet photos in Austin.

Downtown Street Fair
Fridays, starting April 1 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.   |   900 Congress Ave, Austin
Join the Downtown Austin Alliance every Friday starting April 1 through June 3 for a festival including food vendors, retailers, entertainers, artists and more! The festival will take place during the lunch hour, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at 9th and Congress and is FREE and open to the public. The Downtown Street Fair is an opportunity for you to grab a quick bite on your lunch break, enjoy the work of local artists and entertainers, and re-discover a hidden gem of downtown Austin. Each week will feature a variety of vendors, giving you the opportunity to experience a different and exciting element of Austin every Friday. Other downtown businesses on the block will also be participating by providing food and retail options tailored to the event.

Leander Movies in the Park (Leander)
April 1, 15, and 29 at dusk  |    Robin Bledsoe Park, 601 S. Bagdad, Leander
See Inside Out (April 1), Pan (April 15), and Minions (April 29) for FREE! Movies begin at dusk. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner. Concessions will be available. Glass containers are prohibited.  Friendly pets are welcomed on a leash.

Home Depot Kids Workshop: Build a Butterfly House
April 2 from 9 a.m. – Noon   |    Home Depot Stores
Join this hands-on workshop with your child and build a butterfly house to welcome some fluttering insect friends after a long winter. After the butterfly house is built, your child can decorate their project with paint and take it home… all for FREE!

Austin Radio Control Association 2nd Annual Cubs-n-Cousins
April 2 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.   |   Austin Radio Control Association – Lester Field, 8705 Lindell Ln, Austin
Join Austin Radio Control Association for their Annual Cubs-n-Cousins scale event. This event honors the legacy of the Piper J-3 Cub aircraft and their high winged cousins. (Taylorcraft, Cessnas, and other variants.) Austin Radio Control is a great place to bring the family and sit back, relax, and take in the world of radio control. Newcomers interested in getting into the hobby are welcome. ARCA would love the opportunity to help you get started.

Bicycle Rodeo (Pflugerville)
April 2 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.   |   Pflugerville High School Parking Lot, 1301 W Pecan St, Pflugerville
The annual Bike Rodeo is sponsored by the Pflugerville Police Department. The event offers: Bicycle Registration Safety Instructions Riding Instructions and 8 different challenges Police, Fire and EMS demonstrations all day Child ID’s Displays by Central Texas Law Enforcement Agencies Pflugerville Fire onsite with truck. FREE!

Mayfield Gardening Symposium
April 2 from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.   |   Mayfield Park, 3505 W. 35th St., Austin
Mayfield Park will combine topics dear to the heart of Central Texas gardeners in a series of “must hear” lectures. The event will also feature a Gardener’s Dream Raffle, Pass Along Plant Sale and House & Garden Tours.

Free Kids’ Music at Strange Brew
Saturdays in April from 10-11 a.m.   |   Strange Brew, Lounge Side, 5326 Manchaca Rd, Austin
Staci Gray (April 2), Groundwork Music (April 9), The Que Pastas (April 16), and Big Don (April 23) will be performing FREE all ages shows. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. Please note that the schedule is subject to change (and often does).

Young People’s Theatre Presents: Sky Blue and Prince the Frog
April 2 at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.   |   Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin
Meet Sky Blue (the less popular princess cousin of Snow White and Rose Red). Sky Blue has a major problem. Her step-mommy is evil. She forces Sky to do things like chores on a Saturday (GASP!). Sky Blue decides she must run away. She and her new friend, a frog with the unfortunate name of Prince, adventure into the forest where they encounter other princesses who all have the same problem. Evil parents! Daddies who make them eat their vegetables. Mommies who force them to take naps and clean their rooms! To find out what becomes of Sky Blue and her darling princess friends, join the Dougherty Arts Center for the performance of Sky Blue and Prince the Frog. This show is FREE and perfect for children ages 2-5.

Texas VegFest 2016
April 2 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.   |   Fiesta Gardens, 2101 Jesse E Segovia St, Austin
Texas VegFest’s fifth year celebration will feature local and national sponsors and vendors, educational lectures, cooking demonstrations, community outreach, a featured nonprofit, youth activities, fantastic food, craft beer, and live music. FREE!

Crafts for Kids
Saturdays in April from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.   |    Lakeshore Learning, 9828 Great Hills Trail, Austin
April 2: Hand Me a Pencil, Pal! April 9: Barnyard Buddy Puppet. April 16: How Does It Grow? Greenhouse. April 23: April Showers Pop-Up Card.  April 30: Thanks-A-Bunch Bouquet. Ages 3+. No reservations required. FREE!

Spring Carnival atThe Learning Experience (Georgetown)
April 2 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.  |    The Learning Experience, 1821 Westinghouse Road, Georgetown
The Learning Experience®, one of the nation’s fastest growing Academies of Early Education for children six weeks to six years old, is pleased to announce the opening of its Georgetown center! To celebrate this milestone, The Learning Experience is inviting the community to attend its FREE grand opening event at the center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 2, 2016. Families can tour the center during the grand opening event to learn about The Learning Experience’s L.E.A.P.® (Learning Experience Academic Program) curriculum and enrichment programs that have been developed from more than 30 years of experience in the early education industry.

Cedar Fest BBQ Cook-Off and Cedar Park Heritage Festival (Cedar Park)
April 2 from 1-5 p.m.   |   Elizabeth Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park
The Cedar Fest BBQ Cook-Off presented by Smokey Mo’s BBQ and Cedar Park, Texas Heritage Festival is a great way to spend the day with family and friends. Sample BBQ, play carnival games, enjoy live music, historical displays, sack races, a stick horse rodeo, a corn on the cob eating contest, and much more! Admission is FREE. Some fees may apply for games.

Planet Music: Austin Samba presents Texas! A Horse Opera
April 2 from 7-10 p.m.   |   Zilker Hillside Theater, 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin
It’s that time of year again when The City Of Austin Museums and Cultural Programs teams up with Austin Samba to present Texas! A Horse Opera, for one night only. A unique and electrifying fusion of classic Texicana and Brazilian Carnival, a talented company of colorfully costumed dancers and 50+ samba drummers from Austin Samba along with special musical guests will bring a whirlwind of sizzling rhythms, beautiful choreography, color and joy to the Zilker Hillside stage for the 3rd year in a row. The show is a wild, musical ride through Texas culture, from classic numbers such as ‘Rawhide’ and ‘Happy Trails to You’ to energetic, powerful tributes to Texas artists including Selena, Willie Nelson, Lightnin’ Hopkins, Mance Libscomb, Freddie King, Stevie Ray Vaughn, ZZ Top, Asleep at the Wheel and Bob Wills… who is still “The King.” Infused into the mix are the heart-pounding beats of traditional Brazilian drums, dazzling costumes and stunning, intricate dance numbers. Free samba dance lessons before the show and a family dance party after the performance. Family friendly and FREE!

Saturday Night Concert Series: Rosie & the Ramblers (Bee Cave)
April 2 from 7-9 p.m.   |   Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave
Enjoy Saturday nights outdoors with live music, free kids activities, and great shopping at the Saturday Night Concert Series. The music begins at 7:00 pm in the Hill Country Galleria’s outdoor amphitheater. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this FREE event every Saturday night. Bring your family, friends, and a blanket to lounge on the grassy lawn during the show. Browse the vendors, order to-go food and have it delivered to your spot on the grassy lawn, and enjoy FREE kids activities like face painting or balloon twisters. Arrive early to ensure you get a free swag bag filled with fun items and discounts from the Hill Country Galleria merchants and sponsors. Sun Radio 1001.1FM will be on-site to emcee the event and introduce you to the band. Genre: Country/Honky Tonk. Schedule is tentative and subject to change.

Free Kids’ Music at Cherrywood Coffee House
Sundays in April from 10-11:30 a.m.   |   Cherrywood Coffeehouse, 1400 E. 38 1/2 Street, Austin
Hey Lollies (April 3), Groundwork Music (April 10), The Que Pastas (April 17), and Staci Gray  (April 24) will be performing FREE all ages shows. Please note that the schedule is subject to change.

Free First Sunday at the Bullock Museum: Our Global Kitchen
April 3 from 12-5 p.m.   |   Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 Congress Ave, Austin
Enjoy FREE exhibition admission all day during H-E-B Free First Sundays, held the first Sunday of every month. Families can explore the Story of Texas through three floors of exhibitions that showcase artifacts from around the state. Special family programs from 12-3 p.m. combine art creation, exploration stations, and gallery activities. At April’s H-E-B Free First Sunday, explore the Our Global Kitchen: Food, Nature, and Culture exhibition and discover how and why food has shaped cultures around the world and how getting that food from farm to table affects the planet. Learn the histories and traditions of the foods we eat, discover the benefits of healthy eating, and take home a tangible reminder of this global food experience.

Sunday Fundays at Neill Cochran House Museum: Simple Machines
April 3 from 1-4 p.m.   |   Neill Cochran House Museum, 2310 San Gabriel St, Austin
What is a machine? Many of us think of machines as things that do work for us, but this month, Sunday Funday will investigate simple machines, that is, tools that make it easier for us to do the work ourselves. From inclined planes to pulleys, from levers to screws, simple machines are everywhere, including the construction of the 1855 historic house and the implements and tools used to live life in it. With help from staff and volunteers, kids will be able to use a treadmill crane to lift a heavy weight just by walking, use pulleys to play one-versus-all tug-o-war (and win!), and experiment with different kinds of levers. The collection of 19th century tools and housewares will be on display (including some available for trying out, too!) The museum and grounds will open for tours, including a new exhibit from the Austin History Center in the interpretive gallery and a responsive exhibit about the museum gardens and grounds. They’ll also have a machines and modern convenience themed seek-and-find guide for more curious and keen-eyed patrons. FREE! No RSVP required, drop in anytime, all materials provided. Keeping with the theme and weather permitting, badminton and croquet will be set up on the front lawn: both games using – you guessed it – simple machines! (Third class levers, to be exact.) Parking is 100% free in the 40-space museum lot accessible from 23rd street between San Gabriel and Leon. Overflow parking is available on the street or one block away at the University Towers parking garage.

Music in the Park
April 3 from 2-5 p.m.   |   Wooldridge Park, 900 Guadalupe St, Austin
The Austin History Center invites you to a FREE family-friendly afternoon of Music in the Park, an event featuring student musicians of the Austin Independent School District. Groups from various AISD schools will be performing, including the Lamar Fiddlers from Lamar Middle School & Fine Arts Academy, the Dobie Middle School Guitar Orchestra, the Blackshear Elementary Fine Arts Academy’s Choir, and more. Pack a blanket and a picnic to enjoy while you listen to the music. The Austin Public Library’s Youth Services department will have craft supplies available for kids to make their own musical instruments. This fun musical afternoon is planned in conjunction with the Austin History Center’s exhibit, “Making the Grade: Austin’s First Public Schools.” The exhibit explores the origins of Austin’s public school system with original photographs and vintage school ephemera such as report cards and course schedules. Visitors are invited to view the exhibit at the History Center (located next to Wooldridge Square Park) before and after the musical event. An in-gallery scavenger hunt game makes the exhibit fun for the whole family.

Fusebox Festival
April 6-10   |   Various locations
Fusebox is a hybrid arts festival that champions adventurous works of art in theater, dance, film, music, literature, visual and culinary arts. FREE to attend but to help plan your festival experience, reservations to most performances and events will be available here.

Music On Main Street (Round Rock)
Wednesdays in April from 6-8 p.m.   |   Prete Main Street Plaza stage, 221 E. Main Street, Round Rock
The City of Round Rock brings you Music on Main Street, a FREE music series on the Prete Main Street Plaza stage, 221 E. Main Street, from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays through May. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and the entire family. Visit the variety of dining options on Main Street or pack a picnic basket to enjoy the evening of fun and music! Food vendors will be on site. April 6: The Sieker Band, Bluegrass. April 13: Hello Wheels, Stomp Folk. April 20: Lady Be Good, Western Swing Jazz. April 27: Sarah Arenella, Vintage Jazz.

Star Party
April 6, 13, 20, and 27 from 8:30-10:30 p.m.   |   UT Campus – Robert Lee Moore Hall, Southeast corner of Dean Keeton and Speedway in Austin
Every Wednesday night while UT is in session the astronomy department sponsors FREE public star parties on the top roof of Robert Lee Moore Hall. (Once you reach RLM, take the elevators to the 17th floor and then follow the signs to the stairs up to the telescope.) Click here for map to RLM and nearby parking garages. All ages are welcome, but we ask that younger children be under adult supervision at all times. Viewing times change throughout the year so please check this page for current times before planning your visit. Please call 512-232-4265 for weather cancellation information. This line is updated approximately 30-45 minutes before the scheduled start time.

First Annual HAYS County Fair & Crawfish Festival (Kyle)
April 7-9 from 2-11:30 p.m.   |   Central Texas Speedway, 24801 IH 35, Kyle
Come out to the Annual Hays County Fair and Crawfish Festival to enjoy all your traditional fair favorites and more bringing the whole community together! Carnival Rides, Helicopter Rides, High Speed Go Cart Racing, and don’t forget about the motorcycle poker run and Crawfish Boil on Saturday the 9th! FREE admission; parking fee is $5.

Handbuilt Motorcycle Show
April 8-10; times vary   |   1100 E. 5th Street, Austin
The tremendous swell of support shown by the motorcycling community, both locally and abroad, has turned this event into a destination for riders, enthusiasts, and fans from all over the world. Hailed by the American Motordrome Wall of Death Riders as the best in the country, this exhibition of custom builds and original artwork draws a diverse crowd ranging from the merely curious to die-hard fans. Last year’s show featured custom motorcycles from the best builders in the business: Max Hazan, Roland Sands, Shinya Kimura, Walt Siegl, and so on. Arranged in a gallery-like setting alongside original artwork, the show celebrates the process of design and the satisfaction of creation inherent in the craft. FREE admission.

Bluebonnet Festival (Burnet)
April 8-10   |    Burnet Historic Square
The annual Bluebonnet Festival has grown into one of the most exciting and successful small-town festivals in Texas. The event draws crowds topping 30,000 each year. Each year, activities are added to keep the annual event exciting for first time visitors as well as repeat festival fans. Admission is FREE! Carnival rides and the Saturday night concert cost extra.

Sunset Music Series (Hutto)
April 8 from 7-9 p.m.   |   The Gin @ The CO-OP District, 420 US 79, Hutto
FREE
performance by the ACC Stage Ensemble – Directed by Steven Sodders.

Yoga on the Plaza (Round Rock)
April 9 at 8 a.m.   |   Prete Main Street Plaza, 221 E Main St, Round Rock
Get your om on in Downtown Round Rock with a FREE, beginner friendly yoga class presented by The Yoga Room. Bring a yoga mat or towel and bottle of water. Class starts at 8 a.m. so arrive a little early to get your mat on the plaza. The class lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Clean Sweep
April 9 from 9-11 a.m.   |   Locations all over Austin – see the Site Map.
Each April, Keep Austin Beautiful hosts Clean Sweep, a city-wide service day spanning 130+ sites in 31 zip codes throughout Austin and resulting in over 29 tons of trash removed by 4,000 plus volunteer who contribute 8,700 combined service hours. The network of cleanups is followed by a not-to-be-missed volunteer party featuring free t-shirts, lunch, live music, children’s environmental activities, recycled art, a unique object contest, door prizes, and more! Register here.

NAO Baseball Opening Day Carnival
April 9 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.   |   North Austin Optimist Club, 1105 Morrow St, Austin
Come one come all, it’s opening day for baseball. North Austin Optimist club is having a big carnival with fun games for all ages. See FREE baseball games with kids 4- 14 years old, enjoy moon walks, cake walks, soda toss, and food. The fire truck will be on site from 9:30-11 a.m. Admission is FREE. Tickets for games are 25 cents each. Bring all the family for fun in the sun.

Young Artists in Service
April 9 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.   |   Art for the People Gallery, 1711 South First St, Austin
Introduce your child to the joys and possibilities of art during open studio time with artist, Jean-Pierre Verdijo! This workshop is a time for our youth to explore their creative nature through drawing, cutting paper, and using stamps, along with a myriad of other materials! This event is FREE and open to the public and the Amala Foundation will be bringing youth to participate. Donations for the Amala Foundation are welcome. AGES: 4 – 12 years old. Teenagers are welcome to participate and serve as studio volunteers. PROVIDING: all art materials, water bottles, & light snacks. If you would like to bring additional materials, go for it! If it rains, there is a possibility of event being canceled.

Hands On History (Georgetown)
April 9 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.   |   Williamson Museum, 716 S Austin Ave, Georgetown
The second Saturday of each month, the museum hosts an interactive activity where children can get up close and personal with the history of the county, learning something new and creating their own artifact. Experience life during the Civil War and what people wore by making your own pocket watch! FREE for children of all ages.

Second Saturdays are for Families: Flags and Forts
April 9 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.   |   Laguna Gloria, 3809 West 35th Street, Austin
Find your groove on the grounds of Laguna Gloria! Build a giant fort and experiment with fabric art inspired by the sci-fi disco world of Lise Haller Baggesen:Mothernism, on view in the Gatehouse Gallery. What will your flag look like? The Contemporary Austin offers FREE monthly hands-on art-making activities, brought to you by HomeAway. Recommended for ages 2–11.

South Asian New Year Festival
April 9 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.   |   Zilker Hillside Theater, 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin
Traditional open air cultural program, with authentic cuisine, ethnic dresses, jewelry, henna, kids’ entertainment, and more. Admission is FREE!

Celebrate me! Thailand
April 9 from 12-4 p.m.   |   George Washington Carver Museum, 1165 Angelina St, Austin
Celebrate Me! is a GLOBAL CULTURAL educational experience series exploring different cultures from around the world celebrating their similarity and diversity. Each visit will be a new corner of the globe. Our journey will open the door to world communities through language, dress, food, costumes, history, music and more…We are saving a seat for you, join us for this cultural exploration. FREE and open to the public.

World Day of Puppetry: Handmade Puppet Dreams Screening for Families 
April 9 from 1-2 p.m.   |   Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin
Handmade Puppet Dreams showcases the fresh voices of independent puppeteers who embrace film as their medium for individual expressions, to build their visions, and breathe life into their dreams, while exploring a spectrum of live-action puppetry styles. Independent filmmakers and puppeteers explore their craft specifically for the camera in this handpicked selection of family friendly puppet film shorts. Since 2005, Handmade Puppet Dreams has been screened nationally, where it received a UNIMA Citation of Excellence, and internationally in France, the Czech Republic, India, United Kingdom, Puerto Rico, Israel, and Prague, where it was awarded The Best Puppet Film at The World Puppet Festival. Hosted by Noel MacNeal and Lionel, from “Between the Lions.” Puppeteer, performer, and author, Noel is best known for his performances as BEAR in Bear in the Big Blue House, LIONEL in Between the Lions, Puzzle Place, Eureeka’s Castle, and appearances on Sesame Street. Family-friendly workshops to follow film screening. Sign up at the door on the day of the event. FREE, but get your tickets here ahead of time.

Saturday Night Concert Series: TESSY LOU & THE SHOTGUN STARS (Bee Cave)
April 9 from 7-9 p.m.   |   Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave
Enjoy Saturday nights outdoors with live music, free kids activities, and great shopping at the Saturday Night Concert Series. The music begins at 7:00 pm in the Hill Country Galleria’s outdoor amphitheater. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this FREE event every Saturday night. Bring your family, friends, and a blanket to lounge on the grassy lawn during the show. Browse the vendors, order to-go food and have it delivered to your spot on the grassy lawn, and enjoy FREE kids activities like face painting or balloon twisters. Arrive early to ensure you get a free swag bag filled with fun items and discounts from the Hill Country Galleria merchants and sponsors. Sun Radio 1001.1FM will be on-site to emcee the event and introduce you to the band. Genre: Country/Western/Americana/Bluegrass.

Umlauf Family Day
April 10 from 12-4 p.m.   |   605 Robert E. Lee Road, Austin
Family Days offer special, hands-on programs designed for families with children, ages four to ten years old. Families have the opportunity to explore the UMLAUF while engaging in creative activities. Listen to stories, do yoga in the garden, watch sculpture demos, enjoy live music and more. FREE and open to the public.

Texas Community Music Festival
April 15-24  |   Central Market North, 4001 N Lamar Blvd, Austin
The Annual Texas Community Music Festival will showcase all types of live music. TCMF is organized, managed and promoted by the Austin Civic Wind Ensemble, Austin’s oldest community band. FREE!

17th Annual Butterfly Festival (Wimberley)
April 16 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.   |   EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens, 1101 FM 2325, Wimberley
The Opening Ceremony at 9 a.m. will be followed by a Commemorative Air Force Flyover (weather permitting). Live Butterfly Releases will happen every 30 minutes!  You can also enjoy: Butterfly Art, Flight House featuring Texas Native Butterflies, nature activities, pirate and princess tents, games, concessions and live entertainment. FREE admission, but donations are greatly appreciated.

Saturday Night Concert Series: Warren Hood (Bee Cave)
April 16 from 7-9 p.m.   |   Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave
Enjoy Saturday nights outdoors with live music, free kids activities, and great shopping at the Saturday Night Concert Series. The music begins at 7:00 pm in the Hill Country Galleria’s outdoor amphitheater. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this FREE event every Saturday night. Bring your family, friends, and a blanket to lounge on the grassy lawn during the show. Browse the vendors, order to-go food and have it delivered to your spot on the grassy lawn, and enjoy FREE kids activities like face painting or balloon twisters. Arrive early to ensure you get a free swag bag filled with fun items and discounts from the Hill Country Galleria merchants and sponsors. Sun Radio 1001.1FM will be on-site to emcee the event and introduce you to the band. Genre: Indie, Folk Rock, Country.

Cars and Coffee
April 17 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.  |    The Oasis on Lake Travis, 6550 Comanche Trail, Austin
Enjoy a low-key display of classic cars. FREE!

Car Show (Round Rock)
April 17 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.   |   Centennial Plaza, 301 W Bagdad, Round Rock
FREE
family friendly car show held every third Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Downtown Round Rock. No registration needed, show and shine style event. Love your ride? Share it at the show! Arrive by 9:50 a.m. to find a location, spaces are available first come first served. Entrance to show is located off of Bagdad and Brown Street.

Pflugerville Book Pfestival (Pflugerville)
April 17 from 1-6 p.m.   |   Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W Pfluger St, Pflugerville
Pflugerville Public Library and KAZI Book Review present the first annual Pflugerville Book Pfestival. Throughout the weekend, there will be a diverse mix of 18 different authors who will participate in panel interviews and book signings. Guests for Sunday include young adult, adult fiction, and adult nonfiction authors. Sunday’s lineup includes nationally bestselling and Edgar Award-winning author Meg Gardiner, Mark Pryor, Janice Hamrick, Steve Winfrey, Stephanie Powell, and Amanda Downum. FREE and open to the public.

Dazed and Confused Party
April 20 from 6-10 p.m.  |   Top Notch Hamburgers, 7525 Burnet Rd, Austin
Top Notch’s annual Dazed and Confused party happens again this year! There will be giveaways, raffle prizes, live music, food and drink specials, and, of course, the movie at dusk. FREE!

Third Thursdays at the Blanton
April 21 from 12-9 p.m.  |   Blanton Museum of Art, 200 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin
Every third Thursday, the Blanton has a FREE themed event that features extended hours, multiple programs including Yoga in the Galleries, tours, and other offerings. Thursdays are always FREE at The Blanton.

Free Movie in the Park: Wall-E
April 21 at 8 p.m.   |   Wooldridge Square Park, 900 Guadalupe St, Austin
Movies in the Park is a series of FREE films brought to you by Austin Parks Foundation in partnership with Alamo Drafthouse and presented by Lyft. Residents and visitors bring their blanket or lawn chairs (and often a picnic dinner!) for a fun and relaxing evening under the beautiful Austin night sky. Enjoy a special Earth Day presentation of Wall-E at Wooldridge Square Park! Rain Date: May 19.

Founders Day Festival (Dripping Springs)
April 22-24   |   Downtown Dripping Springs, Mercer St, Dripping Springs
The FREE three-day celebration kicks off with the Grand Parade and includes: free music and entertainment on two stages, the Mighty Thomas Carnival, food, beer, street dances, cook-off competitions, over 150 arts and crafts booths and business vendors. The Annual Founders Day Festival honors and celebrates the founding of the Dripping Springs community in 1850 by the Moss, Wallace, and Pound families. The three-day jubilee promotes cooperation and volunteerism in the community and generates community spirit and recreation. Hosted by the City of Dripping Springs and the Founders Day Commission, which includes representatives of various community organizations, the proceeds from the festival are donated back into the community and directly benefit local non-profit organizations, churches, school and park programs, youth groups, and charities.

Red Poppy Festival (Georgetown)
April 22-24   |   Downtown Dripping Springs, Mercer St, Dripping Springs
A Georgetown and Central Texas tradition, the Red Poppy Festival is a time to enjoy family and friends, music, food, and fun. Come early and stay late. Family-friendly entertainment doesn’t get any better than this. View the full event schedule here. Admission is FREE!

Totally Cool Totally Art 20th Anniversary Party
April 22 from 6-9 p.m.  |   Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, Austin
Modeled as a FREE, after-school, arts education program, TCTA maintains a strong mentoring component both before the classes with recreation center staff and during the classes, where teens work alongside professional artists. Helping teens connect with role models in the community, the program reinforces their positive choices, gives them new experiences, builds respect and trust, keeps them out of trouble during high-risk after-school hours and improves their skills in creative expression, communication, teamwork and arts appreciation.

Austin Earth Day Festival
April 23 from 12-7 p.m.  |   The Historic Browning Hanger at Mueller, 4550 Mueller Central Dr, Austin
Celebrate Earth Day at Mueller Lake Park! There will be 150+ exhibitors, hands on activities for kids and adults, inspiring speakers, and delicious food vendors. Performances by Asleep at the Wheel, Ruby Jane, Sweet Spirit, and Riders against the Storm and more! Be in the record breaking aerial photo emceed by Mayor Adler! 2016 will be the biggest Austin Earth Day Festival yet, and it’s FREE! You won’t want to miss it! 

Youth Fishing Derby (Round Rock)
April 23 from 7-11 a.m.   |   Old Settlers Park, 3300 Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock
This event is FREE but pre-registration is strongly encouraged and participants must check in before fishing. For ages 3-12 years and all children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Participants will need to provide all of their own equipment, including bait and only one pole per child will be allowed. Bright Lake is home to bass, catfish and sunfish, so prepare accordingly. Size 6-8 is a good all-round hook size. There will also be demonstrations and other activities.

Devine Lake Park Kite Festival (Leander)
April 23 from 12-4 p.m.   |   Devine Lake Park, 1807 Waterfall Ave, Leander
There will be awards for kiting events, kite and food vendors, and lots of high flying fun. Family friendly and FREE!

Saturday Night Concert Series: Guy Forsyth (Bee Cave)
April 23 from 7-9 p.m.   |   Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave
Enjoy Saturday nights outdoors with live music, free kids activities, and great shopping at the Saturday Night Concert Series. The music begins at 7:00 pm in the Hill Country Galleria’s outdoor amphitheater. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this FREE event every Saturday night. Bring your family, friends, and a blanket to lounge on the grassy lawn during the show. Browse the vendors, order to-go food and have it delivered to your spot on the grassy lawn, and enjoy FREE kids activities like face painting or balloon twisters. Arrive early to ensure you get a free swag bag filled with fun items and discounts from the Hill Country Galleria merchants and sponsors. Sun Radio 1001.1FM will be on-site to emcee the event and introduce you to the band. Genre: Americana/Indie/Blues Rock.

Dittmar Recreation Center Open House
April 26 from 6-8 p.m.  |   Dittmar Recreation Center, 1009 W. Dittmar Rd, Austin
Enjoy games, music, and more. Doors will be open to demonstrate programs offered at Dittmar throughout the year. FREE!

YMCA of Austin Family Play Day
April 30 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.   |   Mueller Lake Park, 4550 Mueller Blvd, Austin
The purpose of “Family Play Day” is to provide a platform for the community to come together for family fun and active play, as well as learn about Y programs. Through this event, we hope to inform the community about the YMCA of Austin’s Financial Assistance program, which provides opportunities for ALL to participate regardless of their ability to pay. At the FREE event, kids ages 4-14 will enjoy age-appropriate booths and games alongside their parents. Families will also get to participate in our very first Family Fun 1K Challenge/walk through Mueller Lake Park.

Lake Travis SpringFest (Bee Cave)
April 30 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.   |   12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave
The biggest time in the smallest town! SpringFest is back at the Hill Country Galleria! Live kids performances on the main stage at 10 a.m. Live music starts at 2 p.m. Artisan shopping all day and a Kidzone that will keep the kids busy for hours. Don’t forget to get your new boat for the season at the Boat Expo. Enjoy central Texas beer and wine in the BrewHaus/WineStomp tent. FREE admission and parking!

Cinco de Mayo / Día Celebration
April 30 at 11 a.m.   |   Dove Springs Recreation Center, 5801 Ainez Dr, Austin
Come celebrate El Día de los Niños/Día de los Libros with the Library as part of the Dove Springs Recreation Center’s Cinco de Mayo festival! Enjoy fun literacy activities and crafts. Complete activities to earn a FREE book (while supplies last)!

Eeyore’s Birthday Party
April 30 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.  |   Pease District Park, 1100 Kingsbury St, Austin
If you want to check out this renowned Austin event, get out costumes for you and your child (and even for your family pet). Costumes of any variety are encouraged – they do not need to be Winnie-the-Pooh-related. There will be costume contests with prizes for kids of all ages. Some families love it; some don’t. Read more about this unique Austin event here. There is no parking available at the venue. FREE!

Extra April fun on the cheap

Saturday Spring Family Tour Days (Manor)
April 2, 9, & 16 at 11 a.m.   |   Crowe’s Nest Farm, 10300 Taylor Ln, Manor
Hey Farm Friends! Here are the days for Crowe’s Nest Farm’s Saturday Spring Family Tour Days all at 11 a.m. sharp April 2nd, 9th, & 16th. See the new baby goats, sheep, and llama. There will be the usual fun stuff such as the hayride, cow milking demo, Faeriewood, gardens and tons of critters, plus local honey and home made preserves. The tour lasts about 90 minutes. $6 per person ages 3+. $3 for 2 year olds. Kids under 2 are free.

Go Fish! Learn to Fish Event
April 9 from 9 a.m. – noon   |   5808 McKinney Falls Parkway Austin
Families can learn the basics of fishing through fun, hands-on activities. Take away a fishing fun pack and enter the drawing for door prizes. Equipment and bait provided or bring your own. No fishing license necessary. Adults must accompany children. Bring sun protection and water. Registration and start time is 9 a.m. Adults $6; kids 12 and under are free.

Afternoon in the Garden: Faeries, Pollinators, and their Flowers
April 24 from 1-4 p.m.  |   2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin
Family activity, free with Garden entry, no registration required. Play a fun matching game linking unique faeries with their specific plant allies. Plant extraordinary flowers that attract faeries, pollinators, and support wildlife. Learn about the healing and mystical qualities of plants & their allies. Admission is $1 for children (ages 3-12), $2 for adults, Austin resident (ages 13-61), $3 for adults, non-resident (ages 13-61), $1 for seniors (age 62 & over).

Bonus shopportunities:

Rockin’ Dudz
April 2-3 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.  |   12500 North IH-35, Austin
Shop Rockin’ Dudz for quality gently-used or new kids and maternity items. Items include children and maternity clothing, shoes, toys, books, games, baby equipment, children’s furniture and more. FREE and open to everyone.

5th Annual Central Spring Craft Fair (Round Rock)
April 2 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.   |   Austin Radio Control Association – Lester Field, 8705 Lindell Ln, Austin
Don’t miss this opportunity to see unique crafts from local vendors. It is a great time to buy gifts and get a little something for yourself. You can also enter a raffle for a chance to win some great prizes. FREE admission!

Just Between Friends (Round Rock/Georgetown)
April 7-9  |   3300 E Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock
On Thursday, April 7 from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. the sale is open to the public for $5 Admission or FREE with a pass that will be shared on Facebook closer to the day. On Friday, April 8 the sale is from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and again from 5-7 p.m. (when many items will be half price) with FREE admission for all. Saturday, April 9 is Half Price Sale Day from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and admission is FREE.

Twice Loved
April 9 from 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.  |   Austin Sports Center, 425 Woodward Ave, Austin
From 7-8 a.m., admission is $3. From 8 a.m. – 1 p.m., admission is $1. Many items will be half price from 12-1 p.m. Click here for full shopping schedule and to receive a coupon for $1 off entry to the sale.

A little more fun that is not free

Alice In Wonderland
Now through May 14   |   ZACH Theater, Whisenhunt stage, 1510 Toomey Rd, Austin
Go down the rabbit hole and travel to Wonderland! In this unique adaption, the audience starts in the theatre and then will follow Alice around ZACH’s campus to go on an adventure, meet familiar characters, and help defeat the Red Queen! A new adaptation by Underbelly in partnership with ZACH’s Theatre for Families. Buy tickets here ($18-23). Free Fun in Austin readers can get $2 off adult tickets to any of ZACH’s 2015-16 Theatre for Families shows! Use promo code ZACHFUN to redeem.

Zilker Garden Festival
April 2 & 3 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.   |   2220 Barton Springs Road, Austin
For over 50 years, the annual Zilker Garden Festival has been a one-stop, garden shopping destination when spring arrives in Austin and Central Texas. A family-friendly event, the garden festival offers something for everyone- a flower show, a kids corner, a food court, and a beer garden. $10 Adults (age 13+), $4 Children (age 4-12), under age 4 Free. Parking for festival attendees is available in the Zilker Polo Fields across from The Zilker Botanical Garden for $5 fee. There will be no entrance to the parking on the Polo Fields from Barton Springs Road.  The entrance will be off of the MoPac frontage road (Andrew Zilker Road). New parking meters will be in use at the time of the Festival, charging the standard $5 parking fee.  The parking meter takes credit card and coins only. ADA parking is available.

Sherwood Forest Faire (McDade)
April 2 & 3  |   1883 Old Hwy 20, McDade (go here for directions)
35 miles east of Austin on US Hwy 290, you can find the medieval-style village of Sherwood Forest. The faire offers merchant shoppes, pubs, various stages and over 100 shows per day, rides, games, treats, a wedding chapel, and more. You can even camp out there if you wish to stay. Celebrate the time of Richard the Lionheart and Robin Hood and his Merry Men! $13-23, tickets available here.

James and the Giant Peach
April 2, 3, 9, & 10; times vary  |    ZACH Theater, Kleberg Stage, 1421 W Riverside Dr, Austin
When James is sent by his conniving aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion which results in a tremendous peach – and launches a journey of enormous proportions. Suddenly, James finds himself in the center of the gigantic peach among human-sized insects with equally oversized personalities, but after it falls from the tree and rolls into the ocean, the group faces hunger, sharks and plenty of disagreements. Thanks to James’ quick wit and creative thinking, the residents learn to live and work together in this charming family musical. Tickets $23-26. Free Fun in Austin readers can get $2 off adult tickets to any of ZACH’s 2015-16 Theatre for Families shows! Use promo code ZACHFUN to redeem.

NOLA, Texas Food and Music Festival (Cedar Park)
April 3 at noon   |    Cedar Park Center, 2100 Avenue of the Stars, Cedar Park 
The festival features storied musical acts such as Dr. John, Leon Russell,Asleep at the Wheel, and Cowboy Mouth. Austin legend Bob Schneider, Robert Randolph & The Family Band, and New Breed Brass Band will also rock the stage at the event aimed to bring a little New Orleans flair to Central Texas. Tickets are $30 in advance; children 10 years and under are FREE with a paid general admission ticket. The free general admission child ticket must be obtained from Box Office before entry.

Peter Rabbit Tales
April 3 at 2 p.m.   |   Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Avenue, Austin
In celebration of Beatrix Potter’s 150th birthday anniversary, Enchantment Theatre, in collaboration with the Estate of Beatrix Potter and Penguin Books UK, brings her captivating stories to life. Using fantastic masks, dance, whimsical puppets, gorgeous scenery and original music, the magical, marvelous world of Beatrix Potter comes alive on stage! Beatrix Potter created an instant classic with the little blue-coated rabbit that we recognize as both boy and rabbit, wild and civilized, and who has become an icon of childhood since he first hopped out of the pages of a story book and into children’s hearts. Tickets: $16.

Sesame Street Live: “Make a New Friend
April 8-10; times vary    |   Frank Erwin Center, 1701 Red River Street, Austin
Tickets are $15-$70.

Where the Wild Things Are
April 13-17; times vary    |   Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin
Everyone’s favorite children’s book comes to life live on stage at the Long Center! Tickets are $17 and can be purchased here.

Austin Reggae Festival
April 15-17    |   Auditorium Shores, 800 W Riverside Dr, Austin
Check out this year’s line up here and get your tickets here. $15/day or $40 for a 3-day pass.

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