Best Free Fun in Austin Events Happening in May 2026

The weather is not yet unbearably hot which means there’s no time like the present to take advantage of all the things to do in Austin. Here are just a few of our favorite ways to have some Free Fun in Austin in May!

Best Free Fun in Austin Events – May 2026

Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) – Community Cinema

Mobile Loaves & Fishes invites you to a movie night at Community First! Village’s Community Cinema & Amphitheater. Grab chairs and a blanket, bring family and friends, and enjoy this special screening. Popcorn, candy and drinks will be available for purchase (cards only, cash not accepted). You are encouraged to support the concessions team rather than bringing outside food and drinks. Concessions sales directly support our formerly homeless neighbors earning a dignified income to work this FREE event! Star Wars: The Force Awakens will screen on Friday, May 8. Movies begin at full dark and/or ~an hour after event start time (7:30 p.m.).

Mother’s Day Edition — East Austin Market

Join for the Mother’s Day Edition of East Austin Market on Saturday, May 9 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop 40+ local vendors selling jewelry, art, candles, plants, clothing, and more. Build a bouquet at our floral bar, strike a pose at the photo booth, and soak in the best of East Austin all in one afternoon. All handmade, all local, all East Austin.

49th Annual O. Henry Museum Pun-Off World Championships

The City of Austin’s O. Henry Museum, in collaboration with the Brush Square Museums Foundation, presents the 49th Annual O. Henry Museum Pun-Off World Championships. The event will take place on Saturday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Asian American Resource Center. The event is free to the public and no ticket is required for admission, but additional details about the event can be found on the event’s official Facebook event page or website, www.punoff.com.

Sunday Social: Free Community Yoga at Pease Park

The Sunday Social is free weekly yoga experience that happens at Pease Park on Sundays at 9:30 a.m.. Move through a 60-minute vinyasa flow designed to help you reconnect to your body, your breath, and the present moment. After class, you’re invited to stay for coffee and time to connect with others in the community.

The Jones Center Spring Sip and See

Join The Jones Center in collaboration with Elaine Events for their annual Spring Sip & See on Wednesday, May 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. Step into an evening inspired by a modern speakeasy—where curated cocktails, ambient lighting, and elevated details set the tone. Mix and mingle with some of Austin’s premier event vendors as you explore all The Jones Center has to offer.

4th Annual St. Elmo x Vacancy Block Party

The annual St. Elmo & Vacancy Brewing Block Party returns for year four – bigger, louder, and hoppier than ever. This year they’ve got double the beer & double the fun! With live music, DJs and a parade, it’s fun for the whole family. Happening Saturday, May 16 from 2 to 8 p.m.

Petit Cowboy Open House

A local icon returns to the riverbank. Join for a free night of celebration in the spirit of the Comal. Happening at Petit Cowboy in New Braunfels on Saturday, May 16 from 5 to 10 p.m. RSVP for a night to remember.

The Drop In

The Long Center’s free outdoor concert series returns on Thursday, May 21! Catch The Drop-In Music Series every Thursday (except for July 2), powered by KUTX 98.9. Details on the first event will drop the Friday before on social media.

Meet Texas Makers Tasting Event

Register today to join Central Market’s FREE Texas-sized tasting event! Meet the people behind the best local products made right here in the Lone Star State. You’ll get to hear their stories, taste their pride and joy, and celebrate all the local farmers, ranchers, brewers, and artisans that make up our community. Each registered guest will receive a special-edition set of Texas tea towels and a coupon to scoot your boots up and down our aisles and treat yourself to the best of Texas! It’s happening on Friday, May 29 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the North Lamar location.

Ballet Under the Stars – 2026

Metamorphosis Dance’s season will close with one of our favorite shows, the annual free-to-the-public production of Ballet Under the Stars at the Zilker Hillside Theater May 29 and 30. The show will start just before sundown, around 8 p.m. at Zilker Hillside Theater. Set up your blankets on the hillside early to enjoy the park and watch the pre-show preparations of the dancers. This Austin tradition is fun for the whole family and a great way to kick off your summer! Donations to Metamorphosis Dance are welcome and any amount is very much appreciated. They rely on donations like yours to continue to produce free-to-the-public performances.