Just like that, summer is upon us. As the final days of the school year slip through our fingers, we can set our sights on days at the pool, more relaxed schedules and extra chances for family fun. Check out our list of free things to do in Austin this June and you’ll never hear the dreaded “I’m bored!” again!
Caribbean Dance Voyage – June 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
The Austin Caribbean Cultural Exchange invites children ages 6-14 to immerse themselves in Caribbean cultures through dance. In this five-part series, children will learn Folkloric Dance and Kompa from Haiti, Soca and Chutney from Trinidad and Tobago, Dancehall from Jamaica, and Salsa Choke (choque) from Colombia. Dancers will have the option to showcase the moves they learn at the first annual Caribbean American Heritage Month Festival, which will take place on June 27th from 12-4 p.m. at the Office of Arts and Cultural Resources. 912 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702.
Blues on the Green: Official Antone’s 40th Anniversary Celebration – June 3, starting at 8:00 p.m.
Because of the Memorial Day flooding, the first installment of this year’s Blues on the Green is taking place, which is also the Official Antone’s 40th Anniversary Celebration, hosted by Jimmie Vaughan, with a special guest and with Antone’s All-Star Revue. Take your blankets or lawn chairs and join in the fun. The stage for Blues on the Green will be on the east end of Zilker Park where Lou Neff Road wraps around (similar to the location of the main ACL stage). For updates, join the Blues on the Green Text Alert Club by texting “BLUES” to 29217 and like KGSR’s Blues on the Green Facebook page. 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746.
Hound of the Baskervilles (Round Rock) – June 4-27, starting at 8:00 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays
When Sir Charles Baskerville is found dead on his estate, with a look of terror still etched on his face, and the paw prints of a gigantic hound beside his body, the great detective Sherlock Holmes is summoned from Baker Street, with Dr. Watson in tow, to unravel the mysteries surrounding his death, and investigate the ancient curse of the Hound of the Baskervilles. In this hilarious, new adaptation, Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic novel has been given a treatment reminiscent of Monty Python and The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged). Each performance will feature a different special guest who will kick off the evening with a 7:30 p.m. pre-show. Audiences are welcome to arrive early with their own food and drink, or to purchase it from the concessions tent. Running time is about two hours, including one intermission. For ages 5 and up. Donations accepted. Round Rock Amphitheater, 301 W Bagdad Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664.
The NeverEnding Story – June 4, 8:30 p.m.
Movies in the Park is a series of free films brought to you by the Austin Parks Foundation, and presented by the #1 movie theater in America, the Alamo Drafthouse. 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. Dogs, picnics, and lawn chairs are welcome. Alcoholic beverages, glass and styrofoam are not permitted in the park. Dick Nichols Park, 8011 Beckett Rd, Austin, TX 78749.
The Complete Words of William Shakespeare (Abridged) – June 4, 5 and 6; 8:00-9:30 p.m.
Oh Dragon Theatre Company presents a hilarious, fast-paced romp through the Bard’s extensive playbook. Three (yeah that’s right, only three) madcap individuals weave their wacky way through ALL of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and tragedies in one wild evening that will leave you rolling with laughter! Donations are suggested and appreciated (funds raised from this show will go to fund the Company’s 4th season). Seating will start at 7:30 p.m. and is first come, first serve. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, pack a picnic, and enjoy the show! Pan Am Hillside Stage at A.B. Cantu Recreation Center, 2100 E 3rd St, Austin, TX 78702.
Unplugged at the Grove: Dale Watson – June 4, 8:00-10:00 p.m.
Join KGSR every Thursday for 24 consecutive weeks at the iconic Shady Grove on Barton Springs Road for one of Austin’s longest running free concert series. There’s still no cover charge, $3.50 ZiegenBock Drafts, and the best music, food, and fun you’ll experience under the clear, warm skies of Austin, Texas! VIP parking is available for the first ten Subarus, courtesy of Austin Subaru. Additional parking is available at the Bicycle Sports Shop right down the street at 517 S. Lamar Blvd. 1624 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704.
Friday Night Lights Tailgate Screening (RSVP) – June 5, 6:00-10:00 p.m.
Hotel San Jose is the meeting spot for a night of tailgate activities, music, FNL cast, and one great episode of FNL. Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose! TIPS: come with a chair or blanket of some sort to sit on. Beer, coffee, cold drinks, and some snacks will be for sale. No outside alcohol will be allowed in, and no glass items! 1316 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704.
That ’80s Concert at Zilker Hillside Theater – June 5 and 6, 8:00 p.m.
The Austin Civic Orchestra (ACO) will present its free annual Pops Concerts. Zilker Hillside Theater, 2201 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704.
Metz Movies Under the Stars: Walking With Dinosaurs – June 5, 8:00 p.m.
Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks to enjoy an outdoor movie at Metz every Friday at dusk. Free popcorn and drink at every showing. Movie nights will take place unless inclement weather occurs. Call 478-8716 to check on weather cancellations. Movie selections are subject to change. Metz Rec Center, 2704 Canterbury St, Austin, TX 78702.
Bubblepalooza – June 6, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Spend time on the City Terrace and expansive lawns enjoying live music, chalk art, trailer food—and of course, tons of bubbles! Activities include live music on the Summer Stage from the Jellydots, Kupira Marimba and more; In My Own Backyard, theatre for the very young (0-4 years) presented by Trike Theatre Company and Pollyanna Theatre Company; a Food Truck court, Arts & Crafts tent, local vendors, Coloring Corner, fun activities and crafts, The Thinkery, VIP Lounge for Season Ticket Holders, plus ticket giveaways and specials throughout the day! Beverages will be available for purchase on-site. Parking will be available for $8 per car at the Palmer Events Center Garage. Free parking is also available at Auditorium Shores and the surrounding area. Donations are encouraged. Sorry, no pets allowed on the Long Center City Terrace. 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704.
School’s Out for Summer – June 6, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Celebrate the end of a successful school year with free admission to the museum! The dig pit will be open to young paleontologists 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fossil identifications will be available from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. If there is a Scout in your family working on a badge that includes a requirement to speak with a scientist, drop in at the Paleo Lab to chat with a paleontologist. Texas Memorial Museum, 2400 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712.
Hasbro ATX Best Morning Ever – June 6, 9:00-11:30 a.m.
ATX Television Festival and Hasbro Studios are creating that nostalgic morning for kids and parents alike — a family-friendly Saturday Morning Cartoon Breakfast! Come in pajamas, grab some pancakes or a bowl of fruit loops, then play some games at the Highball, before snuggling up with blankets in an Alamo theater to enjoy episodes of My Little Pony, Littlest Pet Shop andTransformers: Robots in Disguise. Hasbro Studios will provide giveaways, an interactive Smilebooth photo booth, plus game stations (coloring, play doh, and more)! While attendance (and breakfast) is free, please RSVP if you plan to attend. Alamo South Lamar, 1120 South Lamar Boulevard, Austin, TX 78704.
Home Depot Kids Workshop: Load ‘n Go Truck – June 6, 9 a.m.
Learn how to build a truck and keep your craft, for free! Register to attend at a Home Depot near you.
Austin Summer Fun Checklist For Kids Launch Party (Round Rock) – June 6, 10:00 a.m.
Join us for the launch party to celebrate the kickoff of the Austin Summer Fun Checklist for Kids! CRAFTS! PRIZES! GIVEAWAYS! Live music from Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band starting at 11 a.m. We’ll be handing out free copies of the all new 2015 I Heart Austin Summer Fun Checklist for Kids. Kaleidoscope Toys, 110 N IH 35, Ste 375, Round Rock, TX 78681.
Saturday Night Concert Series Featuring Amanda Pearcy (Bee Cave) – June 6, 7:00-9:00 p.m.
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! Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave, TX 78738.
Free First Sundays at the Bullock Museum – June 7, 12:00-5:00 p.m.
Enjoy free exhibit admission all day during Free First Sundays, held the first Sunday of every month. Families can explore the Story of Texas through three floors of exhibits that showcase artifacts from around the state. Special family programs from 12-3 p.m. combine art creation, presentations by partner organizations, and gallery activities. Take a virtual trip across this great state and discover the amazing diversity of Texas landscapes and people. Plan your next journey, create regional artwork, explore different modes of transportation, and more! Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 N Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701.
Summer Kids Camp: The Croods – June 9, 10:00 a.m.
Tickets will be given out on a first-come, first-serve basis, starting at 9 a.m. The movie itself will start at 10 a.m. in one of the dine-in theaters. Moviehouse & Eatery, 8300 North FM 620, Building B, Austin, TX 78726.
Music for Kids, Featuring Staci Gray – June 10, 2:00 p.m.
Join the ATX Music Office and Austin Public Library as they present Music for Kids with special guest, Staci Gray. APL – Little Walnut Creek Branch, 835 W Rundberg Ln, Austin, TX 78758.
Nature Nights: Plants – June 11, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Join the Wildflower Center for free family fun on select Thursday evenings this summer! Nature Nights are fun explorations of plants, animals, and the ecology of Central Texas. Each evening features interactive presentations, hikes with experts in their fields, and nature crafting for kids of all ages. Take a hike in the gardens with experts to learn more about our native plant life. Commander Ben will be bringing his Invasive Hunter Academy to help teach kids of all ages about the invasive plant species around Central Texas. He might even know of an invasive plant that is edible! Austin Public Library will have a story time in the Little House. Go on a scavenger hunt around the gardens. Kids 12 and under receive a free gift in the Gift Store. Please come early as the parking lot fills up quickly. If the lot is full, please park on the street. Please only park in designated parking spots. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739.
Henry the Fourth, Part 1 – June 11-13, 18-20, 25-27, 8:00-10:00 p.m.
Marking Something for Nothing Theater’s third annual production of a community-friendly Shakespearean play at Ramsey Park, Henry the Fourth will be performed with minimal props, costumes, and lighting, focusing on storytelling and the rich language of Shakespeare. Performed by a cast of 12 actors, most portraying multiple roles, Henry the Fourth concludes at a brisk two hours. Henry the Fourth Part One is Shakespeare’s most beloved history, featuring the unforgettable character of Falstaff, the heavy, humorous, and hedonistic knight. The story centers on the young prince Hal’s journey from an irresponsible party boy to a brave hero. Rebellion is tearing England apart, with the devious Worcester plotting against King Henry, and Hal must become the man who can defeat the valiant and headstrong Hotspur. This lively play features family drama, romance, sword fighting, and rollicking pub antics. Ramsey Park, 4301 Rosedale Ave, Austin, TX 78756.
The Little Mermaid – June 11, 8:30 p.m.
Movies in the Park is a series of free films brought to you by the Austin Parks Foundation, and presented by the #1 movie theater in America, the Alamo Drafthouse. 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. Dogs, picnics, and lawn chairs are welcome. Alcoholic beverages, glass and styrofoam are not permitted in the park. Republic Square Park, 422 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701.
Republic of Texas Rally Parade & Concert – June 12, 7:00 p.m. – midnight
The ROT Biker Rally is the largest “turnstile” motorcycle rally in the country. Although the Travis County Expo Center is the main location for the Rally, the Friday of Rally weekend, there is a parade and concert downtown. The parade will run from about 7:45–8:30 p.m. Bring ear protection for the littles, as the event can get loud. Congress Avenue from Cesar Chavez to 11th Street.
Movies at the Lake: The Boxtrolls (Kyle) – June 12, 8:30 p.m.
Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and snacks. Movies begin 30 minutes after sunset and are shown at the amphitheater at Lake Kyle. Lake Kyle Park, 700 Lehman Rd, Kyle, TX 78640.
Lowe’s Build and Grow: Iron Man’s Avenjet – June 13, 10:00 a.m.
Registration for this free workshop opens at 12:00 a.m. (EST) on June 1. Sign up to participate at a Lowe’s near you.
Cabela’s Annual Kids Day (Buda) – June 13, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
This community event provides youth with the opportunity to try out outdoor activities, including archery, fishing, BB gun shooting and kayaking, for free. It is also an educational experience with several booths from local groups such as Kids Outdoor Zone, CCA Austin, various Texas Parks and Wildlife branches, Fishing’s Future and many others. Educational booths will focus on life-jacket and boating safety, animal identification, and more. 15570 S IH-35, Buda, TX 78610.
“Ladies and Gentlemen…The Beatles!” Exhibit Opening – June 13, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The LBJ Presidential Library is celebrating the arrival of this exhibit with a free, family-friendly, day-long party featuring live music from The Beatles cover band The Eggmen and bites from local food trucks. The exhibit is a celebration of the fascination America has had with “Beatlemania” and the four lads from Liverpool during the past fifty years. LBJ Presidential Library, 2313 Red River St, Austin, TX 78705.
Maker Pfest (Pflugerville) – June 13, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Enjoy demos from the Central Texas Droids R2D2 Builders Club, Class Bytes Raspberry Pi Computing, the Connally High School Robotics Team, Learning Fun 101 Lego Robotics, the Pflugerville Quilt Guild, the Pflugerville Library Pfnitters, costumer Jim Conditt and painter Megan B. Small crafts will be available for all ages (while supplies last) and you can view demos of our 3D printer, 3D scanner and more. All ages are welcome. Pflugerville Public Library, 1008 W Pflugerville St, Pflugerville, TX 78660.
Young Adventurers Film Series: James and the Giant Peach – June 13, 3:00-4:30 p.m.
The Harry Ransom Center’s Young Adventurers Film Series continues with the stop-motion animated film, James and the Giant Peach (1996). Adapted from Roald Dahl’s classic 1961 book, the film follows James on his journey in a giant peach with a group of insect friends. Donations are welcome. Seating is first-come, first-served, and doors open at 2:30 p.m. Run time is 80 minutes. Attendees may enter to win a copy of Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach as well as a copy of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland & Through the Looking Glass. Harry Ransom Center, 300 W 21st St, Austin, TX 78712.
Music for Kids, Featuring Sara Hickman – June 14, 2:00 p.m.
Join the ATX Music Office and Austin Public Library as they present Music for Kids with special guest, Sara Hickman. APL – Faulk Central Library, 800 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701.
Summer Reading Kick-off (Leander) – June 16, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Leander’s Every Hero Has A Story summer reading program is for all ages, from birth through adult. Sign up and keep track of your reading. For children 11 and under, there are prizes for every two hours you read or listen to a story and after 10 hours, you will earn raffle tickets for some awesome bigger prizes. For ages 11-high school, for every hour you read, you receive a raffle ticket and for adults, every book you read earns you a raffle ticket. You can sign up for the Summer Reading Club anytime from 10 am on June 16th till August 7th when the program ends, but on kick-off day we will have treats and crafts and lots of fun planned for you. Leander Public Library, 1011 S Bagdad Rd, Leander, TX 78641.
101X Summer Cinema Series: Hook – June 17, 7:00 p.m.
Bring your family and friends to enjoy a lovely summer evening watching a film on the lawn. The movie will start at dusk, but prior to the show you will be able to enjoy plenty of fun-filled family activities and more! Central Market, 4001 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78756.
Dinosaur George – June 17, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Come learn about dinosaurs from “Dinosaur George” Blasing, a self-taught paleontologist and animal behaviorist with more than 35 years of study and research. Lake Travis Community Library, 1938 Lohmans Crossing, Austin, TX 78734.
Music in the Park: Juneteenth Celebration (Pflugerville) – June 19, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Music in the Park provides a variety of entertainment every other Friday night, beginning in June in Pfluger Park. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, picnic baskets, friends and neighbors for a free evening of music, enterainment and relaxation. Pfluger Park, 515 City Park Road, Pflugerville, TX 78660.
World Refugee Day – June 20, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Commemorate the United Nations’ World Refugee Day at the Bullock Museum with a naturalization ceremony, free samples of world cuisine, live music and performances, and activities for families with kids ages 6 and up. Bullock Texas State History Museum, 1800 N Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701.
Juneteenth Celebration – June 20, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Commemorate the ending of slavery with a parade, beginning at Comal and MLK. The parade wraps up at Rosewood Park, with a celebration, including live music, vendors and kids activities. 2300 Rosewood Ave., Austin, TX 78702.
Family Yoga in the Park – June 21, 9:30 a.m.
The Little Yoga House, a boutique children’s and family yoga school with a specific focus on healthy child development through yoga, music, dance, and art, leads a family yoga in the park class. Wooldridge Park, 900 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78701.
Austin Symphonic Band: Father’s Day in the Park – June 21, 7:30-9:00 p.m.
ASB celebrates Dad with this annual concert. Marches, patriotic melodies, and other familiar works are the order of the day – selections that will have your Dad’s toe tappin’ – as well as your own! Bring a picnic basket and spread out a blanket under the Pecan trees at the Hillside Theatre. 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704.
Blues on the Green: ACL Fest Preview with Shakey Graves and Riders Against the Storm – June 24, starting at 8:00 p.m.
Take your blankets or lawn chairs and join in the fun. The stage for Blues on the Green will be on the east end of Zilker Park where Lou Neff Road wraps around (similar to the location of the main ACL stage). For updates, join the Blues on the Green Text Alert Club by texting “BLUES” to 29217 and like KGSR’s Blues on the Green Facebook page. 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746.
Art After Six – June 26, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Stop by The People’s Gallery at City Hall for extended gallery hours and talks by artists from the 2015 exhibition. Artist talks begin at 6:15 p.m. in Boards and Commissions room. The gallery will be open for self-guided tours from 6:00–8:00 pm. Artworks are on display on the first three floors. Pick up a gallery guide on the first floor. Featured artists: Barbara Irwin, Amy Scofield, Liana Tomchess. Austin City Hall, 301 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701.
Live Music at the Domain – June 27, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Enjoy live music from the Lawn in Domain II, located near iPic Theaters! The Domain, 3225 Amy Donovan Plaza, Austin, TX 78758.
5th Annual Family Water Festival – June 28, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Bring the family out for an exciting, fun-filled day celebrating the Texas Colorado River. Learn all about the Texas Colorado River – Austin’s drinking water – and how to be better stewards of the environment. Festival activities include science experiments, canoe and kayak lessons, reptile and river bug shows, arts and crafts, games, water safety tips, face painting, puppet shows, live music, food trucks, and much more. This year’s event also coincides with the Colorado River Ramble, a canoe, kayak and SUP race around Lady Bird Lake. This fun, family-friendly event is put on with the help of Expedition School. Fiesta Gardens, 2101 Jesse E Segovia St, Austin, TX 78702.
For even more fun, check out 75 FREE Things to do in Austin this Summer!
