The summer months are coming up, and there are plenty of things to do to keep entertained in the month of July. From Independence Day celebrations to pup parties and music festivals, there is bound to be something for everyone.
July 2: Listen to Texas music
Sam’s Town Point will host singer and songwriter Seth James. A native of Texas, the country music artist released his latest album, “Different Hat,” in August 2021. 9 p.m. $15. 2115 Allred Drive, Austin. www.samstownpointatx.com/calendar
July 4: Hear a symphony
Austin Symphony Orchestra will offer a night of fireworks and music at Vic Mathias Shores, formerly Auditorium Shores. The family-friendly event is the result of a partnership between ASO and the city of Austin. 8 p.m. (festivities begin). 8:30 p.m. (concert begins, followed by fireworks). Free. 800 W. Riverside Drive, Austin. www.my.austinsymphony.org/julyfour
July 4: Explore a festival
The Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival will include shopping with over 40 vendors, in addition to the resident boutiques and merchants. Live music will fill the Central Plaza lawn, and children can enjoy fair rides, water games and face painting. In addition, there will be more than 20 eateries and treat vendors. Fireworks will begin at dark. 4-10 p.m. Free. Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave. www.hillcountrygalleria.com
July 4: Watch a concert
Willie Nelson’s Fourth of July Picnic will return to Q2 Stadium for the holiday. The event will feature music from Willie Nelson & Family, Tyler Childers, Dwight Yoakam, Shaky Graves, Shane Smith & The Saints, Sierra Ferrall, Asleep at the Wheel and Particle Kid. 1 p.m. (doors open), 2 p.m. (music begins). Prices vary. 10414 McKalla Place, Austin. www.q2stadium.com
July 7-Aug. 12: Catch a musical
The 64th Zilker Summer Musical will feature Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical.” Families are invited to pack a picnic and attend this outdoor performance Thursdays through Sundays. There will be American Sign Language interpreted performances July 29 and Aug. 4. Free. 8:15 p.m. Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theatre, 2206 William Barton Drive, Austin. www.zilker.org
July 7: Drink for a dog
Jo’s Coffee Red River will host a puppy party at the coffee shop. Those attending are invited to pet adoptable dogs while drinking for a good cause. The coffee shop will donate 20% of all sales during the party to the Austin Humane Society. Free. 9-11 a.m. 1000 E. 41st St., Austin. www.austinhumanesociety.org
July 11: Pair food with beer
Jester King and Sway Thai will partner to present a beer-pairing dinner featuring brews from Jester King and menu items from Sway. Prices vary. 7 p.m. 3437 Bee Caves Road, West Lake Hills. www.jesterkingbrewery.com/events-calendar
July 14: Pawty in the park
Officials with Waterloo Greenway will host a series of events centered around dogs and their humans called The Dog Days of Summer. Those attending can enjoy ice cream and pup cups, a dog costume contest, a performance of Forklift Dance Works’ “Dances for Dogs and People Who Walk Them,” and a viewing of “Best in Show” at sunset. 6-10 p.m. Free. Moody Amphitheater, 1401 Trinity St., Austin. https://bit.ly/3oo8d6v
July 20-23: Discover live music
Hot Summer Nights, a three-day festival of concerts, will happen at nearly a dozen live music venues within the Red River Cultural District. Food vendors will be available. Times vary. Free. 400-1500 Red River St., Austin. www.redriverculturaldistrict.org
July 26: Attend a summer festival
The Sad Summer Festival will happen at Germania Insurance Amphitheater. The event will feature musical artists such as Taking Back Sunday, The Maine, Pvris, Hot Mulligan, Mom Jeans, Stand Atlantic and more. Tickets range between $35-$100. 2 p.m. 9201 Circuit of The Americas Blvd., Austin. www.sadsummerfest.com
Through Aug. 10: Experience outdoor jams
Every Thursday through Aug. 10, Austinites will be invited to attend a free outdoor concert series at the Long Center. Each week will feature a new artist. Lawn chairs and blankets are suggested. 8 p.m. Free. 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin. www.thelongcenter.org/thedropin
