The Long Center's The Drop-In will feature new live music performances every Thursday evening this summer. (Photo by Brynn Osborn/Courtesy of The Long Center)
See a free concert, watch a classic film and more this summer in Austin. This event list is not comprehensive. Events are subject to change.
The Drop-In
Presented by The Long Center in collaboration with KUTX 98.9, this free outdoor concert series will return this summer. Every Thursday, a new lineup of artists will take the stage, and guests can bring their lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy the live music. RSVPs are encouraged, though drop-ins are welcome.
The Paramount Theatre’s 51st annual summer film series returns with opening week films including “Casablanca,” “Breathless,” “Best In Show” and “Waiting For Guffman.” The program features over 90 films across genres with guest-programmed selections, blockbuster anniversaries and multiple 35mm screenings.
Screening dates vary
$9 (children 12 and under); $15 (regular admission); $90 (pack of 10 tickets)
Esports entertainment company BLAST will present Austin’s first esports arena event at the Moody Center this summer. The BLAST.tv Austin Major will feature 32 of the world’s top Counter-Strike teams competing in playoff rounds for a $1.25 million prize pool. Although the event is sold out, fans can watch the livestreamed competition online.
The Austin Public Library will kick off its summer reading challenge with a family-friendly party. The event will celebrate children, literacy and learning with storytimes and activities, a laser light show, a family resource fair, nature education and more.
Shop for home decor, clothing, art, food and more at this market showcasing independent artists and makers at the Palmer Events Center. The event will also have a do-it-yourself station where guests can create a unique keepsake.
Pease Park Conservancy and Future Front Texas will present a community picnic to celebrate Pride Month with music, food and drinks, art installations and crafts, vendors and more.
Author Walter Mosley will be the featured writer at the 2025 Austin African American Book Festival. (Courtesy Austin African American Book Festival)
Austin African American Book Festival
With the theme Our Stories, Our Voices, the 19th annual Austin African American Book Festival will showcase local, regional and national authors, activists and historians, and feature author panels, book discussions, children’s storytimes and activities, vendors and more. This year’s featured author is Walter Mosley.
June 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Free (admission)
George Washington Carver Library and Museum, 1165 Angelina St., Austin
The Austin Symphony Orchestra will perform these free concerts on Sunday evenings throughout June. Attendees can bring their lawn chairs and blankets to sit on the Long Center’s lawn and enjoy some jazz music, classical music and more.
