Spring is here and that means perfect festival weather! From music, film, art, food and beyond, here are some of the most anticipated festivals returning to Central Texas this year.
Besame Mucho Festival (April 5)
The second annual Texas iteration of the Latin music festival is back in Austin on April 5 at the Circuit of the Americas. Genres range from multigenerational Latin pop, rock, banda, norteño, cumbia and merengue classics that everyone from your tia to your primos can enjoy.
Two Step Inn Festival (April 5-6)
Miranda Lambert and Alan Jackson are just a few of the big names headlining this country music festival coming back to Georgetown’s San Gabriel Park on April 6.
Moontower Comedy Festival (April 9-19)
One of the biggest comedy festivals in North America brings two weeks of laughs to venues all across the capital city. Catch performances from Aparna Nancherla, Janeane Garofalo, Aziz Ansari, Tig Notaro and more from April 9-19.
Austin Reggae Festival (April 18-20)
The Austin Reggae Festival is back April 18-20, bringing the chill vibes to Auditorium Shores for the 30th year in a row. Founded as a tribute to the legendary Bob Marley in 1994, the festival has become the longest-running at Auditorium Shores.
Field Guide Festival (April 25-27)
If you’re passionate about farmers markets and quality food, this festival is for you. Field Guide Festival is a way for people to connect with their local food system. Attendees can meet local farmers, eat seasonal food prepared by top chefs in Austin, learn about food trends and more. The event takes place April 25-27 at Fiesta Gardens and Boggy Creek Farm in East Austin.
Indie Meme South Asian Film Festival (April 9-13/May 2-4)
Immerse yourself in South Asian independent film at the 10th annual Indie Meme Fest. The festival showcases hand-selected programming featuring slices of life from countries like India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Iran and more. The festival takes place April 9-13 at Austin Film Society Cinema. You can also attend virtually from May 2-4.
Pecan Street Festival (May 3-4)
The spring iteration of the beloved Austin arts fair celebrates its 50th year May 3-4 at the Hill Country Galleria in Bee Cave. Though it won’t be held at its usual Sixth Street (formerly Pecan Street) venue this season, the festival still promises the same amenities locals know and love.
Cine Las Americas Film Festival (May 14-18)
The 27th Cine Las Americas showcasing Latinx and Indigenous film takes place May 14-18. The five-day festival will feature a diverse range of stories with an awards ceremony at the end. Details on location and lineup are still unreleased, but stay tuned on the event’s website.
Hot Luck Festival (May 22-25)
Hot Luck Fest brings together two of Austin’s favorite things: live music and excellent food. It’s not a surprise considering the festival was founded by Franklin Barbecue owner and James Beard Award winner Aaron Franklin and Mohawk owner James Moody. The four-day festival May 22-25 features award-winning chefs from some of Texas’ — and the nation’s — favorite restaurants. It will be held at various locations around downtown Austin and throughout the city. See details here.
