There’s a lot going on in Austin in the springtime and we’re not just talking about allergies.  If you’re having a hard time picking which events you want to attend with the family, we’ve put together a line-up of spring festivals, annual parties, and special shows to help you stay in the know.

Spring Festivals & Special Events:

Photo via cap10k.com

Statesman Capitol 10K @ Downtown Austin
Sunday, April 7 | 8 am |  Starting Line – Google Location
Every spring, runners, fitness enthusiasts, and families converge in downtown Austin for the Statesman Capitol 10K.  This family-friendly event encourages you to run, walk, push that baby stroller, and even bring along your pup for a race through Austin’s picturesque downtown. The fun doesn’t stop once you cross the finish line! Celebrate the Austin way at the Finish Line Festival featuring free massages, food vendors, cocktails, a kids’ zone, an autograph wall, live music, photo ops, and much more! Check here for registration info.

Via COTA

MotoGP  @ COTA
April 12 – 14
The fastest show on two wheels revs up Austin for three days of motorcycle racing action with the greatest riders in the world!  Enter to win a 4-pack of Grand Stand Tickets here, and get all the info here.


Squirrel Fest via peasepark.org

Squirrel Fest @ Pease Park
April 13 | 4 pm – 10 pm 
This fun, family-friendly festival features activities, music, movies, food and more.  Check back for more details here.


Photo via Lonestar Rod & Kustom Roundup

Lonestar Round Up @ Travis County Expo Center
April 19 and 20 | 10 am – 6 pm 
Lonestar Round Up is a huge outdoor car show and live music festival with tons of vintage hot rods and custom cars from all over the country.  This event is family-friendly and you’ll find great food, a giant swap meet, and vendors. Admission is $20 at the gate, parking is free, and kids under age 12 are free.


Photo by Erin Blair Photography for Do512 Family

Sherwood Forest Faire (McDade, TX)
Now through April 21
Located in McDade, Texas, the Faire is set in a wooded village bustling with shops, pubs, and tons of entertainment.  Check here for details about attending the Faire.  Also, check out Castles in Central Texas for info on which castles you can stay in!


Photo via Butterfly Festival

Butterfly Festival @ EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens (Wimberley)
April 20 | 9 am – 5 pm 
Live butterfly releases, butterfly art, nature activities, kids’ games, concessions, and live entertainment.  This is a rain or shine event and there is free parking at Wimberly High School. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated.


Photo via Buda Lions Club and Visit Buda

26th Annual Buda Wiener Dog Races @ Buda City Park
April 27
The Buda Lions Club Annual Wiener Dog Races and Country Fair is a fun family event featuring the world-famous dog race, as well as arts & crafts, kids’ games, a BBQ cook-off, and more.  Admission at the gate is $10 for ages 3 and up.


Eeyore’s 58th Birthday Celebration @ Pease District Park
April 27 | Kids are welcome from 11 am – 3 pm 
This annual celebration is free.  The kid-friendly portion from 11 am – 3 pm includes games, crafts, Eeyore (Donkey), a costume contest, face painting, and more.  Please note: In case of torrential rainfall, the rain check date is the following Saturday, May 4.


Photo via Red Poppy Festival

Red Poppy Festival @ Downtown Georgetown Square
April 28-30 | 103 W. 7th St., Georgetown
A Georgetown and Central Texas tradition, the Red Poppy Festival is a time to enjoy family and friends, music, food, and fun. This event has lots of family activities, including a Kid’s Fun Zone.  View the full schedule here.  Admission is free.


Photo via Pecan Street Festival

Pecan Street Festival
May 4 and 5
The Pecan Street Festival is the oldest and largest art festival in Central Texas.  Musicians, food vendors, artists, and crafts people turn Sixth Street – historically called Pecan Street – into a lively street fair with something for people of all ages.  Jump Around Party Rentals is providing rides, which sounds extra fun!  This is a free family event.


Photo via Old Settlers Music Festival FB Page

Old Settler’s Music Festival @ Tilmon, TX
May 9 – 12 

Central Texas’ signature music event featuring Grammy-winning Americana, arts and crafts, camping, food, and libations.  Acoustic jazz, blues, and bluegrass are all performed by old-time local favorites and award-winning artists from around the world. Enjoy the tree-covered parkland for gathering, camping, and late-night jams by the campfire, as well as eclectic arts and crafts, kids’ activities, and music workshops to round out the magical experience. Check here for the schedule and tickets. Children 12 and under get free admissionKids 13-17 get a teen discount with the code TEEN at checkout.  

Check our Do512 Family Calendar for even more upcoming events!


More to Explore:

No matter what you do this spring, we hope you and the kids have an amazing time!  For even more ideas, you can always check out our daily calendar for all event listings.