Once again, we are here to applaud Austin for having so many gorgeous green spaces that offer loads of FREE family-friendly fun. In addition to simply having grassy areas to run, play, picnic, and enjoy being outdoors, there are also TONS of awesome free activities planned in parks around the area. Check out all the fun stuff happening in the parks in the coming weeks.
Puppets, Free First Saturdays & More at Pease Park
Austin Parks Foundation’s In the Park Series
Austin Parks Foundation brings plenty of free fun to green spaces around the city with its In the Park series. Pack a picnic for Movies in the Park, get crafty with nature-inspired projects at Art in the Park, or bring younger kids to Playdates in the Park for story time, crafts, music, movement, and plenty of chances to get their wiggles out. For older kids, Hoops in the Park offers a morning of basketball, skill-building, teamwork, and outdoor play for young athletes up to middle-school age. With events popping up in parks across Austin throughout the year, there’s something for just about every age and interest.
Art in the Park
- September 12 | Art in the Park @ Trailhead Park
- September 26 | Art in the Park @ Ella Wooten Park
- October 17 | Art in the Park @ Springwoods Park
- October 24 | Art in the Park @ Boggy Creek Greenbelt
- October 31 | Art in the Park @ Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Hoops in the Park
- October 3 | Hoops in the Park @ Govalle Neighborhood Park
Playdates in the Park
- September 9 | Playdate in the Park @ Scenic Brook Pocket Park
- September 19 | Playdate in the Park @ Bartholomew District Park
- September 23 | Playdate in the Park @ Metz Neighborhood Park
- October 21 | Playdate in the Park @ Great Hills Neighborhood Park
- October 28 | Playdates in the Park @ Davis/White Northeast Neighborhood Park
See More In the Parks Series Events
The Trail Foundation’s Live Music Series
The Trail Conservancy’s Music on the Trail is back for fall with free live music along the Ann & Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Head to the Rainey Street Trailhead Lawn on Wednesday evenings from 6–7:30 pm to catch a different local musician each week. Bring a blanket, settle in on the lawn, or add some live music to your evening walk around the Trail. The fall series runs September 9 through October 14. Check out the full lineup and details here.
Shoal Creek Conservancy Events
Shoal Creek Conservancy is the non-profit steward of the Shoal Creek watershed and trail. It’s a beautiful stretch of green running right through the heart of Austin. The ead fun, educational programs, and trail improvements aimed at making this urban creek a safe and welcoming place for families and nature lovers. Some upcoming events:
- October 24 | 2026 Concert On the Creek | Bring the little ones for live local music, tasty bites and drinks, and glimpses of Shoal Creek and the nearby Wood Street Park, all wrapped in a relaxed, creekside setting.
- November 7 | It’s My Park Day | Join Shoal Creek Conservancy for a family-friendly morning of giving back during It’s My Park Day! Volunteers of all ages can help make and spread seed balls, plant Texas natives, and pick up litter and recyclables along Shoal Creek and the Trail at Seiders Springs Park. Tools and supplies are provided; just bring water, wear closed-toe shoes and long pants, and dress for the weather. Kids are welcome with adult supervision.
We hope you enjoy these fun experiences out in our city parks!
