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:

Squirrel Fest via peasepark.org

Squirrel Fest @ Pease Park
April 15 | 4 pm – 10 pm 
The festival fun begins at 4 pm followed by a screening of WALL-E, in partnership with Austin Parks Foundation, beginning at 8 pm on The Great Lawn.  Get ready for live music, installation, performances, chefs, and, and more.  You can also pre-order burgers and veggie burgers from The Burger Bar here.  For more info on the Squirrel Fest event, check here.


Via COTA

MotoGP  @ COTA
April 14 – 16
The fastest show on two wheels revs up Austin for three days of bar-banging motorcycle racing action with the greatest riders in the world!  This year, all tickets include access to a reserved seat and standard access to general admission areas around The Circuit.  Book yours here.


Photo via cap10k.com

Statesman Capitol 10K @ Downtown Austin
Sunday, April 16 | 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.  Check here for registration info.


Photo via Old Settlers Music Festival FB Page

Old Settler’s Music Festival @ Tilmon, TX
April 20-23

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.  Check here for the schedule and tickets. Children 12 and under get free admission.


Photo via Lonestar Rod & Kustom Roundup

Lonestar Round Up @ Travis County Expo Center
April 21, 22 | 7311 Decker Lane
A huge outdoor car show and live music festival with tons of vintage hot rods and custom cars driven here from all over the country.  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 23
Located in McDade, Texas, the Faire is set in a 23-acre wooded village that’s bustling with shops, pubs, and 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 15 | 9 am – 5 pm | 1101 Ranch Rd 2325, Wimberley
Live butterfly releases, butterfly art, nature activities, kids’ games, concessions, and live entertainment.  Admission is free admission, but donations are appreciated.


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 Buda Lions Club and Visit Buda

26th Annual Buda Wiener Dog Races @ Buda City Park
April 29 and 30 | 204 San Antonio Street, Buda
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.  Kids 12 and under are free, ages 13 and up cost $5 admission at the gate for a weekend pass.


Eeyore’s 58th Birthday Celebration @ Pease District Park
April 29 | 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.  Admission is free.  Please note: In case of torrential rainfall, the rain check date is the following Saturday, May 6th, 2023.


Photo via Pecan Street Festival

Pecan Street Festival
May 6 and 7 | 6th Street Between Bravos and IH35
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 where there is something for people of all ages.  Jump Around Party Rentals is providing rides, which sounds extra fun!  This is a free family event.


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.