Our kids are counting down their precious last days of summer and if you’re scrambling like us to think of ways to entertain and engage them without breaking the bank, scramble no longer. We’ve created a list of free and low-cost activities and upcoming events, as well as SURPRISE GIVEAWAY for parents!
*Please note – the giveaway has been closed and the winner will be emailed August 26, 2024.
— Upcoming FREE Events
From summer storytimes for young kids to free programming for older kids and teens, Austin has lots of options. Our top upcoming FREE events are:
- Lilo & Stitch at Meanwhile Brewing | Wednesday, July 31 | 8 pm | FREE
- Family Pride @ Thinkery | Tuesday, August 6 | 4 pm – 6 pm | FREE
- Wild Waterloo: Sensory Science | Friday, August 9 | 6 pm – 10 pm | FREE
- More upcoming FREE Events
Also, check out:
- When to Visit Austin Museums for FREE
- Kids Eat Free Deals in Austin
- Summer Family Deal at Holey Moley Mini Golf
- Kids 12+ Throw Free at Urban Axes
- Where to Bike With Kids in Austin
— When They’re Sick of the Pool But It’s HOT
Infuse a little something different into your summer swimming rotation. Our top pick right now hitting up Twilight Hours at Rock N’ River Waterpark in Round Rock. We went here recently after 5 pm, and for a family of four in the evening, it cost us around $25 and it was slow enough our kids didn’t wait long for waterslides and attractions. Twilight Hours are $7 for adults and $6 for youth, and full-day admission is $14 for adults, $12 for youth ($6 for kids 2 and under). Get more info here.
Also, check out:
- What to Do With Kids When It’s HOT
- Where to See FREE and Cheap Movies This Summer
- Family-Friendly Arcades in Austin
- Amusement Parks and Water Parks Near Austin
— Back to School Events
It’s hard to believe we’re already talking about back-to-school prep! Ready or not, the 2024/2025 school year is coming and the events to celebrate (and prepare) are rolling in. Many of these events offer resources for families, like free backpacks, supplies, and haircuts, and some are just good old-fashioned fun. Read the full article here and check for events below:
- Back to School Bash 2 Mission Possible @ 1190 Chicon St. | Saturday, August 3 | 4 pm – 7 pm | FREE
- H-E-B Free First Sunday: Back to School @ The Bullock | Sunday, August 4 | 10 am – 5 pm (Activities from 10 am – 2 pm) | FREE
- Jordan’s Safe Place: Back 2 School Bash: Mental Health Event | Saturday, August 10 | 10 am – 2 pm | FREE
- Fresh Start Back to School | Saturday, August 17 | 2 pm – 3 pm | FREE
— Sneak Preview of Your Austin To-Do List: August Family Events
As you get ready for back to school, pat yourself on the back, parents, for another successful summer, juggling kids’ schedules as well as your own, finding fun things to do in the Texas heat (and ways to escape the heat). We’ve (almost) made it to August, and we hope you enjoy your last days of summer break and wish you an easy transition into the school year. We know you’ll love these upcoming August Family Events that range from back-to-school bashes to movie nights to County Fairs and more. Here’s the full read, and here are a few of our top picks for August, many of which are free or low-cost to attend!
- Legally Blonde the Musical at Zilker Hillside Theater (Through August 17)
- Summer STEAM Lab @ The Bullock Museum | August 8
- Shrek @ The Fareground | August 10
- Reggie Rap’s Community Care Celebration @ Republic Square | August 17
- Gillespie County Fair @ Gillespie County Fair Grounds | August 22 – 25
- More August 2024 Events!
*Please note: The Giveaway has closed and the winner will be notified August 26, 2024. Thank you for entering!