Summer’s winding down, and the countdown to the first day of school is officially on. If you’re looking for ways to keep the kids happy and busy without blowing your budget, we’ve got you covered. From free events to low-cost outings, here are some easy, fun ways to soak up the last stretch of summer together.
— Upcoming FREE Events
Don’t let summer slip by without one last hurrah! From storytimes to live music and community celebrations, these free events are perfect for soaking up the final days of break. Our top upcoming FREE events are:
- Blues on the Green | August 5 & 6
- The SpongeBob Musical @ Hill Country Galleria | Through August 16
- Little Chef Saturdays @ H-E-B Lake Austin
- Second Saturdays are for Families: Impressin’ Obsession @ Laguna Gloria | Aug. 9
- More upcoming FREE Events
Also, check out:
- When to Visit Austin Museums for FREE
- Kids Eat Free Deals in Austin
- Where to Bike With Kids in Austin (and e-bike!)
- Where to Play Pickleball for FREE with Kids
— 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 is 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 that 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 | The new Hooky Hutto has $1 movies on Monday mornings!
- 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 2025/2026 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:
— Austin To-Do List: August Family Events
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!
- Thinkery Back to School Bash @ Thinkery | August 9
- Bring It On: The Musical @ Zilker Hillside Theater (Through August 16)
- Back to School Bash @ St. Elmo Brewing Springdale | August 6
- 137th Gillespie Country Fair | August 21-24
- More August 2025 Events!
