Austin 4th of July 2022 Events
Top Independence Day Events & Things To Do on July 4th in Austin
Whether you're a local wanting to explore the city during this long weekend or a tourist visiting Austin for July 4th, here are some fantastic places to visit in Austin and the Texas Hill Country.
AUSTIN JULY 4TH EVENTS
Keep an eye on this page for updates about the city's yearly fireworks displays and events. Here are a few of our favorite annual gatherings (all subject to change). Find more information on the TexasRealFood event calendar.
Austin Symphony H-E-B July 4th Concert & Fireworks
On July 4, join the biggest Independence Day celebration in Austin at Auditorium Shores and the Long Center. The Austin Symphony H-E-B July 4th Concert & Fireworks features patriotic music by the Austin Symphony, with a spectacular finale fireworks display over Lady Bird Lake. The Long Center is a great place to view the action, but you may also watch from the South First Street Bridge. This is a popular location, so arrive early and bring your chairs. Other bridge-viewing options include the Congress Bridge and Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge.
Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival
On July 4, head to the Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival for live music, shopping, dining, and fireworks. After a day of backyard games and local live music with the entire family, go out with a bang with a fantastic firework display.
Willie Nelson's 4th Of July Picnic
Willie Nelson, the earthy singer-songwriter who originated Austin's famous Willie Nelson Festival in 1972, is bringing a star-studded lineup to Q2 Stadium, home of Austin FC for his annual picnic and spectacular fireworks display. The concert will feature Willie Nelson & His Family, Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit, Tyler Childers, Brothers Osborne, Midland, Charley Crockett, Allison Russell, Particle Kid, Steve Earle & the Dukes, and Asleep at the Wheel.
Outdoor Activities for the Whole Family
During your long weekend, soak up as much Vitamin D as you can! Bring your family and a Frisbee to Zilker Park. Pets are particularly welcome. Lace up your walking shoes and go trekking along the Barton Creek Greenbelt, which includes hiking routes, a rope swing, and spectacular vistas. The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail is a nice and pleasant walk through the city's park system, which runs from Lady Bird Lake up to Blanco Lake. Follow the green asphalt path, then pick from a variety of endpoints at each intersection. Take in some culture at the State Capitol Building or downtown Austin's Plaza Saltillo
Take a paddle board, canoe, kayak, or cruise around our local lakes to get some sun while getting some exercise. Following capacity and sanitization standards, several rental businesses are now open on Lady Bird Lake, Lake Travis, and Lake Austin, including Live Love Paddle, The Rowing Dock (both in Mueller), Float On Boat Rent
On a Lady Bird Lake boat trip from Lone Star Riverboat or Capital Cruises, experience cityscape views and Austin landmark viewing while the skipper drives (both with limited choices). Alternatively, on a sunset cruise, watch 1.5 million Congress Avenue Bridge bats fly out at dusk.
If you're looking for someplace to go, you'll find it in the Hill Country. For spectacular hikes, state parks, and picnic locations, head to the Hills. While swimming holes like Hamilton Pool Preserve and Jacob's Well are now closed, spend the day at beautiful parks like Emma Long Metropolitan Park (reservations required).
If you find yourself near the Texas Capitol, here are some additional activities to consider.