Central Texas Packed with Fourth of July Celebrations from Austin to Driftwood

The City of Austin, in collaboration with the Austin Symphony Orchestra, is set to present the 48th annual July 4th Concert & Fireworks Celebration at Auditorium Shores and the Long Center this Friday. 

The complimentary event kicks off at 4:30 p.m., leading up to a dazzling fireworks display at 9:30 p.m., featuring a performance by the Austin Symphony Orchestra. Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in food and beverages available for purchase while enjoying live performances on the shoreline stage and the Long Center lawn. While blankets and chairs are permitted, please note that pets are not allowed, except for trained service animals.

Anticipate significant congestion in downtown Austin, particularly along South Lamar Boulevard, Barton Springs Road, and Riverside Drive, with roadways expected to clear by midnight. Motorists can access a map detailing road closures on the city's official website. 

Alternative transportation options include biking along the Hike-and-Bike Trail or utilizing CapMetro, which offers complimentary rides after 5 p.m. Buses run on Sunday-level service, and rail service operates on Saturday-level service. Drop-offs for ride-sharing services will take place on Lee Barton Drive, located south of West Riverside Drive. 

Public parking options are available in the downtown area, specifically north of Lady Bird Lake. Additionally, there are garages located at One Texas Center, Palmer Event Center, River South, City Hall, and State Garage N. For those needing ADA-accessible parking, both the Palmer Event Center Garage and One Texas Center offer suitable facilities.

In Central Texas, festivities are scheduled to take place from July 3 to 6. Upcoming events feature “Movies on the Lake” at Mozart’s Coffee on July 3, along with weekend festivities at Omni Barton Creek Resort that include concerts, barbecue, and fireworks. Additionally, the Buda Amphitheater will host a bike parade, live music, and fireworks on July 4. 

Other highlights feature the Carpenter Hotel’s Backyard Splash Party, Desert Door’s Film Friday screening of Independence Day, and Downright Austin’s three-day pool parties with DJs and food.

Other happenings feature the Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival, Hotel Viata’s barbecue and pool party, Launderette’s annual Lobster & Friends Seafood Boil, and The Loren Hotel Austin’s rooftop Red, White, and Bougie celebration, which includes live music, champagne, and stunning views of fireworks.

Regardless of your location, Central Texas presents an exciting lineup of events to commemorate Independence Day.