Fourth of July is fast approaching, and what better to celebrate this cornerstone of American independence than to kick back, relax, and enjoy the show. Whether you are spending quality time with family or simply having a good time with your pals and gals, The Texas Horn has you covered with every major event the city of Austin has to offer to make this 4th of July your best one yet. 

Fourth of July is fast approaching, and what better to celebrate this cornerstone of American independence than to kick back, relax, and enjoy the show. Whether you are spending quality time with family or simply having a good time with your pals and gals, The Texas Horn has you covered with every major event the city of Austin has to offer to make this 4th of July your best one yet. 

Austin Symphony H-E-B July 4th Concert & Fireworks

Join Austin’s largest and longest running Independence day celebration at the Vic Mathias Shores (formerly Auditorium Shores). The Austin Symphony concert and fireworks show is free for everyone and includes live patriotic classics, special dignitaries, and a spectacular grand finale fireworks display over Lady Bird Lake. The event kicks off at 8 p.m with its welcoming ceremony and a special guest up until 8:30 p.m for fireworks and music. Be sure to get there early if you want to witness the fireworks from the Long Center. Alternatively, bridge viewing options at South 1st Street Bridge, Congress Bridge, and Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge will also provide an enjoyable time. For more information visit their website.

Willie Nelson’s 4th Of July Picnic

Austin’s beloved Willie Nelson will return this year with his annual summer concert picnics and firework shows at the Q2 Stadium, home of the Austin FC soccer team. The show is hosted by Willie Nelson and his family band and featuring 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. Doors are open at 11 a.m and the show starts at noon. Be sure to join Willie Nelson and his friends this Independence day for a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch this iconic legend reliving his golden years. Tickets start at $50 and you can find more information on their website. 

Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival

Hill Country Galleria, premier entertainment destination located west of downtown Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, is excited to announce its annual Independence Day Festival featuring live music by local bands The Watters and Vallejo feature unique shopping and dining experience, face painting and fun activities for the kids, a spectacular fireworks show, and more. So be sure to bring your family and friends this independence day and join Austin and the Bee Cave communities to celebrate this 4th of July locally. Admission tickets and parking are free and Guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and enjoy live music beginning at 6:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. in the newly renovated Central Plaza. For more information visit here. 

Support Local Restaurants

For those who want to keep it casual and support local businesses, Austin’s dining community steps it up this holiday weekend to offer the best Texas flavors in an extraordinary experience of classic down-home American cuisines. Here is a list of classic Texas flavors and the best restaurants in Austin. For burger lovers, we are sure you’re going to love Hat Creek Burger Company. For authentic hand tossed pizzas be sure to order from Home Slice Pizza. Looking for a farm-to-table experience? Visit Jack Allen’s Kitchen (Oak Hill) and their specialty margaritas. Looking to try something different? Evangeline Cafe has the wildest seafood combos. Craving for Texas barbecue? Head to east Austin’s Micklethwait Barbecue. Still not satisfied? Head over to the ultimate guide for a list of authentic BBQ joints, or visit here for the best Austin has to offer.

Explore Various Outdoor Activities

While Austin may be known for its flagship university or the state capital status, it has some special outdoor activities that you will only be able to experience in Austin and The Texas Horn is here to guide you through landmarks and entertainment centers this 4th of July. For those who feel adventurous, you can paddle board, canoe, kayak or cruise the waves through Austin’s Lady Bird Lake, Lake Travis, and Lake Austin. For those with pets, bring your favorite friend to Zilker Park, or lace up and take a family hike at Barton Creek Greenbelt or stroll through Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. We’re sure you’ve heard about Austin’s renowned bat migrations. So be sure to reserve a spot from Lone Star Lady Boat or Capital Cruise to catch a sunset boat cruise for an eye opening experience. For those who want a hands-on experience with nature, drive out to Hill country for a variety of hiking locations, picnic spots, and state parks. Join the Austin community on an intimate stroll through Emma Long Metropolitan Park, Reimers Ranch Park, and Lockhart State Park. Not satisfied? Be sure to visit here for a variety of other things to do this 4th of July.

However you choose to celebrate, be sure to get out there, celebrate liberty, and have a happy Fourth of July!