07/03/2026
There are Fourth of July celebrations… and then there’s this year.
This Independence Day marks America’s 250th birthday, making this year’s Fourth of July one of the most memorable in our nation’s history. Across the country, communities are celebrating this once-in-a-generation milestone, and Austin is no exception.
Whether your perfect Fourth of July includes fireworks, live music, or simply spending time with family and friends, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate around Central Texas.
If you’re looking for the classic Austin experience, Star-Spangled Fest returns to Auditorium Shores with a full day of family activities, food vendors, live music, and one of the largest fireworks displays in Central Texas. The evening concludes with the Austin Symphony Orchestra performing as 2,432 fireworks light up the downtown skyline over Lady Bird Lake.
Music lovers can head to Willie Nelson’s Fourth of July Picnic, where Willie Nelson & Family will be joined by Billy Strings, Sheryl Crow, Lukas Nelson, Lily Meola, and more for one of Austin’s longest-running holiday traditions.
If you’re looking to stay a little farther from downtown, the Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Festival offers another great option with live music, carnival rides, face painting, local vendors, and a fireworks finale that’s perfect for the whole family.
However you choose to celebrate, we hope your Fourth of July is filled with great food, good company, and a chance to appreciate everything that makes this country—and our city—such a special place to call home.
Happy Independence Day, and happy 250th birthday, America!