Hot Summer Nights is bringing three packed days of music to Austin's own Red River Cultural District this July 16-18, 2026. Created to bring awareness to local businesses and artists during the slower summer months, Hot Summer Nights has grown to be a marquee event for locals and visitors alike. Along with the District's annual Free Week festival in January, Hot Summer Nights is a rocking annual event that hosts thousands of attendees and tons of amazing talent in the Live Music Capital of the World®.

A man and a woman playing guitars on stage during Hot Summer Nights.
Subpar Snatch. Credit to Andrea Escobar. Courtesy of Red River Cultural District.

When is Hot Summer Nights 2026?

Hot Summer Nights will take place July 16-18, 2026, with music starting around 7 p.m. nightly. Stay the whole weekend to experience a killer lineup of talented musicians in over ten of Austin's most popular music venues. Admission is FREE! Check their website for more details.

In between music sets, drop by the Hot Summer Nights Market on July 18 at The Liberty. A special pop-up version of the bi-annual Front Market will be hosted by Future Front Texas. The market will feature local vendors and makers selling everything from vintage and thrift apparel to art and handmade goods. 

Featured Artists

Catch a free show with Austin's top talent. The 2026 Hot Summer Nights lineup features over 130+ local artists, bands and DJs including Blakchyl, Glass Mansions, Heavy Velvet, Kylie Hernandez, Saint Judas & The Black Hymns, Two-Legged Dog, Whisk and many more.  

Visit the Hot Summer Nights website to view the full 2026 lineup. 

A man on stage performing during Hot Summer Nights with green lights behind him and the silhouette of the crowd watching him.
Blue Tongue. Credit to Andrea Escobar. Courtesy of Red River Cultural District. 

Participating Venues

Hot Summer Nights 2026 will be take place at multiple venues in and around Downtown Austin and the Red River cultural district. You won't want to miss the opportunity to catch a show at some of the city's best music venues. Listed below are the iconic venues where shows will be taking place this year. 

13th Floor
Frequented by locals and visitors alike for the killer music and great drinks, 13th Floor is a staple on Red River.

Chess Club
Get cozy at Chess Club, an intimate rock and alternative music venue in the heart of the Red River District.

Elysium
Elysium Nightclub is one of the longest-standing residents to serve as a venue for Austin's alternative nightlife. 

Flamingo Cantina
If you're looking for "good vibes music", Flamingo is the place to be. Usual beats include reggae, Latin, hip hop and world music.  

Kingdom
Rock out at this rocking club, known for it's late night DJ sets and high-tech light shows. 

Liberty Lunch
The Liberty is an iconic East Austin music venue-turned-neighborhood dive bar with cold drinks and solid bites. 

Marlow
Located at Sixth Street and Red River, this vibey bar serves up cocktails and a cool atmosphere for listening to live music.

Mohawk Austin
If you want to see emerging creative talent (from Austin and beyond), you'll need to catch a show at Mohawk. Renovated with recycled materials, Mohawk has two stages, a rooftop, multiple bars and killer live music.

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q
More than just a famous barbecue joint, Stubb's is a favorite local entertainment venue that hosts local and national acts. From hip hop to country, rock to electronica, shows at Stubb's are sure to have you headbanging.

Swan Dive
Known for its dance parties and drag shows, Swan Dive is sure to showcase artists that will have you dancing all night long.

Valhalla
Truly a neighborhood bar, you can listen to live music and challenge your crew to games of pinball, pool and air hockey in between sets.

Ready to plan your trip? Find places to stay near Red River Street. 

Where to Stay During Hot Summer Nights

Take advantage of special hotel rates at Hyatt House Downtown Austin, the festival's official hotel partner. Visit the Hot Summer Nights website to learn more and book your hotel using the discounted room rate.

Want more time to explore the city? Make the most of your trip to Austin during Hot Summer Nights by turning it into a full summer getaway. Whether you're looking for a downtown hotel within walking distance of the Red River Cultural District or a cool, poolside escape after the shows, there’s a stay that fits your vibe (and your budget).

Explore our Summer Hotel Deals to find exclusive rates and special offers at top Austin hotels. Book now and save—so you can spend more on tacos, cold drinks and late-night encores.