Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

Where to Listen to World Music in Austin

The music that built Austin’s sterling reputation as the Live Music Capital of the World® derives from cultures that immigrated to Central Texas from all over the globe. In fact, after nearly a decade of growing popularity of foreign-inspired music, the term “world beat” was popularized by Dan Del…

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Where to See Classical Music in Austin

It's no coincidence that Austin is considered the Live Music Capital of the World®. With hundreds of live music venue and shows every night of the week, your Austin experience isn't complete without attending a performance. While much of the city's attention for music has been focused on genres like…

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How to Experience Free Week 2023

Looking to shake off those post-holiday blues? Red River Cultural District’s Free Week has your cure. This year’s festivities will take place January 5-7, 2023 and will feature 100+ local bands in 15 venues around the city. With so many performances to hear and venues to see, here’s an insider guide…

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Austin’s Black Arts Scene

Austin has a long and storied history. And, as Javier Wallace of Black Austin Tours says, the city’s history often excluded Black people from its spaces and narratives. But the Austin Black community has very much built the city into the cultural hub that it is. From sculpture and theatre to music…

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Where to See Live Music Tonight in Austin

Live music is everywhere in Austin and with hundreds of music venues featuring everything from rock and blues to country and hip-hop it can be difficult to narrow down exactly where to see a live show. That’s why we created this list of music venues with regular live music schedules, guaranteed to…

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Armadillo Christmas Bazaar 2022

It's the most wonderful time of the year and time for a new rendition of one of Austin's favorite old holiday traditions, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. Taking over the Palmer Events Center for 6 days, from December 17-23, 2022, stop by do some holiday shopping or just come and kick back by the…

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Where to Find Live Music on Rainey Street

Rainey Street has gone through many changes since its late-1800s inception, but the historic street’s live music keeps the Rainey spirit and its burgeoning social scene alive. As a vibrant part of Austin’s history and culture, Rainey Street continues to develop its nightlife scene with live music…

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Where to Catch a Show en Español

Looking for insider tips to help you experience Austin like the locals? We have you covered. Here’s a list of our favorite spots for catching a show in Spanish, guaranteed to look awesome on your newsfeed and make friends back home secretly wish they were you. Cilantro Boombox at Empire Control…

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Viva la Vida Festival & Parade

Each year, Mexic-Arte Museum celebrates the tradition of Día de los Muertos in Austin. During Viva la Vida Festival & Parade, the city's largest and longest-running Día de los Muertos event, visitors will experience a street festival and a parade down the iconic Congress Avenue, bringing together a…

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50 Fun Things to Do in Austin

There’s truly something for everyone in Austin. Whether you’re looking for live music, must-see museums, authentic Texas cuisine, scenic outdoor adventures or family-friendly fun, our city offers it all. Here are 50 of the best things to do in Austin to kick-start your trip. Austin Visitor Center…

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