Hot Summer Nights is bringing four packed days of music to Austin's own Red River Cultural District. Originally 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®.

Crowd of people near a bar under blue and lime colored lights.Hot Summer Nights. Credit Renee Dominguez.

When is Hot Summer Nights 2023?

This year's Hot Summer Nights will take place Thursday, July 20 to Sunday, July 23, 2023. 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.

Featured Artists

Catch a free show to over 120 local and national artists, including some of Austin's top talent. For the full lineup, visit redriverculturaldistrict.org.

DJ Gabby Got It - Gabriela Bucio is almost a household name in Austin. Most probably know her for her pink restaurants (Taquero Mucho, Gabriela's and others), but she's also a talented DJ. We love a girl who can do it all!

Jane Leo - If you're into lo-fi rock that tells stories through serious vocals, then Jane Leo is a band for you. Get ready for an unforgettable set that flows through vibey sounds of dark pop. 

Kydd Jones - Local rapper and emcee, Kydd Jones brings the bars and the beats. Don't miss out on his 2000's-style rhythm and flow.

The Selfless Lovers - Rock meets soul, funk and blues with this Austin band. Concerts by The Selfless Lovers are extremely entertaining, with band members switching instruments and lead Nik Parr working the crowd with his saxophone.

Barefoot man on stage holding a microphone stand, with blurry lighting in the background.Acid Carousel at Stubb's during Hot Summer Nights. Credit Renee Dominguez.

Participating Venues

Enjoy the free concerts at some of Austin’s top venues:

Cheer Up Charlies
Cheer Up Charlies is an everybody-friendly space, usually playing hot dance hits and electronic music in their kaleidoscopic canopied backyard. Their vegan bar offers kombucha on tap and organic juice-blend cocktails. 

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

Empire Control Room & Garage
Empire's modern space boasts three unique stages and has hosted some of the greatest local and international acts. 

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.  

Mala Vida
Check out the first music venue and club to bring música regional Mexicana to downtown Austin.

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.