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.

NASCAR Returns to Austin

Race fans will experience another thrilling weekend of NASCAR in Austin, Texas when the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS), Xfinity Series (NXS) and CRAFTSMAN Truck Series (NCTS) return to Circuit of The Americas (COTA), March 22-24, 2024. The action-packed NASCAR at COTA tripleheader will Keep Austin Wheeled…

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The ATX Open 2024

Austin's Premier WTA Tour Tournament Following a successful debut in 2023, Austin is gearing up for the return of the ATX Open professional women's tennis tournament in 2024. The WTA 250 tournament is one of the first U.S.-based events on the 2024 Hologic WTA Tour calendar and will celebrate its…

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Where to See Holiday Lights in Austin

There are so many things that make the holiday season fun. Whether you're in town for a convention or to celebrate the season with loved ones, visiting one of Austin's spectacular light shows should be on the agenda. Here are some of the top places to check out holiday lights in Austin this winter…

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How to Experience Free Week 2025

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 2025 and will feature a myriad of local bands in nearly 20 venues around the city. With so many performances to hear and venues to see, here’s an…

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2024 Austin Event Guide

Preview the fun to come in 2024 and mark your calendar with Austin's biggest festivals and events, from food to fine arts and, of course, live music. For dates and the latest updates about each event, please check visitaustin.org/events or visit the event's website. January 1/5-6/24 Free Week Red…

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Visiting Peppermint Parkway at COTA

This time of year Austin is dazzling with light displays and holiday cheer. During the holiday season, Circuit of The Americas transforms into a holiday extravaganza as it's lit up by millions of lights through a one mile driving route. Here's everything we know so far about the 2024 Peppermint…

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Guide to Austin's Holiday Pop-Up Bars

Although warm Texas temps may not make it feel like December, Austin is ready to celebrate the season big. Light shows illuminate the city skyline and holiday markets are all over town to help you find the perfect gift for loved ones. Even Austin’s nightlife scene gets festive with a number of…

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Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Austin

2024 is quickly approaching, and Austin knows how to celebrate in style. From live music to exclusive dinners, Austin has a range of events so you and your loved ones can ring in the new year the right way. Check out some of the events we’ve highlighted so you can start planning your New Year’s Eve…

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Austin’s LGBTQ+ Arts Scene

The LGBTQ+ community in Austin has a long and ever-growing history. The deep cultural tapestry has laid the ground for Austin’s LGBTQ+ art scene to flourish and expand through installations, dance and music groups, individual creatives, and much more. Various communities within LGBTQ+ spaces…

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Festive Things to Do in Austin with Kids

Sing carols, twirl on ice, enjoy spectacular festive displays and get into the spirit of the season. We have the top tips for things to do with kids in Austin this winter. Courtesy of Trail of Lights. See Holiday Lights The Austin Trail of Lights is truly an Austin tradition celebrating its 59th…

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