October Events in Austin
Fall in Austin is officially on the calendar. From live music and film to Oktoberfest celebrations, pumpkin-filled nights, and the return of Formula 1, there’s plenty to look forward to across the city.
We’ve rounded up some of the season’s most interesting events to help you make the most of Austin’s cooler days, lively weekends, and unmistakable fall energy.
Pumpkin Nights Austin
September 17 – October 31, 2026
Pioneer Farms
A half-mile walk through nine immersive pumpkin lands transforms Halloween into an artful, family-friendly experience. Explore more than 10,000 hand-carved and custom-designed pumpkins, then enjoy food, games, and a live fire show in Pumpkin Village.
Austin Steel Guitar Fest
October 1 – 3, 2026
Austin Marriott South
SteelRadio and the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame bring three days of performances, seminars, and community together for this inaugural indoor festival. Two stages will showcase pedal steel, non-pedal, dobro, and slide guitar players, alongside vendors from the steel guitar and Austin arts communities.
Austin City Limits Music Festival
October 2 – 4 & 9 – 11, 2026
Zilker Park
Austin’s iconic music festival returns for two weekends of live performances across eight stages. With more than 140 artists spanning genres, ACL Fest brings the city’s music culture to life in one of its most beloved outdoor settings.
Boo at the Zoo
October 2 – 24, 2026
Austin Zoo
The Austin Zoo takes on a festive after-dark atmosphere during this family-friendly Halloween tradition. Come in costume for train rides, musical entertainment, and Halloween-themed activities on select Friday and Saturday nights.
Austoberfest
October 3, 2026
Scholz Garten
Celebrate German heritage at Austin Saengerrunde’s annual Oktoberfest at Scholz Garten, Texas’ oldest continuously operating tavern. Expect traditional food, beer, live music, and even bowling in a lively, historic setting.
Austin Oktoberfest
October 10, 2026
German Free School
Hosted by the German-Texan Heritage Society, this long-running celebration brings German food, drinks, music, and Gemütlichkeit to the German Free School. It’s a welcoming, family-friendly way to experience Austin’s German heritage.
Hot Luck Festival
October 16 – 17, 2026
Various Locations
Hot Luck returns in the fall with its signature mix of live-fire cooking, creative food, and live music. The festival celebrates the people and DIY spirit behind Austin’s culinary and music scenes through intimate, flavor-filled gatherings.
Austin Symphony Orchestra Presents: Halloween Children’s Concert
October 18, 2026
Long Center
Introduce young listeners to the excitement of live orchestral music at this festive Halloween concert. With costumes encouraged and the concert hall decorated for the occasion, it’s a playful way for families to experience the symphony together.
Formula 1 United States Grand Prix
October 22 – October 25, 2026
Circuit of The Americas
The Formula 1 United States Grand Prix brings four days of high-speed racing, championship drama, and live entertainment to Circuit of The Americas. Beyond the track, fans can expect major performances, festival energy, and a full weekend built around the world’s premier motorsport series.
San Antonio Spurs vs. Houston Rockets
October 23, 2026
Moody Center
Two Texas NBA rivals meet in Austin for a special matchup between the San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets. Expect a high-energy night of basketball and a chance to see both teams bring their rivalry to the Moody Center.
Viva la Vida Fest
October 24, 2026
Mexic-Arte Museum / Republic Square
Viva la Vida Fest celebrates Día de los Muertos through art, culture, and community. Hosted by the Mexic-Arte Museum, the event features a Grand Procession, traditional foods, live performances, and hands-on art activities.
Austin Film Festival
October 29 – November 5, 2026
Paramount Theatre & Various Locations
Austin Film Festival brings filmmakers, screenwriters, and movie lovers together for a celebration of storytelling on screen. The program highlights both major films and independent work, with the city serving as a backdrop for a week of cinematic discovery.
U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game
October 31, 2026
H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
The University of North Dakota and Michigan State face off in the 2026 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game. The October 31 matchup brings college hockey to Cedar Park for an exciting night on the ice.
@Local Love
Whether you're looking to explore a new neighborhood, support local businesses, or simply enjoy everything our community has to offer, these events are a great way to experience the best of the area. Be sure to check back next month for another curated roundup of local happenings, and follow along as we continue sharing what makes our communities such great places to live, work, and play.
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