I’m hoping to head to Austin at some point this year, because I’ve heard so many good things about the city. Here are just a few of the things you can do in this quirky Texan town.
Austin, Texas, is known as the “live music capital of the world” and is home to year-round events and activities to keep every age group happy. This city abounds in special events every month of the year, even in the winter (December through February). Whether you love the food, music, shopping, or sports, Austin has a full range of fun activities for the winter visitor.
Culture
In early February, the 12th Street East End Black Heritage Festival takes place. This festival celebrates black heritage through award ceremonies, music, history bowls, and discussions. Food stands and art activities round out the fun. The Martin Luther King, Jr. March and Festival also celebrates black culture through music, food, and discussions right around Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Head to Austin in January and join the American Institute of Architects’ self-guided tours of Austin homes. The Annual Homes Tour has been a popular attraction for more than two decades and allows you to view breathtaking Austin homes at your pace. One month earlier, the annual Historic Homes of Georgetown tour takes place. Tour historical homes at your leisure.
Food
Everyone likes food, so why not sample the best cuisine in Austin during one of the many food festivals. Check for the annual Restaurant Week, where area restaurants serve up prix-fixe menus at discounted prices. Restaurant Week occurs every January.
If large events are not to your liking, Austin is home to dozens of restaurants that serve amazing cuisine using local meats and produce.
Music
Austin Free Week is an annual event that always draws a crowd. Local bands perform throughout Austin during this weeklong music event. This free music event takes place in January and is only the beginning of a year of music festivals.
While the Trail of Lights is actually a holiday lighting festival, part of the attraction is the live music. This annual event runs through much of December and features plenty of caroling, dancing, and live music.
Shopping
Austin is home to numerous shopping malls, but the real treat comes from strolling the streets of Downtown Austin. Downtown is home to local boutiques and popular chain retailers. Look for stores in the 2nd Street, Congress Avenue, East 6th Street, South Congress, and West End districts.
Sports
Mention sports to anyone who lives in or has visited Austin, and Circuit of the Americas is bound to come up. This facility is the first Grand Prix facility built in the United States. It’s 3.4 miles long and holds 120,000 race fans. The convenient location, just two miles from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, puts it within easy reach of the downtown area and many hotels. The F1 U.S. Grand Prix races generally run in November, but there are other special events throughout the year.
In mid-January, the 3M Marathon and Relay takes place. This marathon requires contestants to travel downhill at impressive speeds, so it’s a challenge for even the best runners. If you don’t want to run, the participants appreciate having fans cheering them on.
Head to Austin, Texas, soak in the views along Lady Bird Lake, and enjoy the full range of culture on the streets and in the local attractions. The aforementioned events are only the beginning of the wonders awaiting you.
Photo credit: austin
Leave a Reply