Free Things to Do in Austin (This Week)

These free things to do in Austin are on the current Austin Star issue. We only list dated items we can verify on the originating page — empty is honest if the hunt comes up short.

CABAM! Con

Sat., Sept. 12, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. · Central Library · Free

Free downtown fandom day: comics, anime, Lego builds, trivia, kids crafts.

Austin Public Library

Twin Oaks Branch 70th Birthday

Sat., Sept. 12, 1–3 p.m. · 1800 S. Fifth St. · Free

Live music, crafts, cotton candy, History Center exhibit — free and open to the public.

Austin Public Library

Viva México

Sat., Sept. 12, 4–9 p.m. · ESB-MACC · Free

Family festival with kids activities, storytime, food trucks, and El Grito. Free shuttle listed on the city page.

ESB-MACC

Zilker Botanical Free Day

Sun., Sept. 13, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. · Free · No registration

Free entry for the Grow Green Demonstration Garden and sustainable landscaping.

City of Austin

Umlauf Family Day, Animals

Sun., Sept. 13, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. · Free

Second-Sunday family day on the sculpture garden — free and open to all.

UMLAUF

9/11 flags at Old Settlers (Round Rock)

Through Sat., Sept. 12, 11 p.m. · Free to walk

Texas Fallen Project flags at Flag Plaza at Yonders Point, 3103 Aten Loop.

Round Rock

Williamson Museum Harvest Festival

Sat., Sept. 12, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. · Round Rock · Free

Fall family fun: crafts, butter churning, living history at Old Settlers.

Williamson Museum

Austin Museum Day

Sun., Sept. 20 · Free at 30+ museums

Annual free day across Austin-area museums — hours vary by venue; check the partnership list.

Austin Museum Partnership

More guides: This weekend · Free things · With kids · North metro · Indoor · Full paper