Spring sees Central Texas host a range of exciting festivals. Whether passionate about food, film, music, nature, or family events, you’ll find something to suit your interests this spring.
Spring is the perfect time to explore Central Texas before the temperatures rise in the summer months. Keep reading as we share some of the best outdoor festivals in Central Texas, which will allow you to enjoy the state’s vibrant culture this spring.
Chambers “Smoke-Off” – BBQ for a Cause
The Chambers Smoke-Off is a brand-new community BBQ festival bringing together friendly competition, local pride, and a meaningful cause. Organised by Amy’s Festivals, this inaugural event invites area Chambers of Commerce to compete while raising vital support for families in need across Bell County.
The Belton, Harker Heights, Salado, and Temple Chambers of Commerce are actively promoting the Smoke-Off to their memberships, encouraging chamber-affiliated teams to fire up their smokers and rally community support. Teams will compete across multiple BBQ categories, creating a lively, family-friendly atmosphere filled with great food and entertainment.
Event Details
- Where: 7950 Texas 317, Belton
- When: Saturday, April 18
- Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Admission: Free to attend
Why Go: The Chambers Smoke-Off combines great BBQ, family-friendly fun, and community impact into one easy spring outing. It’s the perfect way to support local Chambers, enjoy live entertainment, and experience the energy of a Texas-style cook-off — all without a ticketed entry fee.
Website: https://www.amysatticss.com/festival-application/
South by Southwest (SXSW)
Each March, Austin becomes the global centre of music, film, and innovation during South by Southwest. Known worldwide as SXSW, this multi-day festival brings together artists, filmmakers, tech leaders, and creatives from across the globe for an unmatched cultural experience.
While SXSW is anchored by its official conferences and showcases, the festival’s influence extends far beyond ticketed venues. Throughout the city, visitors can find free concerts, brand activations, pop-up installations, and networking events, creating a city-wide atmosphere that’s energetic, creative, and constantly evolving.
Event Details
- Where: Austin, Texas
- When: March 7–15, 2026
- Admission: Ticket prices vary by badge type, starting at $695
- Highlights: Music showcases, film screenings, technology conferences, citywide pop-up events
Why go: SXSW offers a one-of-a-kind blend of creativity and innovation, turning Austin into a global meeting point for new ideas. It’s one of the most exciting times of the year to experience the city’s culture, nightlife, and creative energy.
Website: https://sxsw.com/
Austin Fair & Rodeo
Each spring, Austin hosts one of Central Texas’ signature traditions, the Rodeo Austin. Combining classic rodeo competition with a full-scale fair, the event celebrates Texas culture through live entertainment, family attractions, and professional rodeo events.
Visitors can experience PRCA-sanctioned rodeo action, carnival rides, games, food vendors, and nightly concerts from major music acts. With activities spread across the fairgrounds, Rodeo Austin offers something for all ages, from daytime family fun to evening performances.
Event Details
- Where: Austin, Texas
- When: March 13-28, 2026
- Highlights: Professional rodeo events, carnival rides, live concerts, fair food
- Admission: Vary by event, starting at $25
Why go: Rodeo Austin delivers a classic Texas experience with a modern festival feel. It’s an ideal spring stop for travellers looking to combine live entertainment, local tradition, and family-friendly attractions in one place.
Website: https://rodeoaustin.com/fair-rodeo/
ABC Kite Festival
Each spring, Austin looks to the sky during the ABC Kite Festival, one of the city’s longest-running and most family-friendly traditions. Held at Zilker Park, the festival fills the skyline with colourful kites of all shapes and sizes, creating a cheerful, laid-back spring atmosphere.
The event features kite flying across open fields, friendly competitions, live music, food vendors, and activities for kids. With its central park setting and relaxed pace, the ABC Kite Festival is an easy, outdoor way to enjoy spring weather while experiencing Austin’s community spirit.
Event Details
- Where: Austin, Texas (Zilker Park)
- When: April 11, 2026
- Highlights: Kite flying, competitions, live music, family activities
- Admission: Free
Why go: The ABC Kite Festival offers a classic spring outing that’s simple, scenic, and welcoming for all ages. It’s ideal for travellers looking for an outdoor festival that’s colourful, low-key, and uniquely Austin.
Website: https://www.abckitefestival.org/
Old Settler’s Music Festival — 2026
The Old Settler’s Music Festival is one of Texas’s most respected and long-running spring music festivals, known for its deep roots in Americana, bluegrass, folk, and roots music. Held each spring in Central Texas, the festival blends world-class performances with a relaxed, family-friendly campground atmosphere.
Now approaching five decades of tradition, Old Settler’s is celebrated for spotlighting both legendary artists and emerging talent while preserving the communal, come-as-you-are spirit that defines Texas music culture.
Event Details
- Where: Dale, Texas (Old Settler’s Music Festival Grounds)
- When: April 17–19, 2026
- Admission: Multi-day passes, single-day tickets, and camping options available
Why Go: The Old Settler’s Music Festival offers a classic Texas spring festival experience, focused on authentic music, community connection, and outdoor enjoyment. It’s ideal for music lovers looking for meaningful performances, families seeking a welcoming environment, and visitors wanting to experience Central Texas beyond the city.
Website: https://oldsettlersmusicfest.org/
About Amy’s Attic Self Storage
Amy’s Attic Self Storage offers convenient and secure storage solutions for personal and business needs, with various unit sizes to fit any requirement. With flexible rental options and a commitment to customer satisfaction, it’s the ideal choice for decluttering your home or business.
Spring is the perfect time to rent a storage unit, as it’s the season of renewal, making it easier to organize your space and prepare for summer by storing items you no longer need around the house or office.
Do you need help with storage when heading to any of the spring festivals in Central Texas? Contact us today for more information about our storage services or to discuss any questions about the storage options available to you.
