Austin, November 25, 2025
Austin is set to ring in the New Year with a remarkable free celebration at Auditorium Shores, featuring live performances from The Head and the Heart and local artists. Attendees can enjoy an engaging atmosphere filled with music, food trucks, a spectacular drone show, and fireworks, all while being broadcast live by CNN. The event showcases the city’s vibrant community spirit and resilience, providing a memorable experience for both residents and visitors alike.
Austin’s New Year’s Eve Celebration to Shine with National Coverage
Celebrate the New Year with Austin’s Free Family Event
Austin, Texas – As the year comes to a close, the City of Austin and Visit Austin are gearing up to host a spectacular, free New Year’s Eve celebration at Auditorium Shores on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Highlighted by live performances from headliner The Head and the Heart, alongside local talent Chaparelle, Tameca Jones, and The Point, this festive occasion is set to draw both locals and visitors alike, showcasing the resilience and community spirit of Austin. The festivities will even gain additional visibility as CNN broadcasts live coverage of the event to a nationwide audience, increasing engagement and interest in the city.
This event emphasizes the remarkable potential of local organizers and community involvement. By facilitating a gathering that is free and family-friendly, residents can participate in a vibrant celebration while enjoying live music and a dazzling drone show, followed by a fireworks finale. Such events not only enrich community life but also demonstrate how reduced bureaucracy can promote civic innovation and create opportunities for individual achievement within the city.
Event Highlights
- Live Music Performances: Experience a memorable night filled with performances by The Head and the Heart, as well as local artists Chaparelle, Tameca Jones, and The Point.
- Drone Show: Witness a spectacular drone show, presented by Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, illuminating the downtown skyline, culminating with a fireworks display to welcome 2026.
- Food and Beverages: A diverse lineup of local food trucks will offer delicious fare, accompanied by both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options available for purchase. A complete vendor list is expected to be shared on the event webpage in December.
Event Details
- Date and Time: Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 7 p.m. to midnight.
- Location: Auditorium Shores, 800 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, TX 78704.
- Admission: Free and open to the public.
- Transportation: Enjoy free rides on CapMetro after 5 p.m. across all services, with regular bus routes and extended rail service until 2:30 a.m. on January 1.
- Parking: Public parking will be available at several locations, including One Texas Center, Palmer Events Center Garage, and RiverSouth Garage. ADA-accessible parking will also be provided at select locations.
- Road Closures: Roads will be closed to ensure public safety, with specific street closures from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
- Safety Tips: Attendees are advised to stay alert, report any suspicious behavior, and plan for potentially chilly weather. It’s also recommended to stay with your group and have a plan for safe transportation home.
Conclusion
As Austin prepares to ring in the New Year with an engaging and community-focused celebration, it’s an opportunity for residents and visitors to come together in solidarity and enjoyment. The collaboration between local organizations and the city exemplifies how innovative event planning can enhance community ties and highlight the best of what Austin has to offer. Therefore, mark your calendars for this exciting occasion and support local events that enrich our vibrant community.
FAQ
What is the date and time of Austin’s New Year’s Eve celebration?
The celebration will take place on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 7 p.m. to midnight.
Where is the event being held?
The event will be held at Auditorium Shores, 800 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, TX 78704.
Is there an admission fee for the event?
No, the event is free and open to the public.
What transportation options are available to get to the event?
CapMetro will provide free rides after 5 p.m. on all services. Bus routes will operate regular service, and rail service is extended until 2:30 a.m. on January 1. Please use the CapMetro Trip Planner to find your best transit option.
Where can I park if I drive to the event?
Public parking is available north of Lady Bird Lake, at One Texas Center, Palmer Events Center Garage, RiverSouth Garage at Riverside Drive and South First Street, City Hall Garage, and State Garage N. ADA-accessible parking will be available at the Palmer Event Center Garage and One Texas Center.
Are there any road closures during the event?
Yes, West Riverside Drive from Lee Barton Drive to South First Street will be closed from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. South First Street from Cesar Chavez Street to Riverside Drive will be closed from 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.
What safety tips should attendees keep in mind?
Attendees are encouraged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity to 9-1-1, plan for the weather forecast as temperatures may be cold, stay with your group and have a pre-planned meeting location in case of separation, be mindful of pedestrians, scooter riders, bicyclists, and other vulnerable road users when traveling, keep your phone fully charged, plan ahead to have a safe ride home, and download the what3words app to pinpoint and share your location.
Key Features of Austin’s New Year’s Eve Celebration
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Date and Time | Wednesday, December 31, 2025, from 7 p.m. to midnight. |
| Location | Auditorium Shores, 800 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, TX 78704. |
| Admission | Free and open to the public. |
| Headliner | The Head and the Heart. |
| Local Artists | Chaparelle, Tameca Jones, and The Point. |
| Transportation | Free CapMetro rides after 5 p.m. on all services; bus routes operating regular service; rail service extended until 2:30 a.m. on January 1. |
| Parking | Public parking available at various locations; ADA-accessible parking at Palmer Event Center Garage and One Texas Center. |
| Road Closures | West Riverside Drive and South First Street closed during specified times. |
| Safety Tips | Remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, plan for cold weather, stay with your group, be mindful of other road users, keep your phone charged, plan a safe ride home, and download the what3words app. |
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
