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Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Austin at Auditorium Shores

Audience enjoying New Year's Eve celebration with fireworks in Austin

Austin, December 31, 2025

Austin invites everyone to take part in the New Year’s Eve celebration at Auditorium Shores. The event features local talent, food, and a spectacular midnight fireworks show, creating an atmosphere of community engagement and festive spirit. With free admission, attendees can enjoy live music and other festivities, all while supporting local businesses and artists. This gathering promises to be a celebration of connection and joy for families and friends alike.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2026 in Austin TX at Auditorium Shores

Austin’s vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration promises community fun and festive cheer

Austin is set to welcome the arrival of 2026 with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration at Auditorium Shores on December 31, 2025. This free event embodies the essence of community spirit, showcasing local talent, food, and festive joy, all while promoting civic engagement. The city’s commitment to hosting accessible events without the weight of excessive bureaucracy highlights how streamlined planning can foster a vibrant local culture.

As residents and visitors prepare to join in the festivities, this gathering creates an excellent opportunity to celebrate Austin’s unique character while supporting local businesses and artists. Every year, the event brings together families, friends, and community members, emphasizing the importance of connection in an ever-evolving city.

Event Details

The New Year’s Eve celebration will take place from 7 p.m. to midnight at Auditorium Shores, located at 800 W Riverside Dr., Austin, TX 78704. Admission is free and open to the public, making it an accessible way for families and individuals to celebrate without the burden of entry fees.

Schedule of Events

  • 7:00 p.m.: Gates open; food trucks, bars, and vendors begin service
  • 7:00 p.m. – 11:45 p.m.: Live music performances by local artists including The Point, Tameca Jones, Chaparelle, and The Head and the Heart
  • 11:45 p.m. – 11:55 p.m.: Austin’s New Year Drone Show, presented by Arca Continental Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages
  • 11:55 p.m. – midnight: Countdown to 2026, culminating in a midnight fireworks show

The event will also be broadcast live by CNN for those who wish to relive the countdown moment from the comfort of their homes, starting at 11:30 p.m., ensuring that even those unable to attend in person can partake in the excitement.

Food and Beverage Options

Festival-goers will enjoy a diverse array of food from numerous local food trucks and vendors. These options will provide both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages (for attendees aged 21 and over), ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs for comfort during the performances. However, pets will not be allowed except for trained service animals, promoting a safer environment for all attendees.

Safety Measures

The safety and security of all participants are paramount, with measures in place to ensure a secure environment. All guests and their belongings will undergo a search upon entry, and no outside alcohol, glass, fireworks, or sparklers will be permitted at Auditorium Shores. These protocols not only protect attendees but also enhance the overall enjoyment of the event.

Transportation Options

Accessing Auditorium Shores is convenient for those looking to attend the New Year’s Eve celebration:

  • The Hike-and-Bike Trail will be open, with no motorized vehicles allowed.
  • Biking to the park is encouraged, as directly accessible routes are available.
  • CapMetro will offer free rides after 5 p.m. on all services, barring CapMetro Bikeshare. Regular bus routes will operate, and rail service will be extended to 2:30 a.m. on January 1.
  • Shared mobility and dockless devices may drop off passengers at the southwest corner of Riverside Drive and South First Street, promoting eco-friendly transportation solutions.

Conclusion

Austin’s New Year’s Eve celebration at Auditorium Shores is set to be a hallmark of community engagement and festive spirit. As we prepare to ring in 2026 together, this event stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of local organizers dedicated to enhancing the urban experience. Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend, support local vendors, and enjoy a night of music, friendship, and celebration.

Key Features of Austin’s New Year’s Eve Celebration

Feature Details
Date and Time December 31, 2025, from 7 p.m. to midnight
Location Auditorium Shores, 800 W Riverside Dr., Austin, TX 78704
Admission Free and open to the public
Entertainment Live music, drone show, and fireworks
Safety Measures Search upon entry; no outside alcohol/glass
Transportation Accessible by bike, CapMetro free rides, and shared mobility options

FAQ

When is the New Year’s Eve celebration in Austin?

The New Year’s Eve celebration will take place on December 31, 2025, from 7 p.m. to midnight.

Where is the event located?

The celebration will be held at Auditorium Shores, located at 800 W Riverside Dr., Austin, TX 78704.

Is there an admission fee?

Admission is free and open to the public.

What safety measures are in place?

All guests and their belongings will be subject to a search upon entry, and no outside alcohol, glass, fireworks, or sparklers will be allowed.

How can I get to Auditorium Shores?

There are various transportation options, including biking, free rides on CapMetro after 5 p.m., and shared mobility options at drop-off points.

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STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
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.

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