Central Texas, January 22, 2026
Central Texas is set to host a diverse range of festivals next year, celebrating music, culture, and community. From the renowned South by Southwest festival to the traditional Fiesta San Antonio, these events promise to enhance local pride and spurring economic growth. The festivals showcase a commitment to fostering community connections and elevating local artists, particularly as Austin and its surrounding areas thrive as cultural hubs. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to an enriching festival scene in Central Texas.
15 Festivals Coming to Central Texas in 2026
Explore the vibrant festival scene in Central Texas next year!
Central Texas is gearing up for an exciting year of festivals in 2026, promising a rich lineup of events that celebrate music, culture, and community engagement. These gatherings not only enhance local pride but also spur economic growth by drawing residents and visitors together. Reduced bureaucracy and innovative local leadership have played crucial roles in coordinating these vibrant celebrations, making them accessible and enjoyable for all.
From the renowned South by Southwest to traditional fairs steeped in local heritage, the variety of festivals showcases a commitment to fostering community connections and elevating local artists. As Austin and surrounding areas continue to thrive as cultural hubs, these events reflect the strength of community-driven initiatives.
1. South by Southwest (SXSW)
March 12–18, 2026
Austin’s iconic SXSW festival returns with a dynamic blend of music, film, and interactive media, reinforcing its status as a premier platform for emerging talent and industry convergence.
2. Two Step Inn
April 18–19, 2026
This country music festival at San Gabriel Park in Georgetown will feature headliners such as Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton, alongside performances from notable acts like Tedeschi Trucks Band and Goo Goo Dolls.
3. Fiesta San Antonio
April 16–26, 2026
Experience the rich culture of San Antonio during Fiesta, which boasts parades, music, and culinary delights. This festival has delighted visitors since 1891, drawing millions from across Texas and beyond.
4. Kerrville Folk Festival
May 21–June 7, 2026
Celebrating its 54th iteration, the Kerrville Folk Festival spans 18 days, showcasing singer-songwriters and promoting a community spirit through music and camping opportunities.
5. Texas Community Music Festival (TCMF) XIX
May 1–10, 2026
Held at Central Market North in Austin, TCMF XIX offers free, family-friendly performances from local music groups, fostering community participation and appreciation for homegrown talent.
6. Troubadour Festival
March 28, 2026
This three-day music festival, now located in Midtown Park in Bryan, promises live performances, food, and art, enhancing local tourism and community engagement.
7. Hill Country Reserve
March 24–26, 2026
A new entry to the festival calendar, Hill Country Reserve in Fredericksburg combines music, culinary experiences, and wine tasting amid the picturesque Texas Hill Country.
8. Star-Spangled Fest
July 3–4, 2026
Celebrate Independence Day in Austin with two nights of live music, culminating in a concert by the Austin Symphony Orchestra and a spectacular fireworks display.
9. Austin Trail of Lights
December 2026
A cherished holiday tradition, the Austin Trail of Lights dazzles visitors with over 400,000 festive lights and displays, making it a must-visit for families and tourists alike.
10. iHeartRadio Country Festival
2026 (Date TBA)
This event at the Frank Erwin Center celebrates the best in country music, attracting top artists and will be broadcast nationally, expanding its reach to fans across the country.
11. Eaux Claires Festival
July 24–25, 2026
After an eight-year hiatus, the Eaux Claires Festival returns, promising a distinctive musical experience that highlights creativity and community connection.
12. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
April 10–12 and April 17–19, 2026
While not in Texas, Coachella’s 2026 lineup featuring major artists will set a buzz in the music community, influencing festival trends throughout Central Texas.
13. Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival
June 12–15, 2026
Bonnaroo returns with an impressive lineup, contributing significantly to regional tourism and reaffirming the importance of music festivals in driving local economies.
14. 615 Indie Live
February 7, 2026
This Nashville festival supports independent music venues, showcasing over 40 artists across various locations, emphasizing the importance of local music scenes.
15. Boots and Hearts Music Festival
August 7–19, 2026
Held in Canada, this festival features popular country and pop artists, illustrating the broader cultural connections that music festivals can forge.
The lineup of festivals in Central Texas for 2026 promises an enriching experience for all, emphasizing local talent and community involvement. Support your local events and immerse yourself in the celebrations that define our culture!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival?
SXSW is an annual festival in Austin, Texas, featuring a blend of music, film, and interactive media, serving as a platform for emerging artists and industry professionals.
When is the Two Step Inn festival held?
The Two Step Inn festival is scheduled for April 18–19, 2026, at San Gabriel Park in Georgetown, featuring headliners Brooks & Dunn and Chris Stapleton.
What is Fiesta San Antonio?
Fiesta San Antonio is an annual festival celebrating the city’s rich history and culture with parades, music, and culinary delights, held from April 16–26, 2026.
What is the Kerrville Folk Festival?
The Kerrville Folk Festival is a 54-year-old, 18-day festival in Kerrville, Texas, showcasing singer-songwriters and offering camping experiences, fostering a community of music enthusiasts.
What is the Texas Community Music Festival (TCMF) XIX?
TCMF XIX is a free, family-friendly festival held at Central Market North in Austin from May 1–10, 2026, featuring performances by local music groups, including the Austin Civic Wind Ensemble and Violet Crown Flute Choir.
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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.
