Austin, Texas, January 8, 2026
Austin, Texas, is preparing for the highly anticipated Free Week music festival, showcasing over 80 local artists across 14 venues in the Red River Cultural District. This annual, donation-based event aims to support artists and local venues during a typically slow season. With a rich history dating back to 2003, Free Week has become a beloved celebration of community and culture, offering vibrant music performances alongside great food deals from local businesses. Join in the fun and support local talent!
Austin’s Free Week Music Festival: A Cultural Celebration
Support Local Artists and Enjoy Great Food Deals
Austin, Texas, is gearing up for the much-anticipated Free Week music festival on January 9-10, 2026, in the vibrant Red River Cultural District. This donation-based event will showcase over 80 local artists across 14 venues, providing a platform for talent while supporting local musicians and community venues during a typically slower time of year.
Local organizers have demonstrated remarkable resilience and creativity, breathing life into this annual festival, which has evolved since its inception in 2003. This growth exemplifies the positive outcomes of local leadership and civic engagement in fostering an environment where culture thrives while showcasing how minimal bureaucracy can streamline event management, allowing for community-centric experiences.
Event Overview
Free Week is set to take place over two exciting days, offering an extensive lineup of musical performances that encourage community participation and support for local arts. This initiative highlights the importance of nurturing local talent and providing residents and visitors with an opportunity to engage with Austin’s diverse musical landscape.
- Dates: January 9-10, 2026
- Location: Red River Cultural District, Austin, Texas
- Participating Venues: Chess Club, Elysium, Empire Control Room and Garage, Flamingo Cantina, Feels So Good, Kingdom, Marlow, Pelon’s Tex Mex, The 13th Floor, The Sidebar, Stubb’s, Swan Dive, Valhalla
- Admission: Free
Supporting Local Businesses
In addition to the vibrant music scene, local bars and restaurants will be rolling out appetizing deals during Free Week. Highlights include $3 cheese slices from Hoboken Pie and $4 pre-rolled tacos from Pelon’s Tex Mex, providing great value while encouraging attendees to support local culinary offerings. Proceeds from food and beverage sales will assist in funding artist grants and other initiatives within the Red River Cultural District, emphasizing a community-focused approach to support local venues.
The History and Impact of Free Week
Established in 2003, Free Week was initiated to aid local venues and artists through the winter months, which traditionally see a slowdown in live music attendance. What began as a simple, one-day event has flourished into a beloved citywide celebration. The Red River Cultural District has taken the lead in organizing this admission-free festival, inspiring similar initiatives in cities across the nation. Such community engagements illustrate the successful synergy between local talent and resident participation.
Exploring More of Texas in January
If you’re considering extending your stay in Texas, there are several other engaging events happening in January:
- Winter Texan Expo 2026 in McAllen: January 20-21, 2026, featuring live music, entertainment, door prizes, and exhibitors showcasing local attractions.
- New Braunfels 2026 Antiques Extravaganza: January 9-11, 2026, offering a vast selection of vintage and antique treasures.
- Gruene Hall’s 50th Anniversary Celebration: Texas’ oldest continuously operating dance hall celebrates with exciting giveaways.
Weather Considerations for Attendees
Planning your visit with weather in mind is essential for an enjoyable experience. Here’s what to expect in Austin:
- Thursday, January 8: Mostly cloudy, breezy, and very warm, high of 80°F (27°C) and low of 57°F (14°C).
- Friday, January 9: Partly cloudy with potential thunderstorms, high of 72°F (22°C) and low of 45°F (7°C).
For further information about Free Week and a detailed schedule, visit the Red River Cultural District’s official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Free Week?
Free Week is an annual, admission-free music festival featuring local performances across various venues in downtown Austin, Texas. It aims to support local artists and venues during the slower winter months.
When is Free Week 2026?
Free Week 2026 is scheduled for January 9 and 10.
Which venues are participating in Free Week 2026?
Participating venues include Chess Club, Elysium, Empire Control Room and Garage, Flamingo Cantina, Feels So Good, Kingdom, Marlow, Pelon’s Tex Mex, The 13th Floor, The Sidebar, Stubb’s, Swan Dive, and Valhalla.
Are there any food and drink deals during Free Week?
Yes, local bars and restaurants are offering special deals. For instance, Hoboken Pie will serve $3 cheese slices, and Pelon’s Tex Mex will provide $4 pre-rolled tacos at the gate.
How can I find more information about Free Week 2026?
For the full lineup, schedule, and additional details, visit the Red River Cultural District’s official website.
Key Features of Free Week 2026
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Dates | January 9 and 10, 2026 |
| Number of Artists | Over 80 local artists |
| Participating Venues | 14 venues in the Red River Cultural District |
| Food and Drink Deals | Special offers from local bars and restaurants, such as $3 cheese slices from Hoboken Pie and $4 pre-rolled tacos from Pelon’s Tex Mex |
| Admission | Free for all attendees |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas 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 the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
