March events in Austin, curated by the Heywood Hotel

March in Austin: 27 Events Happening This Month 

Take it from us: March is one of the best times to visit Austin. It’s not only one of the biggest months for events like SXSW and MotoGP, it’s also a great time to spend outside as the weather is also incredible this time of year. If you’re hoping to catch live music, enjoy the outdoors, or feel the energy of the city during its liveliest season, this is the time to visit. 

Whether you’re planning a trip or you’re a local looking for things to do, here’s what’s going on in Austin, in March 2026!

March Events in Austin

SXSW 

Austinites know this week well. SXSW 2026 returns March 12-18, where it will transform downtown Austin into a hub for all things music, film, and tech. Expect world-premiere films, official and unofficial musical performances, interactive experiences, and programming that attracts creatives from around the globe. 

Attending the conference? Check out our SXSW playlist, SXSW 2026 Map, and our expert tips for navigating the festival.

Sips and Sounds Festival 

Sips and Sounds Festival is a two-day outdoor festival taking place March 13-14 at Auditorium Shores. This year’s lineup includes headliners Christina Aguilera and Calvin Harris, as well as Major Lazer Soundsystem, Foster the People, Grouplove, Flipturn, and more. Tickets start at $65 for one-day admission and $235 for two-day. 

Note: While this event coincidentally takes place during SXSW, it’s separate from the conference and requires its own badge.

Rodeo Austin

Rodeo Austin is one of the city’s favorite springtime traditions, combining world-class rodeo action with live music, carnival rides, and classic Texas fun. Taking place March 13-28, Rodeo Austin features everything from bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling to live music, livestock shows, and fairground treats. This year’s music lineup includes Midland, Eli Young Band, Diamond Rio, Tanya Tucker, and many more. Whether you’re a rodeo enthusiast or just looking for an authentic Texas experience, Rodeo Austin is a can’t-miss event. 

St. Patrick’s Day 

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 at one of these beloved Austin pubs. 

  • Dead Rabbit: Austin’s newest Irish pub, Dead Rabbit is hosting a festive three-day event for St. Patrick’s Day. They’re teaming up with Nickel City and Murray’s Tavern for a themed bar crawl. Look out for more details here.
  • Kelly’s Irish Pub: Located on West Oltorf St., just three miles south of the Heywood Hotel, Kelly’s features traditional Irish pub grub, like shepherd’s pie, lamb stew and bangers and mash. It’s also known to serve the most pints of Guinness than anywhere in Texas. Every day is a celebration of Irish customs and hospitality at Kelly’s Irish Pub, but expect the craic to be kicked up a notch on St. Patrick’s Day.
  • Scholz Garten is not only the oldest bar in Austin, it’s also the oldest still-operating business in the entire state of Texas! This venerable institution celebrates St. Patrick’s Day in style each year with festivities like stein holding competitions, “Luck of the Irish” coin tosses, and local live music. Check their website for this year’s activities, then make a plan to grab a wiener schnitzel with your pint of Guinness at Texas’ most famous outdoor Biergarten. 
  • B.D. Riley’s Irish Pub is located a few miles north of the Heywood Hotel in Mueller. This year’s St. Paddy’s Day festivities are expected to include live music on their spacious patio. Enjoy traditional dishes like corned beef and cabbage and Irish stew. 

Austin FC vs. Los Angeles Football Club

Soccer fans, you don’t want to miss this matchup. On March 21, Austin FC will take on the Los Angeles Football Club at Q2 Stadium for one of only two home games this month. LAFC is one of the top MLS teams, so it promises to be an exciting and high-energy event, whether you’re familiar with the sport or not!

MotoGP 

MotoGP represents the highest level of motorcycle racing on the international circuit and comes to Austin March 27-29. It’s an exciting spectacle of motorcycle riders using all of their skills as they take daring turns and hit the highest speeds. Our favorite spot to watch is Turn 2. 

For more expert tips, check out Heywood Hotel’s guide to MotoGP Austin.

March Concerts and Shows in Austin


Heading to Austin in March? Book your stay at Heywood Hotel to experience Austin like a local.