May in Austin: 6 Can’t-Miss Events
March 31, 2025
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May in Austin is a lively time of year. Whether you’re in town for a graduation, a wedding, or just a long weekend, there’s no shortage of fun events or activities to check out while you’re here.
The month also marks the transition from spring to summer, the temperature in Austin in May is unbeatable. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy your meals al fresco, spend time on the trails, or check out the best swimming spots in Austin.
Whether you’re looking for a reason to visit Austin this May or you’re a local who wants to experience some Austin traditions, here are six events the Heywood Hotel concierge team recommends.
Austin, TX in May: 6 Events to Experience
1. Pecan Street Festival
May 3-4, 2025
Pecan Street Festival is one of the largest and longest-running street festivals in Austin, making it a city tradition. Twice a year, local vendors, musicians, and artists come together for a weekend of family-friendly fun that showcases the best of Austin’s art and community.
While it normally takes place on Austin’s historic East Sixth Street, this May’s event is happening at the Hill Country Galleria which is located west of central Austin. If you’re going to make a trip outside of the city, we can’t think of a more festive reason!
2. The Front Market
May 3-4, 2025
If you prefer to stay near downtown and are looking for an art market to attend, consider The Front Market. Curated by a local arts organization, Future Front, The Front Market is a curated marketplace that features over 175 vendors including craftspeople, designers, and small businesses. In addition to shopping, there will also be workshops, community pop-ups, and performances. This May event takes place at Distribution Hall, about a half a mile from the Heywood Hotel.
3. Austin Fashion Week
May 8-10, 2025
If you’re a fashion enthusiast, you don’t want to miss the most stylish May event on this list. Austin Fashion Week is the largest and longest-running fashion event in Texas. Twice a year, the event showcases independent and emerging designers with thrilling runway shows and pop-up shops. Now in its 17th year, Austin Fashion Week takes place at The Domain, an upscale retail center located in north Austin.
4. Hot Luck Festival
May 22-25, 2025
Hot Luck Festival is the perfect combination of two of Austin’s most beloved pastimes: music and food. Founded by Austin’s very own Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue and Mohawk owner James Moody, the festival showcases live-cooking action from an impressive lineup of chefs in a summer camp meets picnic environment. The festival also spotlights some of Austin’s best music and event venues. If you’re in Austin for Memorial Day Weekend, Hot Luck should be at the top of your list.
5. ATX TV Festival
May 29-June 1, 2025
TV fans, this one’s for you. ATX TV Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that showcases past, current, and upcoming series through reunions, screenings, intimate Q&As, panel discussions, events, and more. Some of the TV series being highlighted in this year’s programming include The Leftovers and Mad Men. Celebrating its 14th season, the ATX TV Festival is another Austin tradition that must be experienced.
6. Free Live Music
Various dates
May marks the beginning of the summer concert season. There are several free concert series in Austin, including Rock the Park in Mueller on May 2, The Drop-In at The Long Center beginning May 23 and running every Thursday through August, and Austin Symphony Orchestra’s annual Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park, Sundays in May and June. There are few things more local and traditional than catching a live music show. Read more here: Free Concerts in Austin
Stay in the Heart of Austin This May
Want to stay near all of the action? East Austin is the perfect neighborhood to stay if you’re attending any of these Austin events in May.
The Heywood Hotel is a MICHELIN-rated boutique hotel located in East Austin. Our intimate, seven-room hotel tucked away in Central East Austin in a location that can’t be beat. We’re within walking distance to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars — many of which are Michelin-rated — and offer free parking if you prefer to ride share. We’re just one mile away from downtown Austin which is home to the Austin Convention Center, Rainey Street, and some of the city’s best walking and biking trails.