We’ve had an exceptionally warm winter. So, spring has kind of snuck up on us, and it’s one of the best times of the year because the weather is just about perfect for that first — or second or third — backyard barbeque of the year.
Perhaps because of the ideal sunshine, April is one of Austin’s busiest months for events. And that’s saying something considering South By Southwest was in March.
This month, you’ll have a chance to see some of the world’s best chefs in action — and even get a bite or two of what they’re cooking — at the Austin Wine + Food Festival. Meanwhile, you’ll find plenty of more affordable options for the whole family, including the Capitol 10K race, which has a big party after everyone crosses the finish line.
Meanwhile, don’t miss out on a chance to see the world’s fastest motorcycle riders at the MotoGP at the Circuit of the Americas and have an opportunity to see some of the world’s funniest people at the Moontower Comedy and Oddity Festival.
Now, open a calendar and schedule in some fun this month.
April 6-9
If poetry and prose delight you, there’s perhaps no better time of year than April. That’s when Austin’s International Poetry Festival happens, drawing poets from around the world for readings, live performances and study groups.
When: Various times
Where: Various bookstores and venues
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April 7-8
Love cars? Live music? You’ll find a wide variety of each at the Lonestar Round Up. The event features hundreds of vintage cars from across the state of Texas and beyond. And, aside from some of the coolest cars you’ll ever see, the Round Up will feature blues, country and rock bands.
When: All weekend, starting at 10 a.m. Saturday
Where: Travis County Expo Center
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April 19-22
Laughter cures all. Well, maybe not all. But it’s worth a shot. And the Moontower Comedy and Oddity Festival in Austin is one of the best places to take a deep dive into the comedic world. This year’s lineup features big timers like Jim Gaffigan, Ali Wong, Patton Oswalt and Chris Hardwick. But it’s the ones you haven’t heard of that might steal the show, so don’t be afraid to catch someone new.
When: All weekend
Where: Various comedy clubs and bars
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April 20-23
Though Central Texas has more than its fair share of great music and barbecue, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t celebrate both. The Old Settler’s Music Festival, now in its 30th year, is one of the best places to feed both your appetite for brisket and music — and you can add camping to that list if you wish. The festival specializes in bluegrass, jazz and blues music. Shakey Graves, The Del McCoury Band and Los Lobos are among headliners at this year’s festival.
When: All weekend
Where: Camp Ben McCulloch, 18301 Farm to Market Rd 1826, Driftwood, TX 78619
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April 21-23
Got a need for speed? Like to see riders ripping around corners on their motorcycles so fast that their knees are sparking against the pavement? That’s what the MotoGP race is all about. And the race series is making its only North American stop right here in Austin. Single-day passes start at $39.
When: All weekend
Where: Circuit of the Americas, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd
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April 22
Want to help Keep Austin Weird? First, buy local. But, if you’ve got that covered, you might want to check out the weird homes tour, which gives a glimpse inside some of Austin’s most eclectic abodes. Tickets are $30.
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Throughout Austin
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April 23
Lace up those sneakers and get ready to run — or just watch. The Capitol 10K is Texas’ largest race of its size and attracts some of the nation’s top runners. Overall, roughly 18,000 people participate. After the race, there’s a big party with live music, food and games.
When: Race starts at 8 a.m.
Where: Congress Avenue Bridge downtown
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April 28-30
Spend too much time watching the Food Network? Why not see things that delicious and actually taste them? That’s what the Austin Food + Wine Festival offers tens of thousands of visitors each year. You’ll find world famous chefs, local culinary heros and plenty of things to taste and sip on. Plus, there’s live music and more to sneak in between eating.
When: All weekend
Where: Auditorium Shores, 900 W Riverside Dr
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