If May was all about spring cleaning, getting ready for the end of the school year and planning for summer, then June is the month that we get to really soak in that summer vibe.
Everything is green and blooming, and it seems like everyone has officially entered summer mode. And you’ll find plenty of fun options to fill your evenings and weekends.
June features a big motorcycle rally, a television festival that draws Hollywood talent and one of the city’s most intriguing footraces. This also marks the start of the swimming season, with most city and regional pools and water parks officially opened for the summer. (You can check out a few of the area’s best options here.)
Now, pull out that calendar and schedule in some good times for the month.
June 3
Rock climbing, arm wrestling, weightlifting and strongman competitions. That’s what the Naturally Fit Games are all about. If you’re a crossfit athlete and ready to take on the competition, this the time and place to do it in Austin.
When: Doors open at 8:30 a.m.
Where: Austin Convention Center, 500 E Cesar Chavez St.
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June 8-11
Love the humble of a Harley? How about a few hundred of them? That’s what the Republic of Texas Biker Rally, or perhaps better known as the Rot Rally, is all about. Thousands of riders gather in Austin, many whom have traveled hundreds of miles, to join in a parade, parties and day-long rides through the Hill Country. There are also some big time concerts by Joe Ely, Texas Hippie Coalition and more.
When: All weekend
Where: Various locations
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June 8-11
Most of us don’t need a festival for television — we watch enough already. But for those who see it as a powerful medium capable of conveying vast amounts of information and art to broad audiences, the Austin Television Festival is about much more than spending a Sunday night on the couch. The festival brings together some of the nation’s top writing, directing and acting talent. Want to hear from the directors of FX’s “Sons of Anarchy?” (on Rot Rally weekend, no less), the ATX TV Fest is the place to find it. Writers and producers of “The Americans,” “Alias” and “The Leftovers” will also be there.
When: All weekend
Where: Various locations in downtown Austin
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June 14
For those who love music and the outdoors, Austin’s annual Blues on the Green summer concert series is something to look forward to each month. Every month, there’s a new artist playing the big stage. The concerts are free. You can bring a blanket, chairs, a cooler full of your favorite (non-glass) beverages and relax. This month’s headliner is Grupo Fantasma, a Latin funk and rock band that is among Austin’s most celebrated and beloved bands. There will be other Blues on the Green shows on July 12 and Aug. 2.
When: Music starts at 8 p.m. People often arrive an hour or more early.
Where: Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd
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June 24
Everyone understands the phrase “Keep Austin Weird” on their own level. For some, it’s artistic expression. For others, it’s about supporting local business. And, for most, there’s a mix of both. Now, add to that a festival. The Keep Austin Weird Fest and 5K race gives you a chance to throw on a fun costume and make your way all 5K keeping the spirit of Austin alive.
When: It starts at 4 p.m. The 5K is at 6 p.m.
Where: Downtown Austin
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