It officially feels like summer. A few thunderstorms have passed, the rivers are flowing and you don’t have to walk far to detect the smoky scent of barbeque.
June is an interesting month in Austin, largely because thousands of University of Texas students head back to their hometowns for summer — and, of course, many of the college graduates leave for their first big career move.
While the city doesn’t have many huge festivals in June, several of its marquee community events take advantage of the sunny weather. This month, you’ll find several fun outdoor concerts, including ZZ Top at the Republic of Texas Biker Rally and local favorites playing at Zilker Park.
Now, open that calendar and pencil in a few fun things to check out this month.
June 7-10
Picture this: ZZ Top, Shooter Jennings and a whole lot of chrome. That’s just part of what you can expect at the Republic of Texas Bike Rally, or ROT Biker Rally. Even if you don’t go to the concerts, check out the bikes or check out the competitions, you’ll probably hear groups of bikers from across Texas and beyond as they rumble around town and take day trips through Hill Country.
When: All weekend
Where: Various locations
More information: https://www.rotrally.com/
June 8-11
If you love TV shows and how they’re evolving, you’ll want to check out the Austin Television Festival. The festival brings together some of the nation’s top writing, directing and acting talent. This year’s festival features writers, directors and actors from shows including “Get Shorty,” “The Wire,” “High Maintenance,” and “Boy Meets World.” Big names include Ben Savage, Bob Odenkirk and Amy Adams.
When: All weekend
Where: Various locations in downtown Austin
More information: http://atxfestival.com/
June 13
Austin’s annual Blues on the Green summer concert series is one of the cities coolest free concert opportunities. Every month, there’s a new artist playing the big stage — and this year they’ve added a pre-show acoustic set starting at 6 p.m. You can bring a blanket, chairs, a cooler full of your favorite (non-glass) beverages and relax.
When: Music starts around 8 p.m. People often arrive an hour or more early.
Where: Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd
More information: http://www.kgsr.com/promotions/blues-on-the-green-home
June 16
Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, commemorates the announcement that slavery had been abolished in Texas back in 1865. Each year, the community meets for a parade and festival. You’ll find a ton of delicious food, games for the kids and plenty of great music.
When: Parade at 10 a.m.; festivities from noon to 6 p.m.
Where: 1183 Chestnut Ave.
More information: http://www.juneteenthcentraltexas.com/
June 23
I scream, you scream, we all have to at least consider dropping by the Austin Ice Cream Festival. You’ll find plenty of icy variety, in addition to more savory eats and plenty of drinks, games and live music.
When: Daytime festivities from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; evening festivities 6 – 10 p.m.
Where: Fiesta Gardens, 2100 Barton Springs Rd
More information: http://austinicecreamfestival.com/