Best Events & Conferences in Austin Texas

Guide for Music Lovers, Entrepreneurs, Digital Nomads, Artists and other Fine Folks

Welcome to the vibrant city of Austin, Texas, where the music never stops, the food never disappoints, and the events and conferences never cease to amaze. Austin is a hub for innovation, technology, and creativity, attracting millions of visitors every year. The city is home to several annual events and conferences, each one offering a unique experience and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals.

One of the most popular events in Austin is the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival. SXSW is a convergence of technology, music, and film that takes place every March. The festival is a platform for emerging artists, startups, and thought leaders to showcase their work and connect with a global audience. With over 2,000 official events, SXSW attracts attendees from all over the world and provides an immersive experience that showcases the latest trends and technologies.

Another event that draws a massive crowd to Austin is the Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL). ACL is an annual music festival that takes place over two weekends in October. The festival features a diverse lineup of artists, spanning multiple genres, and attracts over 450,000 attendees every year. With eight stages, dozens of food vendors, and a variety of activities, ACL is the perfect event for music lovers and festival-goers.

In addition to SXSW and ACL, Austin is also home to several conferences that cater to specific industries. For example, the Texas Tribune Festival is a gathering of journalists, policy makers, and thought leaders that takes place every September. The festival features keynote speeches, panels, and discussions on a range of topics, including politics, education, and healthcare. The Texas Book Festival is another event that attracts a diverse crowd of writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts. The festival takes place every October and features book signings, readings, and discussions with acclaimed authors.

For those interested in technology and innovation, Austin offers several conferences that highlight the latest trends and developments. The Austin Technology Council Summit is an annual event that brings together technology leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors to discuss the future of the industry. The event features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking opportunities that enable attendees to connect with like-minded individuals and stay abreast of the latest developments in the field.

Another technology-focused event in Austin is the ATX Startup Crawl, which takes place every March. The event is a showcase of Austin's vibrant startup scene, with over 90 startups opening their doors to visitors. The crawl is an excellent opportunity to learn about emerging technologies and connect with entrepreneurs and investors.

Whether you're a music lover, a tech enthusiast, or a policy wonk, Austin has an event or conference for you. The city's diverse and dynamic culture is reflected in the variety of events that take place throughout the year. Austin's events and conferences offer a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn about emerging trends, and experience the city's vibrant culture firsthand.

Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL)

The Austin City Limits Music Festival, colloquially known as ACL Festival, is an annual music event that takes place in Austin, Texas each October. ACL celebrates a diverse array of musical genres and attracts artists and participants from around the world. Since its inception in 2002, the festival has grown to become one of the most prominent and revered music festivals in the United States and globally.

The festival drew its name and spirit from the historic PBS television series "Austin City Limits," which had been highlighting musical talent since 1974. However, while inspired by the show, the festival rapidly grew into a distinct entity.

Nestled within the lush Zilker Park in downtown Austin, the festival occupies a sprawling area where multiple stages are set up, each dedicated to different genres and scales of performances.

Mirroring Austin's eclectic musical taste, the festival hosts a melange of genres—rock, indie, country, folk, electronic, and hip-hop, to name a few. This variety ensures that there's something for everyone, from the most mainstream listeners to the niche aficionados.

Beyond the music, the festival is also known for its food court populated by local eateries, an art market, and the ACL Cares initiative, where festival-goers can interact with and support local and national nonprofit organizations.

Where is the best place to stay for Austin City Limits?

ACL takes place just south of the river in Zilker park. If you like hotels, we recommend The Loren or Austin Proper which are walking distance. But if you want to meet other music fans and make long term connections, try booking a stay at Austin Coliving House which is a 10-minute car ride from the main stage. Pro tip... rent a bike for the weekend and zip in and out of the park without delays.

ACL Website

Formula 1 (F1)

The Formula One (F1) race in Austin, Texas, is an annual event mid-October that attracts racing enthusiasts from around the world. The race takes place at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), a state-of-the-art track that is considered one of the best in the world. The F1 race in Austin is part of the F1 World Championship and is one of the most highly anticipated races on the calendar.

The F1 race in Austin features some of the best drivers in the world, competing in high-speed, high-stakes races that are both exciting and entertaining. The race is also known for its unique atmosphere and the vibrant energy of the city of Austin, which provides a perfect backdrop for the event.

In addition to the race itself, the F1 event in Austin also features a wide variety of entertainment and activities for visitors. The track features a variety of food vendors, merchandise stands, and exhibits, providing a fun and exciting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the F1 race in Austin is the concert series that takes place over the course of the weekend. The concert series features some of the biggest names in music, performing live on stage for the thousands of visitors in attendance.

The F1 race in Austin is also known for its unique location, with the track situated on a hill overlooking the city. This provides a stunning backdrop for the race and allows visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Overall, the F1 race in Austin is a must-see event for racing enthusiasts and anyone looking for an exciting and entertaining experience. The race combines the thrill of high-speed racing with the unique atmosphere of the city of Austin, making it a truly unforgettable event. The F1 race in Austin is a highlight of the F1 calendar and a must-attend event for anyone visiting Texas.

When is F1 happening in Austin Texas this year?

Formula 1 Austin at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is the weekend of October 18-20, 2024.

Where is the best place to stay for Formula 1 in Austin?

Circuit of the Americas is located about 15 minutes Southeast of Austin but you'll want to stay downtown where all the action is. For hotels, we recommend The Fairmont or the JW Marriott. If you are looking for an Airbnb vibe but want to meet other F1 fans, try booking a room at Austin Coliving House which is in Southeast Austin, between downtown and the track.

F1 Austin Website

Moontower Comedy Festival

The Moontower Comedy Festival in Austin, Texas is a beacon of laughter, creativity, and community in the world of comedy. Spanning several days and hosting a diverse array of comedic talent, this festival has become a cornerstone event not only for Austin but also for comedy enthusiasts from around the globe.

The Moontower Comedy Festival owes much of its success to its location in Austin, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic culture, and welcoming atmosphere. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin's love for entertainment extends to comedy, making it the perfect backdrop for such a dynamic festival.

One of the festival's standout features is its lineup of performers. From established legends such as Dave Chappelle, to up-and-coming stars like Shane Gillis and Andrew Shultz, Moontower consistently delivers a diverse roster that caters to all comedic tastes. This inclusivity is a testament to the festival's commitment to showcasing the breadth and depth of comedic talent across various genres and styles.

Moreover, Moontower's venues add to the overall experience, with iconic spots like the Paramount Theatre, The Velveeta Room, and Antone's providing unique settings for laughter to flourish. These venues not only host performances but also contribute to the festival's atmosphere, creating an immersive and memorable experience for attendees.

The festival's programming extends beyond stand-up comedy, featuring live podcast recordings, panel discussions, and special events that offer insight into the industry and allow fans to engage with their favorite comedians on a deeper level. This multi-dimensional approach adds richness and diversity to the festival, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Moontower Comedy Festival Website

Austin Blues Festival

The Austin Blues Festival in Texas epitomizes the soulful essence of blues music while capturing the vibrant spirit of Austin's music scene. Held annually, this festival has become a cornerstone event for blues enthusiasts, drawing artists and audiences from around the world.

At the heart of the Austin Blues Festival is its lineup of talented musicians who breathe life into the genre. From seasoned blues veterans such as Jimmy Vaughn, brother of Stevie Ray, to rising stars, such as Dumstaphunk, the festival showcases a diverse range of styles and interpretations, ensuring there's something for every blues aficionado to enjoy.

The festival's venues play a crucial role in creating an immersive experience. Iconic locations such as the Antone's Nightclub, Stubb's BBQ, and the Paramount Theatre provide unique backdrops that amplify the raw emotion and energy of blues music. These venues not only host performances but also contribute to Austin's reputation as a mecca for live music.

What sets the Austin Blues Festival apart is its dedication to preserving the heritage of blues while also embracing innovation and evolution. In addition to live performances, the festival often includes workshops, panels, and educational sessions that delve into the history, techniques, and significance of blues music. This commitment to education ensures that the blues legacy remains alive and relevant for future generations.

The festival's atmosphere is electric, with passionate fans coming together to celebrate their love for blues music. The sense of camaraderie and shared enthusiasm creates a welcoming environment where artists and audiences connect on a deep and meaningful level.

The Austin Blues Festival in Texas is a testament to the enduring power of blues music and Austin's rich musical heritage. Through its stellar lineup, iconic venues, educational initiatives, and vibrant community, the festival continues to honor the past while paving the way for the future of blues music.

Austin Blues Festival Website

South By Southwest (SXSW)

South by Southwest (SXSW) is an annual festival that takes place in Austin, Texas each year in March. SXSW or "South by" as the regulars call it, is the convergence of music, film, and interactive media. The festival has been held since 1987 and has grown in size and scope over the years. Today, SXSW is one of the largest festivals of its kind in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the globe.

The festival is divided into three main components: music, film, and interactive. The music component is a showcase of emerging and established artists from a wide variety of genres. The festival features over 2,000 official performances across hundreds of venues, making it a unique opportunity for music lovers to discover new talent and see some of their favorite artists perform.

The film component of SXSW is a showcase of independent films from around the world. The festival features a wide variety of genres, from dramas and documentaries to horror and comedy. The film festival also includes panel discussions and Q&A sessions with filmmakers and actors, making it a unique opportunity for cinephiles to learn about the art and craft of filmmaking.

The interactive component of SXSW is a showcase of emerging technologies and trends in the tech industry. The festival features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops on a wide variety of topics, including virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and social media. The interactive component of SXSW also includes a trade show, where tech companies showcase their latest products and innovations.

One of the unique features of SXSW is the convergence of music, film, and interactive media. This allows attendees to experience a wide variety of creative expression and provides a unique opportunity for cross-disciplinary collaboration. For example, musicians can attend film screenings and interactive panels to gain inspiration and new perspectives on their craft. Filmmakers and interactive media creators can connect with musicians to create unique multimedia experiences.

Overall, South by Southwest is a unique and exciting festival that showcases the best of music, film, and interactive media. The festival attracts a diverse and global audience and provides a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work. SXSW is a unique opportunity for attendees to learn, connect, and experience the cutting edge of creative expression.

SXSW Website

Austin Rodeo

The Austin Rodeo, also known as the "Rodeo Austin," is an annual event that takes place in Austin, Texas each year in March. The rodeo has been a tradition in the city for over 80 years and attracts thousands of visitors from all over the globe.

Rodeo Austin features a wide variety of events and competitions, including bull riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, and team roping. The rodeo also features carnival rides, food vendors, and live music performances, making it a fun and exciting event for the whole family.

One of the highlights of the Austin Rodeo is the ProRodeo competition, where professional rodeo athletes compete for cash prizes and bragging rights. The ProRodeo events include bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and bull riding, among others. The competition is a unique opportunity to see some of the best rodeo athletes in the world compete against each other.

The Austin Rodeo also features a variety of entertainment events, including live music performances by some of the biggest names in country music. The concert series attracts thousands of fans and features a diverse lineup of artists, including Willie Nelson, Luke Bryan, and Brad Paisley, among others.

The carnival at the Austin Rodeo is a fun and exciting experience for both children and adults. The carnival features a wide variety of rides, games, and food vendors, providing a fun and lively atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

Overall, the Austin Rodeo is a unique and exciting event that celebrates the culture and heritage of Texas. The rodeo attracts visitors from all over the world and provides a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the rodeo and the excitement of live music performances. The Austin Rodeo is a must-see event for anyone visiting Austin, Texas, and a great way to experience the state's rich cultural heritage.

Rodeo Austin Website

MotoGP Grand Prix

The MotoGP Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, is an annual event that attracts motorcycle racing enthusiasts from around the world. The Grand Prix takes place at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), a state-of-the-art track that is known for its challenging layout and thrilling racing.

The MotoGP Grand Prix in Austin features some of the best motorcycle riders in the world, competing in high-speed, high-stakes races that are both exciting and entertaining. The event is part of the MotoGP World Championship and is one of the most highly anticipated races on the calendar.

In addition to the racing, the MotoGP Grand Prix in Austin also features a wide variety of entertainment and activities for visitors. The track features a variety of food vendors, merchandise stands, and exhibits, providing a fun and exciting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the MotoGP Grand Prix in Austin is the concert series that takes place over the course of the weekend. The concert series features some of the biggest names in music, performing live on stage for the thousands of visitors in attendance.

The MotoGP Grand Prix in Austin is also known for its unique location, with the track situated on a hill overlooking the city. This provides a stunning backdrop for the race and allows visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Overall, the MotoGP Grand Prix in Austin is a must-see event for motorcycle racing enthusiasts and anyone looking for an exciting and entertaining experience. The Grand Prix combines the thrill of high-speed racing with the unique atmosphere of the city of Austin, making it a truly unforgettable event. The MotoGP Grand Prix in Austin is a highlight of the MotoGP calendar and a must-attend event for anyone visiting Texas.

MotoGP Grand Prix Website

Greater Austin ComicCon

Greater Austin ComicCon is a comic book convention taking place in Austin each July. It's focused on comic books and other forms of animated entertainment like movies, television shows and video games. Greater Austin ComicCon is a family-friendly celebration of pop culture, comics, and anime.

The event receives ten of thousands of guests each year that immerse themselves into a unique experience with an Austin vibe. Meet your favorite celebrities and discover the voices behind anime characters. Engage in board game free play, participate in e-sport competitions, and explore a vast selection of comic collections and merchandise from over 200 vendors.

Cosplay enthusiasts are welcome. A contest welcomes cosplay participants to showcase their skills and creativity.

Past celebrities attending Greater Austin ComicCon include James Hong who played in Blade Runner and Kung Fu Panda, and George Takei best known for playing Sulu in Star Trek.

Greater Austin ComicCon Website

Venture Capital World Summit

The Venture Capital World Summit is an annual event that takes place in Austin, Texas, and is a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders to connect and share ideas. The conference focuses on venture capital and entrepreneurship, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest trends and developments in these industries.

The Venture Capital World Summit in Austin features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops on a wide variety of topics, including fundraising, investment strategies, and startup development. The conference attracts a diverse range of attendees, from established venture capitalists to startup founders and early-stage investors.

One of the unique features of the Venture Capital World Summit in Austin is the opportunity for attendees to pitch their ideas and connect with potential investors. The conference features a "pitch competition" where entrepreneurs can showcase their startups to a panel of investors and receive feedback and advice on their business plans.

The Venture Capital World Summit in Austin also features a variety of networking opportunities, including a cocktail reception and a "speed networking" event. These events provide attendees with a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and companies in the industry and to establish new business relationships.

Overall, the Venture Capital World Summit in Austin is a unique and valuable event for anyone interested in venture capital and entrepreneurship. The conference provides a platform for entrepreneurs and investors to connect, learn, and collaborate on new ideas and solutions. The Venture Capital World Summit is a must-attend event for anyone looking to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in these industries and to establish new business relationships with like-minded individuals and companies.

VC World Summit Website

Startup Week

The Capital Factory Startup Week in Austin, Texas, is an annual event that celebrates the city's vibrant startup ecosystem. The week-long event is organized by Capital Factory, a local startup accelerator and coworking space, and features a wide variety of activities and events for entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders.

The Capital Factory Startup Week in Austin features over 200 sessions and events, including workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. The sessions cover a wide variety of topics, including entrepreneurship, fundraising, marketing, and product development, among others.

The Startup Week also features a variety of competitions and pitch events, providing entrepreneurs with a unique opportunity to showcase their startups and connect with potential investors and partners. The event attracts a diverse range of attendees, including early-stage startups, venture capitalists, and established companies looking to network and collaborate with emerging startups.

One of the unique features of the Capital Factory Startup Week in Austin is its focus on diversity and inclusion. The event features a variety of sessions and events that promote diversity and encourage underrepresented groups to participate in the startup ecosystem. This provides a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about the challenges facing underrepresented groups in the industry and to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations that are working to promote diversity and inclusion.

The Capital Factory Startup Week in Austin also features a variety of entertainment and social events, including happy hours, concerts, and parties. These events provide attendees with a fun and lively atmosphere to network and connect with other members of the startup community.

Overall, the Capital Factory Startup Week in Austin is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the startup ecosystem. The week-long event provides a unique opportunity to learn about the latest trends and developments in the industry, connect with like-minded individuals and organizations, and showcase startups to potential investors and partners. The Capital Factory Startup Week is a celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship in Austin, and a testament to the city's vibrant and dynamic startup ecosystem.

Startup Week Website

Texas Book Festival

The Texas Book Festival in Austin, Texas, is an annual celebration of literature, culture, and community that brings together authors, readers, and book lovers from all walks of life. It takes place each year in mid-November. Established in 1995 by Laura Bush and a group of dedicated volunteers, the festival has grown into one of the premier literary events in the country.

One of the festival's key attractions is its lineup of renowned authors, who come to Austin to discuss their work, participate in panel discussions, and engage with readers through book signings and Q&A sessions. From bestselling novelists to acclaimed poets, the festival offers a diverse range of voices and perspectives, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Beyond author presentations, the Texas Book Festival features live music, food trucks, and activities for children, making it a family-friendly event that appeals to people of all ages. The festival also has a strong commitment to literacy and education, with proceeds from book sales supporting various literacy programs and initiatives across the state.

Overall, the Texas Book Festival is more than just a gathering for book enthusiasts; it's a vibrant celebration of storytelling, creativity, and the power of words to inspire, educate, and unite us all.

Texas Book Festival Website

Citizen Journalist Awards

A new event was announced recently on X called the Citizen Journalist Awards. The event will take place every year on October 27th, the day Elon Musk took control of Twitter in 2022. The event will be held in Austin Texas, billed as ground zero for Free Thinkers from around the world.

The Citizen Journalist Awards celebrate the contributions of citizen jouralists such as Chaya Raichik, founder of Libsoftiktok, nominated for her work exposing the Children's National Hospital in Washington DC for performing hysterectomies on minors, James O’Keefe, founder of Project Veritas for his work exposing election fraud and clandestine border operations of the Biden Administration, and Dinesh D'Souza, nominated for his work on 2000 Mules about widespread election fraud in the 2020 elections.

The Citizen Journalist Awards 2024 will take place on October 27th, the day @ElonMusk took control of Twitter in 2022. The event will be held in Austin Texas, ground zero for #FreeThinkers from around the world. Follow us for venue, hosts, ticket 🎟️ info. pic.twitter.com/bWwGVVHy8B

— Americans United (@american_unit) April 16, 2024

The Citizen Journalist Awards were announced by Americans United in April 2024.

Americans United Website

Consensus

Consensus is the world's largest and longest running conference dedicated to cryptocurrency, blockchain and Web3. It takes place in Austin Texas each year at the end of May. Consensus brings together entrepreneurs, investors, developers, and thought leaders, making it one of the most influential events in Fintech. The conference is organized by CoinDesk, one of the leading media outlets covering these industries.

The Consensus conference in Austin provides a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about the latest trends and developments in the blockchain and cryptocurrency industries. The conference features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops on a wide variety of topics, including decentralized finance, digital assets, and blockchain-based applications.

The conference attracts a diverse range of attendees, from established companies and investors to startups and developers. This provides a unique opportunity for attendees to network and connect with like-minded individuals and companies in the industry.

One of the unique features of the Consensus conference is the "hackathon," where developers compete to create innovative solutions using blockchain technology. The hackathon provides a unique opportunity for developers to showcase their skills and collaborate with other developers to create new applications and use cases for blockchain technology.

The Consensus conference in Austin also features a variety of exhibitors showcasing their products and services. This provides attendees with a unique opportunity to learn about new products and services in the industry and to connect with the companies behind them.

Overall, the Consensus conference in Austin is a unique and exciting event for anyone interested in the blockchain and cryptocurrency industries. The conference provides a platform for thought leaders and innovators in the industry to come together, share their ideas and insights, and collaborate on new solutions and applications. The Consensus conference is a must-attend event for anyone looking to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in these rapidly evolving industries.

Consensus Website

World Golf Championships

The World Golf Championships (WGC) Dell Technologies Match Play is an annual event that takes place in Austin, Texas, and is one of the most highly anticipated golf tournaments in the world. The event is part of the PGA Tour and features some of the best golfers in the world competing in a match play format.

The WGC Match Play in Austin features a unique format where golfers are divided into groups and compete in a round-robin style tournament before advancing to the knockout stage. The event attracts a global audience and provides a unique opportunity for golf fans to see some of the biggest names in the sport compete against each other.

In addition to the golf, the WGC Match Play in Austin also features a variety of entertainment and activities for visitors. The event features a variety of food vendors, merchandise stands, and exhibits, providing a fun and exciting atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

One of the highlights of the WGC Match Play in Austin is the unique location of the tournament. The event takes place at the Austin Country Club, a picturesque course that is known for its challenging layout and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Overall, the WGC Dell Technologies Match Play in Austin is a must-see event for golf enthusiasts and anyone looking for an exciting and entertaining experience. The tournament combines the skill and strategy of match play golf with the unique atmosphere of the city of Austin, making it a truly unforgettable event. The WGC Match Play is a highlight of the PGA Tour calendar and a must-attend event for anyone visiting Texas.

World Cup Championship Website

Medical Conferences in Austin

Austin, Texas is home a number of annual conferences and events dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and innovation. Here are three of the biggest annual medical conferences in Austin, Texas:

Texas Medical Association (TMA) Annual Meeting: The TMA Annual Meeting is one of the largest medical conferences in Texas, attracting thousands of healthcare professionals from across the state. The conference features a wide range of educational sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities, covering topics such as clinical practice, healthcare policy, and medical technology. The TMA Annual Meeting is a must-attend event for anyone looking to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the healthcare industry.

Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) Health Conference: The ARC Health Conference is an annual event that brings together healthcare professionals, patients, and community members to discuss and explore the latest advances in healthcare. The conference features a variety of keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops on a wide range of topics, including disease prevention, patient care, and medical technology. The ARC Health Conference is a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with experts in the field and learn about new strategies and approaches to improving healthcare outcomes.

Austin Healthcare Council Annual Conference: The Austin Healthcare Council Annual Conference is a premier event for healthcare leaders and professionals in the Austin area. The conference features keynote speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, covering topics such as healthcare policy, population health, and healthcare innovation. The Austin Healthcare Council Annual Conference provides a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with industry leaders, share best practices, and learn about new approaches to addressing the challenges facing the healthcare industry.


Austin Texas, is a city that never sleeps, and neither do its events and conferences. With a variety of festivals and conferences throughout the year, there's always something happening in Austin. From music festivals to technology summits, Austin offers an opportunity to learn, connect, and experience the city's unique culture. So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience some of the best events and conferences that Austin has to offer.

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Marc Bolh

Founder Vidalingua, Supercollider
Co-Founder Applied AI