September 2025 Events Around Austin

by Move Smart Pros .

September in Austin means cooler evenings, lively weekends, and a calendar full of ways to soak in the season. From cheering on to catching outdoor films under the stars, this month offers plenty of opportunities to mix culture, community, and a touch of Texas flair.

Museum & Immersive Experiences

Fantastic Fest (20th Anniversary)

September 18–25, 2025 | Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, South Lamar theater - 1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

Dive into the U.S.’s premier genre film festival with 45 world premieres spanning horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and more. Expect red-carpet premieres (like Black Phone 2, The Strangers – Chapter 2, Sisu: Road to Revenge, Whistle), drag shows, a “Masters of Horror” retrospective, and the debut of Fantastic Pitches, offering $100,000 in funding for emerging filmmakers. Tickets are nearly sold out.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas - Light Trail

September 25 – November 30, 2025 | Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Austin, TX

Wander through a spectacular, immersive trail featuring iconic characters like Jack Skellington, Sally, and Oogie Boogie in illuminated sculptures, projections, and video art—all timed to Danny Elfman’s musical score. Wednesdays through Sundays in the evenings. Tickets start at ~$31 for kids and ~$41–56 for adults; early sales began mid-August

Austin Museum Day

September 21, 2025 | Various Austin-area museums

One day to explore! Participating local museums and cultural sites open their doors with free exhibitions and special activities—perfect for a spontaneous, enriching day out. austintexas.org

Park & Outdoor Events

Texas Parks & Wildlife – September Nature Programs

Explore guided hikes, nature walks, and educational programs in surrounding state parks and preserves:

- September 6: Veteran Suicide Awareness Ruck at McKinney Falls State Park
- September 13: Intro to Fly Fishing & Mountain Biking for Beginners at Lockhart State Park
- September 17: Guided Hike at Enchanted Rock’s new northern property
- September 20: Veteran Suicide Awareness hike at Lockhart State Park; Fall Bottomland Forest Hike at Stephen F. Austin SP
- September 27: Moth Madness Campfire Chat at Enchanted Rock; Deaf Outdoors Day at Lockhart SP; multiple ranger-led walks and events

Bat Fest

Spetember 6, 2025 | Congress Avenue Bridge

Watch 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats take flight at dusk while enjoying live music, kids’ activities, a costume contest, and plenty of Austin fun.

La Fiesta de la Independencia de México

September 15, 2025 | Republic Square Park, Austin, TX

Celebrate Mexico’s independence with folklórico dancers, mariachi music, artisan markets, and vibrant performances at this free, community-centered event.

Sporting Events

University of Texas Football Season

Starts September 6, select Saturdays | DKR Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, TX

Join the Longhorns as they launch their first-ever Southeastern Conference season at home—expect big-game energy and packed stands.

Austin FC vs. Seattle Sounders

September 21, 2025 | Q2 Stadium

Q2 Stadium comes alive as Austin FC battles the Seattle Sounders in a must-see MLS matchup.

Movie Nights / Theater Events

Dance Waterloo presents Quixotic States

September 19 – 21, 2025 | Zilker Hillside Theater - 2206 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746

Quixotic States is an outdoor dance performance at Zilker Hillside Theatre that blends live choreography, natural elements, and a sound bath by Andrea Chiba. Presented by Dance Waterloo, it invites audiences to slow down, notice, and be carried into a state of possibility by the movement, sky, and wind.

Festival & Live Music

Pecan Street Festival (Fall Edition)

September 13–14, 2025 | Hill Country Galleria, Bee Cave / Austin area

This beloved bi-annual street fair brings local arts, crafts, live music, food vendors, and family fun to the open-air festival scene—free to attend.

Levitation 2025

September 25–28, 2025 | Palmer Events Center & Red River District, Austin, TX

Get ready for psych-rock glory: Pavement, TV on the Radio, Mastodon headline this hybrid-format festival featuring main stages at the Palmer Events Center and nightly downtown club shows. Expect immersive visuals, upgraded amenities, and deep ties to Austin’s live-music spirit.

Make America Slime Again Tour (Nickelodeon)

September 5, 2025 | Moody Center, Austin, TX

A fun, energetic musical performance by Nickelodeon’s slime-filled acts—perfect for families and kids.

Lorde – "Ultrasound World Tour" Kickoff

September 17, 2025 | Moody Center, Austin, TX

Lorde launches her North American concert tour in Austin, promising a stunning show with support from acts like The Japanese House and Chanel Beads.

Addison Rae LIVE at ACL Live

September 22, 2025 | ACL Live, Austin, TX

Pop star Addison Rae brings her self-titled debut album tour to Austin—expect energetic pop hits and a young, electric crowd.

HAAM Benefit Day

September 23, 2025 | Various Locations

A citywide day of live performances supporting local musicians’ healthcare needs.

Alabama Shakes Reunion Show

September 25, 2025 | Moody Center, Austin, TX

The iconic band returns to Austin stages, marking their reunion with anticipated new music and performances full of heartfelt energy.

Austin Summer Carnival

TBD | The Venue ATX

A samba party celebrating African heritage and Brazilian, Latin, and Caribbean music with DJs, live bands, and costumes.