Spring break is upon us, and many students are packing their bags to disperse for a week of hometown visits and vacations. For those of us who are staying in Austin, it may be easy to compare our breaks in the 512 to our peer’s breaks in Cancún, but there’s no need to fear boredom! The sun is shining, and the city is buzzing with exciting activity. Here’s a list of fun, local activities to add to your spring break to-do list.
See a live show
Austin is known as “The Live Music Capital of the World,” and its local venues live up to that name by offering a consistent lineup of shows to keep Austin’s music lovers happy. If you’re looking for a night of flashing lights and blaring instruments to get your adrenaline going, check out the calendars at all your favorite local venues. Here are a few top recommendations for shows during break.
Matt Maltese is a British singer-songwriter whose piano-centric music blends elements of indie pop and jazz. He is best known for his hit song “As the World Caves In,” and is currently on tour to promote his new album, “This is the Day.”
Where: Emo’s Austin
When: Monday, March 11 at 7 p.m.
Cost: $31.25 + processing fee
Get tickets here!
The Modge Podge Showcase is five hours of live music featuring bands About You, Hey Cowboy!, Babe Corner, Shallow Alcove, and Pons. Multiple vendors will accompany the showcase, and it’s open to all ages.
Where: Soundspace at Captain Quack’s
When: Friday, March 15 from 2-7 p.m.
Cost: $10
Get tickets here!
The University of Texas’ very own student radio station, KVRX Austin, is hosting a SXSW show in West Campus. This 18+ event will be seven hours of seven different bands including Yo Diablo, High., Birthday Girl, and more.
Where: New Guild Co-operative
When: Wednesday, March 13 from 1-8 p.m.
Cost: Not yet announced
Check out the event here!
Take on the outdoors
Spring came early this year and, as a result, Austin has seen a shocking amount of sunny, blue skies and hot March afternoons. If you love the outdoors or are just looking for a chance to touch some grass over break, Austin has plenty of options. The city offers a wide range of outdoor activities from kayaking at Lady Bird Lake to leisurely picnics at Zilker Park.
Trade your study sessions at the PCL for basking in the sun at Barton Springs Pool. The iconic, natural spring pool is finally re-opening on March 9 after two weeks of closure for its annual spring cleaning. If you’re looking to tan, March 11 will be the sunniest day of the break, according to The Weather Channel. So put on some sunscreen, lay out a towel and spend your break soaking up the sun.
Where: Barton Springs Pool
When: Saturday, March 9 at 5 a.m. (and every day after!)
Cost: $5 for adults (or free before 8 a.m., after 10 p.m., or on the free side of the creek)
Get tickets here!
Shop local
Flea markets are aplenty in Austin, and they are a great way to support local artists and businesses. If you’re looking for a chance to shop unique, vintage and handmade items while still staying out in the sun, these markets could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Black Makers Market is hosting an “Unofficial” SXSW market featuring 40+ Black-owned businesses as vendors, live DJs, and food trucks. Spend a day outside shopping, dancing, and hanging out under the sun.
Where: George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center
When: Saturday, March 9 from 12-4 p.m.
Cost: Free entry — RSVP here!
Austin Flea is hosting multiple markets over spring break, but the largest one will be held at the very end of the week. This artisan market will feature a wide range of vendors, with several local artists, jewelry brands, and vintage pop-ups.
Where: Radio Coffee & Beer on Menchaca
When: Sunday, March 17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free entry — reserve your tickets here!
After this last week of grueling midterms and assignments, you deserve to take advantage of the break ahead. There’s so much to do around Austin once you step off the 40 acres. Whatever you get up to, be sure to keep it weird.