If you are looking for something unforgettable to do in Austin today and throughout this weekend, you have picked the perfect week. As of October 23, the city bursts into life with fall carnivals, film festivals, haunted attractions, and classic Austin flavor.
Starting off, the Fall Carnival at Pinballz Lake Creek kicks off today, promising thrill rides, carnival games, arcade action, go-karts, laser tag, and plenty of delicious treats like funnel cake. Entry is free, and the festivities run all the way to November 9, so you have time to soak up the atmosphere.
For film lovers, the Austin Film Festival and Conference is already in motion across various venues and it continues through next Thursday. Enjoy feature and short films, Q&As, and consider joining as a volunteer for a behind-the-scenes experience. Festival passes start around $80.
Families should check out Spooktacular at the Bullock Texas State History Museum on Friday from 5 to 8 PM. This free event offers STEM activities and a spooky scavenger hunt, plus a Día de los Muertos feature and a brand-new T. rex exhibit. YMCA locations all over Austin are also hosting their annual Spooktaculars Friday and Saturday, boasting pumpkin decorating and Halloween fun for children of all ages.
If you enjoy theater, Bass Concert Hall is running The Outsiders musical Friday through Sunday, bringing S.E. Hinton’s classic to life on stage. Over at ColdTowne Theater on Friday night, watch local comedians spoofing Real Housewives of Austin – expect hilarity and local drama.
Austin’s largest Day of the Dead party, the Viva La Vida Festival, hits downtown Saturday noon to 6 PM. The Mexic-Arte Museum hosts 20-plus vendors, live performances, a highly decorated parade, and a low-rider showcase. Nearby, Austoberfest at Scholz Garten brings Oktoberfest vibes all day with music, beer, sausage, and fun for the kids.
As the sun sets Saturday, you can venture to Haunted Shores at Volente Beach Waterpark or the immersive UNDEAD Haunted House of Dances at East Side Performing Arts. Lovers of improv, Jane Austin Improv’s Jane Of The Dead zombifies classic literature at Fallout Theatre Saturday through Halloween.
Sunday has family delights at the Austin Symphony Orchestra’s annual Halloween Children’s Concert at the Long Center, where Pirates and spooky scores fill the air. iLuminate’s LED-drenched dance show ignites Bass Concert Hall, and Flatwater Fest at Radio East hosts live music, face painting, and food trucks supporting a local cancer non-profit.
Throughout the week, you will also find trunk-or-treat parties, armadillo races, art workshops, and neighborhood festivities across Bee Cave, Buda, Cedar Park, Lakeway, and Hutto. Unique watch parties for the Formula 1 US Grand Prix are happening at local bars and restaurants, so sports fans can catch the action with community spirit.
No matter your vibe – haunted thrills, cultural celebrations, top-tier theater, or family carnival magic – Austin has something for every listener. Thanks for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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