Kick Off 2025 With Free Week: Austin's Ultimate Music and Food Festival

Austin's Free Week 2025 is set to bring live music and delicious food deals to the Red River Cultural District on January 3 and 4. This two-day festival showcases over 75 artists and bands, offering a vibrant mix of genres and a chance to explore the city's culinary delights.

Key Takeaways

Dates: January 3-4, 2025
Location: Red River Cultural District, Austin
Performers: Over 75 artists across various genres
Food Deals: Discounts at local restaurants and bars

A Celebration of Music and Community

Free Week has been a cherished tradition in Austin since 2003, designed to support local musicians and businesses during a typically slow time of year. This year, the festival is back with a bang, thanks to a last-minute $150,000 funding boost from the city of Austin, ensuring that the music continues to thrive.

Nicole Klepadlo, interim Executive Director of the Red River Cultural District, expressed gratitude for the support, stating, "We’re just really grateful that we’re here today and able to make this happen."

Who's Performing?

The lineup for Free Week 2025 features a diverse array of talent, catering to various musical tastes. Here are some highlights:

The full performance schedule can be found on the Red River Cultural District's website, where attendees can plan their musical journey through the festival.

Food and Drink Specials

In addition to the fantastic music, Free Week offers a plethora of food and drink deals from local eateries. Here’s a taste of what’s available:

Central District Brewing: Kayaker’s Kolsch for $5, Cardamom Paloma for $9
Hoboken Pie: Cheese and pepperoni pizza slices for $2.99
Marinara Miracles: $10 Meatball Hero deal
Pelons Tex Mex: Two tacos and one draft beer for $10
Vaquero Taquero: 25% off Birria Quesadillas or Birria Ramen
Marlow: 20% off with mention of Free Week
Stubb’s BBQ: 10% off with mention of the festival

Venues and Accessibility

Performances will take place across a mile-long stretch of the Red River Cultural District, making it easy for attendees to explore multiple venues. Here’s a list of participating locations:

With shows running from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. each night, festival-goers can enjoy a full evening of entertainment.

What To Expect

Free Week 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience, blending the best of Austin's music scene with its rich culinary offerings. As the city continues to grow, events like Free Week play a crucial role in supporting local artists and businesses, ensuring that Austin remains a vibrant hub for creativity and culture. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to kick off the new year with great music and food!