Austin is a highly underrated fall destination. When the temperatures cool and the calendar turns to autumn, it’s one of the most beautiful locations in the country. With the nightlife and natural wonders around Austin, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to celebrating the fall season.
Fall in Austin, Texas
Between the unlimited live music, nearby Lake Travis and a whole host of unique restaurants and bars, it’s not hard to find something you love in Austin. While the seasons might be changing, the city isn’t slowing down. As fall arrives, the Querencia community and surrounding area have all sorts of fall festivities to enjoy and keep you active.
Fall Activities & Events in Austin
If you’re looking for fun fall activities in the Lone Star State, here are some of the top options near Austin:
Austin Oktoberfest
Voted Best Oktoberfest in America by Food & Wine Magazine, the Austin Oktoberfest is not to be missed. The event celebrates the area’s German heritage with plenty of authentic sausages, beer and live music. This year the event will take place at Scholz Garten, the oldest continuously operating tavern in the state.
Date: Saturday, October 9, 2021
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Location: Scholz Garten: 1607 San Jacinto, Austin, TX
Texas Book Festival
As the weather cools, who doesn’t love curling up with a good book? The Texas Book Festival arrives just in time to help you build your literary collection for winter. This week-long, online and in-person event hosts hundreds of authors and also includes readings, panel discussions, live music and much more.
Date: October 25 to October 31, 2021
Location: Texas State Capitol Grounds
Austin Ghost Tours
If Halloween is the first thing you think of when it comes to fall, Austin Ghost Tours are likely right up your alley. These 90-minute tours highlight Austin’s unique history with a ghoulish twist. Your qualified guide will walk you through the city and show you the spooky side you never knew about.
Date: Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night
Time: 8:30 p.m.
Location: Moonshine Patio Bar and Grill: 303 Red River St, Austin, TX
Austin Celtic Festival
Considered the largest gathering of Celts in Central Texas, the Austin Celtic Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. To commemorate the event, the 2021 Scottish Highland Games Masters World Championships will be hosted in Austin. In addition to the feats of strength, the festival will feature workshops, storytelling and traditional music and dance performances.
Date: Saturday, November 6 and Sunday, November 7, 2021
Location: Pioneer Farms: 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin TX
Austin Food + Wine Festival
The culinary scene in Austin is much more than barbecue. The Austin Food + Wine Festival allows you to sample bites from some of the best chefs in the city while savoring the perfect wine pairing to accompany the meal. Now in its 10th year, the festival only continues to grow with more delicious options.
Date: Friday, November 5 to Sunday, November 7, 2021
Location: Auditorium Shores: 800 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX
More Ways to Celebrate Fall in Austin
You don’t have to attend a festival to enjoy fall in Austin. Here are more activities you can do to celebrate on your own time:
Pumpkin Picking
If you look at a pumpkin and see a blank canvas, find the perfect fit for your masterpiece at any of the local pumpkin patches. Among the most popular options are Barton Hill Farms and Sweet Eats Fruit Farm. These options are a great escape from the city with beautiful scenery and plenty of other fun attractions including corn mazes, petting zoos, hayrides and much more.
Dia de los Muertos
Austin is a city rich with a variety of cultures and customs. The “Day of the Dead” celebrates the circle of life, and is celebrated in a number of different ways ranging from costumes and parades to art exhibits and traditional foods. Explore local galleries, restaurants and museums to immerse yourself in this long-standing tradition.
Full Moon Viewing
This year the Harvest Moon falls just before Halloween on October 20th. Austin provides the perfect platform for viewing, with ideal night time temperatures and a number of nearby lakes that allow you to take in the glowing reflection over the water.
Explore Texas Hill Country
While the city tends to get most of the attention, you don’t have to go far to find some spectacular natural beauty. Texas Hill Country is filled with scenic hikes that allow you to take in the fall foliage, and also features a number of award-winning vineyards and wineries for a post-activity refreshment.
Celebrate Fall at Querencia
The community at Querencia encourages you to live your best life and thrive. With amazing Hill Country views and close proximity to Austin, the only limit on how to celebrate fall is your own imagination.
Querencia puts your well being at the forefront, focusing on intellectual, physical, social and spiritual health. Our caring team offers both independent living and health services to support your lifestyle and ensure you get the care you need.
If you’d like to learn more about life at Querencia, we’re here to answer your questions. Don’t hesitate to contact us and get the conversation started.