Austin's New Year’s Eve 2025: Fireworks, Music, and Celebrations Guide

The City of Austin and Visit Austin are sponsoring a free New Year's Eve celebration at Auditorium Shores (800 W. Riverside Drive). The event begins at 7 p.m. and includes food trucks, a beer garden, and live music. DJ Mel, Angélica Rahe, Gina Chavez, and headliner Third Eye Blind will all perform. The evening concludes with a stunning midnight fireworks show.

Austin's countdown to 2025 will also be covered on CNN's New Year's Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen. Sara Sidner, Harry Enten, and Cari Champion will report live from the event.

CapMetro is providing free transportation beginning at 5 p.m. to enable people get to Auditorium Shores safely. Check the city's requirements for permitted things, such as blankets and chairs, while keeping confetti cannons, heavy bags, and dogs at home.

For an earlier celebration, visit Roughhouse Brewing in San Marcos (680 Oakwood Loop). Their fireworks display begins at 6 p.m., which is ideal for families or individuals who like an early night. The event is free, but RSVPs are encouraged.

Thinking about making your fireworks? Be cautious, as fireworks are banned within Austin city limits without professional authorization. Sparklers and other novelties are permitted on private land, but they nonetheless pose concerns.

In Travis County, fireworks are prohibited near public roadways, parks, and institutions such as churches or schools. Williamson and Hays Counties have comparable rules, with stiff penalties for violators.

In 2023, fireworks injured nearly 9,700 people nationwide, with burns accounting for 42% of the total. Public officials recommend safe precautions for people celebrating at home.

Whether you like large parties or more intimate events, Austin has a variety of ways to welcome 2025 while being safe and merry.

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