One of my favorite outdoor things to do in the summer in Austin is go to Blues on the Green—the free bi-weekly outdoor concert held in Zilker Park with the Austin skyline as the back drop. Need I say more? Yes, yes I do.
This is not just a concert. This is a coming-together of all the hippies, gypsies, college students, working stiffs, aging music-lovers, etc that call Austin home, all sweating profusely and walking from near and far in order to take in some good tunes on a Wednesday night. The smells of sweat, gonja, and Freebirds fill the air along with the sweet sounds of whatever band is playing. I hardly ever know the artists, but it doesn’t matter—it’s about the experience.
The crowd and the stage at Blues on the Green
Folks stake their claim to an area by spreading out their blankets and tapestries. Some get smart and bring umbrellas. Others bring flags to make it easier for their friends to find them. Kids and dogs hang out on the lawn, occasionally running around to take in the sights. And there’s always the token soccer players and hula-hoopers, just for good measure. Kellen and I usually bring our fancy wicker picnic basket packed with water, MyFitFoods meals, and occasionally red red wine. The grass is nice and soft and makes for the perfect spot to lounge around for the evening.
Blues on the Green brings people from all walks of life, including but not limited to, these random dudes drinking beer in wrestling outfits.
It’s usually quite hot when we first get out there, but then the sun starts to set and the wind starts to blow and suddenly it’s the perfect evening in the city. The lights of the buildings downtown twinkle like stars. I’m sure the South Congress bats have already begun their nightly flight among the gasps of the crowd watching in awe. Elsewhere in the city, there are people enjoying margaritas, listening to live music, running the Town Lake trail, studying on campus, doing “dinner and a movie” at Alamo Drafthouse, etc. I know I’m getting off track here, but I just think about all Austin has to offer and it makes my heart happy.
Next week, August 8th, is the last Blues on the Green of the summer. If you have not gone yet, or are on the fence about attending, DO IT! You will have a wonderful time.**
**Just be smart about your parking situation. You can park near Barton Springs across from Zilker for $5, but if you get there late you’ll have a long line of traffic to deal with. You can park off of Barton Springs or Lamar, which is great, but be prepared for a bit of a walk. There are bike racks available on site if you prefer to ride your bike. And of course, the bus is always an option for you public-transit takers!
laurahood 