Texas summers are nothing if not hot -- and chock-full of things to do! We love getting out and about to make the most of our free time with and without the kids.

Living in Austin means frequent trips to Rudy's BBQ; developing a fierce love of the Longhorns; and of course breakfast tacos. But while making your summer plans, check out our list of the best goings on in the city the next couple months.

Hopefully we'll see you out and about this season!

Image via AustinTexas.org

TUESDAYS through AUGUST 27
Old School Karaoke is happening at the Warehouse Billiard Bar, a cool and funky date night idea or girls night destination to mix things up and have a little fun this summer. 

JULY 4
July 4th Fireworks and Concert
Nothing pairs better with Independence Day fireworks than live music! Check out the HEB Austin Symphony free concert and fireworks display downtown. Enjoy a delicious assortment of food and drinks plus the chance to shop locally made crafts.

Hill Country Galleria Independence Day Celebration
Another contender for your July 4 Austin revelry, this annual, dog-friendly event includes shopping, live music, barbecue, festival food, fair rides, games, and more fun for the whole fam -- plus fireworks, of course!

JULY 12 - AUGUST 17
Free outdoor performances of Disney's The Little Mermaid will be happening at the Zilker Hillside Theater. Pack a picnic dinner and enjoy with the family under the stars! 

JULY 26
The kickoff to Hot Summer Nights, a free concert series in Austin that is not to be missed. This year, it begins at Barracuda with Holy Wave, Annabelle Chairlegs, and more, as-of-yet unannounced bands. Check out this guide to all the series has to offer this summer! Such a great date night idea when you need a break from momming. 

JULY 27
The Quesoff, one of Austin's perhaps silliest but most beloved annual events, takes place on Saturday the 27th. Admission is $3 or two canned goods for donation. This melty-cheese extravaganza takes place at The Mohawk (912 Red River) and features cheesy goodness from over 30 venues of every size and style. Come hungry!

AUGUST 10
Austin Pride Festival & Parade
June is lovely, but here in the "weird" city we like to drag things out. Austin's pride week happens in August, and the festival and parade are not to be missed!
Pro Tip: make sure to register here ahead of the event.

AUGUST 24
In a city known for our bats, one would be remiss to not experience such a fun and integral part of the local action. This year's Bat Fest goes from 4 pm to midnight and is a family-friendly event with two live music stages, food and drinks, tons of vendors, and even a bat costume contest. The actual bat flight typically takes place between 7 and 8:45. 

AUGUST 25
The kids might not get too "fired up" about the hot sauce festival at Fiesta Gardens, but if your taste buds can handle the heat, this is a fun one to try. There won't just be sauce, though! The annual event features live music and has provided more than 800,000 meals for those in need since it began 28 years ago. More information can be found on the Austin Chronicle website. 

SEPTEMBER 2
What better way to say goodbye to summer than free yoga on Labor Day in Austin? Whole Foods is hosting a free day of yoga all over the city at various studios so you can find the class, instructor, or location that works best for you and your family. Find more information here.