A quick guide to Free Week 2023

Don’t miss three days of free musical bliss.

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The Tiarras are taking over Flamingo Cantina on Saturday.

Photo by @jbaltierra.jpg

It’s the first week of January and you know what that means — it’s Free Week.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Free Week is a winter music festival featuring dozens of (mostly) local artists across 10 downtown venues, all for $0. You read that right, it’s free.

This year’s festival takes place from Thursday, Jan. 5-Saturday, Jan. 7. Here are a few recommendations to get you started.

Friday, Jan. 6

Chief Cleopatra | Stubb’s Bar-B-Q | Catch this dreamy singer headlining the show with songs from her newest EP, “Luna.”
Also try: Blue Tongue and Midnight Snack

Como Las Movies | Cheer Up Charlie’s | Groove to some funky songs in Spanish at this outside venue.
Also try: SKATELAND , RedBud , 10pmtoclose

Saturday, Jan. 7

Foxtales | Empire Control Room | This ethereal local pop band is easy listening.
Also try: Prixmo and The Selfless Lovers

The Tiarras | Flamingo Cantina | This trio dazzles with powerful vocals and subject material alike.
Also try: El Tule and Los Kurados

Can’t make it? You’ll still have the chance to catch some tunes at Red River Cultural District’s other free festival, Hot Summer Nights .

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Laura Figi has called Austin home for more than 12 years and has been known to say it’s her “favorite city in the world.” A proud graduate of Texas State University, she’s been working in local news since 2020. When she’s not working and learning about the community, you can find her at the local thrift shop, spending time with her two cats, or listening to live music.