AUSTIN, Texas — Heavy rains and flash flood warnings have led to the cancellation of several July 4 events across Central Texas, including Austin’s signature downtown fireworks show and festival at Auditorium Shores.
By 3 p.m. Friday, the City of Austin officially called off its Star-Spangled Fest, originally set to feature a concert with the Austin Symphony Orchestra and a 9:30 p.m. fireworks display. City officials cited saturated event grounds, ongoing weather concerns, and heightened safety risks as reasons behind the decision.
The cancellation followed a flash flood alert issued by the National Weather Service for areas of Travis and Williamson counties. Earlier in the day, the “Morning Spin” event at the festival was also canceled. Attendees have been advised to check their email for refund information.
Red, White & Buda adjusts plans for fireworks
In Buda, the city’s “Red, White & Buda” celebration at the Buda Amphitheater was canceled, but fireworks may still go ahead at 9:15 p.m. from Stagecoach Park, weather permitting. A final decision was scheduled for 6 p.m. Due to the muddy conditions at Buda City Park, there will be no designated viewing area. Residents are encouraged to watch from home, with public parking recommended at locations like Old Buda Elementary, City Hall, downtown lots, and the Harley Davidson parking area behind Cabela’s.
Cedar Park and Leander events canceled completely
In Cedar Park, the entire Cedar Sparktacular, including its fireworks display at Milburn Park, was canceled. Leander also announced the full cancellation of its Liberty Fest, which was scheduled to include live music, food trucks, vendors, a children’s zone, and fireworks.
Lakeway parade canceled but hot dog reception remains
Lakeway decided to cancel its Fourth of July parade, originally scheduled for 8:30 a.m., due to the weather. However, the city went ahead with its hot dog reception from 10 a.m. to noon at the Activity Center on 105 Cross Creek.
Liberty Hill modifies its plans due to muddy grounds
In Liberty Hill, officials canceled the Independence Day Spectacular at Liberty Hill City Park because of extremely muddy field conditions. However, the fireworks display at Liberty Hill Middle School was still scheduled to proceed at 9:30 p.m.
Pflugerville shifts fireworks location and time
The “Red, White and Boom” celebration in Pflugerville adapted to the weather by moving the fireworks to 9 p.m. from Pfluger Farm Lane. This shift led to a road closure between Kingston Lacy Boulevard and Rauscher Drive. The best viewing spots, according to city officials, include the Typhoon Texas parking lot at 18500 Texas 130, the Stone Hill Town Center, and Hendrickson High School. The Typhoon Texas and Stone Hill locations are expected to offer the clearest views.
Round Rock cancels all Frontier Days events
In Round Rock, city officials announced the full cancellation of all Frontier Days Festival events, including the fireworks, due to excessive rainfall and waterlogged grounds at Old Settlers Park.
This situation remains fluid, and further updates will follow if additional cancellations or changes are announced throughout the evening.