Looking for things to do around the Austin metro this weekend? From live music and book festivals to veterans day celebrations, a stargazing party, two-stepping and a 5K race, here are some events to explore in Central Texas.

Meanwhile Brewing Co. five year anniversary party

South Austin brewery Meanwhile Brewing Co. will celebrate its fifth anniversary with three days of festivities. The brewery will release special beers, offer food deals, and host live music, family-friendly activities and local vendors.Star Party at 1849 Park

Pflugerville and the Austin Astronomical Society will host a star party. Presenters will use laser pointers to highlight celestial objects and guests can view the night sky through telescopes or bring their own equipment.Texas Book Festival

Featuring over 300 authors, the festival will give community members an opportunity to experience presentations, panels, book signings, cooking demonstrations, kids programs, activities and more.Heroes & Hot Rods car show and veterans march


The Bastrop Area Cruisers will host a free car show in downtown Bastrop, and a veterans ceremony outside the Bastrop County Courthouse. Veterans will meet outside the United States Postal Office at 1106 Main St., at 10:30 a.m. and march to the Bastrop County Courthouse, as the Commemorative Air Force Central Texas Wing from San Marcos flies over.
  • Nov. 8, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m (car show), 10:30 a.m. (veterans march), 11 a.m. (veterans ceremony)
  • Free (admission)
  • Downtown Bastrop, Main Street
  • www.bastropareacruisers.com
Veterans Day Parade & Market Days

The parade will take place during Market Days, offering live music, vendors, crafts, locally produced food and more. Starting at the Mary Kyle Hartson Park, the parade will travel east along Center Street from Gregg-Clarke Park, ending at Front Street on the City Square.
  • Nov. 8, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. (market days), 11:45 a.m. (parade)
  • Free (admission)
  • Mary Kyle Hartson Park, 101 S. Burleson St., Kyle
  • www.cityofkyle.com/recreation
Williamson County 50-year 5K run

To celebrate 50 years of Williamson County EMS, runners can gather for a 5K walk or run and a children’s 1K at River Ranch Country Park. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center.
  • Nov. 8, 8:30 a.m. (children’s 1K), 9:30 a.m. (5K)
  • $35 (5K), $5 (1K)
  • 2100 CR 279, Liberty Hill
  • www.wilcotx.gov
Purple Ark Music & Arts Festival

The family-friendly event features live performances by award-winning artists, all backed by full bands. In addition to music, guests can enjoy the work of artists and crafters, a farmers market, and a food and beverage garden offering craft beer and wines.
  • Nov. 8, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
  • Free admission with code “MINUS5,” children under 12 are admitted free of charge.
  • 301 W. Bagdad Ave., Round Rock
  • https://purplearkfestival.com
Violet Crown October(ish)fest


An estimated 20 local, independent breweries will be in attendance, accompanied by food trucks and live music. Proceeds made by cup sales and donations will benefit nonprofit Violet Crown Community Works.Outside City Limits Music Festival

The festival in Driftwood will feature a lineup of local musicians, food and brews, alongside an artisan market, yard games and more. The event is held on Vista Brewing’s 21-acre ranch in the Hill Country.Two Step Night

In partnership with Native Texan Two Step, Waterloo Greenway will host an evening of two-stepping.