Whereas most cities would probably try to find ways to deter a colony of bats from settling beneath one of their major bridges, the proudly weird city of Austin did the opposite. When a renovation of the Congress Avenue Bridge accidentally converted it into a makeshift bat cave and the nocturnal critters came flocking, the residents of the city embraced their new neighbors. In fact, they started an event to celebrate their presence 14 years ago: the annual Bat Fest.
On Saturday, August 18th, the tradition continues. Approximately 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats will come forth from their Congress Ave home between 7 and 8:45 p.m. As you wait for the main event, enjoy the other festivities that kick off at 4 p.m. Watch live music on two stages, check out 50-plus arts and crafts vendors, and dig into tasty food and drinks from local vendors. Admission starts at $15 when you buy a ticket in advance.
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