AUSTIN, Texas — (CultureMap Austin) Fans of free concerts had a scare in Austin this year, when one of the most popular free outdoor series, Blues On The Green, flatlined and quickly came back to life. In more good news for those folks, a similar and newer festival is still going strong, and has just announced its 2024 lineup.
The Drop-In, an effort by the Long Center is returning to the iconic arts institution's lawn from May 23 to August 15. The 12-week series includes free concerts — sometimes featuring multiple acts — every Thursday except July 4.
Some of the artists participating are all over Austin's festival circuit, like Selena tribute band Bidi Bidi Banda, "Latin funk orchestra" Grupo Fantasma, hip-hop duo Riders Against the Storm, and blues guitarist Zach Person. It's for good reason; These high-energy bands put on great live shows, and the rest of the lineup — including longtime greats like Dale Watson & His Lonestars and Taméca Jones — is right there with them.
Uniquely, this lineup is all the preview Austinites will get of the series before it kicks off. Instead of releasing a schedule, the Long Center will announce each next show only a week before it happens; the preceding Friday, a day after the last show. Then, on Monday, audiences can RSVP.
“It’s once again Drop-In season at the Long Center, and I think it’s safe for me to say that it’s our favorite time of year here at the LC,” said Long Center President & CEO Cory Baker in a press release. “Year after year, it’s our pleasure to host the thousands of Austinites that come out here to support what makes Austin, Austin: our local artists who are creating every day. We’re excited to welcome everyone to our lawn for another great Drop-In.”
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