Rob Giardinelli
Pop-Up Picnic Gives Supporters A Chance to Experience Up To Twenty Terrific Austin Restaurants And Eateries
Photography by Michael J Charles Photography and Tyler Schmitt Of Mill Photography Studio, courtesy of Waterloo Greenway Conservancy
Is there anything that Austinites, and those who visit one of the world’s hottest tourist destinations, love to experience more than great food and terrific music? Of course, anyone in Austin can tell you one of the toughest things to score on a weekend is a reservation at a top restaurant.
That is what makes Waterloo Greenway Conservancy’s Pop-Up Picnic such a special feast for the eyes and ears––and it happens Saturday, April 5th. Where else can you get the opportunity to have twenty top restaurants, including some Michelin-star-rated establishments that represent the kaleidoscope of delectable and innovative culinary options in Austin, combined with killer music, all in one place?
Held at Waterloo Park on the north end of Downtown Austin at 500 E. 12th St., Pop-Up Picnic offers guests the chance to dine on the stunning grounds of the Moody Amphitheater located inside the park. Guests will eat, drink, and gather against the backdrop of breathtaking views of the city.
The night is expected to draw over 1,000 foodies, music lovers, and nature lovers. The result is a night that will bring all corners of the Austin community together, with proceeds benefiting the world-class green space and music venue. Guests can buy baskets for two for anywhere between $100 and 350. The baskets will include bites from Austin hotspots such as Clark’s Oyster Bar, Franklin’s Barbecue, Justine’s Brasserie, and Aba, just to name a few.
Larger groups take part as well, where several couples, large groups of singles, and everything in between can gather, each picking a picnic basket from various Austin restaurants so everyone can try and sample food from multiple restaurants. Imagine a group of six or three couples for a triple date night, where one could enjoy Home Slice Pizza while nibbling on delectable cheeses from Antonelli’s Cheese and salads from Serenade American Brasserie.
The best part is that you can enjoy all of this delicious food while listening to fantastic music. Popular Austin Band The Motts will perform a live set to the crowd. After the set, DJ Hexum will take to the stage, which will no doubt bring guests to their feet to dance the night away…and burn off those calories from the delicious meal they just ate.
Those looking for a VIP experience can opt to purchase one of three special packages: Picnic Friends Forever, Picnic Partner, or Picnic Champion. Packages range from $300 to $2,500. Those who purchase packages will receive perks such as complimentary Valet Parking, priority early picnic set up in premier locations, and a collectible 2025 Pop-Up Picnic Blanket from Austin-based designer Katie Kime that you can use once you find a great spot to enjoy your delicious food.
Additionally, guests can also purchase a single ticket for $25 or 5 for $100. In this instance, guests are responsible for bringing their own food and beverage. All guests can purchase picnic blankets during the event.
The 2025 Pop-Up Picnic, benefiting the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy, will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 6-10 PM at Waterloo Park’s Moody Amphitheater. Click here to purchase your basket or VIP package now. Baskets are available to purchase through Sunday, March 30, 2025.
