One of the greatest things about moving to Austin is the wealth of nearby small communities that embrace the friendly old-fashioned community spirit. It’s easy to find great ways to celebrate each community’s uniqueness, in the many festivals and fairs that add charm and fun to life in the Texas Hill Country. Whether you’re just moving to Austin, Texas, or you’ve been enjoying its quirky delights for years, you owe it to yourself to get out and see what’s happening in the smaller communities. A great time to start is April 19 -21 at the Founders Day Festival in Dripping Springs.

The city of Dripping Springs, Texas, Founders Day Festival is an annual event. Celebrating the 1850 founding of the community by the Moss, Wallace, and Pound families, the Founders Day Festival is a great way to dive into the rich history of the area while celebrating the generous community spirit, especially if you’re just moving to Austin. Newcomers to the area may be surprised at the level of cooperation and volunteerism this festival promotes, while old-timers will tell you, that’s just how things are in this part of Texas.
Events at the festival are varied enough to please everyone in your family. There’s a carnival, a parade, a cook-off, booths for local artisans, and live music to get you moving. To Austin residents, life is all about art, music, creativity, and celebrating uniqueness; come to the festival prepared to find not only fun and recreation, but also unique handmade items, delicious treats, and the opportunity to hear up-and-coming acts before the rest of the country knows about them.
Even if you’re a new resident, or just in the process of moving to Austin, it’s easy to get involved with Founders Day. The spirit of volunteerism is alive and well in Dripping Springs, so there are plenty of opportunities to find where you fit in. If you have a special skill to share, a nonprofit to promote, or arts and crafts to sell, consider renting a booth. St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, an organizer of the event, uses the funds raised from renting these booths to charitably benefit hundreds of people from throughout the Texas Hill Country.

If you’re thinking about moving to Austin, now is a great time to do it!