In 2025, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) continued its tradition of featuring local music and art for travelers. The airport hosted 1,087 live performances and showcased over 2,200 bands and musicians throughout the terminal. All performers were based in Austin, with more than 170 acts making their debut at AUS that year.
Travelers passing through the airport encountered a range of musical genres including Romani-Gypsy, Flamenco, Sufi, Chicha (psych cumbia), Desert Blues, Harmolodic Dub, and Orchestral Jazz. These performances aimed to ease travel stress and create memorable experiences for passengers.
Special events marked the year. Mariachi Relámpago held pop-up shows for Mother’s Day and Día de las Madres. On September 23rd, the terminal celebrated HAAM Day’s 20th anniversary with five artists performing in support of the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians. In November, AUS supported HOME Austin’s kickoff event by highlighting aging musicians.
The airport also organized Kid Band Week to provide students from local music schools an opportunity to perform publicly. During the holiday season, groups such as the Austin Gay Men’s Chorus and students from Del Valle Middle and High School performed for travelers. Carpe Sono and Chor.US led caroling activities alongside gift-wrapping services.
Visual art installations complemented these musical offerings. A notable addition was “Convergence / Austin,” an overhead piece at Gate 15 consisting of approximately 400 vertical strands holding 3,200 elements. This installation was commissioned through the City of Austin’s Art in Public Places Program.
Rotating exhibitions addressed themes like sustainability and environmental stewardship under programs such as Keeping AUS Safe & Wild. These exhibits informed travelers about water conservation efforts, waste management practices, emission reductions, and wildlife protection on airport property.
AUS held its first Public Art Makers Expo during the year with attendance from members of Austin’s arts community including fabricators and designers who presented mosaics, sculptures, kinetic works, and interactive pieces.
Ongoing projects are part of the Journey With AUS expansion program which has commissioned twenty-three artist-led teams to develop new public artworks across the airport through early 2026. These teams have engaged directly with travelers and community members via open houses and other activities.
“Here’s to another year of unforgettable performances and wondrous installations for travelers and Austinites alike,” stated representatives from AUS in closing remarks thanking participating artists.
The City of Austin manages a budget totaling $5.9 billion to support operations like those at AUS according to its official website. Over 16,000 staff are employed by the city to manage these services. Diversity and inclusion remain central values promoted by city leadership according to official statements, contributing to high ratings received by municipal services compared to other large cities as noted online. The city also focuses on fostering community pride while pursuing sustainable development goals outlined on its website.
