Located behind Bee Cave Central Park — and at appropriately named “Willie Way” — The Backyard is an open-air music venue considered by many an Austin favorite and Hill Country treasure.
Over the years, music lovers have enjoyed concerts from a list that reads like a who’s who of some of the best and varied musicians of our time. To name a few: Bob Dylan, Norah Jones, Merle Haggard, Coldplay, Widespread Panic, Alanis Morissette, Elvis Costello, the Gypsy Kings, Lyle Lovett, Dwight Yoakum, ZZ Top and of course, Willie Nelson.
The Backyard opened its doors in 1993 and originally was located near the intersection of Highway 71 and Ranch Road 620. Nestled in the small town of Bee Cave before there were many of the retailers and restaurants now established, this venue provided a unique and welcomed addition to the Austin music scene.
The Backyard played host to more than one million visitors and some 400 acts before that location closed in 2008, shortly after the Shops at the Galleria opened.
Fans didn’t have to wait too long for the music to return. The Backyard reopened in 2010 at its current location (map) and remains true to what made the original venue so popular — a comfortable and relaxed outdoor setting and good music. It’s still known as the “live oak amphitheatre” because of its natural surroundings in the Hill Country.
But that could all change …
A Significant Shift for The Backyard
Some big changes could be in store if plans are approved by the Bee Cave planning and zoning board.
The Backyard and the surrounding area would be redeveloped to one of the largest film studio campuses in the country, Supernature Office and Media Campus. If approved, construction could begin in the fall and be completed by the end of 2015.
Business As Usual in 2014
The end of April is the beginning of the 2014 season at The Backyard. It all starts with Lake Travis Springfest happening on April 25-26. Tickets are on sale now for Willie Nelson on April 29. It’s sure to be a big birthday celebration with the singer-songwriter who was the first act to play at the original Bee Cave location (Willie’s actual birthday is April 30th).
Who knows … this might be the last summer you get to spend at the “live oak amphitheatre” before the transformation of The Backyard begins this fall (pending approval).
Check out The Backyard at Bee Cave for more information on upcoming events in 2014, parking, and event FAQ.
