Music carries through downtown Pflugerville as dancers perform in the center of the crowd. At first, people watch from the sidelines. Before long, they’re invited in, learning steps, clapping along and joining neighbors they just met.
That’s Slice of Pflugerville.
The free festival was created in 2023 after city leaders learned Pflugerville is one of Travis County’s most diverse ZIP codes. This year, it returns April 25, once again transforming downtown into a space designed to celebrate diversity.
“It’s a bright, colorful, full-of-life event, and it’s going to have a really fun vibe,” recreation superintendent Jonathan Hanson said.
Attendance and participation have grown to over 7,000 statewide attendees per year since its launch, but the real impact isn’t measured in numbers; it’s found in the shared moments where conversation comes easily and curiosity leads the way.
Music, art and food that invite participation
Throughout the day, a lineup of diverse local and national music artists will take the stage, bringing a mix of sounds and styles. This includes everything from alternative rock bands to cultural groups such as Austin Powwow and African drum performers who invite attendees to join them in the set.
For example, a community drum circle led by Soulshine Rhythm hands attendees of all ages drums. They are guided through the basics, creating music together in real time.
This year’s headliner will be Sister Sledge, who sings “We are Family,” “He’s the Greatest Dancer” and “Lost in Music.”
“Songs like ‘We Are Family’ perfectly capture the spirit of the event, creating a space where everyone feels welcome and part of something bigger,” Hanson said.
That vibrant spirit extends beyond music, with live art adding another layer to the experience. In past years, artists have painted on site while guests watched, and one year featured a graffiti artist completing a piece throughout the event. Organizers hope to expand those interactive art elements again this year, giving attendees the chance to see creativity unfold up close.
And then there’s the food; one of the most anticipated parts of the day.
Attendees can purchase a Bite Passport to sample a bite from every participating vendor and vote for their favorites. Last year, 19 food vendors lined Main Street, representing cuisines from Mexico, India, Brazil and more. Organizers expect 20 vendors this year.
After tasting their way through the offerings, guests select their top sweet and savory picks, while a panel awards a judges’ choice. Winners receive an engraved cutting board to display at their business.
Beyond the friendly competition, the Bite Passport program is meant to spotlight local businesses.
“If there’s a chance to highlight a local business, that’s the opportunity that we’re looking for,” Hanson said. “We want to be able to show people that if they love something at Slice of Pflugerville, they can go anytime they want.”
Last year’s winners, DonutNV in sweets, Elsie’s Egg Rolls in savory and Kebab Pro for judges’ choice, reflected a range of cultures and flavors.
Families will also find plenty to explore. The Kids’ Zone features bounce houses and a popular touch-a-truck area, where children can climb into backhoes and dumptrucks, explore the controls and get a closer look at the equipment they see around town.
This year, organizers are placing additional focus on welcoming cultural organizations, with the help of the Youth Advisory Council, artists and community groups to both showcase their work and connect with residents. By creating space for those introductions, Slice of Pflugerville is a starting point for ongoing community involvement.
“I hope that people take away an appreciation for others from this event. I hope it brings people closer together and makes them feel more connected,” Hanson said.
Slice of Pflugerville is welcoming to everyone far and wide.
Click here to learn more about Slice of Pflugerville, and follow their Facebook event page for updates, including details about when Bite Passports go on sale.
Local artists, cultural organizations and vendors interested in participating can apply online here or email [email protected].
Event details:
- Location: Downtown Pflugerville
- Date and time: April 25 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Parking: park at The Pfield, and a shuttle will take you downtown
The above story was produced by Senior Multi-Platform Journalist Sydney Heller with Community Impact’s Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their “sponsored content” purchase through our advertising team.