AUSTIN, Texas — As crews raised an American flag behind the stage at Auditorium Shores, final preparations were underway for Austin’s 49th annual Star-Spangled Fest and the Austin Symphony Orchestra’s 49th consecutive year performing at the event.

Organizers said the buildout moved quickly.

“We started on July 1st and obviously we’re in full swing right now,” said Allegra Benz, the producer for Star-Spangled Fest.

This year’s celebration is expected to run all day, with afternoon festivities scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. Admission to the majority of Auditorium Shores is free and open to the public, though there will be a fenced-in Shoreline VIP area with tickets priced at $35.

Benz said the event is expanding its programming, including what she described as a special symphony set as America celebrates its 250th year of existence.

“The symphony is actually doing a really special program with some really patriotic cool pieces,” she said.

She also said the festival will feature a new addition to commemorate the quincentennial.

“We’ve also got the first ever drone show that’s happening with Star Spangled Fest,” Benz said.

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Fireworks are also planned. Kevin McCarthy, who said he has been in Austin for eight months and plans to attend, said he’s anticipating the show.

“Yeah definitely, we’re really looking forward to the show, the fireworks should be epic,” McCarthy said.

McCarthy said he’s heard from others that the festival is a city tradition.

“Yeah, from people I’ve met that have been living in Austin for the last few years say that it’s a must-see event in the city,” he said.

Benz said organizers are also introducing a morning program for the first time.

“We’re really excited about having a morning program this year. You know, the evening event is such a staple, but we wanted to really diversify the audience that can come out to Star Spangled Fest,” she said.

Benz said the festival is partnering with the Concourse Project and the Mushroom Cowboy for the morning event.

“It’s going to be local DJs. It’s family-friendly,” she said.

Joining the Austin Symphony for tomorrow’s performances will be blues artist Tomar and the FCs, as well as Americana artist Shelby Stone. Benz said the expanded lineup is intentional.

“We love that there’s something for everyone,” she said.