Pecan Street Festival

The Pecan Street Association ("PSA"), a not-for profit 501 (C),-4 group made up of volunteers, professionals, artists, and concerned citizens, is dedicated to the preservation and advancement of the Sixth Street Historic District, an important, historic, and unique area. These goals are met by PSA's activities, which include the Pecan Street Festival. The proceeds of PSA activities also support beautification, education, and other promotional activities. PSA also supports the community by financial donations to charities serving the Austin area.

Downtown was a deserted area in the 1960s and 1970s. The Old Pecan Street Association, a pioneering group of Austinites, was instrumental in reclaiming downtown and initiating renovations of the old buildings. They also educated on the rich history of Austin before it fell. Shannon Sedwick (Vice President of the Pecan Street Alliance) stated that the idea was to keep the historic appeal of the street while revitalizing downtown. She said that the association sought to preserve a sense of past and present buildings.

They needed sufficient funding to cover the restoration costs. Bringing a street fair to life was the solution. Pecan Street Festival, which featured local food and art vendors, as well as bands from the nearby area, was established in 1978. It is a community event that promotes cultural preservation and creativity. The festival attracted a large turnout and became an annual spring and fall tradition. It also honored 6th Street's original title, Pecan Street.