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- Week of August 11th
Week of August 11th
What's Weird ATX
Only in Austin…
Last week, about 500 fish at Mueller Lake Park mysteriously died and were found floating in the lake suddenly. This sparked wild theories about pollution, aliens, or some aquatic conspiracy. After investigating, the Austin Watershed Protection Department determined the likely cause: Just hot weather and low oxygen.
Meanwhile, Pee-wee Herman’s legendary red bike finally arrived at the Alamo, exactly 40 years after his movie adventure said it was (not) in the basement. It cost $125,000, but is essential for Central Texas to secure a cultural victory (IYKYK). And in our interminable tire-slashing chronicles, there’s a new entry onto the scene: the Tesla terrorizer stared boldly into the car cameras like he was already auditioning for the true-crime depiction.
But wait, there’s more! Friday’s rush hour on MoPac got a surprise when commuters found themselves stuck behind… part of a house. Because why not move a building during peak traffic? And, as many Austinites have been hoping for, the Austin Aquarium finally received USDA warnings on August 4 for animal handling violations following a 2023 incident where a lemur attacked a visitor. Federal regulators cited multiple violations between 2022-2023 involving animals injuring both adults and children, questioning the facility's compliance with regulations requiring "minimal risk of harm."
Would you be interested in a local music spotlight?I'm a musician and one of my ambitions for WGA is to encourage more attendance at all of Austin's amazing live shows. To that end I'm mulling over trying to have a feature introducing you to one Austin artist, maybe once a month. |
In food news, as usual there was a wave of tasty debuts and exciting returns. Chef Laila Bazahm opened Siti at the Frances Modern Inn, serving Southeast Asian small plates inspired by Singaporean hawker fare, while secretive sushi spot Konbini and chic cocktail den Revenge Bar joined August’s standout newcomers. In Windsor Hills, Kabab Ghar rolled in with Bangladeshi street eats, and after months of anticipation, Handsome Dan’s finally began slinging bodega-style sandwiches. On the pop-up front, beloved BBQ joint Sí Baby-Q returned at Fierce Whiskers Distillery with its signature sweet pork ribs, and Breeze and Bites debuted at the Pink Flamingo Food Court with Mediterranean döner and Turkish coffee on the horizon.
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If you’ve never been to a live amateur wrestling show, this week we have a lot of chances to attend your first! Really, I can’t recommend something more. I’d never been to one when I arrived in Austin more than a decade ago, and well, insert mind-blown gif of your choice here.
Monday, August 11th
We're All Mad Down Here | Ravencraft's Vault of Horror
6:30pm @ Mister Tramps Sports Pub
Dive into H.P. Lovecraft's universe where forbidden knowledge drives people insane just by witnessing it. This horror experience explores the cosmic terror of things man wasn't meant to know. Perfect for those who like their existential dread early in the week, because nothing says "Monday motivation" like contemplating the vast indifference of the universe.
Exclusive Barrel-Select Tequila Tasting with De Nada & Arette
5pm @ 4715 East Cesar Chavez St
Indulge in a rare barrel-select tequila paired with expertly crafted bites in this intimate tasting experience. This isn't your typical Monday happy hour; it's a sophisticated dive into artisanal spirits with limited-edition pours you won't find anywhere else. Discover unique flavor profiles while learning the craft behind small-batch tequila production.
$10 BYOB - EAST SIDE (Secret Location)
7pm - 8:20pm @ Secret Location - $7.75
Comedy in a mysterious venue where even the address is classified! This underground laughs experience keeps you guessing until the last minute with killer comedians and bring-your-own-booze vibes. Snag your ticket for this speakeasy-style show that adds intrigue to your comedy night; because sometimes the best entertainment comes with a side of mystery.
More interesting events on Monday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Tuesday, August 12th
DIY Labubu Heads
6:30pm - 8:30pm @ Wheatsville Food Co-op, FREE!
Dive into the viral Labubu craze with a hands-on workshop where you'll sculpt, bake, paint, and craft your own custom Labubu head using clay, fluff, and fabric. This beginner-friendly creative session lets you join the trending phenomenon while making something uniquely yours. Perfect for those wanting to ride the wave of this collectible character obsession with a personal twist.
No Regrets Tattoo Experience
7pm - 8:30pm @ Oribello's Bar and Kitchen, $53.98
Experience the art of tattooing without the lifetime commitment in this one-of-a-kind workshop taught by artist Christian McNeil. Learn stencil application, line work, and shading techniques while creating temporary tattoos that wash off the same day. Set in a culturally fusion restaurant celebrating American-Filipino-Chinese heritage, this unique date night combines artistic expression with delicious cuisine.
Speed Dinking - Pickleball Speed Dating
7pm @ 1320 E New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, $15
Meet new people through fast-paced pickleball games in this unique twist on speed dating and social networking. This isn't traditional speed dating; it's about building genuine connections through friendly competition and shared athleticism. Join this innovative social event where relationships form naturally over quick games, creating an active and fun way to expand your social circle in the Cedar Park area.
Trash Movie Tuesdays @ Pixel Palace
8:30pm @ Pixel Palace, Round Rock
Embrace the art of cinematic garbage at this weekly celebration of the absolute worst movies ever made. This isn't your typical movie night; it's a communal dive into the wonderfully awful world of B-movies, failed blockbusters, and films so bad they're good. Gather with fellow trash cinema enthusiasts for a night of laughs, groans, and the kind of entertainment that's purely unintentional.
More interesting events on Tuesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Daily News for Curious Minds
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Wednesday, August 13th
Altar of Fruits and Flowers
7pm @ 12613 Crystal Creek Dr, Buda, Donation Based
Participate in this mystical gathering centered around creating sacred altars with fresh fruits and flowers. This spiritual ceremony blends earth-based traditions with community connection, offering a deeply unique way to honor nature's abundance.
Build WoA - Flow Tower for Burning Man
7pm @ 3106 Industrial Terrace, FREE!
Help construct an interactive art installation destined for Black Rock City! This collaborative build session lets you contribute to a massive flow tower that will grace the playa, combining Austin's maker culture with Burning Man's radical self-expression ethos.
Preachers of Hell Country + 4 Band Lineup at Carousel Lounge
5pm-11pm @ Carousel Lounge, FREE!
Dive into Austin's weirdest music venue for a night of psychedelic rock, bhajan, and devotional music featuring five bands starting with a special happy hour show. The lineup includes Phantom Attack, Elastic Cactus, Manisha Shahane, and Cabrini Green in this eclectic celebration of rock, world music, and general Austin weirdness.
More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Thursday, August 14th
Turtle Racing: Season 39
8pm @ Little Woodrow’s Southpark Meadows, FREE!
Austin's most hilariously slow-paced competition returns for its 39th season! Watch actual turtles compete in this legendary racing event that epitomizes "Keep Austin Weird." Cheer on your shelled champion as they slowly crawl toward victory in one of the city's most beloved and bizarre traditions.
THE ROCKY HORROR PIXEL SHOW
8:30pm @ PIXEL PALACE (Round Rock)
Classic cult cinema meets retro gaming nostalgia at this unique mashup experience. PIXEL PALACE's gaming arcade provides the perfect backdrop for Rocky Horror's interactive madness, combining 8-bit aesthetics with fishnet stockings and audience participation mayhem. Costumes highly encouraged!
Pasta Making With Chef Erin at Texas Sake Company
6pm - 8pm @ Texas Sake Company, $65.86
Learn to craft perfect pasta while sipping sake in this delightfully unexpected cultural fusion. This hands-on class combines Italian culinary traditions with Japanese brewing expertise, creating an experience that's both educational and deliciously unique.
Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Friday, August 15th
Pfloating Movie Night: A Minecraft Movie
8:45pm @ Scott Mentzer Pool - Price varies
Experience cinema like never before with this aquatic movie screening where you can literally float while watching A Minecraft Movie. Bring your pool floats and prepare for the most immersive (literally) movie experience in Austin. This unique combination of swimming and cinema is perfect for those seeking something completely different.
XOsphere Live: A Dimensional Jailbreak
6:30pm - 9pm @ 7412 Albert Rd, $20
Experience a radical sound and movement journey that promises to break you out of conventional reality. This experimental performance art piece combines cutting-edge audio technology with immersive movement, creating what organizers describe as a "dimensional jailbreak." Perfect for those seeking transcendent weirdness.
Dirty Laundry: Comedy at the Laundromat
9pm @ BRB Coffee, $13.54
Comedy meets everyday chores in this hilariously unconventional venue. Comedians literally air their dirty laundry with even dirtier jokes while you sip coffee surrounded by washing machines. It's the perfect blend of mundane and ridiculous that only Austin could produce. Open bar tickets available!
Crab Racing
8pm @ 12601 Tech Ridge Blvd, FREE!
Yes, you read that right - actual crab racing! Watch as crustaceans compete for glory in what might be Austin's most unusual sporting event. Place your bets, cheer for your favorite crab, and witness the slowest yet most entertaining race in the city.
I Licked It She Liked It Queer Party
9pm - 2am @ Cheer Up Charlies - $10+
The Afters List and No Te Quites Records present Austin Pride's ultimate sapphic celebration! This epic queer party features DJs, performers, dancers, and vendors creating an unforgettable night of community and celebration. The provocatively-named event promises to be one of the most talked-about parties during Austin Pride weekend.
Make Friday amazing @ WhatsGoodATX!
Saturday, August 16th
Solar Saturday: Black August
2:00pm-6:00pm @ George Washington Carver Museum, FREE!
Celebrate Black August with documentary screenings, an all-ages art workshop with Riley Holloway, financial literacy sessions, and a live performance by Houston's powerhouse vocalist Kam Franklin. This community celebration honors Black freedom fighters and the ongoing fight against oppression - completely free and family-friendly.
The Wizard of Oz: An Immersive Twist on a Beloved Tale
7:30pm @ Zach Theater, Variable tickets
Experience the opening weekend of this classic like never before with Zach360's radical reimagining of The Wizard of Oz. This Austin-style twist features a Dust Bowl-era cowboy band, dazzling mirror ball vibes, and immersive 360-degree staging that pulls you into the magical world from every angle. Running through September 21st, this ain't your grandmother's yellow brick road!
Nocturne of the Slammed
6:00pm @ Highland Lounge, $22+
Step into the crypt for this gothic pro-wrestling spectacular where vampires and nightmares battle for glory, haunted by their twisted pasts. Uncanny Attractions presents an inclusive wrestling community with a drag twist - think WWE meets Rocky Horror Picture Show. Each match dives deeper into darkness where the stakes are as high as the eerie howls echoing through the night.
Bombshells Through the Decades!
7:00pm @ Kick Butt Coffee - $30+
Get ready for time travel with Austin's legendary Bat City Bombshells serving up a seductive journey through music, fashion, and flair from decades past. From vintage jazz to modern pop, these performers will reimagine iconic moments with their signature burlesque acts. VIP stage-front tables for $90 if you're feeling fancy, but general admission standing room is just $25 for this 18+ spectacle.
For more events happening on Saturday, check out WhatsGoodATX!
Sunday, August 17th
THE WASPS (Local Indie Film Screening)
6:45pm - 8:45pm @ AFS Cinema - $13.50 evening / $11 matinee
This local gem splits audiences between roaring laughter and shocked walkouts; it's Clerks meets ancient Greece! Crafted in a Cherrywood backyard with period costumes and wild stunts, this hilarious blend of highbrow wit and stoner humor features post-screening chat with filmmakers and executive producer Richard Linklater. Complete with footnotes and cheeky old-school props.
New Texas Wrestling Tape Party
7:00pm doors / 8:00pm show @ Empire Control Room - $12
Wrestling meets underground Austin vibes at this wild tape party! Empire Control Room transforms into the ultimate wrestling hangout where fans gather to watch classic matches and celebrate the sport. Snag your $12 ticket for a night of body slams, crowd energy, and that uniquely Austin wrestling culture.
Sounds for the Soul: NYC Meets Austin
8:00pm - 2:00am @ Flamingo Cantina - $7 advance / $10 night of
NYC's vintage soul collides with Austin's raw grooves in this one-night musical fusion! Neo-soul sensation Izze Stein brings smoky vocals from the Big Apple, while local favorites Sydney Wright, Honey Son, and Meddah deliver sultry experimental grooves. Advance tickets save you $3 for this 21+ musical odyssey that defies genres.
More interesting events on Sunday @ WhatsGoodATX!
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