Week of February 16

What's Weird ATX

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This week, the Austin Marathon brought 30,000 runners through town on Sunday. Joseph Whelan set a new course record at 2:13:18, and women's winner Kellyn Taylor, a firefighter from Flagstaff, both agreed that the hill up Congress was brutal every single time 🏃‍♀️ Meanwhile, the Austin Public Library officially kicked off its centennial celebrations, marking 100 years since it opened in a rented room on Congress Ave with 500 donated books(!) Branches are hosting Roaring '20s programming all month, including Gatsby book clubs, art workshops, and a "History Harvest" at the Austin History Center where residents can contribute their own photos and stories. If you haven't made it to your neighborhood branch lately, this is the perfect time, IMO.

Get your mild winter swims in now: Barton Springs Pool will close Feb 23 through March 13 for maintenance on a crumbling 1940s bypass pipe. And, in the ongoing saga of our imminent robot overlords: the feds are investigating both Waymo and Tesla's robotaxi operations here in Austin. Waymo for blowing past stopped school buses, and Tesla for generally erratic driving. AISD has formally asked Waymo to stay out of school zones.

On the food front, Roya, an upscale Persian restaurant from Chef Amir Hajimaleki, finally opened its permanent home on Shoal Creek Blvd after eight years of pop-ups, and the early reviews are glowing. Try the “Sofreh Experience” if you want the chef to course it out for you.  In other news, Mediterranean spot Oria is coming to Barton Springs, De Nada Cantina is adding a South First location, and Indian “rolling restaurant” Electric Gravy is introducing a rotating regional menu format. At the same time, longtime vegan café Fat Cats is closing and Dan’s Hamburgers on Airport Blvd is set to shut temporarily for a major rebuild that will nearly double its size. Legacy space Threadgill’s on Riverside is being revived by Bartlett’s and McGuire Moorman Lambert as a new Bartlett’s outpost, while dessert chain Chocolate Bash has announced its first Austin shop, all feeding into what local coverage is calling a broader 2026 dining surge across Barton Springs, South Congress, and East Cesar Chavez.

Fat Tuesday kicks off the week with brass bands and beads on East 6th, the Fire Horse gallops into Lunar New Year, and 80+ emerging artists descend on Fair Market for a three-day creator-led Superfair! Other highlights include shaking cocktails at a downtown hotel terrace, walking labyrinths, and just trying to run a 5K for a delicious beer at the end 🍺 

Tuesday, Feb 17

Speedrailz: Best Bartender in Texas State Championship

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM @ Cabana Club, FREE!

Watch four city champions battle for the ultimate state title in a high-stakes display of craft and speed. Secure your spot here to join the live audience and help judge who truly serves the best drinks in Texas.

Mardi Gras East 6th Street Second Line Parade

7pm @ Zilker Brewing, FREE!

Celebrate Fat Tuesday with a festive New Orleans-style march down East 6th Street featuring the Ton of Brass Band. This rollicking parade kicks off at Zilker Brewing and winds through Daydreamer and Grackle before ending with a Muffuletta Pop Up at The Liberty, plus merch from Quickies World Wide. Beads, booze, and brass band fun await!

Year of the Fire Horse: Lunar New Year Celebration

7pm - 10pm @ Alienated Majesty Books, FREE!

Ring in the Year of the Fire Horse with a festive celebration featuring synth strings from Hexpartner, short readings from fiction writer Ruth Buchwald and poet Watermelonfroya, tarot by Ask A Moon, and prints by Neighborhood Riso. Performances begin at 7pm with beverages and light bites provided, creating an intimate late-night gathering of music, literature, and divination to welcome the Lunar New Year.

Bi-Weekly Go-Kart Tournament

7:30 PM @ Pinballz Lake Creek - $10.00

Compete against fellow Austin racers in a high-speed tournament where the fastest driver takes all. Snag an Early Bird fee for just $10 and return to the track to prove your skills.

More interesting events on Tuesday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Wednesday, February 18

Meet Me Here W/ Llano

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM @ 2105 Pearl Street - $23.18

Experience an intimate evening featuring a live taping by the band Llano and photography by Sharan Gupta. This gathering offers a unique dual experience with a free gallery viewing from 4–6 PM before the main performance begins.

Slackers Silent Book Club

6:00 PM @ 12233 Ranch Rd 620 N #204 - Free

Ditch the assigned reading and bring your current book to this introvert-friendly gathering where the only requirement is quiet reading. It's the perfect way to enjoy good beer and a cozy atmosphere without the pressure of a traditional book club discussion.

Bourbon Sampling at the Speakeasy

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM @ Mama Merlot’s Speakeasy - $25.09

Head just south of the city to a hidden speakeasy for an exclusive night of sipping and savoring varied bourbon flavors. This curated tasting is designed for both connoisseurs and those looking to discover a new favorite spirit.

OUTsider Festival 2026: "BODIES"

Feb 18-22 @ Vortex Theater & Tent, $20+(per show)

This five-day queer transmedia art festival celebrates LGBTQ+ expression through performance, film, dance, and multimedia installations. Wednesday, Feb 18 features Keioui Keijaun Thomas's "Come Hell or High Femmes" at 7:30pm—a post-apocalyptic film exploring trans femme survival—and Bird of Paradigm's "Body Garden" at 9pm, blending animation, dance, and experimental electronic music. Get your festival badge for full access.

More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Your Supplement Routine, Organized.

You're taking 8+ supplements. You can't remember when half of them expire. And you definitely don't know if they overlap. Get the SuppCo app to track nutrients, get scheduling alerts, and see what you're actually taking. It’s your health, don’t make it complicated.

Thursday, Feb 19

Love in Bloom - Mixology Experience

6 PM @ Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel - $58.96

Sip, shake, and savor the season of romance at this expert mixology class held on the Stephen F’s Bar terrace. You'll learn to craft artisanal cocktails in a high-end setting overlooking Congress Avenue.

Experiments in Spiritualist Table Tipping

7 PM @ 4200 Avenue D, Austin, TX 78751 - $21.65

Join The Austin Séance for a mystical evening of spiritualist table tipping workshops at The First Spiritualist Church of Austin. If you're looking for a bargain, they offer a TWO-session deal that includes an additional workshop on February 26.

Heavy Metal Hardware: Chainmail Keyring Workshop

8pm - 10pm @ Tiny Minotaur Tavern - $33

Learn fundamental chainmail weave patterns and craft your own handmade keychain at this beginner-friendly workshop led by Sam Kins of StudioKollisions. This open-guided, self-paced session includes all materials and admission to the fantasy tavern space for the evening: perfect for a creative date night, girls' night out, or solo escape.

Art Exhibition: Above & Beyond

7 PM, ART Gallery @ Canopy, FREE!

Explore the experimental art scene at the Almost Real Things Gallery with a special reception featuring 10 resident artists. This free event offers a deep dive into the creativity thriving within the Canopy studio complex.

Mystery Cards Austin Singles Mixer (Ages: 30s-40s)

7 PM @ Fairways Cantina - $15.18

Break the ice in a truly weird way by solving clues and creating social connections through mystery card games. This mixer is designed for singles in their 30s and 40s who want to have a blast while meeting new people.

Madness Therapy with DMadness & Rapid Ric

8 PM @ Flamingo Cantina - $7.18

Dive into the local underground scene for a wild night of music and vibes during this Thursday residency. It’s an affordable way to experience the high-energy "Madness Therapy" that defines Austin's creative spirit.

Vinho de Bossa

8 PM @ Cape Bottle Room - $23.03

Escape into a world of live Brazilian Bossa Nova Jazz and Tropicalia music performed by local favorites Nossas Novas. Authentic Brazilian cuisine is also available for purchase to complete your immersive cultural experience.

Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Friday, Feb 20

The Superfair Austin

February 20-22 @ Fair Market, $22+ (through Sunday)

Discover 80+ emerging artists at Austin's newest artist-led art fair where you buy directly from creators; no gallery middlemen! With live music, performances, local food and spirits, plus optional curator-led collecting tours, this three-day celebration offers multiple ticket tiers with opening night bubbly and exclusive collector perks. Grab your tickets now, and use code WHATSGOOD30 for 30% off!

Cacao Ceremony

7 PM @ 1701 Toomey Road - $49.87

Open your heart with Greg’s magical monthly gathering featuring ceremonial cacao sips, deep breathwork, and immersive sound healing. It is a perfect mystical Friday night experience for those seeking deep connection and spiritual grounding.

Bellydancing, bottle walking & more with Devon Alfather

7pm @ The Speakeasy (Buda) - $14.70

Start your morning with a dose of the unconventional by witnessing bottle walking and bellydancing with Devon Alfather. This speakeasy performance is guaranteed to be full of surprises and impressive physical feats.

Anime + Pop Culture Art Expo: Disney, Star Wars, Marvel & Anime

5 PM @ Holiday Inn Austin Airport, FREE! (through Sunday)

Anime fans can score free admission and a premium print at this massive voice actor meet-and-greet. It is an incredible deal for the community, including free parking and access to legendary talent from "Attack on Titan" and "Sword Art Online".

Jazz in The Crescent Room: John Burnett’s Bluesette Quartet

6 PM @ Chez Zee - $5.41

Enjoy a world-class blues and jazz experience for the unbeatable price of just over $5. This intimate dining and music event at Chez Zee is a local favorite and consistently sells out.

Find more fun stuff on Friday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Saturday, Feb 21

Fast Friends: Make Connections at Light-Rail Speed!

10 AM @ 1501 East 5th Street, FREE! ($20 refundable deposit req’d)

Ditch the traditional networking events for a unique adventure that uses Austin's public transit as both a venue and a mode of transportation. It is a high-speed way to explore the city and forge genuine connections with fellow urban adventurers.

Labyrinth Walks: Eros & Psyche

10 AM @ Hyde Park Christian Church - $15.00

Take a deep dive into self-discovery by exploring ancient myths while physically walking a labyrinth. It’s a unique, quiet, and reflective community gathering focused on the path to wholeness.

Sculpt & Shop

10 AM @ Copeland Haus - $7.77

For a very low entry price, you can support local makers while sculpting your own hot bod! It’s a laid-back community-oriented activity that highlights East Austin’s local creativity.

Pilates en el Club: Tacos y Perreo

11 AM @ The Lucky Duck- $39.19

This isn't your average fitness class; it’s a full Saturday morning experience that combines wellness movement with community vibes, perreo, and actual tacos. It’s a quintessential "Keep Austin Weird" way to get your heart rate up before a feast.

UnHinged: Real Blind Dates, Real Funny Improv

7 PM @ Fallout Theater- $19.32

Watch a live "meet cute" unfold as two audience members go on a real blind date that inspires a team of talented comedian "dating coaches" to perform improv. It’s a provocative and hilarious look at modern romance in the heart of downtown.

PowerPints

8 PM @ 1120 South Lamar Boulevard - $6.40

Grab a drink and prepare to learn something weird at this original comedy show where presenters have exactly five minutes to deliver a PowerPoint on any topic imaginable. It's the perfect blend of bar culture and niche educational entertainment.

More interesting events on Saturday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Sunday, February 22

Community Craft Supply Swap

1PM @ Make at Rosie - $7.77

Low-pressure, high-reward afternoon where Austin's makers trade materials and connect. Exchange your unused supplies for new treasures while building creative community connections.

5k Beer Run

11 AM @ St. Elmo Brewing, $45

Get your steps in and reward yourself with a cold local craft beer at the finish line. This untimed fun run is part of the TX Brewery Running Series and is open to runners and walkers of all levels.

ACL Live Community Day Presented by Dell Technologies

10AM @ ACL Live, FREE!

Free behind-the-scenes experience of Austin's legendary music venue from 10AM-4PM. Explore the iconic Moody Theater where Austin City Limits has been filmed since 2011.

Dungeons & Drafthouse - A Dance of Love and Blades

2PM @ The Highball - $36.18

Perfect for first-timers and D&D veterans alike, join professional Dungeon Masters for monthly one-shot adventures in Alamo Drafthouse's funky bowling alley setting. Roll dice, slay dragons, order food.

National Margarita Day at Anderson Lane

2PM @ 2700 W Anderson Ln - Free

Celebrate at the exact coordinates where Jimmy Buffett started writing "Margaritaville" with the Texas Tide Band. Free live music honoring the birthplace of an iconic song on its official holiday.

More interesting events on Sunday @ WhatsGoodATX!

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