Week of February 2

What's Weird ATX

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High schoolers from McCallum, Crockett, Eastside Early College, and Kealing walked out of class Friday as part of a national shutdown protesting ICE, marching to the Capitol with signs. Governor Abbott then announced a state investigation into AISD for supposedly helping kids skip school, which the district quickly shot down by pointing out that the police escorts were just keeping marching students safe on city streets. Local businesses got in on the action too; BookPeople donated Friday's profits to Twin Cities unions, Bouldin Creek Café gave 100% of their sales to Casa Marianella, and spots like End of an Ear and Flitch Coffee closed their doors entirely in solidarity. The evening rally at the Capitol drew over a thousand people to hear Greg Casar and Joaquin Castro fire up the crowd.

WhatsGoodATX 2.0 is ALMOST HERE. A hint at what we have in store: 🗺️ 🎧️ 🌟 

It’s being released to a small beta group this week! If you’d like to be among the earliest to check it out, click here.

In other major news, the now-traditional Reddit megathread about the storm became the city's GC: It was a frenzied mix of frozen pipe advice, downed tree photos, questionable snowmen, and inevitable Ted Cruz memes. City operations went into modified mode with delayed trash pickup, closed facilities, and warming centers scattered across town while nearly 900 people were sheltered overnight at cold weather facilities. By Monday some sunshine finally brought a thaw, though anyone who tried to walk on the stone paths at Zilker before noon probably learned a valuable lesson about black ice!

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In food news, Ēma, the Mediterranean sister restaurant to South Congress favorite Aba, just opened at Domain Northside. Fittingly, "Ēma" means "mother" in Hebrew to Aba's "father," bringing lighter, California-inflected mezze vibes to balance Aba's evening energy. High Road DelicaTexan landed in Bouldin Creek with housemade sausages and Chicago-meets-Cajun hot dogs that feel like a Texas breakfast joint merged with a Midwestern deli, while Roxie's finally opened in Buda. Roxie’s is Salt Lick BBQ owner Scott Roberts' tribute to his grandmother, serving family-style fried chicken and chicken fried steak with rolls and honey. Coming soon: the Rocco's team is prepping Kinsho, an intimate 18-seat sushi bar for Rainey Street, and Kevin Durant's Austin Sports Club is headed downtown.

Dry January is finally over, and this week brings plenty of opportunities to indulge, as well as ton of crafty and interesting events. Saturday and Sunday look especially cool! See you out there 🤩 

Tuesday, February 3

UMLAUF After Dark: Lunar New Year

6:00PM @ Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum - $12 (Free for Members)

Celebrate the Lunar New Year among the sculptures with vibrant dragon dances and a Filipino BBQ from KinAugi. The evening features performances by the Austin Moonflower Performing Arts Group and the Texas Dragon Dance Team, plus specialty cocktails and local Asian-American vendors. Public hours begin at 7:00 PM, with tickets available at the door for this community-centered cultural celebration.

Artist Talk: Reuse On the Runway

7:00PM @ Dougherty Arts Center, FREE!

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the unconventional materials and creative processes fueling Austin’s sustainable fashion scene. This artist talk features designers from the annual upcycled fashion event discussing how reuse inspires innovation in both art and daily life. Seating is limited for this free public event, so be sure to RSVP on Eventbrite to secure your spot.

February One Page Salon

7:30PM @ Radio Coffee & Beer, FREE!

Experience what has been called the "best literary evening in town" as five outstanding writers share just one page of their latest work. This unique monthly series hosted by Becka Oliver offers a first look at new material from talented local authors on the outdoor patio. Enjoy coffee, beer, or food truck bites while browsing reads from Reverie Books.

More interesting events on Tuesday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Wednesday, February 4

Eddie Izzard - The Tragedy of Hamlet

6:00PM (Doors) @ Paramount and Stateside Theatres, $89.22 (through Saturday)

Experience a monumental theatrical feat as the legendary Eddie Izzard takes on 23 different characters in a solo performance of Shakespeare’s most iconic play. This unique re-telling arrives in Austin following a triumphant, record-breaking run in New York and London.

THE PUPA: A Storytelling Show

7:00PM @ East Austin Comedy, $13.54

Get ready for an evening of raw, funny, and potentially weird stories at this bi-weekly storytelling showcase where audience members can even snag a 5-minute slot. This is a BYOB venue, so feel free to bring a six-pack to share while listening to yarns spun around a weekly theme.

February ATXM Night Shift: Monthly Music Industry Mixer + Open Mic

7:00PM @ Brushy Street Commons, FREE!

Musicians and fans alike can RSVP for free to this listening-room style open mic and industry networking mixer. It's a great chance to discover new talent or sign up for the lottery-style performance slots yourself.

Love Letters Open Mic Night

7:00PM @ Cheer Up Charlies

This heartwarming event features local vendors and an open mic dedicated to sharing love letters to friends, lovers, or even your future self. They provide all the postcard-making materials you need, making it a perfectly interactive way to connect with the community.

More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Thursday, Feb 5

Holding Spaces Project Photo Exhibition

5:30 PM @ Austin Public Library Central Library, FREE!

Celebrate the opening reception of Steven Hatchett’s photography exhibition, a moving love letter to Black businesses and the third spaces that ground the Austin community. This curated gallery experience offers a meaningful look at local resilience and community-oriented creativity in the heart of downtown.

Chris Ramsay & Jesse Michels: It’s Probably Nothing

7:00 PM @ Paramount Theatre - $35

Dive deep into the questionable coincidences of our world, from UFOs and forgotten history to uncomfortable truths that government agencies tell us aren't worth talking about. This evening of curiosity and comedy features surprise guests with "inconvenient knowledge," ensuring you'll leave with just enough alarming information to keep you up at night.

Bob's Burgers Trivia

7:00 PM @ 1972 Pub, FREE!

Test your knowledge of the residents of Wonder Wharf with five rounds of specialized trivia and iconic puns. Arrive early for registration between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM to catch the happy hour specials and browse the Absolut Vodka pop-up while you play for prizes.

A Benefit for Those Fired From Empire

7:00 PM @ 29th Street Ballroom - $20

Support the local creative community at this DIY benefit show featuring an eclectic lineup including FUCK MONEY, Touch Girl Apple Blossom, and Twink Death. Spanning genres from noise rock to egg punk, this all-ages event channels raw Austin energy into a meaningful cause for displaced industry workers.

Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Friday, February 6

Napoleon Dynamite Live! w/ Jon Heder, Efren Ramirez, & Jon Gries

6:00 PM (Doors) @ Paramount and Stateside Theatres, $47.23+

Gosh! Celebrate the movie classic with a full screening of Napoleon Dynamite followed by a wild, interactive Q&A and game show featuring Jon Heder, Efren Ramirez, and Jon Gries. This family-friendly evening is a hysterical blend of comedy improv and party vibes; upgrade to a VIP ticket for an exclusive meet-and-greet with the cast.

Ukulele Happy Hour

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM @ 404 Camp Craft Road - $23.18

Strum, sing, and smile at this beginner-friendly happy hour where absolutely no musical experience is required. Your ticket includes the use of a ukulele, plus snacks and drinks to keep the vibes light and creative while you learn a few chords.

UT Jazz Faculty Celebrating the Music of Coltrane & Davis

8:00 PM & 10:00 PM @ Monks Jazz Club, $20+ BYOB

Witness a world-class jazz ensemble led by Diego Rivera during a live-taping session in one of Austin's most unique listening rooms. This BYOB event provides ice and wine keys, but remember to follow the "whisper policy" to ensure the high-quality recording of these legendary jazz standards.

Bob Marley Birthday Tribute Show

9:00 PM - 2:00 AM @ Flamingo Cantina - $11.44

Celebrate the king of reggae with a soul-stirring one-love revival featuring live performances by Hail Marley and the Mau Mau Chaplains. This tribute show at Flamingo Cantina includes a chance to win free 3-day passes to the Austin Reggae Fest, plus authentic Caribbean fare served up by Winston’s Kitchen.

Pet Valentines: Paint Your Pet + Wood Frame

7:00 PM - 8:00 AM (Feb 7) @ Dog House Drinkery & Dog Park - $40

Honor your furry best friend by creating a custom watercolor portrait and decorating a matching wooden frame at this creative workshop. Email a photo of your pet in advance, and the instructors will have a 4x6 portrait ready for you to paint, regardless of your previous art experience.

Make Friday amazing @ WhatsGoodATX!

Saturday, Feb 7

Glow and Grow: A New Year, New Me Celebration

9 AM – 1 PM @ 1121 East 7th Street - $13.54

Kick off your wellness journey at Austin's most epic health gathering featuring fitness samplers and free tarot readings to guide your path. This immersive experience includes aura photography, live music, and refreshing mocktails to ensure your 2026 starts with the right vibrations.

Rhinestones VS Hellcats Roller Derby

5:00 PM @ The Thunderdome2 - $33.64+

Catch the hard hits and fast-paced action of Texas Banked Track Roller Derby as these two fan-favorite teams kick off their 2026 season. It is a classic Austin experience featuring ice-cold beer and a competitive spirit that Rolling Stone calls the "toughest league."

Castle Monticello: Art Show & Book Launch

5:00 PM @ 501 Pedernales Street, FREE!

Dive into a world of surreal paper dolls and live music at this in-person art show and book signing. It is a perfect opportunity to meet the artist and explore experimental storytelling in the heart of East Austin.

Mi Casa Es Su Teatro 2026

12:15pm - 7pm @ Mishpoca Woods Compound (East Austin) - $12+

One of FronteraFest's most beloved traditions returns with a full day of curated site-based performances in private homes and unexpected spaces throughout East Austin. Wander between intimate theatrical experiences featuring local and national artists, then cap the adventure at the famous afterparty. Limited tickets also available at the door.

Carnaval Brasileiro at Speakeasy

8 PM @ 412 Congress Avenue - $40.00+

Experience the legendary spirit of Austin's insane Brazilian Mardi Gras, a tradition since 1978 that feels more like a vibrant, costumed rave than a standard party. Mask up your krewe and dive into a night of live music and relentless energy at one of the city's most historic venues.

Midnight Church: The Late-Night Service You Didn’t Know You Needed

11:00 PM @ 616 Lavaca St - $13.54

Come get baptized in chaos and joy at this unhinged, late-night improv ritual where your sins become the scenes. It is the ultimate interactive comedy experience for those who prefer their entertainment a little more provocative and unpredictable.

More interesting events on Saturday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Sunday, Feb 8

Awaken Thyself: Intro to Lineage Rituals

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM @ Yarrow & Sage - South - $65

Step into the world of authentic mystery school traditions with Jessica Beaver, a professionally trained Ritual Master. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to practice beginner lineage rituals and participate in a Circle of Light Ceremony. It is a rare chance to explore ancient spiritual paths in a modern, sacred temple space.

Dyke Table Talk & Lesbian Variety Show

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM @ Ani's Day & Night, $5

Celebrate dykehood and intersectionality at this community-focused panel discussion followed by an all-lesbian variety talent show. The event includes a raffle with prizes like custom bouquets, art packages, and discounted hair services to help you support local queer creators. It's a powerful space for connection, storytelling, and radical self-expression.

WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2026: Austin Regional

3:00 PM @ Come and Take It Live - $19.67

Witness the intensity of an international band contest as local metal acts battle for a chance to play at the legendary Wacken Open Air in Germany. This regional heat is a pivotal career launchpad for up-and-coming artists in the heavy music scene. You can support the local metal community and discover your new favorite band at this high-stakes performance.

Sip + Solder Stained Glass Workshop

5:00 PM @ Austin Beerworks Sprinkle Valley - $80/single, $140/couple

Get creative at this Valentine's-themed workshop where you can craft your own stained glass suncatcher while sipping on local brews. Choose between fun patterns like a heart envelope, an eggplant, or a peach, and customize it with a wide variety of glass colors. All materials, including lead came and solder, are provided for this hands-on three-hour session.

Super Bowl Dinner on Us Special

4:00 PM - 9:00 PM @ Roaring Fork & Salty Sow - BOGO Entrees

Whether you're gearing up for kickoff or just want a relaxed night out, enjoy a massive discount with their "Dinner on Us" deal. Buy any entree for $50 or less and get a second one free. It’s the perfect way to savor local favorites like buffalo chicken dip or prime steak without breaking the bank.

More interesting events on Sunday @ WhatsGoodATX!

A huge shoutout to our amazing WhatsWeirdATX supporters: Doug Neary, Walker, Lyndsay, Scott B, Jess Rose Clark, Kevin, Crescent Gray, JB, Anthony, Anthony Stokes, Rebekah, Laurie, agnikai, Nick W, Just Jason, Santos, Kat, Britt, Stephanie, LoganJ, Yvette, Connor, Leslie, Praveer, Christina, Emily, tags-09, and /u/runthistownatx!