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- Week of February 9
Week of February 9
What's Weird ATX
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The Riverside HEB fire was probably the most interesting news item in an already pretty interesting week. A guy allegedly lit the toilet paper aisle on fire as a distraction so he could steal beer and wine, and a Tiktok of the scene went viral because people were apparently still waiting in line to check out while the store was actively burning! Redfin officially crowned Austin the slowest housing market in the country, with homes sitting an average of 106 days and prices down over 4%. If you've been waiting to buy the odds are definitely in your favor these days!
If you’ve been following the convention center saga, a Travis County judge shut down the effort to let voters weigh in on the $5.6 billion expansion, so construction rolls on and the arts-and-music-funding alternative won't make it to a ballot. There was a packed and heated community meeting at Govalle Elementary about APD's ICE cooperation policies and AG Paxton opening an investigation into AISD over student walkouts. A Buda man also got himself arrested after physically fighting high school kids at an anti-ICE protest.
Never fear, we’ve actually got proper a feel-good story this week. Huston-Tillotson University's jazz orchestra, a program that literally didn't exist until 2022, placed third at the National Collegiate Jazz Championship at Lincoln Center as the smallest school and only all-undergraduate band in the competition. Director Jeremy George built the whole thing from scratch after moving here from Florida, and now they're arguably the best jazz program in Texas 🎷
Funding Artists DirectlySomething I've been thinking about while building WhatsWeirdATX and WhatsGoodATX is enabling the direct funding of artists. If there was an easy way to give directly to an artist, musician or event creator to support their work, would you? |
In food news, the biggest talk was around Oria, the fire-driven Mediterranean spot from the Space Cowboy team opening February 27 at 1530 Barton Springs Rd., right on the edge of Zilker. Think charcoal-roasted branzino, wood-fired pita, and shareable plates in a garden setting perfect for patio season. Meanwhile, Roya is about to bring fine Persian dining to Shoal Creek Blvd starting February 11, with Chef Amir Hajimaleki turning his well-loved pop-up into a permanent upscale space complete with a "Sofreh Experience" that treats you like a guest in a Persian home. Café Java quietly opened its third location near the Austin–Cedar Park border; its first new shop in about twenty years. Shady Grove fans should know that A Little Shady, the spiritual successor from co-owner Rusty Zagst, is expected to open down in Kyle this month with a massive covered patio.
Over on the east side, Taquería De Diez is moving into a new spot on East Sixth, Ugly Dumpling is gearing up to bring dim sum to the Arboretum area, and Skipjack Oyster on East 5th has launched a monthly oyster omakase and weekend caviar cart with $10 bumps and $5 bubbles. And if you're looking for a reason to eat out with purpose, Canje is running a Black History Month giveback menu all February long: Wagyu oxtails in brown stew, red snapper with coconut rundown, peanut punch ice cream. Proceeds are going to Huston-Tillotson and the Bristol-Joseph Scholarship Foundation, which feels especially fitting given HT's big jazz week!
As is expected, this week’s events are particularly romantic, especially as we get closer to the holiday. I tried to pick as much variety as possible though, and there’s lots of fun for the single folks as well (who knows, if you’re looking you may even snag a sweetie just in time!)
Sending you all my ❤️,
Michelle
Monday, February 9
ROLLER RODEO DISCO
7 PM @ Pins & Wheels At Playland, $16
Grab your sweetheart for a Boot Skatin’ Boogie at this neon-drenched roller rink. Neon Rainbows returns for a twangy, twirling disco night that perfectly captures Austin's eccentric spirit.
FREE Intro to Improv Class
6 PM to 7 PM @ Fallout Theater, FREE!
Test the waters of comedy with this zero-cost introductory session. It’s a low-pressure way to seize the day and learn the basics of "Yes, and..." in the heart of downtown.
Chosen | Ravencraft's Vault of Horror
6:30 PM @ Mister Tramps Sports Pub
Tap into your inner 80s and 90s teen with Saul Ravencraft, Wizard, for a deep dive into the occult themes of retro cinema. It’s a perfect evening for those who enjoy a side of magic and nostalgia with their pub fare.
every.Word's Open Mic | Hosted by Jasmine Games
8 PM to 10 PM @ The VORTEX, FREE!
Join the VORTEX community for a totally free night of poetry and music. Performers can check in at 7:30 PM to share their voice in this supportive, creative space.
More interesting events on Monday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Tuesday, February 10
Ballet Afrique: Move To Heal
6 PM - 7 PM @ 1050 East 11th Street, #ste 105 - $19.32
Get ready to move, sweat, and vibe at this curated contemporary dance class that blends cardio and yoga. This session focuses on healing through movement, offering a genuine and soulful cultural experience in the heart of Austin.
Try Hard Open Mic & Topic Challenge
7 PM - 10 PM @ Double Trouble, FREE!
Whether you're a seasoned comic practicing a new bit or a first-timer wanting to brave the stage, this is the supportive mic for you. This free event captures the authentic underground comedy scene with a unique topic challenge twist.
Guisos: Mexican Stews
6 PM - 9 PM @ Central Market North Lamar - $94.75
Master the art of traditional Mexican comfort food in this fully interactive cooking class. It is a hands-on experience where you will learn to craft authentic, rich stews that perfectly showcase local culinary appreciation.
More interesting events on Tuesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Gravité Cologne for Men - Now 20% Off for Valentine's Day!
Searching for the perfect gift for a special man? A fresh yet classy cologne is exactly what he wants and needs. Gravité Cologne by Particle is a true head-turner, combining citrus, amber, and rosemary and scientifically engineered to last all day. Get 20% off now with the code BH20!
Wednesday, February 11
MicroMania Midget Wrestling
6pm to 10pm @ Come & Take it Live - $30.87
Witness an explosive evening of high-powered athletic entertainment as MicroMania Midget Wrestling returns to Austin for a night of big hits in a small ring. This high-energy show blends professional wrestling with a unique spectacle that promises to be a midweek highlight.
Variations on a Love Theme
7pm to 9pm @ East Side Performing Arts - $33.85
Immerse yourself in a multidisciplinary evening where live music, dance, and poetry collide alongside signature cocktails. Featuring the works of Debussy and Piazzolla, this event is a sophisticated blend of Austin's high-art and social scenes.
Valentine's Candle Party!
6pm to 9pm @ Dainty Dillo - $39.19
Get crafty at this themed workshop where you can pour your own custom candles while enjoying a photo booth, local vendors, and giveaways. It's a social, creative way to prep for the holiday of love.
Austin Classical Guitar: Alberto Daniel Quintanilla & Natan Bastos
7pm to 9pm @ Captain Quack’s Soundspace - $20.96
Experience the "artists of tomorrow" today with a virtuoso performance by two rising stars of the classical guitar world. This intimate concert provides a world-class musical experience at a very accessible price point.
More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Thursday, Feb 12
Fossils & Flowers
7 PM @ Texas Science & Natural History Museum, FREE!
Get nerdy and romantic at the Texas Science & Natural History Museum for a pre-Valentine’s event that blends discovery with creativity. This unique museum experience features fossils and fun, making it a perfect unconventional date night for those who prefer history over basic dinners.
Blind Love: A Blindfolded Portrait Workshop
6 PM @ Hotel Van Zandt - $15.00
Test your connection and artistic intuition in this interactive workshop where pairs create portraits of each other while completely blindfolded. It’s a sensory-shifting immersion into art and memory that is about as weird and wonderful as Austin gets for just $15 per person.
American Mahjong Open Play & Lessons
5 PM @ Austin Winery - $15.85
Head to Austin Winery for a community gaming night featuring American Mahjong. Whether you are a pro or a total beginner, they offer lessons and open play for a unique social evening—just remember to bring your NMJL card if you have one!
Love & Rock N' Roll
7 PM @ Rose Gose - $25.31+
Revision Dance Company and Rose Gose Restaurant have teamed up for a seductive evening where professional dance meets a hot rock soundtrack. Secure your tickets for this one-night event to see what happens when edgy movement and rock n' roll collide over a great meal.
Where's The Love? A Valentine's Day Variety Show
10 PM @ Fallout Theater - $19.32
Roses are red, but Mimi is looking for a mate before the night is over in this wild variety show! Experience an eccentric mix of comedy, music, and burlesque that captures the true provocative spirit of Austin’s late-night scene.
Zoppé: An Italian Family Circus
6 PM @ 500 VFW Rd, $28+
Step into a 182-year-old tradition with an intimate circus performance held in a classic 550-seat tent. This is no mainstream spectacle; it’s an authentic family-run experience that has spanned seven generations, offering a timeless and enchanting evening of performance.
Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Friday, Feb 13
Valentine Print Bar - Walk-In/Come & Go
5 PM @ Clover + Maven - $25.09
Come as you are and get hands-on at the Valentine Print Bar, where you can screen print a candy heart and block print a custom message on top. It’s a creative, low-pressure way to make something truly unique for yourself or a friend.
MORTIFIED ATX Doomed Valentines
6 PM @ The Highball - $27.5
Get ready to cringe, laugh, and cry while total strangers share embarrassing artifacts from their youth in this special ASL interpreted performance. It is a hilarious and vulnerable Austin staple that celebrates the awkwardness of being a teenager.
Valentine's AcroYoga Workshop for Couples
7 PM @ Blue Lapis Light - $25.0
Connect, play, and laugh with your partner at this interactive AcroYoga workshop. It’s a physical and fun way to build trust and learn new skills together in a supportive group setting.
Hayati Bash!
8 PM @ Elsewhere Hookah Lounge, FREE!
Experience East Austin after dark at this vibrant cultural celebration featuring Arabic DJs, mesmerizing belly dancers, and local food trucks. This immersive event offers a unique and spicy alternative to traditional Friday night plans.
Make Friday amazing @ WhatsGoodATX!
Saturday, Feb 14
BONER BIZARRE: REDCUM (A TRIBUTE TO STEPHEN KING)
9 PM @ Come and Take It Live, $36.64+
Dive into the dark and twisted world of this Stephen King tribute event that promises a weirdly wonderful night for horror fans. Expect the unexpected at one of Austin's most boundary-pushing venues.
Love. It's Blind! An Improvised Reality TV Series
7 PM @ Fallout Theater - $25.09
The pods are open for this one-night-only improvised reality show where you control the chaos of digital dating. It’s the perfect interactive experience for those who love to hate reality TV tropes.
Chaotic Singles VALENTINE'S Party!
8 PM @ Stargazer - $13.37
Embrace the madness of being single at this specifically chaotic party designed for those avoiding the traditional romance. It is affordable, high-energy, and guaranteed to be more interesting than a quiet night in.
4th Annual Gothic Hearts Ball & Bazaar
9 PM @ Elysium - $12.38
Let your dark side dance at this annual gothic celebration featuring a unique bazaar for alternative treasures. It is the premier destination for those looking to skip the pink and red for something more moody.
Stoplight Silent Disco
10 PM @ The Belmont - $23.04
Grab a pair of headphones and choose your channel at this silent disco where glow necklaces signal your relationship status. With three live DJs, you can flip between genres until you find your perfect beat.
More interesting events on Saturday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Sunday, Feb 15
The Roosevelt Room's Master Class Series - Mezcal
12 PM @ Roosevelt Room, $86.04
Take a spirited tasting journey through the miraculous distillates produced in every corner of Mexico. This Mezcal master class offers an educational but highly entertaining look at traditional Mexican spirits.
Music Gear Swap Meet
2 PM - 6PM @ Knomad Bar
Bring out your wonderful and or weird unused musical equipment to see if it can find a new home. This community gathering is the perfect place to hunt for eccentric gear and meet fellow local musicians.
The History of Wearable Gemstone Healing
2 PM @ Holi Magi - $44.52
Dive into the mystical past and explore the ancient question of "Why Have We Always Done This?" regarding gemstone healing. This deep dive into spiritual history is perfect for those seeking a more metaphysical Sunday afternoon.
INSIDE LOVING VINCENT
3 PM @ Paseo - $13.54
Dive deep into the world of Van Gogh with this immersive art experience on Rainey Street. It's an epic, in-person exploration of the artist's life and work that goes beyond a standard gallery visit.
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!
