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- Week of January 19th
Week of January 19th
What's Weird ATX
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This past week there’s been a mix of nightlife drama, street politics, and music‑scene chaos. The City is actively going after an aptly named East Sixth Street bar (Pour Choices) it describes as a “hub of habitual criminal activity,” feeding right into the ongoing conversation about whether Dirty Sixth can actually be cleaned up or if some legacy spots are basically unsalvageable. Downtown also saw anti‑ICE protests over the killing of Renee Good by an ICE agent in Minnesota, with demonstrations at City Hall and near the JJ Pickle Federal Building that escalated enough for five arrests tied to traffic blockages. On a cheerier note, Free Week 2026 packed out the Red River Cultural District, with long lines at venues like 13th Floor and a big crowd braving the cold, while drama at Empire Control Room boiled over into a now‑infamous “Fuck u Steve” tag on the venue’s gate that briefly turned into a petty‑drama photo backdrop for music kids.
In food news, as usual here’s your moves, expansions, and some looming goodbyes. Michi Ramen is officially closing its South Lamar pickup-only spot at the end of January and relocating farther southwest to a strip center in Oak Hill off Highway 290, after deciding not to renew the lease at a higher rate. Expansion-wise, Baldinucci Pizza Romana is opening a second Austin location at Domain Northside, while Kura Revolving Sushi Bar is adding another Austin-area outpost up in Pflugerville, and Austin-born hot chicken brand Tumble 22 is also set to open a new Pflugerville location at the end of the month. On the more bittersweet side, Vince Young Steakhouse is closing this month after about 15 years in downtown, and long-running South Congress Italian staple Vespaio has confirmed it will shut down at the end of February, taking its sibling Chapulín Cantina with it, which has people talking about how fast the old guard on the strip is turning over.
So many cool things to check out this week. My top picks: The Music of David Lynch (Tuesday), the Latte Art Throwdown (Thursday), Glow & Grow Wellness Fest (Saturday), and Dirty Martin’s Photo Walk (Sunday). Check em out below!
Monday, Jan 19th
Snowball Exchange, an Art Installation
11:00AM - 4:00PM @ Huston-Tillotson University, FREE!
Immerse yourself in a unique temporary art installation titled "Snowball Exchange" taking place on the university campus. This experimental experience offers a creative way to engage with art during the MLK Day festivities. Check out this unconventional display that perfectly captures Austin’s independent art spirit.
Circles of Light: A MLK Day Community Gathering
2:00PM - 4:00PM @ Rozco’s Comedy Club, FREE (Donation-based)
Engage in intentional dialogue about ethical technology and collective care at this intimate community gathering honoring Dr. King’s legacy. The afternoon features facilitated listening circles, youth performers, and a pop-up marketplace showcasing local small businesses. It’s a brave space designed for reflection, mutual understanding, and authentic connection.
Dolly Parton's 80th Birthday Blowout
6:00PM - 11:00PM @ VINYL Beauty Bar, $20 Presale / $25 Day of Show
Celebrate the Queen of Country at this glamorous blowout featuring a Dolly lookalike contest and wig-snatching competition. The night includes a baking contest using Dolly’s mixes, a nail pop-up bar, and complimentary chair massages. A portion of sales benefits Dolly’s Imagination Library, so come party for a great cause.
Swing Night! Hosted by the Goulds
7:00PM @ Radio/East, FREE!
Get moving with free dance lessons at 7:30 PM provided by Four on the Floor. This all-ages event is hosted by The Goulds and offers a welcoming environment to learn a new skill or show off your moves. It's a fantastic way to enjoy live music and community engagement without spending a dime.
More interesting events on Monday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Tuesday, Jan 20
Tuesday Tarot Meet-Up: Temperance
7:00PM – 8:30PM @ Ace of Cups - Massage and Wellness - $9-$13
Join a mystical community for an evening of trance journeys and meditations designed to unlock the secrets of the 78 tarot cards. This sanctuary welcomes both seasoned readers and newcomers to explore journaling prompts and tarot games in a sacred, soulful environment. While the suggested donation is $9–$13, no one is turned away for lack of funds, making this spiritual gathering accessible to everyone.
THE SPIRIT LAMP: Chrystabell performs the music of David Lynch
6:00PM @ Radio/East - $49.05
Experience an immersive performance as Chrystabell, known for her role in Twin Peaks: The Return, performs the music of David Lynch accompanied by 16mm film by David Gatten. This dream-pop and jazz-infused show is a deep dive into the mystical world of Lynchian art and sound. Your ticket also grants you free entry to the themed after-party, "A Celebration of David Lynch," happening immediately following the set.
Radio Talent Show
7:00PM @ Radio Coffee & Beer, FREE!
Witness local creativity at its most raw during this monthly talent showcase where anything goes. This all-ages event encourages performers to sign up for a chance to show off their unique skills. To keep the competition fierce, there is a $50 cash prize on the line for the most impressive act of the night.
Bi-Weekly Go-Kart Tournament
7:30 PM @ Pinballz Lake Creek - $10 Early Bird
Feel the need for speed at this competitive racing event where the name of the game is pure velocity. You can enter the tournament for a $10 early bird fee and face off against other local racers for track supremacy. It's a high-energy way to spend a Tuesday night, surrounded by the flashing lights and sounds of one of Austin's favorite arcade hubs.
More interesting events on Tuesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Start your year with clarity
Written by Shane Parrish and reMarkable, this workbook helps you pause and reflect. Rather than add pressure, it relieves it, bringing clarity to what truly matters.
A simple reset for January. A thoughtful way to review your year.
Wednesday, Jan 21
Artist Reception: Reuse On the Runway & Matchbook Memorial
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM @ Dougherty Arts Center, FREE!
Explore unconventional art at this opening reception featuring Austin Creative Reuse's runway exhibit and a unique matchbook memorial for lost local landmarks. This free event offers a great opportunity for art-focused conversation and community engagement.
Sudan Archives w/ Angélica Garcia
7:00 PM @ Radio/East - $41.75
Experience the experimental indie soul and alternative R&B sounds of Sudan Archives at this all-ages show presented by KUTX and LEVITATION. It’s a must-see for fans of innovative, genre-blending musical performances.
Cornhole Tournament
8:00 PM @ Lustre Pearl East, FREE!
Sign up for this free-to-play cornhole tournament starting at 8:15 PM. It’s a casual, competitive way to spend a Wednesday night in East Austin.
That's My Jam - R&B Karaoke
9:00 PM @ Hotel Vegas & The Volstead Lounge, FREE!
Host Michael Reyes leads this throwback karaoke night dedicated to smooth jams and sweet harmonies. Entry is free for the 21+ crowd looking to belt out their favorite R&B hits.
More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Thursday, Jan 22
Tea Talk: National Hot Tea Month
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM @ Austin Public Library University Hills, FREE!
Join the Austin English Tea Company for a special tea-tasting experience where you'll learn about brewing traditions and health benefits. This 18+ event is limited to 40 seats on a first-come, first-served basis.
Latte Art Throwdown & Market
7:00 PM @ Peaches Coffee, FREE!
This massive community party features a bracket-style latte art competition with over $1,000 in prizes. Attendees can enjoy a free party bus from Austin, free flash tattoos, chili, cornbread, and complimentary beer while browsing a vintage popup market.
Fundraiser Concert for Hi, How Are You Project
7:00 PM @ 29th Street Ballroom, $20+
Kick off Hi, How Are You Day with a concert featuring Caroline Hale and Witches Exist to support mental health education. Every dollar from ticket sales goes directly to the nonprofit's mission of community-building and well-being.
Solidarity Spectacle
6:00 PM @ Monkeywrench Books
Enjoy a night of organizing and workplace solidarity combined with folk-punk tunes from Andrew Savage and others. This BYOB event also features resources from the Trans Resistance Project in a community-focused bookstore setting.
Mochi Mochi
9:00 PM – 11:00 PM @ The Highball, FREE!
Experience Austin's only monthly cosplay drag show which brings an exciting blend of drag, visuals, and trivia. This legendary anime-themed event features a star-studded cast and even hosts cosplay contests for those who want to join the fun.
Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Friday, Jan 23
"Girl Dinner" at OvenbirdATX
6:00 PM @ OvenbirdATX - $10.00
The January Supper Club is embracing the "Girl Dinner" trend with an elevated, creative take on relatable self-care meals. This event offers a unique culinary experience for just $10, focusing on the joy of simple yet thoughtful food. It’s a perfect opportunity for community connection over a shared appreciation for internet culture and good eats.
Fill Your Mug: Pottery Painting with Intention
6:00 PM @ Trinkets South Austin Craft Social - $65
Combine mindfulness with a hands-on creative project by painting your own vision for the year on a ceramic mug. This cozy workshop is designed to help you manifest good things for the new year while connecting with the local maker community. It's a relaxing way to spend an evening creating a daily reminder of your 2026 goals.
Annual Jobim's Birthday Bossa Nova Celebration
7:00 PM @ Sahara Lounge - $12
Celebrate the birthday of Brazilian legend Tom Jobim with an enchanting hour of Bossa Nova classics. Award-winning keyboardist Paula Maya and her band Bossa Nova Plus bring the sounds of Rio de Janeiro to East Austin. This early show is family-friendly and includes free parking, making it an accessible way to enjoy world-class jazz.
RuPaul's Drag Race Viewing Party
7:00 PM @ Cheer Up Charlies, FREE!
Catch every bit of drama and glamour as the new season of Drag Race returns to the big screen. Join hosts Embry Officially and Iggy Bank for a night of drag, drinks, and games that promises plenty of surprises. It’s a weekly Friday tradition that will leave you dazzled and ready to glow.
R.I.P. MTV
8:00 PM @ Mohawk Austin, FREE!
MTV changed music forever, and now we’re giving it the send-off it deserves. Join the crowd for a night of nostalgia featuring MTV-inspired unplugged sets and a TRL-style photobooth. Relive the moments that raised us with throwback videos and classic cartoons like Daria and Beavis & Butt-Head. Come dressed in your best nostalgic gear and strike a pose like you’re finally on Total Request Live.
Make Friday amazing @ WhatsGoodATX!
Saturday, Jan 24
Glow & Grow: A New Year Kickoff
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM @ Assembly Hall - $13.54
Kick off 2026 at an immersive wellness celebration produced by Swift Fit featuring fitness samplers, aura photography, and free tarot readings. This unique gathering replaces standard resolutions with mocktail bars and live music to help your goals become reality. At just $10 + tax, it’s an awesome deal to explore diverse wellness experiences and find your vibe for the new year.
Austin Band Camp: Songwriting with Danny Britt
2:30 PM @ Sessions On Mary - $30
Learn the craft of songwriting in an intimate South Austin living room setting hosted across from Bouldin Creek Café. Danny Britt, a veteran who worked with legends like Guy Clark, shares his secrets for generating and finishing song ideas. The first four people to sign up get a $10 discount, and light snacks and drinks are provided.
Designer Reality: Demolition, Individuation, and Inner Ecology
4:00 PM @ FORTUNE TELLER - $16.43 (2 for 1 deal!)
Dive deep into the hidden architecture of human experience at this provocative talk on attention and individuation. This session explores how our reality is shaped and "designed," offering a more cerebral and philosophical alternative to the typical Saturday night. It's perfect for those looking to expand their minds and engage with complex, underground ideas.
The Honky Tonk Catwalk
5:00 PM @ Sagebrush, $26.57
Witness a quarterly spectacle where country music and high fashion collide in a uniquely Austin "one-of-one" experience. Local star Paige Plaisance collaborates with various artists to bring this stylish Honky Tonk vision to life. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves the intersection of subcultural style and classic Americana.
Oof Fighters w/ Wrestle with Jimmy
9:00 PM @ Mohawk Austin, $20.50
Relive the 90s with Austin's latest Foo Fighters tribute band, who promise an experience born out of pure love and admiration for the music. They are joined by "Wrestle With Jimmy," a Weezer tribute, for an all-ages night of nostalgic rock and high energy. Come watch them try their hardest "not to hurt themselves" on stage.
More interesting events on Saturday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Sunday, Jan 25
Lord of the Rings Day
9:00AM - 9:00 PM@ Bookpeople, FREE!
Transport yourself to Middle-Earth for an all-day party featuring a Tolkien-themed scavenger hunt where you can earn a BookPeople coupon. The celebration includes obscure trivia hosted by the Prancing Pony Podcast, a beer tasting, and even a costume contest where the bravest Hobbits and Elves can win special prizes.
Le Garage Sale
11:00AM @ Palmer Events Center, $14.95+
Shop the "creme de la creme" of Austin’s independent boutiques and local labels all under one roof for this legendary semi-annual event. With over 140 local businesses offering insane end-of-season pricing, it’s a high-energy shopping spree set to a hip backdrop of music, coffee, and cocktails.
H-E-B Free Fourth Sunday
1:00PM @ Texas Science and Natural History Museum, FREE!
Score free admission all day to explore the story of life in Texas, from ancient fossils to the 33-foot wingspan of a pterosaur. You can touch real meteorites and walk among dinosaurs without spending a dime at this monthly community event.
Photo Walk: Dirty Martin's 100 Year Anniversary
2:00PM @ Dirty Martin's Place, FREE!
Celebrate a century of Austin history by joining a casual in-person stroll to capture amazing shots of this legendary campus-area icon. Whether you are a pro or a hobbyist, it’s a great way to see the city through your lens and connect with fellow photography enthusiasts.
Jazz Swing Night
7:00PM @ The Highball - $12.14
Dust off your dancing shoes for a night of throwback swing featuring the Austin Django Project and Sammy's Satin Sounds. If you're a beginner, show up early for the 6:30 PM dance lesson to learn the moves before the live jazz kicks into high gear.
More interesting events on Sunday @ WhatsGoodATX!
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