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- Week of January 5th
Week of January 5th
What's Weird ATX
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To start the year, Austin's infrastructure and culture map got some major updates. The long-awaited 183 northbound express lanes between MoPac and SH 45 finally opened with dynamic toll pricing and 11,000 white posts that make merging feel like a video game. Demolition permits dropped for the 600 Lamar block, so Amy's Ice Creams and 24 Diner are scouting new homes while we collectively mourn another chunk of old Austin. The freshly renovated Austin History Center just reopened in the John Henry Faulk Building after a $14.5 million facelift. This will mean twice the space for the city's archives, and Mayor Watson noted the timing matters in "an age of disinformation."
Scantily-clad Austinites have been celebrating the mid 80s- temperatures in January (typical should be low-60s), and the U.S. Drought Monitor shows the I-35 corridor sliding into moderate-to-severe territory with fire danger climbing. We are due to have a couple more days of unusually warm weather before a cold front arrives to hopefully take us to at least a little bit of winter, so get some free Barton Springs action in while you are able! 👙
The city's first homicide of the year happened just 90 minutes into January when 18-year-old Isaiah Atkinson was shot at a New Year's party on North Lamar; APD is still looking for the shooter. Interestingly and perhaps surprisingly, 2025 closed with around 55 homicides, down from 72 the year before, so the overall trend is heading the right direction. Continuing on the crime beat, a SWAT standoff in southeast Austin ended peacefully and Round Rock cops foiled a pre-dawn Best Buy break-in.
In "robots behaving badly" news, Waymo got caught illegally passing AISD school buses 20 times since August. The district asked them to pause operations during school hours, Waymo declined, NHTSA opened an investigation, and now everyone's doing awkward training exercises together. New state laws also kicked in January 1: the Texas AI Governance Act now requires disclosure when AI is used in healthcare or government decisions, small business owners got beefed-up property tax exemptions, and a new "anti-squatter" law speeds up evictions.
Looking ahead, Free Week hits Red River January 9-10 with 80+ local bands across 14 venues (all free, all artists paid), so make sure to get out there and find a new artist to obsess over, while supporting the local music scene and venues! We have a handy roundup on Instagram organized by genre, so go check that out (and also follow us there if you don’t already!)
Additionally, was super pumped to see that various Austin creative establishments have decided that this Sunday is all about learning! Enjoy a day full of intro classes to super-fascinating activities like roller derby, Chinese tea and mural painting. Pick up a new hobby, passion or just pastime that will make you the most interesting person at parties.
Monday, January 5th
Joshua Jay Lecture - First & Only Texas Performance
7:00 PM @ St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, $30 (Free for members)
World-renowned magician Joshua Jay brings his first and only Texas lecture to Austin, presented by IBM Ring 60. This rare opportunity to see one of magic's elite performers promises mind-bending illusions and behind-the-scenes insights from a true master of the craft.
Water Circus Silver
7:00 PM @ Barton Creek Square - $59
Cirque Italia transforms a traditional circus into a vivid European-style spectacle described as "dramatic and moving." This touring production combines acrobatics, theatrics, and water elements for an immersive experience that's far from your typical big top show.
Manic Monday Free Movies: Wizard of Oz Double Feature
7:00 PM @ Crow Bar, FREE!
This mashup screening pairs 1939's classic Wizard of Oz with David Lynch's 1990 psychosexual road trip Wild at Heart (which features Wizard of Oz imagery throughout). Both films play with full sound on the big screen for a surreal yellow brick road journey.
Vision Board Workshop
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM @ Make at Rosie - $30.87
Map out your best 2026 through guided journaling and creative collage work in this hands-on goal-setting session. Bring your dreams, they'll provide the magazines, scissors, and inspirational space to manifest your future.
Metal Mondays w/ Bad Acid, Silver Hour, Malaysia Brunei
6:00 PM @ The Far Out Lounge
The Far Out hosts three local metal acts on Austin's best-sounding stage, with shows planned early so you can still be productive the next day. Bad Acid, Silver Hour, and Malaysia Brunei bring the heavy riffs without destroying your Tuesday.
More interesting events on Monday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Tuesday, Jan 6
This Week in Dating — Standup Comedy & Social Mixer
7:00PM @ Lovebirds, FREE!
Dating woes become comedy gold at this weekly East Side event that blends hilarious standup with a social mixer vibe. If you're single and ready to laugh about it (or just want solid comedy), this intimate venue on Cesar Chavez is where romantic disasters transform into shared entertainment.
Black Light Glow Flow
7:30PM @ MVP Yoga (Jacob Fontaine Lane), $8
Illuminate your practice at this glow-in-the-dark yoga class with MVP teacher Lara Ramey. Black lights, star lights, and glow accessories transform your usual vinyasa into a captivating sensory experience—perfect for shaking off those January blues with some ethereal movement.
How to Break Down a Whole Fish: A Beginner-Friendly Filleting Class
7:00PM @ Comsouth Drive - $129.06
Learn the satisfying art of breaking down a whole fish with real chef guidance. This hands-on class covers knife skills, filleting techniques, and includes tasting the fruits of your labor. Walk away with a culinary skill that'll impress at every dinner party.
Austin Old Time Jam
6:00PM @ Wheatsville South Lamar, FREE!
Grab your fiddle, banjo, or just your ears and head to Wheatsville for a good ol' fashioned jam session. This free, open-to-the-public hangout celebrates old timey music and bluegrass—no pretense, just pickers and grinners doing what they love.
Desi Hip-hop Class (Beginner/Intermediate)
9:00PM @ Balance Dance Studios - $10
Get ready to groove with this beginner-to-intermediate Desi Hip-hop series. It's a fun, energetic way to learn moves that blend South Asian style with hip-hop foundations—something completely different from your typical Austin dance class.
More interesting events on Tuesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Wednesday, Jan 7
A Whisper from a Jewelry Box
11:00AM @ Great Hills Trail Antique Store, $25
An interactive reflection game tucked inside a vintage antique store where every piece of jewelry holds a story—and sometimes a message meant just for you. Bring a goal for the year ahead or a new beginning you're hoping for, and let the universe whisper back through heirloom treasures.
Herbal Infused Slow Flow and Sound Bath
7:00PM @ 1701 Toomey Road, Donation
Chad Gouge leads slow flow yoga, serves up herbal elixirs, and closes with a soothing sound bath. Each week features a different herb for body, mind, and spirit. Zero cost, maximum chill.
Synth Soundbath
7:00PM @ Tiny Minotaur Tavern - $5 (Free for members)
BYO synthesizer, acoustic instrument, or literally anything that sustains a tone and harmonize with the infinite in The Rift. This communal ambient drone session runs 8-11PM with participation fully optional—come to play or just to melt into the sonic waves. Fantasy costumes encouraged, percussion discouraged.
ATXM Night Shift: Monthly Music Industry Mixer + Open Mic
7:00PM-10:00PM @ Brushy Street Commons, FREE!
Musicians, venue owners, promoters, and music advocates collide at this free industry mixer supporting Austin's music ecosystem. Open mic sign-ups are first-come-first-served, so arrive early if you want stage time. 21+, RSVP required.
ATX Brewskee-Ball Season Sign-Up Party + Karaoke
8:00PM @ The Cavalier ATX, FREE!
ATX Brewskee-Ball is rolling strong at their new location and this sign-up party doubles as your chance to check out the league, recruit teammates, roll some practice games, and belt out karaoke between frames. Low commitment, high fun potential.
More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Thursday, Jan 8
PowerPints at RADIO/EAST
7:30pm @ RADIO/EAST, FREE!
The original "drink and learn things" comedy show returns where eight presenters have exactly five minutes to deliver a PowerPoint on ANY subject they choose. It's TED Talks meets open bar meets absolute chaos, and it's gloriously Austin.
Bookish Trivia at Vintage Bookstore and Wine Bar
7pm - 9pm @ Vintage Bookstore and Wine Bar, FREE!
Love books and fun challenges? Test your literary knowledge in this trivia night covering favorite stories, characters, and authors. Costumes welcome, prizes available, and you're surrounded by books and wine. Teams of 1-6, registration opens at 6:30pm.
David Bowie Birthday Bonanza
7pm-2am @ Hotel Vegas, FREE!
The ultimate Bowie birthday bash kicks off with a FREE Labyrinth screening on the patio at 7:30pm, followed by tribute acts Otis Wilkins and the Spider from Mars, BRUCE, and Jeremiah Jackson inside. Cap the night with Bowie Karaoke from midnight to 2am—your chance to belt out "Heroes" like you mean it.
Mezcal Omakase Experience
7pm-10pm @ Arriba Abajo - $54.13
In the tradition of Japanese dining, Arriba Abajo offers an immersive omakase-inspired dinner and mezcal tasting. Let the chef and mezcalero guide your evening through carefully curated pairings that celebrate the smoky spirit's complexity.
Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Friday, January 9
Studio Ghibli Pottery Paint Night
5PM @ The Art Garage (Oak Hill or Brentwood) - $15 + Pottery, Ages 16+
Sip a complimentary Momo Sour while painting themed pottery like a Totoro planter or Calcifer wax burner as Studio Ghibli soundtracks transport you to another world. This cozy, dreamy night out combines craft cocktails, creative expression, and anime nostalgia—space is limited, so snag your ticket before it sells out.
Austin Annual Psychic Predictions Panel
7PM @ Norris Conference Center, FREE!
This free evening with respected local psychics kicks off the Austin Metaphysical and Holistic Life Expo in true Keep Austin Weird fashion. Multiple intuitives share their 2026 predictions and insights in an open community forum—no purchase necessary, just show up curious. Part of a weekend-long expo celebrating Austin's awakening community.
AWAKEN | A Tantric Game of Intentional Intimacy
6:30PM @ South Austin, $35
Step into a sacred playground where sensuality meets conscious communication for this tantric game night. Through guided exercises and intentional connection, you'll explore group play, boundaries, and authentic relating in a consent-forward space. Austin's favorite tantric game night is back—dress comfortably and arrive ready to drop into the magic.
Sips and Surprises: A Community White Elephant Exchange
7:30PM @ The Butterfly Bar at The VORTEX, FREE!
Kick off the new year with a festive community gift swap at one of Austin's most creative venues. Bring a wrapped gift, grab a drink, and mingle with fellow weirdos in this laid-back celebration of chaos and connection. All are welcome who love a good time.
Master Pancake: CHALAMET-RATHON
7:30PM @ Alamo Drafthouse Village - Ticket Required
Austin's legendary live comedy troupe roasts the filmography of Timothée Chalamet with their signature blend of improvised jokes, heckles, and absurdist commentary. Whether you love or love-to-hate the internet's boyfriend, this evening promises non-stop laughs while you enjoy Alamo's full menu and drinks.
Make Friday amazing @ WhatsGoodATX!
Saturday, Jan 10
City-Wide Vintage Sale
8:30am-5pm @ Palmer Events Center - $10 (through Sunday)
Austin's largest and longest-running vintage market spreads 45,000 square feet of treasure hunting across nearly a football field. Five decades of die-hard collectors have scored mid-century furniture, coveted collectibles, vintage threads, and the gloriously unexpected. Admission good all weekend.
Power Down Party
1-4pm @ French Legation State Historic Site - Free-$10
Unplug from screens and reconnect IRL at Austin's oldest house. Create your 2026 vision board, decorate an analog tote bag, find your new screen-free hobby, and join outdoor yoga on the historic grounds. Because sometimes the best tech is no tech.
THE WASPS Film Screening with Q&A
7-9pm @ AFS Cinema
Linklater-produced ancient Greek comedy meets stoner fart jokes in this micro-budget labor of love filmed in a literal Cherrywood backyard. Full period costumes, stunts, pyrotechnics, and yes, period-accurate dildos. Stay for the Q&A hosted by indie legend Andrew Bujalski—the hotties will be in togas.
11th Annual Bowie Bash!
9pm @ Drinks Lounge & Records - $5, 21+
Eleven years of glitz, glamour, and all the Bowie hits spun on vinyl all night long—from 1964 to 1984. DJ Sue holds court while you grab face painting for the Bowie photo booth, snag limited edition anniversary shirts, and arrive early before the line snakes around the building. Private booths available for $150.
The Boogie
7pm-12am @ DAWA - Donation suggested
Austin's longest-running all-vinyl dance party celebrates 15 years of spinning 80s Funk, Boogie, Disco, House, and Hip Hop on wax. Austin Boogie Crew launches their new home at DAWA HQ with a mission of uplifting community and honoring Black music's legacy. Get your groove on with DJs Chorizo Funk, Danbone, and Spence.
HONK!TX Winter Fundraiser Ball
Doors 6:30pm @ The Ballroom - $10-$20 sliding scale
Dress to impress and dance the night away at this annual fundraiser featuring four powerhouse brass bands: The Numbers, Yes Ma'am Brass Band, Bat City Brass Band, and Minor Mishap Marching Band. Beyond the music, you'll find a silent auction and raffle prizes—all supporting HONK!TX's free spring street band festival.
More interesting events on Saturday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Sunday, January 11
Intro to Mural Painting Workshop
11:00AM-3:00PM @ The Lot on 12th - $17.85
Dive into the world of aerosol art and learn cool spray paint tricks at this hands-on workshop! Perfect for beginners ready to explore street art techniques, this in-person event covers everything from can control to color blending on a real surface.
Chinese Tea Tasting: Gong Fu Cha
12:00PM-2:00PM @ Flow Yoga Westgate - $25.09
Experience the traditional Chinese tea ceremony known as Gong Fu Cha in this intimate tasting. Learn about tea cultivation, proper brewing techniques, and the meditative art of tea preparation while sampling premium varieties rarely found in Western markets.
K. WOO! Roller Derby Clinic
10:00AM @ Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex - $20+
Learn from K.Woo! from Arch Rival in this roller derby clinic designed to teach skating skills, strategy, and the art of knocking people down legally. Whether you're derby-curious or ready to join a league, this is your chance to learn from a pro.
Intro to Aerials
2:15PM @ Sky Candy
Sky Candy partners with Austin's queer community to bring accessible movement classes! This beginner-friendly class takes you to the sky on 4 apparatus including silks, sling, trapeze, and lyra. Absolute beginners welcome!
Twerk Therapy: A Somatic Healing Experience
7:00PM @ Inner Diva Studios, $22
Release trauma and reconnect with your body through the power of movement! This somatic healing experience uses twerking as a therapeutic modality to help participants process emotions, build confidence, and tap into embodied healing. No judgment, just liberation through rhythm.
More interesting events on Sunday @ WhatsGoodATX!
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