Week of January 6th

Pink Martini ft. China Forbes

7pm (DOORS) @ Paramount and Stateside Theatres, $35+

Portland's genre-defying musical ensemble Pink Martini brings their multilingual magic to Austin. Led by Thomas Lauderdale and China Forbes, this "little orchestra" blends classical, jazz, and vintage pop across 25 languages. With their inclusive, globally-inspired sound and collaboration history with over 50 orchestras worldwide, this performance promises an unforgettable cultural journey.

Clay Desk Calendar Workshop

6:30pm - 8:30pm @ Dark Horse Tattoo, Coffee & Barber Co. - $25

Create your own functional art piece in this hands-on workshop where you'll sculpt and paint a unique clay desk calendar. Perfect for both beginners and creatives, all materials and expert guidance are provided. Add some handmade charm to your workspace with this interactive crafting experience.

every.Word Poetry's Open Mic

8pm - 10pm @ The VORTEX - Free

Join this vibrant evening of spoken word, poetry, and storytelling featuring special guests Kidivine, Pink, & Russheepcott. The outdoor stage setting creates an intimate atmosphere for both seasoned poets and first-time performers. Enjoy drink specials at The Butterfly Bar and Italian cuisine from Patrizi's during the event.

The Return of the Wasabi Big Band!

8pm @ Parker Jazz Club - $15+

Ring in 2025 with the triumphant return of the ten-piece "little" big band that packs a mighty punch! Featuring the phenomenal Jennifer Johnson on vocals and Kris Kimura on vocals, woodwinds, and ukulele, this ensemble delivers a vibrant journey through the golden age of jazz from the '20s through '40s. Experience the magic of classic big band hits reimagined with modern flair.

Tech Trends for 2025 (and Beyond!)

5:15pm - 7:30pm @ ACC Rio Grande Campus - FREE

Join industry titans Jay Boisseau, Jimmy Pike, and Jay Williams for an illuminating deep dive into groundbreaking technologies shaping our future. With their combined 70+ years of tech expertise, including experience at Dell and Intel, these visionaries will explore emerging trends beyond AI that will define the latter half of the decade. Includes networking session with complimentary food and refreshments.

Odd World Presents: Carnosaur

7pm @ We Luv Video - FREE!

Kick off 2025 with Moving Picture House's screening of this gloriously gory 1993 dinosaur exploit-stravaganza! Roger Corman's outrageous answer to that other dinosaur movie features practical effects that need to be seen to be believed. Complimentary beer and hop water provided by St. Elmo Brewing.

Rashomon at AFS Cinema

Evening shows $13.50, Matinee $11 @ AFS Cinema

Experience Akira Kurosawa's groundbreaking masterpiece that revolutionized storytelling in cinema. Watch as the same crime unfolds through multiple perspectives, featuring an unforgettable performance by the legendary Toshiro Mifune. This innovative approach to narrative changed how we understand truth in filmmaking forever.

High Noon Talk: A Conversation on Fungi

12:00pm @ Bullock Texas State History Museum - FREE!

Dive into the fascinating world of fungi with Angel Schatz from Central Texas Mycology. Learn about the rare Texas Star Mushroom - our state's official gem found only in Texas and Japan. Plus, take home your own mushroom grow block! This is a completely free event.

The Vietnamese Kitchen

6:30pm - 9:00pm @ Central Market Austin North Lamar - $90

An immersive culinary experience where you'll learn the art of Vietnamese cooking. Perfect for food enthusiasts aged 18 and up who want to master the authentic flavors and techniques of Vietnamese cuisine.

Who's Bad - The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience

8pm @ Paramount and Stateside Theatres, $20+

Get ready for an electrifying tribute to the King of Pop! This powerhouse band has sold out over 50 venues in the UK, including London's O2 Arena. With over a century of combined performance experience and a track record of packed houses at major venues worldwide, this is the most authentic MJ experience you can get.

Queer Film Theory 101

7pm @ The Highball - FREE!

This award-winning LGBTQIA+ storytelling show explores how films shape our paths to self-discovery. Featuring presenters from Austin's vibrant queer scene, the show blends heartfelt personal stories with casual film analysis for a unique perspective on beloved movies.

Earth Paints & Mineral Pigments Workshop

7pm - 9pm @ The Buzz Mill - $30

Get hands-on with natural art supplies in this engaging workshop where you'll learn to craft your own inks, paints, and crayons from earth minerals. Led by Buzz Mill Coffee, this interactive class includes practical instruction on pigment extraction and binding techniques. Each participant receives a complimentary drink token and Lumber Society Earth Paints badge with admission.

The Galactic Salon: Fantastique!

7pm @ Kick Butt Coffee - $10+

A unique blend of burlesque, live readings (both dressed and undressed), and performance art exploring literature, film, and art. Featuring performers from Bat City Bombshells, Frisky Business Burlesque, and more. Hosted by Gemmi Galactic in a cozy North/Central Austin venue.

Paranormal Cirque

7:30pm @ Barton Creek Square - From $16.24

Step into a dark circus world where acrobats, illusionists, and mysterious creatures await under a black and red big top tent. This unique fusion of circus, theatre, and cabaret creates an unforgettable mix of thrills, chills, and amazement.

"New World" Symphony at Long Center

7pm @ Long Center for the Performing Arts - $37+

Experience a magical night of classical masterpieces as guest conductor José-Luis Novo leads a journey through the Americas. Featuring violin virtuoso Jessica Mathaes performing Barber's stunning concerto and culminating in Dvořák's legendary "New World Symphony." A perfect blend of Mexican flair and American folk influences.

Candlelight R&B Yoga Experience

7pm @ Soto & Co. - $20-$30

Transform your typical yoga session into a magical evening with this unique candlelit class set to smooth R&B beats. Perfect for all skill levels, this 90-minute experience offers a beautiful blend of mindfulness and music.

Los Skarnales with The Ugly Beats

8:30pm @ Flamingo Cantina - $20+

Get ready for an explosive night of Latin ska and Texas punk! Early bird tickets available for just $15. Don't miss this high-energy showcase featuring Houston's legendary Los Skarnales alongside Austin's own The Ugly Beats and Rat King Cole. Ages 21+.

Nora En Pure at The Concourse Project

9pm @ The Concourse Project - 18+

Swiss-South African queen of deep house Nora En Pure brings her ethereal soundscapes to Austin's premier electronic venue. Experience an immersive night of melodic house music in The Concourse Project's state-of-the-art space.

HAMLET(through Jan 21)

7:30pm - 10pm @ Sterling Stage Austin - $10

Experience Shakespeare's masterpiece reimagined through the eyes of its own cast in this uniquely collaborative production. Delve into timeless themes of loss, grief, and the supernatural in an immersive theater experience that brings Hamlet's world to vivid life.

Manifest the Future Youth New Works Festival Workshop

2pm - 4pm @ Austin Central Library - FREE!

Connect young artists with professional mentors at this innovative festival that helps Austin-area children and teens develop original theatre and music pieces. This workshop, led by professional artists and bilingual educators, culminates in a free performance showcase on January 25th where participants can present their work to family and friends.

Starseed Ascension: 1/11 Portal

7pm - 9pm @ 3rd Eye Yoga Austin - $35

Step into a transformational evening combining Kundalini yoga, ecstatic dance, mantra chanting, and sound healing during the powerful 1/11 portal. Led by Fiona Emley and DJ Austin Alchemy, this substance-free event promises to help participants activate their spiritual awakening and connect with galactic realms.

Intro to Mosaic Workshop

2pm - 4pm @ The Mosaic Workshop, $75

Create unique mosaic art using shimmering glass, handmade ceramic, repurposed mirror and natural stone in one of Austin's only hands-on mosaic workshops. Professional artists guide you through the ancient art form, teaching techniques and helping you craft a one-of-a-kind piece to take home.

Enter the Dreamscape: Interactive Art Gallery & Social Adventure

7pm - 11pm @ Mesmerize Austin, $44

Transform your Saturday night at this extraordinary pop-up gallery experience, where interactive art installations meet social adventure. Explore a labyrinthine dreamworld filled with immersive exhibits, participate in creative activities, and enjoy complimentary drinks while connecting with fellow art enthusiasts. Includes 2 drinks and full access to Mesmerize's signature installation (normally $20).

Africa Night! Mafaro Marimba + Mega'Tune + Sahara Allstars

7pm - Late @ Sahara Lounge, FREE!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Africa with three incredible acts: Mafaro Marimba (7PM), Mega'Tune (9PM), and Sahara Allstars (11PM). Enjoy authentic food from the patio trailer and free parking while experiencing a cultural celebration through music and dance.

Heroes Unite: Group Acupuncture with Bowie's Greatest Hits

2pm - 5pm @ Stardust Wellness - $30 suggested donation

A uniquely Austin fusion of healing and music, this group acupuncture session is soundtracked by David Bowie's greatest hits. Experience transformative wellness while paying tribute to the Starman himself. Pay-what-you-can pricing makes this cosmic healing experience accessible to all.

Suzanna Choffel - House Concert

2pm @ Hummingbird Concerts (Location TBA) - $25

Experience an intimate show with Austin's own Suzanna Choffel in a unique backyard concert setting. Fresh off the release of her new album "Bird by Bird," Choffel brings her signature blend of soulful grooves and reggae-tinged melodies to this cozy house show. Includes a homemade Tex-Mex dinner for an additional $5-10 donation.

Queen Daffodil's Demise with John Bush

4pm @ The Saxon Pub - $10

Join Edie Brickell & New Bohemians' drummer John Bush for a groundbreaking performance combining live percussion, spoken word, and visual art. Bush will perform excerpts from his new cosmic dystopian novel while creating ambient percussion loops, surrounded by his artwork painted on used drumheads.

CupcakKe at Antone's

8pm @ Antone's - $35+

Get ready for an explosive night as Chicago rap sensation CupcakKe brings her bold energy and unfiltered lyrics to Antone's iconic stage. Known for her fearless approach to hip-hop and viral hits, this trap queen promises to deliver an unforgettable performance that will have the house rocking.