- What's Weird ATX
- Posts
- Week of May 12th
Week of May 12th
What's Weird ATX
Hey y’all!
We basically have one day left to soak up this stretch of near-perfect spring before the first heat wave hits and brings us the triple digits. There’s always a chance the forecast is way off; they were mistaken several times with last month’s rain after all, but it’s probably wise not to bet on it. Make sure your A/C is up to the task and toss a few extra cold drinks in the fridge before summer kicks the door in.
In other news, as usual, it’s been an interesting week around here. A drummer set up shop right on the highway, stopping traffic and racking up more social media views than some bands get in a year. The King of Jordan came by; a visit that had plenty of folks doing double-takes, as well as sweating in their cars for even longer on Mopac and I-35. And, after many threats and pleas from its owner, Outer Heaven finally shut down for good. People felt very strongly about it either way. Regardless of how you felt, gotta admit that it had an impact, considering it had only been here a few years.
This week, true to form we’ve got an intriguing gamut of events, from speed puzzling, to a backyard dog show, a gumbo cookoff still accepting entries! and a Wizard Rave. Make sure to get out!
Lastly, if you are looking for a way to stay informed without compulsively checking the main news websites, make sure to check out our sponsor this week! Bite-sized and relatively unbiased news straight to your inbox daily. More info below!
Monday, 5/12
Moonscape: Full Moon in Scorpio
7:30PM - 9:30PM @ DAWA Studios HQ, $30
Step into a transformative evening combining Blue Lotus ceremonies, sound healing, and inner journey work under the potent Scorpio full moon. This unique spiritual gathering culminates with intuitive Tarot readings from Psychic Medium Snowy Rodeo beneath ancient oak trees.
Speed Puzzling Tournament
7:00PM - 9:00PM @ Hi Sign Brewing - $25-$40
Put your puzzle skills to the test in this fast-paced team competition. Teams of up to four race to complete unique puzzles each month, with winners scoring Puzzledly.com gift certificates. Grab a craft beer and get ready to piece together victory!
Toro Y Moi & Panda Bear w/ Kassie Krut
7:00PM @ Stubb's - Tickets available via Ticketmaster
In a rare and electrifying collaboration, chillwave pioneer Toro Y Moi joins forces with Animal Collective's Panda Bear for what promises to be a mind-bending night of psychedelic pop and experimental electronic music. Don't miss this unique pairing of two genre-defining artists.
Crowd Control: A Crowd Work Only Comedy Show
11:00PM @ Gnar Bar - Pay What You Want
A totally unscripted late-night comedy experience on a rad punk skater bar's patio. No prepared material - just pure improvisational crowd work from Kill Tony and Comedy Mothership performers. Stick around for the post-show open mic jam where musical acts are welcome. 21+ only.
Check out some more interesting events for Monday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Tuesday, 5/13
ART SHARE Open Mic & Market
6:00PM - 10:00PM @ Inn Cahoots, FREE!
A uniquely Austin blend of artistic expression where performers, vendors, and creators of all types come together in the vibrant east side. This weekly gathering welcomes all ages and art forms, creating an inclusive space for both established and emerging artists to share their work. More details here.
Ha Ha Storytime!
7:30PM @ Radio Coffee & Beer, FREE!
Watch five talented writers battle it out in an unconventional storytelling showdown - all to win the affection of Sonic the Hedgehog! Hosted by the blue speedster himself, this unique competition blends creative writing with improv comedy for a truly one-of-a-kind evening of entertainment.
Tuesday Twilights Featuring Caros Amigos
5:00PM - 8:00PM @ Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Experience the magical combination of Brazilian Choro music in a blooming wildflower garden at sunset. Enjoy vibrant tunes from Caros Amigos while sampling delicious bites from food trucks Konfusedesi, Garbo's, and Sweet Frida. Members get in free, and cocktails are available for purchase (21+).
13th Kinda Annual Williams Nite: A tribute to Hank and Lucinda Williams
8:00PM - 11:30PM @ The Saxon Pub - $12+
Join an eclectic group of Austin artists paying tribute to two legendary Williams songwriters at this wonderfully weird annual tradition. Each performer will play one song from Hank, one from Lucinda, plus one of their own originals. Hosted by Suzanna Choffel and featuring an impressive lineup including Bruce Robison and Johnny Nicholas, all proceeds benefit the SIMS Foundation mental health services for musicians.
FABIO FRIZZI: Zombie – The Composer's Cut
7:00PM @ Come and Take It Live, $32+
Witness legendary Italian composer Fabio Frizzi perform a live scoring of his iconic soundtrack for Lucio Fulci's classic horror film ZOMBIE. This rare opportunity combines classic horror cinema with live orchestration from one of the genre's most celebrated composers.
Make Tuesday memorable with WhatsGoodATX!
Receive Honest News Today
Join over 4 million Americans who start their day with 1440 – your daily digest for unbiased, fact-centric news. From politics to sports, we cover it all by analyzing over 100 sources. Our concise, 5-minute read lands in your inbox each morning at no cost. Experience news without the noise; let 1440 help you make up your own mind. Sign up now and invite your friends and family to be part of the informed.
Wednesday, 5/14
Dear Linda and My-on Trio
7pm - 9pm @ Captain Quack's Soundspace - Price varies
Experience a mind-bending musical mashup when a Linda Ronstadt tribute band shares the stage with a jazz-blues-classical trio. This unlikely pairing features Christina Fernandez Shapter channeling Linda's legendary vocals, backed by a full band, while Mayan Herman's jazz-blues-classical trio brings an entirely different musical universe. The sonic collision of nostalgic rock tribute meets experimental fusion creates a one-of-a-kind evening that defies genre boundaries. Doors open at 6pm for this musical culture clash that promises to be as intriguing as it is entertaining.
ALTAR OF FRUITS AND FLOWERS
7pm - 10pm @ Buda, TX - $11
Journey just outside Austin for this mystical community prayer circle experience that blends spiritual practice with living ceremony magic. Participants bring fresh flowers or fruits for the altar and join in collective gratitude through spoken prayers, medicine songs, and moments of silence. People of all faiths come together to create a living ceremony. The evening culminates with offerings returned to the land and sharing fruits together, creating a unique connection between participants and the Earth.
A Touch of Art: A Tactile Art Experience
11am - 2pm @ Austin Lighthouse - Free
Experience art through your fingertips at this groundbreaking tactile art celebration designed for everyone, especially those who are blind or visually impaired. This innovative event features interactive exhibits you can touch and feel, live music performances, hands-on art-making activities, and pieces from Art Spark Texas and Almost Real Things. It's a rare opportunity to engage with art using senses beyond sight, while learning about Austin Lighthouse's 90-year history supporting the visually impaired community. Plus, there's free food from local eateries and raffle prizes—all completely free and open to the public!
90's Country Night w/ Michael Monroe Goodman
9pm @ Broken Spoke - Price varies
Step back in time at Austin's legendary honky-tonk for a night dedicated entirely to 90s country hits. The historic Broken Spoke dancehall transforms into a time machine where Garth Brooks meets line dancing and everyone remembers when country was country. Michael Monroe leads this nostalgic journey through the decade that gave us boot-scootin' boogie and achy breaky hearts. It's the perfect excuse to dust off those cowboy boots and relive the era when country music dominated the airwaves—all in one of Texas's most authentic dance halls.
More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Thursday, 5/15
TC Superstar EP Release Show at Blazer Tag
9PM - 1AM @ Blazer Tag - $20
Your favorite indie pop band meets laser tag in this totally unique album release party! Snag your ticket for 2 hours of free laser tag gameplay, plus catch TC Superstar's new EP performance in one of Austin's most unexpected venues.
THE RETURN OF PINEWOOD DERBY
6PM - 9PM @ imogene + willie - $25+
Watch grown-ups race tiny wooden cars in this quirky backyard derby party! Tickets include free Twisted X drinks, Loro bites, and prime heckling opportunities as adults get weirdly competitive with miniature racers.
Electric Six w/ Messer Chups
7PM @ Antone's
Detroit's kings of hedonistic disco-punk bring their signature over-the-top style to Antone's, joined by Russian surf rock psychobilly band Messer Chups. Expect a wild night of genre-bending mayhem.
Comedy in the Dark
9PM @ East Austin Comedy - $20
Experience stand-up comedy like never before - in total darkness with blindfolds! This unique twist on traditional comedy heightens your other senses for an immersive comedy experience. Past performers include Tony Hinchcliffe and Ari Shaffir.
Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Friday, 5/16
Hotel Vegas Kennel Club's 'BEST IN SHOW' Backyard Dog Show
5-8pm @ Hotel Vegas & The Volstead Lounge - FREE // 21+
Forget Westminster - this is Austin's ultimate dog mom and dad event where pedigree doesn't matter! Hosted by Joey Z, this quirky show features pups of all breeds competing while you enjoy hot dogs from Zee's Wiener System, tunes by Dr. Loco Boy, and a doggie photobooth. Browse the Puppy Market curated by Vibe City Markets, and help support Happy Hearts Dog Rescue.
The Grape & The Plate: A Pop-Up Culinary Experience
7-10pm @ Mira Mira Venue - $92.50–$185
An innovative dining collaboration between James Beard Best Chef Joseph Gomez and Paso Robles winemaker Matt Villard, featuring high-caliber cuisine paired with boutique California wines in a sensory-focused setting. Reserve your spot for this unique culinary journey.
Misfit Musician Showcase Vol III
6-11pm @ RICHESART GALLERY - $10 advance/$15 door
An eclectic live music showcase featuring freestyle wizard E'naj B Da Light who creates songs from audience prompts, folk punk electric mandola player Timmy Vigilante, and more unconventional acts. The event includes a $5 vintage shop, face painting, and even a friendship bracelet station.
Wildest Strings: Taylor Swift on Strings
6pm, 7:45pm & 9:30pm @ ConcertDome
Experience Taylor Swift's hits reimagined through stunning orchestral arrangements in an immersive 360° dome with over 120,000 lumens of visual magic. This innovative concert blends classical music with pop culture for a totally unique musical experience.
Make Friday amazing @ WhatsGoodATX!
Saturday, 5/17
Fruit Tree Jamboree
9AM - 12PM @ Nava Farms - $20 Early Bird; $30 Door; Kids Under 12 Free
A celebration of sustainable agriculture and local food systems, featuring fruit tree demonstrations, gardening workshops, and family activities. Perfect for urban farmers and anyone interested in growing their own food.
8th Annual Mermaid Capital Of Texas Fest
10AM - 7PM @ San Marcos TX - Free
Celebrating the 10-Year Anniversary of the Mermaid Society of Texas with eco-friendly activities, mermaid-themed entertainment, and aquatic festivities. A unique blend of environmental awareness and mythical fun that's completely free and family-friendly. Don't miss this splash-tacular celebration!
Suds Monkey Gumbeaux Fest 2025
11:30AM - 6PM @ Suds Monkey Brewing Company
An epic Cajun showdown featuring crawfish and gumbo cookoffs, live zydeco music from Janky & The Zydeco Angels, unlimited crawfish wristbands, and local vendors. Plus, compete for cash prizes and serious bragging rights!
THE DEVILS with Joe Abercrombie
4PM @ Central Presbyterian Church, $39
Join bestselling fantasy author Joe Abercrombie for a special celebration of his new novel "The Devils" with moderator C. Robert Cargill. Event includes a signing where Abercrombie will personalize books. VIP tickets include early entry and exclusive perks.
BŌTE Party & Comedy Show - OPEN BAR!
7PM - 9:30PM @ Bote Austin - Open Bar
Experience stand-up comedy in the most unexpected venue - inside a paddle board shop! Featuring DJ Dirty Jackie spinning tunes, unlimited island cocktails at the Chuckle Rum Open Bar, and a secret lineup of comedians from HBO, Netflix and Comedy Central.
WIZARD RAVE!! RPG Release Party!
9PM @ The Oven - 18+ to attend, 21+ to drink
Party with Local Legendary DJs and live music to celebrate the release of Wizard City Productions' new role-playing game. Features vendors, handmade dice giveaways, and strict "NO DRUGS, NO DRAMA" policy. The perfect blend of gaming culture and dance party vibes. Just bring your love for magic and adventure!
For more events happening on Saturday, check out WhatsGoodATX!
Sunday, 5/18
Texas Indie OysterFest
12:00PM - 6:00PM @ The Far Out Lounge & Stage
A celebration of Texas oyster culture featuring six local oyster farms, chef-crafted grilled creations, and shucking demonstrations from an all-star lineup including chefs from Hestia, Hotel Emma, and Mixtli. Enjoy live music from Dave Orr Band while learning about sustainable oyster farming. Get ready to dive into some seriously fresh Gulf Coast flavors! Check out more details and grab your tickets here.
Belles & Chimes Austin Pinball Tournament
2:00PM @ Pinballz Original Arcade - $10 Entry Fee
Flip into this pool party and luau-themed pinball tournament exclusively for women and non-binary players. Rock your best summer costume for awesome prizes at this IFPA-certified event. Whether you're a pinball wizard or total newbie, everyone's welcome to join the fun. Register on-site.
SIMS 30th Anniversary Celebration Concert
3:00PM @ Empire Control Room & Garage - $40-$45
Rock out with a stacked lineup featuring Fastball, Heartless Bastards, Night Glitter (with special guest Alejandro Escovedo), and more at this milestone celebration for SIMS Foundation. For 30 years, they've provided vital mental health support to Austin musicians, helping over 25,000 artists through 300,000+ care sessions. Help keep Austin's music scene thriving.
SterWurz Against Humanity
8:00PM @ Cherrywood Coffeehouse, $17
An outrageous theatrical experience where Cards Against Humanity™ dictates the direction of an intergalactic game show. Audience members can throw in their own cards to influence this adults-only sci-fi adventure. Use promo code ELIZA for $5 off at tinyurl.com/SWAH2025.
More interesting events on Sunday @ WhatsGoodATX!