Week of November 18th

What's Weird ATX

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FriendsGiving season is here, which means it's time to gather around kitchen islands with your chosen family before the holiday travels begin!

Austin weather finally dipped into the 60s and y'all immediately broke out the goose jackets; we love the commitment to winter cosplay at 65 degrees. Of course, we’re back even in the high 80s the last couple of days if you can believe it. My closet is completely confused.

Last week's surprise aurora borealis over Texas delivered joy to many and dashed hopes and dreams to even more. A lot of Austinites hit the road to escape light pollution and try to find a good view in places like Lakeway and Granger Dam. Ultimately, most people who went out reported seeing nothing; while some managed to snap photos the first night before, the second night was largely a bust, with the geomagnetic storm getting downgraded. 

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Speaking of shows: Billie Eilish sold out two nights at Moody Center, and other than the nightmare of traffic it caused, she also told the crowd "I'm scared for you, I'm worried about you" before dedicating a song to Texans navigating our current political climate. This quickly ignited a debate on Texas politics and the value of celebrity activism. The dominant discussion revolved around whether Eilish's statement was genuinely empathetic toward the audience's fears or if it was patronizing coming from a wealthy Californian.

On the food and nightlife front, as usual, there’s been a lot of activity. Hotly awaited LEONA Botanical Cafe & Bar finally opened its doors in Southwest Austin, and all of Austin’s foodie content creators rejoiced at once 😆 Hattie B’s Hot Chicken brought its spicy Nashville-style chicken to Domain Northside, alongside Taquería de Diez and Everbowl serving up delicious tacos and superfood bowls. Holiday spirits are soaring at Miracle on 5th Street’s whimsical Christmas pop-up bar, where locals are sipping seasonal cocktails surrounded by dazzling decor, and the beloved Blue Genie Art Bazaar launched its 25th annual showcase of handcrafted gifts from hundreds of regional artists. Adding even more buzz, Justin Timberlake and Sam Fox announced plans for a $30 million downtown entertainment venue.

Tuesday, November 18

Textile Workshop - Macramé Plant Hangers

1pm @ Austin Recreation Center, FREE!

Learn how to create macramé plant hangers with Brush Square Museum staff at this monthly textile workshop. Perfect for adding bohemian flair to your home while learning an ancient knotting craft.

Austin Gamedev Coworking

10am-6pm @ Capital Factory, FREE!

Meet every Tuesday to code, collaborate, and support each other's game projects. Open to anyone interested in making games—completely free thanks to Capital Factory. Build your indie game with fellow developers.

Big Bill • Live-to-Vinyl Session • Purple Bee Live 135

7:30pm @ Purple Bee Studios, $40

Watch a live performance recorded directly to vinyl in real-time! Purple Bee Studios captures Big Bill in an intimate setting where every note is etched into wax. Pre-order your limited edition vinyl from this very session.

Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics along the Rio Grande

7pm @ Casa Chapala Mexican Cuisine

Monthly meeting of the Travis County Archeological Society featuring speaker Ken Lawrence, M.A., RPA discussing archeology in southern Texas. For history buffs and those curious about what lies beneath our feet.

More interesting events on Tuesday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Wednesday, November 19th

Neon Rainbows x Do Si Don'tCha: Queer Linedance Party

7pm-10pm @ Elysium - $10-$15

Worldwide linedance phenomenon hits Austin with special guest PONYBOY! Country Fried Dance teaches queer linedance with lessons between dance sets. Stay after for Boyz of Austin's "Night of a 1000 Goths"—boots to goth boots in one epic night.

DAC Nights: Totally Booked!

7pm - 9pm @ Dougherty Arts Center (1110 Barton Springs Rd), FREE!

Swap gently used books and design your own custom tote bag to carry them home at this cozy pre-winter gathering. Decorate with stencils, freehand painting, iron-on transfers, and patches—the DAC provides basic white totes and supplies, or bring your own bag to personalize. Registration is encouraged but not required, and bringing books to swap is welcome but optional.

Friendsgiving Trivia Night

7pm @ Pinballz Lake Creek, FREE!

Hilarious evening of Friends-giving trivia at The Whiskey Bar in Pinballz. Test your knowledge of the iconic sitcom while enjoying craft cocktails and arcade games in Austin's premier entertainment destination.

That's My Jam - R&B Karaoke hosted by Michael Reyes

9pm @ 1500 E 6th St, FREE!

Throwback karaoke night serving up smooth jams, sweet harmonies, and all your favorite R&B hits. Show off your vocal chops with classic slow jams and neo-soul bangers.

More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Learn Piano Through the Music You Love

flowkey is the all-in-one piano app for players of any level. Start from scratch with step-by-step interactive courses or dive into the sheet music library. With over 1000 songs across all genres, you’ll always find something you love to play.

Thursday, November 20

The Future of Art & Music in Austin

6pm @ 7412 Albert Road, FREE!

Curated evening of local art, live music, and good vibes at Austin Art & Music Salon Social. An evening of ideas and authentic connection shaping tomorrow's creative culture in our rapidly changing city.

Sushi Making With Chef Desiree at a Sake Bar

6pm-8pm @ Texas Saké Co, $59.99

Fun introduction to sushi rolling at an authentic sake bar! Learn the secrets to making perfectly seasoned sushi rice, then roll your own creations while sipping Texas sake. Way better than a boring cooking class.

Swing Dance Night - Classes and Social Dance

8pm @ The Mansion (TFWC) - $8

Austin's longest-running swing dance party since 1999! 8:15pm intro class (no partner needed), then DJs spin tunes 9pm-midnight. One of the most supportive and fun dance communities in the country.

Chad Cannon: Music for the Ocean

6pm doors @ The State Theatre, $59.58+

Composer-violinist Chad Cannon transforms ocean conservation into an immersive multimedia concert experience, blending live music with Emmy-winning animation to create a "nature documentary for the concert hall." This fundraiser for Tela Coral supports endangered reef preservation in Honduras, featuring celebrated pianist Hui Wu and followed by an ocean science Q&A with author Juli Berwald.

Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Friday, November 21

Lowrider Movie Night & Cruise

6pm-8:30pm @ Beardbrand, FREE!

Free screening of the classic 1983 Lowrider movie Heartbreaker with all lowriders invited to bring their cars! Celebrate lowrider culture with a cruise and a movie at this unique outdoor event.

I Scream Social: featuring Cindy Huyser and Talia Pinzari

7pm-9pm @ 613 W 29th St , FREE!

Celebrating Friendsgiving and Austin's literary community with an incredible poetry line-up! An intimate evening of spoken word featuring talented local poets—perfect for book lovers and poetry enthusiasts.

SPANKSGIVING - BEYOND GRAVYDOME Night 1

8pm @ Kick Butt Coffee, $21.40+

The 12th Annual Spanksgiving returns! Turducken Produckens brings back this legendary celebration featuring the most tender breasts, thighs, and of course, gravy. Prepare for Austin's weirdest Thanksgiving tradition that's somehow still going strong after over a decade.

FUSE - 3rd Friday Fusion Social

8:30pm @ 3823 Airport Blvd, $15+

Join every 3rd Friday night for an evening of connection, rhythm, and exploration. This fusion social brings together dancers and music lovers for an eclectic night of movement.

FREE SHOW FRIDAY at Hotel Vegas

6pm-1am @ Hotel Vegas, FREE!

Two free shows in one night! Matinee doors at 6pm with Cutting Up Men, Joey Z & Thunder People. Late show at 8pm featuring Tender Wolf, Paper Sister, Secret Siren EP Release, and Judd Wilson and the Fastballs. Can't beat free!

Make Friday amazing @ WhatsGoodATX!

Saturday, November 22

Gather and Give Market

2pm-6pm @ St. Elmo Brewing Springdale, FREE!

Eat, drink, shop and give back! Vendor market with proceeds benefiting SAFE Alliance, Toys for Tots drive, live music, and $1 from signature drinks donated to Central Texas Food Bank.

The Drag Queen Game Show

7pm @ Barrel O'Fun, FREE!

Retro TV game shows meet fierce drag! Hosted by comedy queens Celia Light and Mars, this interactive experience features laugh-out-loud performances, outrageous games, prizes, and plenty of audience participation.

THE DEAD DANCE: GAGA ERAS PARTY

9:30pm @ Swan Dive, $13.50+

Pop-punk nostalgia meets Lady Gaga! Presented by Texas Emo Club, dance the night away to every era of Mother Monster from "Just Dance" to "Die With A Smile."

Gala of the Gods: Feast of the Trickster

9pm-2am @ Elysium, $20+

Theatrical burlesque extravaganza celebrating chaos and mischief! Indulge in a sensory spectacle with burlesque, live bands, vendors, raffles, costumes, and VIP surprises. LeFevre's Traveling Cabaret brings playful antics and rebellious joy.

More interesting events on Saturday @ WhatsGoodATX!

Sunday, November 23

The Front Market Fall 2025

11am - 5pm @ Moody Amphitheater, FREE!

Austin's premier outdoor market featuring local artisans, food vendors, and live music at beautiful Waterloo Park. Browse handmade goods while enjoying the fall weather.

HeartByrne plays Talking Heads

4pm @ Central Machine Works Brewery, FREE!

Tribute to Talking Heads and David Byrne! Experience the fusion of pop, funk, art rock, and African rhythms. Picks up where 'Stop Making Sense' left off with Austin's most talented musicians. Two sets, all ages, free.

Cocktails and Comedy!

7:30pm @ The Velveeta Room - $20 (18+)

Austin's underground comedy club in the basement of The Ritz brings laughs to close out your weekend. Intimate setting with top local and touring comedians.

More interesting events on Sunday @ WhatsGoodATX!

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