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- Week of September 15th
Week of September 15th
What's Weird ATX
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This week, the talk of the town was about Austin’s new city logo; it caused quite the stir, and largely not in a good way. After 200 years of doing without a unified city brand, Austin unveiled a fresh green and violet design shaped like an “A” meant to evoke the city’s hills, rivers, and famous “violet crown” skies. The rebrand cost over $1.1 million, which was quite the shocking price tag. The volcano of online backlash erupted quickly, with Austinites humorously accusing the city of “making it on Canva” and rating the new logo a hard “1” out of 10.
How do YOU feel about the new city logo?? |
The official explanation talks about unity, inclusion, and connection, but many feel the new look is simply corporate and bland. However, it seems to me the logo did actually succeed in one great thing: uniting the city in a wave of sarcasm and memes, proving once again Austin’s true brand is its sense of humor.
In more sobering news, APD reported a strange and targeted crime wave at local gyms, where individuals are purchasing short-term memberships primarily to break into lockers and steal personal items such as IDs and credit cards; a crafty approach indeed! Separately, a tragic shooting led to a manhunt requiring a shelter-in-place order issued by Austin police. However, citizens reported that the order was abruptly called off while the suspect was still at large, leading to an outcry from parents and community members worried about the timing and safety. Parents particularly criticized the Austin Police Department for lifting the order prematurely, arguing it endangered families and children who were still vulnerable to the threat.
Also this week, the city launched Welcoming Week, an initiative aimed at celebrating the stories and contributions of immigrant communities, fostering unity and inclusivity within Austin's diverse population.
On the food front: Bad Larry’s in the Holly Neighborhood officially became a permanent spot, offering smash burgers, breakfast, cocktails, and live music. Fish Shop opened on East 6th Street as a new raw bar inspired by Swan Oyster Depot, featuring oysters, crab rolls, chowder, and fish & chips. Brass Poppy, a cocktail lounge at Hotel Van Zandt, launched with globally inspired small bites and vintage cocktails like the Grasshopper. Amy’s Ice Creams announced the opening of its first location in nearby Hutto, expanding the Austin staple to suburbs. Additionally, Stella San Jac which had closed in June and was recently replaced by Skipjack Oyster inside The Westin, which offers a raw bar concept and an extensive wine list.
Austin's going full pirate mode this week. There are multiple opportunities to break out your peg leg and eyepatch; no kidding. Drag culture is also a big highlight, in everything from figure drawing to cocktail classes. We’ve also got cyberpunk pole shows, burlesque spectacles, and as usual tons of boundary-pushing entertainment. And, all weekend, the Austin International Drag Festival 2025 will be at Valhalla, marking ten years of fierce international performers bringing pure drag excellence to Texas.
Monday, September 15
Lend Your Legs - PIRATE RIDE
6:00pm @ Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired - Free
Hoist the Jolly Roger and set sail on wheels for this swashbuckling adventure featuring pedicabs, tandems, and recumbent bikes. The Pirate Pedicab Palooza brings together adaptive cycling enthusiasts for a themed ride that's both inclusive and delightfully absurd. Join the crew for an evening where accessibility meets high-seas adventure on Austin's streets.
SK8ATX Monday Night Skate
8:00pm - 10:00pm @ Long Center For The Performing Arts
Strap on your wheels for an 8-15 mile adventure through Austin's streets with fellow skating enthusiasts. This isn't just a casual roll - speed management and reliable stopping skills are required for this fast-paced group ride. Meet at the Long Center Terrace with your helmet, lights, and sense of adventure for this weekly urban exploration on wheels.
Under the Hood with Invoke & Hilá Plitmann
7:30pm @ Batch - Craft Beer and Kolaches, FREE!
Step inside the creative process with Austin's genre-bending string quartet as they deconstruct their musical methods in real-time. This monthly series combines live performance with behind-the-scenes insights, all while enjoying craft beer and kolaches. Experience classical music stripped of pretense in this intimate setting that makes high art accessible.
Variety-ease: Drink, Drag, & Draw
9:30pm @ Oilcan Harry's
Transform your Monday into an artistic adventure where drag meets figure drawing in the most fabulous way possible. This weekly spectacle combines cocktails, THC drinks, and live drag performances with an actual figure drawing class featuring challenges and surprises. Join Mandy Quinn and Noodles for a creative experience that's equal parts educational and entertaining.
More interesting events on Monday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Tuesday, September 16
Brewin' a Conversation with Varun Grover
6:30pm - 8:30pm @ Lazarus Brewing Co., $40
An intimate evening with acclaimed Indian screenplay writer, director, standup comedian and lyricist Varun Grover. This isn't your typical comedy show—expect raw storytelling and cultural insights from someone who's worked across Bollywood and independent film, all while sipping craft beer in a cozy brewery setting.
Harmony Sisters ATX Musicians Pool Party
6:30pm - 9:30pm @ Metropolis Apartments, FREE!
The legendary Metropolis Apartments hosts a networking event exclusively for women in Austin's music scene. Expect poolside vibes, open mic performances, and genuine connections among female musicians, producers, and industry professionals. Bring your instrument or just your voice for this supportive creative gathering.
Argentine Tango: Play, Learn, Dance!
6:15pm @ Blue Moon Dance Co., $10 (sliding scale)
Dive into the passionate world of Argentine tango with its intricate footwork, dramatic pauses, and intense partner connection. This isn't ballroom tango—it's the real deal from Buenos Aires, focusing on improvisation and emotional expression through movement. All levels welcome for this weekly exploration of one of dance's most seductive forms.
More interesting events on Tuesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Wednesday, September 17th
Moto Meet Up
6pm - 9pm @ FOUR FIVE SIX, FREE!
Rev up for a co-ed motorcycle gathering hosted by The Litas Austin, a global collective empowering women through motorcycles. Enjoy music, pool games, reserved front motorcycle parking, and connect with fellow riders in a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned rider or motorcycle-curious, this monthly meet celebrates the freedom of two wheels.
RoastMania
10pm - 11:30pm @ The Creek and the Cave - $10
Wrestling meets comedy in this outrageous battle where Austin's sharpest comedians impersonate iconic wrestlers like Stone Cold and The Undertaker in roast format. Three competitions, 16 legendary characters, and plenty of folding chair references create an evening that settles classic rivalries with killer punchlines. Expect props, personas, and punches that land harder than a steel cage match.
German Sausage Making & Beer Tasting
6:30pm - 9pm @ Central Market Austin North Lamar - $99.88
Roll up your sleeves for hands-on German sausage crafting paired with beer tastings in this immersive culinary workshop. Learn traditional techniques while sampling perfectly paired brews that complement your homemade creations. Ages 21+ only for this authentic taste of German craftsmanship and brewing culture.
Taylor Swift Trivia Night
7pm - 9pm @ Pinballz Lake Creek, FREE!
Swifties unite for this comprehensive trivia covering everything from her classic albums to The Tortured Poets Department. Dress in your favorite era outfit, form teams, and battle for ultimate bragging rights while surrounded by Austin's largest arcade. Era-inspired costumes encouraged for maximum fun factor.
More interesting events on Wednesday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Thursday, September 18th
The Elvis Beer Release & Vinyl Party
3pm @ Blue Owl Brewing, FREE!
Rock on with The Elvis—a smoothie sour ale packed with peanut butter, jelly, and banana goodness, available only in the tasting room! Bring your favorite Elvis vinyl for BYOV night featuring classic films, Elvis-themed food, and killer vibes. Costumes encouraged, especially blue suede shoes for this legendary celebration.
The Wizard of dOgZ
6:30pm @ The VORTEX, $15+
All-new family-friendly live entertainment starring rescue canines in this creative twist on the classic tale. Created by the makers of The Mutt-Cracker, this heartwarming show combines theater with animal adoption advocacy at one of Austin's most unique venues.
PowerPints: drink and learn things
8pm @ Radio/East - $6.14
The coolest PowerPoint comedy show where anyone gets five minutes to share their passion - whether you're obsessed with breakfast cereals, ranting about overrated cats, or dropping quirky history facts. All ages welcome for this interactive comedy experience where the audience becomes the entertainment.
Making Rope From Plants
7pm - 9pm @ The Buzz Mill, $39.19
Learn essential survival skills in this hands-on workshop exploring natural materials for rope making. Perfect intro class covering plant-based cordage techniques with a free drink token and badge included. This practical skill session combines outdoor education with Austin's maker culture.
Queen's Club: A Drag Mixology Class
8pm -10pm @ Blue Room Supper Club, $36.64
Learn cocktail crafting with the fabulous Vylette Ward in this hands-on mixology experience! Each ticket includes bubbly, your first self-made cocktail, a shaker to take home, and two amazing performances by Vylette. Make a reservation at Serenade beforehand for a complimentary whipped chevre appetizer. Perfect blend of education and entertainment.
Canary Roost Pirate Party
7pm-2am @ 11900 Metric Blvd
Trade your desk for the deck at this swashbuckling theme party where landlubbers become pirates for the night. Full costume-encouraged celebration with themed drinks and entertainment running until 2am.
Find more fun stuff on Thursday @ WhatsGoodATX!
Friday, September 19th
ROCKMAN Rave: An Anime Rave Birthday Bash
9pm - 2am @ Kick Butt Coffee Music & Booze, $5
Dive into the ultimate fusion of anime culture and rave energy as ROCKMAN B celebrates another trip around the sun with guest DJ Andrei Matei. This 18+ birthday extravaganza features cosplay contests, epic giveaways, and a killer mix of anime tracks with hood vibes that'll have you moving until the early hours. For just five bucks, witness the beautiful chaos where weebs and ravers unite.
Con Mucho Amor - Vibe Weekend Quinceañera Celebration
8pm @ Old 6th Street - All Ages
Experience a groundbreaking celebration of queer coming-of-age traditions in this one-night showcase of Southern LGBTQ+ resilience and creativity. This powerful cultural movement features stunning performers, ceremony, dance, and Quinceañera traditions reimagined through a queer lens. With projection installations of local queer history and performances by Gacho Marx and DJ Horrorchata, this all-ages event stands as both celebration and resistance.
Talk Like A Pirate Day Celebration
6pm @ The Boat ATX, FREE!
Embrace your inner buccaneer at Austin's most swashbuckling annual tradition with live music from Kathleen Turner Overdrive, treasure raffles, and a live pirate auction. This family-friendly celebration encourages full pirate regalia and features interactive entertainment that channels the rebellious spirit of the high seas. Join fellow landlubbers for an evening of nautical nonsense and community fun on the shores of Lake Austin.
Sleazy September Immersive Burlesque Experience
8pm @ Radio/East - $24.54+
Dive into an adults-only immersive theater experience that blurs the lines between audience and performance in Radio/East's intimate setting. This 18+ burlesque adventure promises to challenge conventional entertainment boundaries with provocative storytelling and audience participation. Prepare for an evening that celebrates sexuality, artistry, and the beautiful sleaziness of human desire in an unforgettable theatrical format.
Make Friday amazing @ WhatsGoodATX!
Saturday, September 20th
28th Annual Oaktoberfest
11am - 10pm @ Live Oak Brewing Company, FREE!
Austin's ultimate beer celebration featuring steinhoisting contests, German comfort food from The Black Forest truck, live polka music, and the Paul McBeth Foundation disc golf fundraiser. They're even showing the UT game in the taproom with $1 off drafts for burnt orange attire. Join the festivities for this legendary 28-year-running party.
Reuse on the Runway: A Night of Fashion, Costume and Drag
5:30pm - 9:30pm @ Branch Park Pavilion, $18+
Witness 68 unique looks crafted by local designers using only reused materials and techniques in this sustainable fashion extravaganza. The evening features photo booths, a free Glam Station, silent auction, and a costume contest hosted by drag queen Maxine LaQueen. Secure your spot for this celebration where environmental consciousness meets high fashion and drag artistry.
Android Dreams: A Cyberpunk Pole Dance and Burlesque Show
7pm - 10:30pm @ Sterling Stage Austin, $20
Witness thirteen stunning performers transform into androids, cyber lovers, and fantastical hybrids in this post-apocalyptic spectacle where pole dance meets sci-fi storytelling. Each night tells its own story of beings adapting to harsh new realities, complete with cyber-themed cocktails and local vendor goodies. This 18+ experience pushes boundaries with bold sensuality and outrageous stagecraft that'll leave you questioning what's human and what's machine.
Art Erotica 2025
8pm @ Distribution Hall - 21+
Celebrate desire, love, and everything in between at this provocative art auction featuring hundreds of steamy pieces in every conceivable form. This volunteer-driven celebration of human sexuality doubles as a fundraiser for the Paul Kirby Fund, proving that art and philanthropy make perfect bedfellows. Join the festivities for an evening where artistic expression meets charitable giving.
That Big 80s Party
7pm @ Empire Control Room & Garage, $20
Travel back to the decade of excess: expect big hair, bold fashion, and the most iconic music ever created as Austin transforms into a neon-soaked time machine. This all-ages celebration promises maximum 80s energy with contemporary party vibes.
For more events happening on Saturday, check out WhatsGoodATX!
Sunday, September 21st
Undressing the Nation: A History of Americana Burlesque
1:15pm - 2:45pm @ Brass Ovaries Pole Dancing - $30
Dive into the colorful evolution of American burlesque with legendary performers Bobby Barnaby and Selma Bawdy, who bring 30 years of international performance experience. This educational workshop covers iconic shows, key historical moments, and the cultural impact of this misunderstood art form.
Cigars 101: Learn to Roll Cigars with BOBALU CIGAR Co
1pm - 5pm @ Bobalu Cigar Company - $40 / 21+
Master the art of hand-rolling cigars in this rare hands-on class that only runs a couple times yearly. Take home three freshly made cigars, enjoy BYOB atmosphere, and score buy-one-get-one-free deals while learning from Austin's cigar experts. Limited to just 13 spots, so this intimate experience fills up fast.
Peelander-Z w/ Tsushimamire and Naomi Stinnett's Lost Girls
6pm @ The Far Out Lounge & Stage, $18
Japanese Action Comic Punk mayhem from NYC meets Austin with this planet Peelander crew who've rocked Bonnaroo and been featured on Comedy Central. Expect wild audience participation, anime-inspired costumes they call "skin," plus performances including The Red Squid and human bowling. Get tickets here for this all-ages spectacle that's equal parts concert and interactive chaos.
More interesting events on Sunday @ WhatsGoodATX!
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