Weekend Events Roundup
Crazy basketball, wine and gorillas are set to make this a great weekend in Austin
Old Man Winter just will not give us a break. Right when we think we’re out of his ice cold clutches and enjoying balmy Texas afternoons, he pulls us back in. The nerve of that guy.
Luckily, this weekend should see temperatures back in the 70s, so let's dive into the fun we can look forward to with our favorite weekend picks from our events calendar.
Thursday, January 23 – Friday, January 24
The end of January is always bittersweet, because you realize that there’s only one worthwhile football game left on the schedule. Sure, it means more time to watch the Rockets, Spurs and Mavs, or you can forget those guys and watch the greatest basketball team of all time: the Harlem Globetrotters.
The Globetrotters are back in Austin and still getting some big air. Things will be different this time around though, as the team tries out their “Fans Rule” show, letting fans vote online on game rules and to help decide how the day’s game will play. But no matter what, it’s still a good idea to not bet against the Globetrotters, even if your bookie tells you that the long suffering Washington Generals are due for a win.
Friday, January 24 – Sunday, January 26
Improv Wins Conference and Festival
The downtown New Movement Theatre will once again hosts its unique comedy festival. Instead of hosting a bunch of different acts, the New Movement wants to teach you and everyone you know how to perform comedy yourself. During the festival, the New Movement will be teaching improv classes catering to all skill levels, so spend a weekend with other funny people and learn to run the ropes of this comedic skill.
Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival
If you find yourself with a little downtime this weekend and craving some new ink — which is only natural since you’re an Austinite — head to the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival.
Now that it’s located at the Austin Convention Center, expect to see way more artists and vendors showing off their craft, along with more seminars and parties. Nothing beats getting to hang around with other people who have a passion for ink.
Saturday, January 25
Austin really loves its fun runs and crazy 5Ks, but the Austin Gorilla Run is something else. Seeing runners decked out in complimentary gorilla suits, decorated with other pieces of flair on top is enough to make anyone say, “Well, that’s Austin for you.”
There’s still time to register and do your part in helping real gorillas by benefiting the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund.
Sunday, January 26
Wine is the perfect way to wind down after a busy weekend, but for some people, it's more than just a way to relax. Make sure to check out Somms Under Fire to see what it’s like to drink wine when there is something important on the line.
Three rising sommeliers will battle it out to see who has the best taste when it comes to vino. And while three somms enter, only one will leave for the chance to travel to Burgundy for an exclusive one-week internship. Not only do you get to see someone’s wildest wine dreams come true, you get to sample a bit yourself and possibly learn a few tricks of the sommelier trade.