Event Roundup
Here are the top 15 things to do in Austin this weekend
This weekend is jam-packed with Austin-centric events. The hardest part isn't motivating yourself to get out of the house — it's choosing from this great list of weekend picks.
Cine Las Americas International Film Festival
Celebrate a host of international movies and Latino filmmakers during the Cine Las Americas International Film Festival. There is still time to purchase tickets to individual screenings for $10 each (you can view the full lineup online) or buy a festival pass. Most screenings occur at Marchesa Hall.
Thursday, April 23 through Sunday, April 26
Moontower Comedy & Oddity Festival
Austin's homegrown comedy fest continues its tradition of crafting a unique lineup of stand-up veterans and rising stars along with festival favorites and local comedians. Badge prices range from $129-$599, but individual tickets are available for most acts. Need help crafting your schedule? Check out our favorite Moontower Comedy picks.
Thursday, April 23 through Saturday, April 25
Umlauf Garden Party
Join honorary chairs Paul Qui and Deana Saukam at the Umlauf Garden Party for a night of food, wine and music among the sculptures. Proceeds from this star-studded event go to preserving the works and grounds of the Umlauf. Ticket prices range from $125-$400.
Thursday, April 23 at 6:30 pm
Russell Collection presents The Art of John Lennon
For one weekend only you can view the inspiring artwork of John Lennon in person, courtesy of the Russell Collection. Before he became known as one of the Beatles, Lennon was a talented visual artist who continued to create phenomenal works throughout his career. Admission is free to the gallery, but a donation is encouraged.
Thursday, April 23 through Sunday, April 26
Off-Centered Film Fest
OCFF celebrates its eighth year of showcasing "off-centered" films. This year's theme is nautical, so movie choices include Titanic, The Life Aquatic and Cabin Boy, just to name a few. As usual, Alamo Drafthouse has teamed up with Dogfish Head Craft Brewery to provide great beers and rare releases during each showing. Visit the Alamo Drafthouse website for the full schedule.
Thursday, April 23 through Saturday, April 25
Tapestry Dance Company presents Espirit!
This is the last weekend you can catch the run of Esprit! at the Long Center. Tapestry Dance Company has teamed up with Ballet Folklorico, The Irish Dance Company, Love of China and more to craft a unique celebration of world spirit. Tickets start at $23.
Thursday, April 23 through Saturday, April 25 at 8 pm; Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26 at 2 pm
LifeWorks presents The White Party
Spend a lovely evening at Fair Market for LifeWorks Youth & Family Alliance's largest fundraiser. Entertainment includes splendid tunes and scrumptious bites from some of Austin favorite restaurants — just be sure to dress in white! Tickets are $125 each. (Note: The White Party will be held at Fair Market rather than the Long Center.)
Friday, April 24 at 8 pm
Austin Food + Wine Festival
Auditorium Shores transforms into a culinary stage full of cooking demos, tastings, book signings and more. More than 40 separate events (with admission prices ranging from $75-$550) will take place during this three-day celebration of food and wine at various locations. Check out our article about the talent lineup for more info.
Friday, April 24 through Sunday, April 26
A'lante Flamenco presents Desplazados
This unique performance from Austin's amazing flamenco company turns the struggles of immigration and gentrification into dance. A'lante Flamenco encourages audience participation, so bring your dancing shoes. This is the last weekend to see Desplazados at The Off Center. Admission is $23.
Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25 at 8 pm; Sunday, April 26 at 2 pm
Pink! an Evening Benefiting Komen Austin
Pink! is a fun annual party that helps raise funds and awareness for the Susan G. Komen foundation. Guests will enjoy a "VIPink" cocktail reception, a delicious dinner, a live auction and tickets for a sweet raffle. Admission starts at $225.
Friday, April 24 at 7:15 pm
Art City Austin
Talk about a longstanding Austin tradition! This is the 65th year of Art City Austin, a downtown art fair that brings together national and local artist for two days of entertainment. Listen to live music, grab food truck fare or purchase a new piece of art while you chat with brilliant craftsman. Tickets range from $10-$75 for adults, but admission is free for children under 12.
Saturday, April 25 and Sunday April 26
Eeyore's Birthday Party
Eeyore's Birthday is a free celebration at Pease Park that is as weird as Austin itself. Whether you join a drum circle, paint your body, wear a costume or dance to live music, this is one Austin tradition not to miss.
Saturday, April 25 at 11 am
New Fiction Confab
This free, multi-faceted literary event gives Austinites direct access to some of the most celebrated authors who published new work in the past two years. Listen to readings, participate in workshops or head over to the Austin Lit Fair, a celebration of Austin-based publications.
Saturday, April 25 at 10:30 am
Austin Nature Day
Nothing says Earth Day in Austin like a visit to the Splash! Exhibit at Barton Springs Pool. Everyone is invited to learn more about our fellow Springs denizens with a salamander biologist and check out a screening of the Living Springs documentary at this free, family-friendly event.
Saturday, April 25 at noon
Sunset Valley ArtFest
Check out this free festival at the Toney Burger Center celebrating the artists of South Austin. As is customary for local fests, there will be live music, great food, kid-friendly entertainment and a chance to support some amazing local craftsmanship.
Saturday, April 25 at 9 am