In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, one organization is helping local singles slow down and connect over a shared love of other local singles — radio singles, that is. On Tuesday, December 10, Austin’s NPR news station KUT and its musical counterpart KUTX will co-host a free event called KUT & KUTX Connections, a mixer for public radio aficionados.
According to a news release, the idea for the December dating mixer arose from feedback after the group hosted a similar event in February called KUT Considers: Dating in Austin.
“Quite a few people showed up expecting a singles mixer,” writes KUT’s marketing manager Erin Geisler in the release. “So we decided to give the mixer a shot.”
Attendees of this month’s event can expect an evening of meeting like-minded, well-informed Austinites, community building, conversation, games, prizes, and — of course — music. Although the event is free and open to all, the release says an RSVP via Eventbrite is required.
“Do you swipe right when someone’s profile says they’re a public radio fan?” asks the Eventbrite description. “Are you seeking real life ‘driveway moments’ where you want to stick around and learn more about someone?”
Radio listeners may have more in common than they realize. Beneath a general love of public radio could be a shared love of local music, an interest in civic issues, a curiosity about the variety of daily life in Austin, or even a hunger for knowledge about tacos. KUT does all of that in various podcasts, radio shows, and live events.
Upon arrival, guests can select specific wristbands to signify whether they’re looking for love or friendship with fellow local music fans. Participants will also receive stickers to help jumpstart the conversation.
The event will take place from 7-9:30 pm at Austin Beerworks’ Sprinkle Valley taproom (i.e., not the North Austin brewery), located at 10300 Springdale Rd. In addition to beer, the taproom offers non-alcoholic drinks, on-site pizza and taco trucks, and games.