Performances of all kinds and a favorite local shopping event top our list of the best things to do in Austin this weekend. Experience Austin Opera's gripping rendition of Everest, or head to Le Garage Sale to shop more than 100 vendors at deep discounts. For a full list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, January 23
KUT 90.5, Austin's NPR station presents ATXplained LIVE
KUT's award-winning, crowd-sourced reporting project comes to life at Hogg Memorial Auditorium. The evening will cover all things Austin, showcasing eight never-before-heard stories, as well as some classic ATXplained tales reimagined for the stage. Limited tickets are still available.
Austin Opera presents Everest
Austin Opera presents this gripping tale of one of the deadliest years in Mount Everest history, 1996. Audiences at the Long Center for the Performing Arts will be immersed in this 75-minute production, featuring music by Joby Talbot, libretto by Gene Scheer, and breathtaking projections depicting the tumultuous mountain conditions. Select tickets are still available; performances through January 26.
Broadway in Austin: Hello, Dolly!
Broadway hit Hello, Dolly! dances into Bass Concert Hall for one weekend only. The classic musical follows matchmaker extraordinaire Dolly Gallagher Levi on her search for a worthy suitor, accompanied by iconic songs such as “Before the Parade Passes By,” “Put On Your Sunday Clothes,” and, of course, “Hello, Dolly!” Performances through January 26.
Saturday, January 25
Le Garage Sale
Austin’s favorite garage sale opens its doors this weekend with local vendors and unbelievable deals. Le Garage Sale features a mix of independent designers and Austin-based brands who will bring their excess inventory and best-selling pieces to the Palmer Events Center for shoppers to snag at end-of-season prices. Among the 100-plus confirmed boutiques are local favorites such as Adelante Boutique, Longhorn Fashions, and Beehive, as well as top brands like Volcom, Raven + Lily, and Herschel. The doors are open through January 26.
Sunday, January 26
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center presents Fortlandia
This is your last chance to experience Fortlandia at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Guests of all ages are invited to explore (and climb aboard) the exhibition's 10 custom-designed forts that call upon childhood nostalgia, magic, and nature. Visit the wildflower center website to purchase tickets.
It's the final weekend to explore Fortlandia at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Tavel Bristol-Joseph of Canje is a 2025 James Beard Award nominee.
Photo courtesy of Tavel Bristol-Joseph