Spontaneous weddings, foodie fêtes, and arty experiences top the five best things to do in Austin this weekend. Raise a craft cocktail at Cannon + Belle’s first whiskey tasting event or eat your fill of the best chili in the 512 during a heated competition. For a full list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, February 14
Loot Rentals presents Free Love:A Free Pop-Up Wedding
The magic of Valentine’s Day gets a romantic revamp at Loot Vintage Rentals. Local vendors have partnered with the event space to host 14 free weddings, vow renewals, and civil ceremonies for one blissful day only. Each ceremony will last 30 minutes and couples may invite up to 15 special guests to witness the union. To reserve your big day, contact Loot at 512-464-1184.
Barbara Jordan Freedom Foundation presents Barbara Jordan Exhibit
The Barbara Jordan Freedom Foundation honors the life and career of civil rights legend Barbara Jordan with an interactive exhibit at the Texas State Capitol. The tribute features both audio and visual pieces created from the archive housed at Jordan’s alma mater, Texas Southern University, with contributions from UT's Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs (where she was a professor). Learn more about Jordan’s significant impact on legislation, social justice, education, and female empowerment throughout the weekend. Admission is free.
Friday, February 15
Cannon + Belle presents Ben Milam Bourbon Event
Canon + Belle hosts its first-ever whiskey tasting event featuring spirits from Ben Milam Bourbon. Guests can enjoy a special crafted cocktail featuring the showcased bourbon while grooving to live music. Ben Milam Bourbon team members — including the owner and master distiller — will be in attendance to answer questions about the distilling process. Admission is free.
Saturday, February 16
12th Annual Chili Cold Blood Chili Cook-Off
Homemade chili chefs face heated competition in the quest for first prize at Hard Luck Lounge. The 12th Annual Chili Cold Blood Chili Cook-Off will feature endless eats and live rock ‘n’ roll for all ages to enjoy. Proceeds from the event will be donated to Health Alliance for Austin Musicians in memory of Austin-based musician Nick Curran. Admission is free, but $5 donation is suggested.
Sunday, February 17
Blanton Museum of Art presents “Words/Matter: Latin American Art & Language” opening day
The marriage of art and language is examined during the latest Blanton Museum of Art exhibition. “Words/Matter: Latin American Art & Language” showcases the work of writer-artist teams across a broad range of media, with messages of a personal, poetic, or political nature. Following opening day, the show will be on display through May 26.
Sip a signature Ben Milam Bourbon cocktail at the first-ever Cannon+ Bell whiskey tasting event this Friday.
