Editor’s Note: In this recurring column, staff writer Katie Walsh recommends free events in Austin for the week.
Monday, Oct. 26
Motown Mondays
Where: The Highball, 1120 S. Lamar Blvd.
Time: 8 p.m.
Transport yourself back to the late ’60s with a night of Motown music courtesy of the Matchmaker Band, a 10-piece soul group. As you wait for the band to take the stage, grab one of The Highball’s specialty cocktails from the bar or come an hour early for free West Coast Swing dance lessons.
For more information, click here.
Tuesday, Oct. 27
A Queer Night In Boowling Hell
Where: Dart Bowl, 5700 Grover Ave.
Time: 8 p.m.–11 p.m.
The Q Austin is hosting a Halloween-themed night of Queer bowling at the iconic Dart Bowl Tuesday night at 8 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes for the team and individual costume contests and come in groups of five so that each lane is filled. Complete this form to reserve a lane for you and four friends.
For more information, click here.
Wednesday, Oct. 28
GOP Debate Watch Party
Where: Whip In, 1950 S. Interstate Highway 35
Time: 7 p.m.
The Democratic debate watch party at the Whip In two weeks ago was such a success that they have decided to host a watch party for every forthcoming debate. Come watch the GOP candidates grace the stage this Wednesday at 7 p.m. Drink specials will be available.
For more information, click here.
Thursday, Oct. 29
Archives in ATXion: The Texas Picture Show
Where: Texas State Capitol, 1100 Congress Ave.
Time: 6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
The Texas State Library and Archives Commission and Texas Archive of the Moving Image are hosting an archival film screening Thursday evening on the east lawn of the Texas State Capitol. Jason Roberts, Asleep at the Wheel’s fiddler, will play at 6:30 p.m. followed by the screening at 7:30 p.m., which will include vintage home movies, newsreels, kitschy commercials, broadcasts and industrial and tourism films that explain what it means to be a Texan.
For more information, click here.
Friday, Oct. 30
Shmu Record Release and Halloween Party featuring Botany, New Fumes and Total Unicorn
Where: Cheer Up Charlie’s, 900 Red River St.
Time: 8 p.m.
Dress up in costume and start celebrating Halloween one night early with psychedelic band Shmu during its record release party Friday night. RSVP online and receive a free copy or download code of the album.
Other Texas-based bands set to perform include Calliope Musicals, Botany, New Fumes, Total Unicorn, Karla Manzur / Nightblooms, Alex Napping, Feverbones, GLOVES collective and Party Plants. Meanwhile, a coloring book party will take place from 8 pm.–10 p.m. courtesy of Weird Destiny Productions.
For more information, click here.
Saturday, Oct. 31
Road to Euphoria: Monster Mash featuring Wrestler, Bames and Dreamchild
Where: Empire Control Room & Garage, 606 E. Seventh St.
Time: 10 p.m.
Austinites 21 and older are invited to celebrate Halloween with a costume contest and sets from Houston-based DJ Wrestlers, electronic duo Bames, and Fort Worth-based musician Dreamchild. The event is free with an online RSVP.
For more information, click here.
Sunday, Nov. 1
Fiesta De Los Muertos
Where: Irie Bean Coffee Bar, 2310 S. Lamar Blvd #102
Time: 7 p.m.
This Sunday, Irie Bean Coffee bar will host an event for the Day of the Dead, or Dia de Los Muertos, with face painting, a sugar skull painting competition and free Mexican beer. Pick up a free VIP wristband prior to the event at Irie Bean Coffee Bar or South Lamar Social Club.
