Austin Highlights: November 9 To November 12

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The best free and fun events in Austin, November 9 – November 12, include Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-up Bar, Katseye in Concert, and more!

Austin turns up the energy long before the weekend hits, and this list rounds up the can’t-miss events keeping the city buzzing all week long. Explore what’s happening from November 9 to November 12, and keep your weekdays packed with Austin’s signature spirit and creativity!

Editor’s Note: We work hard to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information. However, all details are subject to change. Please verify information before heading out.

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Check out our recent updates to our guides: Date Ideas in Austin, Things To Do with Teens in Austin, and Things To Do this Summer in Austin.

Free and Fun Events in Austin this Monday, November 9, 2026

PGA Tour: Austin Championship

Austin enters the PGA TOUR spotlight with the inaugural Austin Championship, bringing 120 professional golfers to the Fazio Canyons Course at Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa for a four-day competition in the 2026 FedExCup Fall series.

Watch elite players navigate the championship course in 72-hole stroke play, competing for a $6 million purse and 500 FedExCup points.

Spectator days run Thursday through Sunday, giving golf fans several opportunities to follow the action from along the ropes and experience the excitement of professional tournament play up close.

The tournament also gives you a reason to cheer beyond the leaderboard. Net proceeds support local nonprofits throughout Travis County and the greater Austin area, including Play Yellow’s pediatric cancer initiatives at Dell Children’s Medical Center and Folds of Honor.

Where: Omni Barton Creek, 8212 Barton Club Dr, Austin, TX 78735
When: Monday, November 9 – 15, 2026
How Much: Not stated

The Next Era: A Celebratory Night of Art & Giving

Celebrate nine years of adventurous contemporary dance in Austin while supporting the next chapter of Early Era Collective at this special evening of art and community.

Whether you’re already familiar with the company’s work or discovering it for the first time, you’ll have an opportunity to meet its artists, learn about its creative mission, and see what lies ahead.

Enjoy cocktails, mocktails, and light bites while catching pop-up dance performances and remarks from company artists.

The evening also offers an exclusive preview of Brute, Early Era Collective’s upcoming dance film, which explores Danse Apache through contemporary movement, combat, original music, and cinematic storytelling.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Monday, November 9, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
How Much: Pay-What-You-Wish ($20-$250)

Queer Two-Step Night

Put on your dancing shoes and head to Sagebrush for Queer Two-Step Night, a welcoming country-dance gathering where you can learn the steps, meet fellow dancers, and spend the evening moving to live music.

Hosted by Austin’s queer country community, the event combines beginner-friendly lessons with a social dance floor.

The November 9 edition features live music from RANDEEN, with two-step lessons scheduled at 7:15 and 7:45 p.m. No previous experience or dance partner is required, so you can bring friends or show up solo and join the fun.

Where: Sagebrush, 5500 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
When: Monday, November 9, 2026 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
How Much: $10

The Light Park – Austin

Give your holiday season a glowing start with a drive through The Light Park at Dell Diamond in Round Rock.

Returning for its third holiday season, this mile-long drive-through attraction transforms the route into a dazzling display of millions of LED lights synchronized to favorite holiday tunes. Look forward to glowing tunnels, towering light installations, and oversized seasonal scenes that turn the drive into a festive outing for the whole family.

Where: Dell Diamond, 3400 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
When: Monday, November 9, 2026 – January 3, 2027
How Much: $29.99 per car

Wurstfest

Image credit: Wurstfest

Get ready for ten days of German-inspired festivities with a distinctly Texas twist at Wurstfest in New Braunfels.

Set near the headwaters of the Comal River, this annual celebration brings together traditional German food, lively music, dancing, carnival rides, and games for a festival packed with things to see, taste, and enjoy.

Come hungry for German favorites and sausages, sample German, Texan, and domestic beers, and browse the special events and entertainment throughout the festival grounds.

Where: Wursthalle, 178 Landa Park Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130
When: Monday, November 9- 15, 2026
How Much: Varies by day

Free and Fun Events in Austin this Tuesday, November 10, 2026

Katseye in concert

Image credit: KATSEYE

Catch KATSEYE live in Austin as the global girl group brings its THE WILDWORLD TOUR to Moody Center.

Known for its polished choreography, powerful vocals, and pop-forward performances, the group is hitting the road in support of its new album Wild.

Where: Moody Center, 2001 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX 78712
When: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 | 8:00 PM
How Much: Please check the website for available tickets

A Taste of Texas: Food, Immigration & Identity

Explore how the food on Texas tables tells stories of migration, family, and cultural identity at this engaging Future Forum conversation at the LBJ Presidential Library.

Presented alongside the exhibition What We Bring to the Table: Tales of History and Home, the program examines how recipes preserve heritage, traditions travel across generations, and the culinary landscape reflects the evolving story of American life.

The moderated discussion brings together an accomplished group of culinary voices: James Beard Award-winning chef Iliana de la Vega, Kareem El-Ghayesh of KG BBQ, and Amir Hajimaleki of Roya, with Texas Monthly Taco Editor José R. Ralat moderating.

After the conversation, stay for a reception and after-hours access to the exhibition, giving you time to explore the stories behind the discussion.

Where: LBJ Presidential Library, 2313 Red River St, Austin, TX 78705
When: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 | 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
How Much: Free

Manitoba Moose vs Texas Stars

Get ready for fast-paced professional hockey as the Texas Stars take on the Manitoba Moose at H-E-B Center at Cedar Park.

Cheer on Austin’s AHL affiliate as the Stars battle a competitive Manitoba squad in a regular-season matchup packed with skating speed, hard checks, quick puck movement, and scoring opportunities.

The Texas Stars enter the season following a 37-29-4-2 campaign in 2025–26 and their 12th playoff appearance in franchise history. Bring your team spirit, settle into your seats, and enjoy the action as the home team looks to make another strong run.

Where: H-E-B Center, 2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
When: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 | 7:00 PM
How Much: Please check the website for available tickets

Zach Theater presents The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Step through the wardrobe and enter Narnia, a frozen world full of magic, adventure, and Turkish delight in this highly imaginative adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ classic tale at Zach Theater.

You will see two actors bring four siblings, the noble lion Aslan, the White Witch, and an entire kingdom locked in winter to life onstage through theatrical magic, illusion, and boundless creativity, inviting you to shine your light, radiate kindness, and watch the darkness melt away.

Where: Zach Theater, 202 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 – February 14, 2027
How Much: Please check the website for available tickets

Tuesday Twilights

Spend a peaceful evening surrounded by stunning blooms as the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center stays open late every Tuesday this fall. Make it a charming date night, pack a relaxing picnic with friends, or enjoy some quiet solo time soaking in the beauty of nature.

Every single visit features delightful live music from local artists to serenade your stroll through the gardens.

Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739
When: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: $15 for adults | $12 for seniors | $9 for kids 3 – 17 | Free for kids 2 and under

Free and Fun Events in Austin this Wednesday, November 11, 2026

José Madero in concert

Mexican singer-songwriter José Madero brings his solo music to Emo’s Austin as part of his 2026 USA Tour.

Best known as the longtime frontman of the Mexican rock band PXNDX, Madero has built a substantial solo career with seven albums, including Sarajevo (2024). His solo work continues to explore emotionally charged songwriting, melodic rock, and introspective themes, offering longtime fans and newer listeners a chance to hear a different side of his musical journey.

Where: Emo’s Austin, 2015 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
When: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 7:00 PM
How Much: Starts at $42

An Evening of Alton Brown

Food, science, storytelling, and a little culinary chaos come together when Alton Brown brings his live show to ACL Live at the Moody Theater.

Best known for creating and hosting Good Eats, Iron Chef America, Cutthroat Kitchen, and Food Network Star, Brown has spent decades making cooking entertaining, approachable, and scientifically fascinating.

His live performances have taken him to more than 300 cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of fans along the way.

For this tour, Brown promises a fresh spin on familiar favorites, mixing new demonstrations, music, humor, and unexpected moments into an evening that feels more personal than a traditional stage production.

Where: Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live), 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
When: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 7:30 PM
How Much: Starts at $81

Ben Jones with Lemongrass

Austin audiences know Ben Jones from his work with Beat Root Revival and the Pepperland Players, but this show marks a special milestone: his first performance at The 04 Center under his own name with a full band playing his original material.

The Kent-born, Austin-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist will draw from his 2022 album Souvenir and introduce songs from his forthcoming record The Heartbreak Handbook.

The new album carries a deeply personal connection, having been made with his late friend and collaborator Chris Gage. Expect an evening that celebrates Jones’s songwriting, musical evolution, and friendship through the songs they created together.

Where: The 04 Center, 2701 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
When: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 8:00 PM (doors at 7:00 PM)
How Much: Starts at $46

Dripping Springs Farmers Market

Image credit: Dripping Springs Farmers Market

Spend Wednesday afternoon shopping local at the Dripping Springs Farmers Market, a community gathering where regional growers, food producers, artisans, and service providers bring their products directly to shoppers.

Browse fresh agricultural goods, locally prepared and value-added foods, handmade crafts, and other offerings while getting to know the people behind them.

The market is certified by the Texas Department of Agriculture and is designed to connect residents with local producers while offering opportunities to learn about the uses and benefits of locally grown and prepared products. Stop by after work or make it part of an afternoon outing at Dripping Springs Ranch Park.

Where: Dripping Springs Ranch Park, 1042 Event Center Dr, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
When: Every Wednesday | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
How Much: Free

Two-Step Lessons at Sagebrush: Beginner + Intermediate

Step onto the dance floor and learn Austin’s signature honky-tonk two-step style with drop-in classes hosted by Double or Nothing Two-Step.

Whether arriving solo, as a couple, or with a group, no partner or prior experience is required to join the beginner lesson at six in the evening or the intermediate class at seven.

Your partners will rotate throughout the session, and your admission covers both the instruction and the live country music that follows.

Where: Sagebrush, 5500 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
When: Wednesday, November 11 – 24, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: $10

Free and Fun Events in Austin this Thursday, November 12, 2026

Miracle on 5th Street Christmas Pop-Up Bar

Image credit: Miracle on 5th Street

Step into a full-on Christmas fantasy at Miracle on 5th Street, where The Eleanor transforms into a festive cocktail wonderland filled with nostalgic decorations, multiple bars, and holiday cheer from wall to wall.

Order a seasonal cocktail crafted by the jolly bartenders, snap a festive photo on Santa’s Throne, and settle into a cheerful setting that makes a night out feel like an early Christmas celebration.

The 2026 season is ticketed, with tables and seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations aren’t accepted for groups smaller than eight, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting with a smaller party.

Limited Dasher Passes offer a way to bypass the general admission line outside, making them worth considering on busy nights.

Where: The Eleanor, 307 W. Fifth St., Unit A, Austin, TX 78701
When: Thursday, November 12 – December 30, 2026
How Much: Varies by order

Peppermint in the Park

Make COTALAND part of your holiday plans as Peppermint in the Park turns Circuit of the Americas into a festive amusement destination for the season.

From November through early January, you can enjoy amusement rides, sparkling holiday lights, seasonal entertainment, and special moments with Santa.

A holiday market adds another reason to stroll through the festivities, with opportunities to browse gifts, enjoy seasonal food and drinks, and take in live entertainment around the holiday plaza.

Santa’s appearance details and additional programming are still being announced, so check COTALAND’s official website before heading out for the latest operating dates, ticket options, and seasonal activities.

Where: COTALAND, 9201 Circuit of The Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617
When: Thursday, November 12, 2026 – January 3, 2027
How Much: Starts at $19

Austin Jewish Film Festival

Discover stories that explore Jewish life, culture, history, and identity at the Austin Jewish Film Festival, an annual celebration bringing cinema and community together across Austin.

The festival’s lineup features films alongside opportunities to hear from cast members, enjoy live music, attend parties, and connect with fellow moviegoers.

Most screenings are hosted at the Dell Jewish Community Center in Northwest Austin and select additional events near the University of Texas campus.

A virtual program follows November 20–29, allowing Texas viewers to continue watching from home. You can purchase individual film tickets or choose a festival pass for broader access to screenings and accompanying events.

Where: Dell Jewish Community Center, 7300 Hart Lane, Austin, TX 78731
When: Thursday, November 12 – 19, 2026
How Much: Starts at $13

Paint and Sip: Paint Night Done Right

Pick up a paintbrush, order a drink, and let your creative side take over at this relaxed Austin paint-and-sip experience hosted by Classpop!

A local artist guides you through a beginner-friendly painting session, helping you turn a blank canvas into something worth taking home.

There’s no pressure to get every brushstroke perfect; the evening is designed for experimenting, laughing at unexpected results, and enjoying the process as much as the finished artwork.

All painting materials—including canvas, brushes, paints, and an apron—are provided, so you can simply arrive ready to unwind.

Where: Blue Owl Brewing, 2400 E Cesar Chavez St #300, Austin, TX 78702
When: Thursday, November 12, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
How Much: $43.99

Round Top Film Festival

Spend four days immersed in cinema, creative conversation, and small-town Texas charm at the Round Top Film Festival.

Under its 2026 theme, Where Stories Run Wild, the festival brings together an eclectic mix of feature films, documentaries, short films, and music videos, with screenings spread across distinctive venues in Round Top.

Beyond the screenings, the program includes filmmaker Q&As, panels on topics ranging from acting and production design to stunts and fashion, live music, intimate performances, and special gatherings.

Festival passes provide access to a broad selection of screenings and presentations, while individual rush tickets may be available at the venue when space permits.

Where: Festival Concert Hall, 248 Jaster Road, Round Top, TX 78954
When: Thursday, November 12 – 15, 2026
How Much: Starts at $80

Already planning for the weekend? Browse our latest picks for Friday through Sunday in Austin — concerts, food festivals, date ideas, and more await!