Life slows down a little bit in January. The rush of the holidays is over, and many of us take time to settle back into a more balanced work and play rhythm.
But it’s still Austin. And there’s always plenty to do.
From free concerts to home shows to celebrating the achievements of Martin Luther King, here’s a look at some of the best events in the Austin area this January.
Jan. 1-7: Free Week. The name is as simple as the concept. The so-called “Live Music Capital of the World” would just about grind to a halt after the overindulgence and extended vacations of the holidays. After buying presents and attending parties and events, there isn’t a ton of demand for live music. But Austin has found a solution for that, too. During Free Week, dozens, perhaps hundreds, of local clubs charge no cover to enter and local bands play free shows. It’s a fantastic time to learn about local bands because you’re investment walking into the club is zero. While you may find a few shows you don’t love, you’re more than likely to find a great new Austin band to tell your friends about.
When: Days and evenings Jan. 1-7
Where: Various venues in Austin
Jan. 8-11: How many boats and trailers can you fit into the Austin Convention Center? The organizers of the 2015 Austin Boat Show and Austin Travel Show will try to find out when they bring in dozens of vendors to show off their watercrafts, trailers and more. Adults pay $10 to enter and kids and seniors pay $6.
When: Noon to 9 p.m. on Jan. 8-9; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 10; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 11.
Where: The Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez in Austin
January 16-18: Inventors have come up with nothing short of 10 billion items that could help you improve your home. And a good percentage of those inventions will be available at the Austin Home and Garden Show. Of course, there’s much more, too. If you’re looking for ideas for your home, patio or garden, this may be the best one-stop shop to check out all the possibilities. Adults pay $8.50 to get in. Seniors pay $6.50. Kids under age 17 and people with active military identification get in free.
When: 2-7 p.m. Jan. 16; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Jan. 17; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 18.
Where: The Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez in Austin
Jan. 19: Join hundreds of fellow Austinites celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King with a short program at the MLK Statue on the University of Texas campus followed by a march to the historic Huston-Tillotson University. Then, enjoy local musical acts and treats from local vendors. The march is free, but consider bringing a non-perishable item to donate to the Capital Area Food Bank.
When: Short program and march starts at 9 a.m.
Where: The Dr. Martin Luther King statue on the campus of the University of Texas, near West 22nd Street and Speedway.
Jan. 11: What would happen if a footrace arrived at a rave and it rained bright paint? The Color Fun Fest 5K is what. This all-ages race has a New Years theme, and it’s one of the more interesting places to capture fun photos of your friends covered in safe and natural colors. It’s part of a string of similar races around the country. It’s $60 for those who register ahead of time. On the day of the event, registration is $75.
When: Pick up registration materials as early as 2 p.m. Day race is at 5 p.m. and the night race is at 7 p.m.
Where: Travis County Exposition Center, 7311 Decker Lane in Austin.