Seven Austin events to attend this weekend, Jan. 29–Feb. 1

January 29, 2026

Austin’s weekend lineup includes fundraisers, openings and themed nights across the city. Here are seven events happening between Jan. 29 and Feb. 1 that locals may want to add to their calendars.

Jo's Chili Cookoff returns Feb. 1 at noon on South Congress, staged by Jo's Coffee and Hotel San José. The outdoor benefit features live musical guests and free admission, while tasting wristbands will be available on-site for $25 to sample multiple chili entries. Proceeds support Free Lunch, a local organization working to address food insecurity in Austin.

Sydney's Cat Lounge & Sanctuary invites visitors to its themed cat cafe on East Seventh Street, where adoptable cats share a space decorated with Alice in Wonderland and Bridgerton influences. The menu includes artisanal sodas, zero-proof cocktails, wine and teas, and the interior features theatrical touches such as royal thrones, teacup chairs, mushrooms, a castle vignette and a wall of clocks.

Ēma, a sibling restaurant to Aba, opens at Domain NORTHSIDE on Saturday, Jan. 31. The Mediterranean- and California-inspired menu emphasizes vegetables and seafood, with offerings like crispy maitake mushrooms, octopus carpaccio and sweet corn hummus. The restaurant’s name translates to mother in Hebrew and it will operate at 3120 Palm Way, Suite 170.

Understated Leather’s sample sale returns Jan. 31 beginning at 9 a.m. at its Ben White Boulevard location. Shoppers can find leather, suede, denim and accessories for men and women at discounts up to 80 percent off, with the sale running through 2 p.m. or until items sell out.

Comedy fans can catch Steve Martin and Martin Short for two nights, Jan. 30 and 31, at 8 p.m. each night at the venue on Robert Dedman Drive. The pair perform a show billed as The Best of Steve Martin & Martin Short, a collection of their comedic material and banter dating back to their long friendship.

Home with the Armadillo Gala on Jan. 29 at 7 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre will honor Texas musician Marcia Ball. The tribute brings together friends, collaborators and surprise guests to celebrate her career, with proceeds benefiting HOME, Housing Opportunities for Musicians and Entertainers.

ACL Live at 3Ten hosts Dad Rock Night on Jan. 31 at 8 p.m., a tongue-in-cheek evening for fans to sing along to arena-era rock. The set list will lean on bands like Nickelback, Paramore and Hinder as attendees relive the fist-pumping hits they used to blast in their cars.

Sources for these listings include event organizers and venue announcements, restaurant and retailer release information, and charity materials.