Austin, TX, December 23, 2025
Southwest Austin is set to engage the community with a series of lively events, including free live music performances and immersive murder mystery experiences. These events aim to foster community connections and support local artists while enhancing the cultural vibrancy of the area. Highlights include the annual Red River Cultural District’s Free Week featuring multiple venues, a murder mystery event for singles, and performances of classic mysteries at local theaters.
Southwest Austin Invites You to Enjoy Free Music & Mystery Events
Experience Exciting Events in Southwest Austin This January and February
Austin, TX – As the New Year begins, Southwest Austin is set to bring together residents and visitors alike for an array of dynamic events in January and February 2026. Highlighting free live music performances and immersive murder mystery experiences, these events reflect the resilience of local organizers and the proactive spirit of community engagement that flourishes in our city.
With a focus on fostering community interactions while minimizing bureaucratic hurdles, these initiatives offer a unique opportunity for individuals to come together, support local artists, and enjoy engaging experiences. From music to mysteries, the offerings in Southwest Austin positively contribute to the cultural fabric of our city, reinforcing the idea that vibrant civic life and community participation thrive on local initiative and leadership.
Red River Cultural District’s Free Week
January 9-10, 2026
The annual Red River Cultural District’s Free Week returns, offering free live music performances across multiple downtown venues, including Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, Mohawk, and Flamingo Cantina. This event aims to support local artists and businesses during the traditionally slower winter months.
Dripping Springs Gun Show
January 10-11, 2026
Hosted at Dripping Springs Ranch Park, the Dripping Springs Gun Show features a variety of vendors selling firearms, gear, and accessories. This event creates opportunities for enthusiasts to explore products related to shooting sports and reinforces the importance of local commerce in engaging citizens’ interests.
Who Killed the Love Interest? Murder Mystery Singles Event
January 17, 2026, at 1:30 PM
Organized by Lin Cognito’s Murder Mystery Parties, this event at the Menchaca Road Branch of the Austin Public Library invites singles aged 55 and over to participate in solving a literary-themed murder mystery, engaging in puzzles and discussions centered around popular literary tropes.
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show
January 10 and 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM
Held at Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown, this interactive dinner show combines a full plated dinner with a challenging true crime murder mystery, encouraging participants to work together to uncover the culprit—potentially hidden among the guests.
Murder on the Orient Express at ZACH Theatre
January 21 – March 1, 2026
ZACH Theatre will present Agatha Christie’s classic mystery, “Murder on the Orient Express,” featuring the detective Hercule Poirot. The play runs from January 21 to March 1, with performances on Wednesdays through Sundays, allowing attendees to celebrate the rich tradition of theatre in Austin while enjoying a night out.
True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show
February 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM
This event at Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown promises an engaging evening with an immersive true crime murder mystery dinner show, where participants collaborate to solve a crime while enjoying a meal, perfect for an entertaining Valentine’s Day experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Red River Cultural District’s Free Week?
The Red River Cultural District’s Free Week is an annual event offering free live music performances across multiple downtown venues, including Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, Mohawk, and Flamingo Cantina. It aims to support local artists and businesses during the traditionally slower winter months.
When is the Dripping Springs Gun Show taking place?
The Dripping Springs Gun Show is scheduled for January 10-11, 2026, at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. It features a range of vendors selling firearms, gear, and accessories.
Who can participate in the ‘Who Killed the Love Interest?’ Murder Mystery Singles Event?
The ‘Who Killed the Love Interest?’ Murder Mystery Singles Event is designed for singles aged 55 and over. It takes place on January 17, 2026, at 1:30 PM at the Menchaca Road Branch of the Austin Public Library.
What is the Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show?
The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show is an interactive event where participants work together to solve a true crime murder mystery while enjoying a full plated dinner. The next shows are on January 10 and 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown.
When is ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ being performed at ZACH Theatre?
‘Murder on the Orient Express’ is being performed at ZACH Theatre from January 21 to March 1, 2026, with performances on Wednesdays through Sundays. Tickets start at $28 and are available through the theatre’s box office.
What is the True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show?
The True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show is an immersive event where attendees work together to solve a crime while enjoying a meal. The next show is on February 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown.
Event Overview
| Event | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red River Cultural District’s Free Week | January 9-10, 2026 | Various downtown venues | Free live music performances supporting local artists and businesses. |
| Dripping Springs Gun Show | January 10-11, 2026 | Dripping Springs Ranch Park | Vendors selling firearms, gear, and accessories. |
| Who Killed the Love Interest? Murder Mystery Singles Event | January 17, 2026, at 1:30 PM | Menchaca Road Branch, Austin Public Library | Literary-themed murder mystery for singles aged 55 and over. |
| The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show | January 10 and 24, 2026, at 6:00 PM | Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown | Interactive dinner show combining a full meal with a true crime mystery. |
| Murder on the Orient Express at ZACH Theatre | January 21 – March 1, 2026 | ZACH Theatre | Performance of Agatha Christie’s classic mystery. |
| True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show | February 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM | Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown | Immersive true crime murder mystery dinner show. |
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