Qmmunity: Cool Dreams, Hot Events

You know that old chestnut about how you never truly appreciate something until it’s gone? That’s how I feel about having an A/C that works. Honestly, by the time you read this, Reader, I’ll probably be in a chilly apartment again. But my current state? I’m a little sweaty, yes. Could stand to be less sweaty, if I’m being honest.

In other, better news, the application period for Lawrie Bird’s third round of drag competition Love & War has been extended! Those hoping to score the title of ultimate winner (and that tasty $1,500-plus cash prize) have until this Friday, Sept. 25, to apply for one of three “brickettes,” each one representing a different aspect of drag excellence. The show kicks off on Monday, Oct. 12, so if you’re not looking to compete, consider coming to support your favorite participant. 

Here are three wishes for the coming week, which you can take or leave depending on their relevance to your life: I wish that the outfit in your head looks just as great when on your body. I wish that the politicians who want queer people to vote for ‘em started showing actual support for us. And I wish that everyone, everywhere, could feel cool as a cucumber with A/C that works and a climate not bombarded by evil. Here’s to dreaming of better days, Reader!

American Horror Story Viewing Party Thursday 24, Cheer Up Charlies

In partnership with Vivent Health, this Kino Kino-hosted watch party brings the freaky fun of Ryan Murphy’s big crossover event to Red River. Open to ages 18 and up with a creepy open stage after. 9pm. 

Glamp Glamp: Dirty Dozen Dancing Thursday 24, Lynny’s on 12th

This experimental queer open mic heads to a new location with the same “perform whatever your heart desires” spirit. Or, if you’re inspired by this month’s theme, perform whatever your fart desires… 7pm.

Anybody but Tony Thursday 24, Barrett’s Too

Catch this stand-up showcase with jokes by Hector Sifuentes, Ethan Martinez, Carter Dockerty, and Joey Bueno. Everett and Holden host, and Traumada does drag with newbie Vex Harlekin. 8pm.

Dolly Day Drag Hoedown Friday 25, Stoney’s Good Time Ranch

Haven’t found time to say your fond farewell to Dolly yet? Parton will be such sweet sorrow with this drag tribute hosted by Brigitte Bandit and scored by DJ Highway King. 7pm.

Fred Hersch Friday 25 – Saturday 26, Music Box and Assembly Hall

Jazz pianist and groundbreaking gay and HIV-positive instrumentalist Fred Hersch brings the skills that had his colleague Jason Moran calling his piano playing “like LeBron James on the basketball court” to Bat City, courtesy of ATX Chamber Music and Jazz. He’ll play solo at Music Box on Friday while Saturday promises a performance by his trio at Assembly Hall. 

Black Queer Meet Up: Movie Night Friday 25, Once Over Coffee

Are you a) Black, b) queer, and c) ready to watch a classic ballroom documentary with cinema-enjoying compatriots? Consider swinging by this South First coffeehouse for this month’s Black Queer Meet Up where they’re screening Paris Is Burning. 7pm.

Fall Into the Stars Ball Friday 25, Cheer Up Charlies

Headed up by House of Moschino ATX and emceed by EZ Breezy, this ball welcomes everyone including “first-time walkers, ballroom regulars, and our wider queer community.” Make sure to check the cosmic-themed category requirements before you walk, and be respectful of the judges, your performers, and those around ya. 10pm.

Stampede: Dolly Disco Edition  Friday 25, the Highball

Boot stomp in Dolly’s honor with Country Fried Dance leading lessons both beginner and intermediate, and DJ Harmonia spinning country classics – including tons of Dolly tunes. 8pm.

Crescendo  Saturday 26, KMFA Studios

Support Austin Gay Men’s Chorus as the ensemble invites special guest Kenny Williams onstage for performances with AGMC members and selections from breakout chorus Take Note! Plus a cocktail hour and a silent auction. 6pm.

Booty Bash Saturday 26, Captain Quack’s Soundspace

Never too early to start scary season, as Frisky Business Burlesque is doing with their scream queen show featuring bewitching burlesque, terrifying drag, and costume and screamer contests. 8pm.

N4sty Beatz Saturday 26, Neon Grotto

What it says on the tin: a mix of club, Latin, hip-hop, and deep cuts spun B2B by DJs SuperMcN4sty and Lidia Beatz. 9pm.

Birdhouse Two Year Anniversary Saturday 26, Birdhouse Books and Gifts

Ring in this Burnet book hub’s big two year milestone with morning caffeine hits by Buna Baet Coffee Cart, a banned books storytime with Students Against Censorship, tarot readings by Receptive Tarot, and cake until it’s gone. Surprise giveaways? Yeah, they’re happening all day. 10am.

PrideStyle: Heartbreak Season Saturday 26, Pinballz Lake Creek

Wham-bam and a body slam to all y’all wrestling fiends as inclusive pro-wrestling promotion PrideStyle takes over Austin with title matches, tag-team mayhem, and just two rules: “no bigots & bangers only!” 7pm.

Craft + Chat Saturday 26, University Hills Branch Library

Join Khush ATX and Asian Family Support Services of Austin for a queer South Asian social combining fun crafts with meaningful conversations. 2pm.

Cherry Bombs vs. Holy Rollers Saturday 26, the Thunderdome

Wheels up for the 10th bout of Texas Roller Derby’s 2026 season, where banked track roller mayhem goes big – you know, Texas style. 6pm.

Khattie Loves Karaoke Saturday 26, Barrett’s Too

From host khattieQ and DJ Johann Solo comes another karaoke spectacular right in the middle of an ATX Book Fair market. Sing your heart out to a favorite Dolly Parton song, or whatever tune moves ya. 3pm.

Binding 101 Sunday 27, OutWellness

Abundant Masculinities runs this free, hands-on workshop covering binding basics for all ages (although anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). Attendees are also entered to win a free For Them binder. Noon. 

Lesbian Wedding Sunday 27, Sahara Lounge

Celebrate not only the marriage of Nikki DaVaughn and Nicole but also the b-day of DJ Lavender Thug with a classic LW shindig, including new merch, DJ sets, music and drag performances, resource and community org tabling, food fundraising for families detained by ICE, and the usual queso and cake. 3pm.

The Link Up Launch Party Sunday 27, the Flower Shop

Welcome this new BIPOC-focused sapphic social to the scene with beats by DJ Cez, bites from Chef Aleata, and tons of tattoos, tarot, vintage selects, and more. 7pm.

Fou Fou Ha Clown Yoga Workshop Sunday 27, Factory on 5th

Stretch your inner clown with Austin’s branch of the Fou Fou Ha! Family as Prima Foularina leads participants in zany yoga practice that’ll “explore the Fool’s Journey!” Wear your most comfortable pantaloons, and bring your own mat if possible. 11am.

Muse: Miley Drag Show Sunday 27, Firehouse Lounge

Embry Officially and Riotgirl host this tribute to Hannah Montana’s mononymous alter-ego. Ritzy Bitz and Mars guest star. 9pm.

Vixens of Volstead Sunday 27, Hotel Vegas and Volstead Lounge

Patio party? These vixens have you covered, with performances by May Magdalene, Veronica Valentine, Tequila Rose, and Mars. Spins by Killgxrl. 1pm.

Jane Don’t On Tour Tuesday 29, Cap City Comedy Club

Drag Race star Jane Don’t crashes the Cap City stage with local icon Ritzy Bitz and a cast of other Austin drag artists. 7:30pm.

Cookies & Cocktails Tuesday 29, Leanderthal Distilling

Get baking tips from the Penny Royal Bakery while making creepy cute Halloween cookies with Leander Pride. 6pm.

Freakz of Nature Presents: Sweet & Spooky Wednesday 30, Valhalla

A little sugar and a few scares make this open-stage drag show a terrifying good time. Riot Eterna Molotov and Phoenix Eterna Celestial host, with Kino Kino behind the DJ booth. 9pm.

Divina: Disney Latino Wednesday 30, Oilcan’s

Visit the House of Mouse with your favorite all-Latinx drag show featuring host Tatiana Cholula and cast Venus Rising, Banshee Rose, La Muñeka, and Pam Dulce. 10pm.

First Thursday Thursday 1, Top Drawer Thrift

Shop the gayest thrift store in town after hours to find the coolest scores and have a little wine spritzer. 5:30pm.

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