Here are some great events to start off the year in Austin, Texas.
Commitment Day 5K. January 1, 2015, central - Start the New Year with a 5K run/walk to show your commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Commitment Day is sponsored by Lifetime Fitness, a national chain of health clubs. Commitment Day 5K
Austin Free Week. January 3 - 9, 2014, central - Austin Free Week is a popular event in which over ten of downtown's top bars and music venues host live, free performances by local artists and bands. Each night during the week, choose from up to 20 live, free concerts. Austin Free Week
Chaparral Ice Centers Free Try-It Class. January 4 - 25, 2014, multiple locations - Each Saturday at noon, Chaparral Ice Centers offer a free half-hour introductory skating class taught by their professional staff. Chaparral Ice Centers Free Try-It Class
Barton Creek Farmers Market. January 4 - 26, 2014, multiple locations - Barton Creek Farmers Market is held every Saturday from 9-1, and every Sunday 10-2, rain or shine. Besides fruits and vegetables, shop for breakfast tacos, personal care products, fresh breads, cheeses, coffee, pastries, jewelry, and more. Live music. Barton Creek Farmers Market
Watch a short video of the Barton Creek Farmers Market:
Rogue Running 30K. January 5, 2014, northwest - A 30 kilometer (30K) run sponsored by Rogue Running, a running group in town. A 10K and kids' 1K are also available. Rogue Running 30K
H.O.P.E. Farmers Market. January 5 - 27, 2014, east - Held every Sunday from 11-3. The longest-running farmers market in Austin and voted the best by the Austin Chronicle in 2012, this market features locally grown produce, food and beverage vendors, artists, workshops, and live music by up and coming local bands. H.O.P.E. Farmers Market
Watch a video of the H.O.P.E. Farmers Market:
Family Film Festival. January 8 - 29, 2014, south - Each Wednesday evening, the Manchaca Road Branch of the Austin Public Library screens a popular family film. Family Film Festival
Travis County Youth Show. January 15 - 25, 2014, east - A livestock and farm animal show and auction and youth fair. Also bull riding. The show is intended to develop the character and leadership of youth and teach them critical life skills through livestock competitions and youth projects. Travis County Youth Show
Austin Boat and Travel Trailer Show. January 16 - 19, 2014, downtown - Find your next Jet Ski, sailboat, or yacht at the Austin Boat and Travel Trailer Show. A dozen dealers and over 50 exhibitors will be displaying their products. Austin Boat and Travel Trailer Show
3M Half Marathon. January 19, 2014, north - Austin's oldest half-marathon event. The 13.1 mile course roughly parallels MoPac then finishes downtown. 3M Half Marathon
MLK March, Festival, and Food Drive. January 20, 2014, west - Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King's life as well as diversity and multiculturalism in Austin. A march downtown with speeches, followed by a festival with food and local live music. Marchers are asked to bring nonperishable food items to donate to the Capital Area Food Bank. MLK March, Festival, and Food Drive
MomCom. January 24 - 25, 2014, north - MomCom brings together mothers of diverse ages, backgrounds, and life experiences to support each other, share stories, and create a community. Hear from inspirational speakers and network with like-minded women. MomCom
Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival. January 24 - 26, 2014, multiple locations - Tattoo contests, bellydances, seminars, sideshows, an art gallery, and parties at famous Austin nightclubs are included in the admission fee. Star of Texas Tatoo Art Revival
Gorilla Run. January 25, 2014, central - Run a 5K while dressed as a gorilla! Gorilla suit included in registration fee. Race is followed by an after-party. Proceeds benefit the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund. Gorilla Run
Watch video of the Gorilla Run:
Tree Talk Winter Walk. January 25, 2014, northwest - A free opportunity to learn about Texas native trees and shrubs. Guided walks with experts help you identify, select, and care for native plants. You can also purchase tree or shrub to plant in your yard. Kid-friendly activities are provided. Sponsored by the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Tree Talk Winter Walk
Texas Rally for Life. January 25, 2014, downtown - Pro-life rally at the state capitol with speakers and leaders from across the state. Texas Rally for Life
Dell Children's Gala. January 25, 2014, downtown - A black-tie gala with raffle and auction to benefit Dell Children's Medical Center of Central Texas.