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Austin’s official title of "Live Music Capitol of the World" is not self-appointed—it's earned. Long known as a playground for late night revelers, the city brought Texas country music to the forefront years before the emergence of mega-venues and craft cocktail lounges. Dance Halls and Honky Tonks once ruled the roost, and down and out drifters played for their wages. The music scene now pulls a sophisticated and cosmopolitan crowd while sticking true to its roots. Music lovers will find a variety of options every night of the week that span genres, all with a unique and soulful edge. It’s not surprising that the city plays host to several of the most significant music festivals in the country, like SXSW and the ACL Fest. New bars open almost daily in Texas’s ever-evolving and always-hospitable capitol city.
If you find yourself in North Austin, Cap City packs quite a punch with its stand-up comedian lineup. It's been the city's premier spot for stand-up comedy for over 35 years and regularly attracts world-class headliners and sold-out crowds, in addition to heaps of local talent showcased at weekly open-mic nights and at the club's annual "Funniest Person in Austin" contest.
There's really only one place in downtown Austin known for its rip-roaring comedy shows. Esther's has kept Austin rolling with laughter for more than 25 years. Reservations for their popular, award-winning variety shows are required.
Home to some of Austin’s top comedy and improv performances, the Fallout Theater draws a broad audience who journey into the rather small venue for cheap, free-sketch, stand-up, and improv comedy on most days of the week, often with two performance time-slots a night. The theater also offers eight-week classes on improv or sketch writing. There is a full-service bar, but some shows are BYOB.
This small live music venue attracts a diverse range of bands and DJs, in every genre from rock to hip-hop, Tuesday–Sunday throughout the year; Monday is stand-up comedy night. There's a laid back vibe, and Holy Mountain serves up southern-inspired food and drink specials on the back patio.
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