Keep It Weird

Embracing the spirit of ‘Keep Austin Weird,’ EXP transformed the estate into a microcosm of the city’s true essence. Local artists splashed their vibrant works across canvases as hypnotists and tarot readers pulled guests into realms of mystery. Food trucks served up local favorites, with tantalizing aromas hanging in the air, mingling with the strum of a street guitarist playing blues under the fading sun.

The evening unfolded with laughter and curiosity as guests wandered between interactive activities—a graffiti lesson here, a classic typewriter poem written just for them there, having their fortunes read, and more. It was a festival of creativity that set the perfect tone for the days to come. As night wrapped the estate in a warm embrace, the group gathered for an experience many would consider the pinnacle of local culinary fame: Franklin BBQ. With a behind-the-scenes pit tour and smoky brisket that practically melted at the first bite, guests knew they were in for something unforgettable.

The next morning, the retreat sprang to life with an energy that mirrored the heartbeat of the city. Teams gathered on the estate’s lawn, eyes sharp and spirits high, as they prepared for a city-wide race that would challenge not just their wits but their embrace of Austin’s famed eccentricity. It all began with a classic game of croquet—but this was Austin, after all, and nothing stays conventional for long. Before they knew it, participants were dashing through the streets, glass-blowing tools in hand one moment and puzzling over brain teasers crafted by local artisans the next. They rifled through racks in vintage clothing stores, piecing together looks that would soon see them strutting with playful confidence to their next challenge.

Somewhere between sorting through sheet cakes for hidden clues and leatherworking with a seasoned local artisan, the competition heated up. It wasn’t just a test of skill; it was a testament to camaraderie and the electric pulse of adventure that Austin infuses into its visitors.

Even the most relentless competitors needed a change of pace, and the final stop of race day one took them to a shooting range for an unexpected twist on the classic game of Battleship. Laughter mixed with the sharp crack of shots as teams aimed to sink their opponent’s ships and claim victory. After a morning of thrill and grit, the afternoon unfolded on the shimmering waters of Lake Austin. Wake Surfing, tubing, and splashes turned into waves of laughter as teams let go of the day’s tension and embraced the lake’s relaxing vibe.

The evening descended with a nostalgic nod to Austin’s speakeasy past. Guests were ushered into the Eberly’s secret lounge, where jazz notes floated through the air like whispers of a bygone era. Cocktails were sipped in the soft glow of antique lamps, and conversations ebbed and flowed, punctuated by bursts of laughter that carried into the glass hall for a wandering dinner experience. Each bite was a testament to Austin’s duality —rooted yet ever innovative.

When the first light of day swept across the estate, it was a signal: the adventure wasn’t over yet. The second day roared to life with a talk from Luis Angulo, a local artist and the mastermind behind Something Cool Studios. Inspired by his words, teams tackled a complex puzzle that stumped even the keenest minds, unlocking the next stage of their journey.

Teams made their way to a local art studio where their creativity was pushed to the limit as they partnered with professional muralists to spray-paint canvases that spoke to the city’s love of color and rebellion. Paint-covered and grinning, they leaped onto e-bikes, zipping along the winding paths of the Greenbelt, scanning the scenery for a key figure wearing their team’s Austin FC jersey. It was Austin’s version of “Where’s Waldo” as dozens of look-a-likes were placed across the Greenbelt to deter teams and enable those with a superior strategy to pass their fellow participants. Following their search on the e-bikes, the event was punctuated by stops at hidden art installations in Wonderspaces and quick ascents up rock-climbing walls.

But it was the final lap that encapsulated the soul of the city. The race culminated on the pitch at the Austin FC soccer field, where the local La Murga hooligans drummed and chanted, their infectious energy urging on the exhausted yet elated participants. The roar of support and encouragement from Austin FC players and coaches, the gleam of sweat, and the realization that they’d navigated the city’s soul echoed in every step across that grass, all in an effort to be the first to touch the red carpet and claim victory.

As dusk painted the sky, the adventure drew to its close back at the Commodore Perry Estate. Over a lavish dinner, stories were swapped, victories recounted, and laughter rang out. Yet, the city had one last dance to offer. The night led them to the Broken Spoke, a legendary dance hall where boots hit the floor, and two-step lessons turned into an all-out celebration. Here, with the twang of country tunes and the shared joy of accomplishment, the retreat came full circle. Austin had shared its secrets, its challenges, and its stories, and every guest carried a piece of it home—a wild, unforgettable echo of “Keep Austin Weird”.