Jan. 28 | Austin Bacon and Beer Festival

The fourth annual festival brings together area restaurants and breweries to benefit Central Texas Food Bank.
1-4 p.m. $47 (general). Brazos Hall, 204 E. Fourth St., Austin. http://edibleaustin.com/baconandbeer

Jan. 28 | Austin Gorilla Run

Participants wear gorilla or banana costumes in the seventh annual 5K. Runners keep their suits after the race and proceeds benefit Mountain Gorillas.
7-8:30 a.m. (registration), 9 a.m. (5K). $15 (returning little gorilla), $30 (first-time little gorilla), $40 (returning adult gorilla), $60 (first-time adult banana), $99.95 (first-time adult gorilla), prices increase race day. Camp Mabry, 2200 W. 35th St., Austin. 720-524-0272. www.austingorillarun.com

Jan. 28 | Chinese New Year dinner

Old Thousand hosts the event, which consists of a six-course dinner for two or an eight-course dinner for four guests. In addition, the full menu is also available at the restaurant. According to the Chinese zodiac, 2017 is the Year of the Rooster, and Old Thousand will have specially themed decor, baked goods and menu items to match. 5-11 p.m. $80 (six-course dinner), $160 (eight-course dinner). Old Thousand, 1000 E. 11th St., Ste. 150, Austin. 737-222-6637. www.oldthousandatx.com

Jan. 28| The Braille Challenge

The 17th annual reading and writing contest in braille for legally blind, school-age students has more than 1,100 participants throughout North America this year. Austin is among 49 cities in the U.S. and Canada holding the event. 9:15 a.m. Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, 1100 W. 45th St., Austin. www.braillechallenge.org

Jan. 28 | USO Operation That's My Dress

Teens in military families in the Fort Hood and Austin areas can pick out a new gown or cocktail dress from brands such as Sherri Hill, Ann Taylor and Ralph Lauren. The event also features a beauty bar with jewelry and fashion accessories and kicks off with a fashion show featuring professional models. Stylists provide on-site hair and makeup demonstrations and consultations. 12:30-8:30 p.m. Camp Mabry, 2200 W. 35th St., Bldg. 8, Austin. www.uso.org