Better late than never, the Beauty Ballroom, a spinoff of the Beauty Bar on 7th Street, is celebrating its grand opening tonight with Theophilus London, Treasure Fingers, L.A.X, Vegas Banger and Rickey Jean Francois.
We stopped by last Saturday during the soft opening to catch RAC (Remix Artist Collective), a group of DJs who put a slick, often minimal dance twist on indie rock tunes. It ended as all good Beauty Bar sets do with a majority of the crowd on the stage. Good times.
But what did we think of the heir apparent to that glittery Red River District staple, the Beauty Bar?
The Good
• Cheap drinks: Drinks are reasonably priced. When we were there, 16 oz. cans of Tecate were $3 and some abysmal-tasting lager out of Pennsylvania we had never encountered before called Stoneys was free while it lasted. They also offered well drinks for $2 from midnight to 2 a.m.
• Smart layout: There’s a long list of things I like about the 7th Street Beauty Bar, but size and stage visibility have always been a big negative. The Ballroom is much larger without suffering from the same boxy warehouse vibe of Emo’s East. There are tables and chairs on a slightly raised level at the back wall from the stage, perfect for chatting with friends while keeping an eye on the action. The bar and bathrooms are easily accessible near the entrance and their lines never poured into the crowd. While the upstairs area was roped off, I can envision a nice VIP vibe similar to the upstairs viewing area at Dallas venue Trees.
• Fun crowd: The dance floor, which is probably about as big as the entire floorspace of Beauty Bar, was lively as far back as I could see from near the stage. Highlights included: two guys rubbing their shirtless abs together, a girl sitting down on a dirty-dancing hipster (not in a sexual way, but rather sitting down on him like he was a chair), and the aforementioned stage rushers. From everything I witnessed, folks were having a good time and inhibitions were low.
The Not So Good
• Location: The new venue shares a parking lot with Emo’s East at 2015 East Riverside, and while there’s no place in Austin I’d rather be than neighboring Rosita’s Al Pastor, I rarely find myself in that neck of the woods, especially on the weekend.
• The look: While the interior is much better than Emo’s East, it’s still a little off. The glitter on the walls looks a little cheap and the color scheme just doesn’t feel right to me. I want the pink and gold sparkles of the Beauty Bar, not primary colors and sickly orange-colored wood.
The Bad
• Parking problems: While there appears to be ample parking outside of Beauty Ballroom and Emo’s and in neighboring lots, if there’s a show going on in both spaces, as there is bound to be on most Fridays and Saturdays, those spaces get snagged up quick. We arrived at 9 p.m. and circled the lot twice before looking elsewhere. Many neighboring lots have signs promising to tow, reading, “No Emo’s parking.” (And as much as I’d love to argue with a tow-truck driver that I was technically parking for Beauty Ballroom, I have a feeling it won’t get me out of that fat towing fee.) The big, mostly empty lot just west of the building is reserved for Bingo parking. Try going south on any of the residential streets and you’ll find most of the space is off limits. We managed to grab a questionably legal spot curbside just in front of the club. Hopefully the owners can work with nearby businesses to make sure there’s enough parking space to accommodate the Ballroom’s 700-person capacity.
The Verdict
The Beauty Ballroom isn’t quite ready for full-time drunken revelry just yet, as it’s only open on a show-to-show basis, but it makes me a little more confident about the future of Riverside as a destination for live music. There will be no replacing the Beauty Bar, which is reported to be closing some time after SXSW 2012, but the Ballroom definitely offers some big improvements over the original. Now to see how these guys handle SXSW.
—Eric Pulsifer
By our count, there are 17 ways to get free drinks this week. Good luck out there…
Tuesday, Jan. 24
Kenichi VIP Event
5–7pm • Kenichi, 419 Colorado St. • Free; RSVP requested
Complimentary cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres. Text your name and phone number to 512-430-4339 to join the VIP List; then RSVP by emailing: marketing@kenichiaustin.com
Paper Cuts Live Music Series: Not In the Face!
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission (closed)
Free tacos from Tacos and Tequila, vodka from Deep Eddy Vodka, and Sapporo beer. Music by Not in the Face! RSVP was required to reserve a spot, but additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.
The South Austin Social Club Monthly Meet-Up
7pm • Crow Bar, 3116 South Congress • Free
Meet-up for the Austin creative community, featuring music by Christy Claxton Band and Noelle Hampton.
Wednesday, Jan. 25
Glitz and Glam Happy Hour
4–7pm • Frock On Vintage, 3016 Guadalupe, Ste. A101 • Free
Complimentary wine and cocktails, plus free hairstyling and makeup by Waterstone Aesthetics.
EPIC’s 4th Anniversary Happy Hour
5:30-7:30pm • Delta Millworks, 4701 East 5th St. • Free
Appetizers from Salt Lick, cocktails by Dripping Springs Vodka, and music by Eagle Eye Williamson.
40 Con Queso
5:30-9pm • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • Free
Free show by Best Fwends and Chablis.
Weird Coupons Launch Party ***Event of the Week**
6–9pm • GSD&M, 828 W. 6th • Free; RSVP requested
Offerings from How Do You Roll Sushi, The Pie Society, Austin East Ciders, Deep Eddy Vodka, The Tamale Hut, and Z Tequila.
Gabrieldoes Wednesdays
6-10pm • CTC Garden, Cazamance Café, 1102 E Cesar Chavez • $5 suggested donation
Complimentary vodka courtesy of 360 Vodka, food from Cazamance Café, and live music. Feel free to BYOB.
Kim Simpson Book Signing
7pm • BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Musician & KUT Radio Host Kim Simpson will speak and sign copies of her book “Early ’70s Radio: The American Format Revolution.” Free beer from Saint Arnold Brewing Company.
There Will Be Cake
10pm • Coldtowne Theatre, 4803-B Airport Blvd. • $5
Comedy show with free cake from our friends at SugaPlump Pastries.
Thursday, Jan. 26
Lomographic Safari New Product Release Party
6–9pm • Lomography Gallery Store, 912 Congress Ave. • Free
Food, drinks, and music.
Austin Beer Guide Winter Edition Release Party
7-11:30pm • Draught House, 4112 Medical Pkwy. • Free
Celebrate the release of the Winter issue of the guide with a keg of Bourbon Barrel Night RYE-der.
Airbnb airAmbassador Launch Party
8–11pm • Hangar Lounge, 318 Colorado • Free; RSVP required
Drinks, treats, photo booth and music by DJ Mighty Mike. First 50 people in the door receive free gift bags.
Thursday Night Social Club: Great Comedy, Free Beer
8pm • ColdTowne Theater, 4803-B Airport Blvd. • $5
Every Thursday in January, ColdTowne is opening early to provide free beer and snacks before the improv comedy show.
Block Party: A Comedy Mixtape
9:30pm • The New Movement Theatre, 1819 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Try out some improv (or any kind of performance) for 5 minutes in front of a live audience.
Friday, Jan. 27
Remember Dublin Dr Pepper
11am–11pm • All P. Terry’s locations
Free Dublin Dr Pepper T-shirts all day with the purchase of a large Dublin Dr Pepper.
The Preservation In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
The Preservation celebrates the vinyl release of their album Two Sisters with a free show and free Shiner.
PRINT+addition Presents: Michael Seiben
6–9pm • Industry Screenprint Studio, 618-C Tillery St. • Free
Free beer from Austin Beerworks and music by DJ Gibb. Create your own shirt with the screen press — $20 to buy a blank shirt, or $10 if you bring your own.
MysteryPeople Presents: R.J. Ellory
7pm • BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
R.J. Ellory will speak and sign copies of his book “A Quiet Vendetta”. Free beer, wine, and snacks.
Sat., Jan. 28
EastSide Bikini Company Grand Opening
Noon–9pm • EastSide Bikini Company, 2502 Webberville Rd. • Free
Food, drinks, music, door prizes, giveaways, and discounts on all bikinis.
Splendor Boutique Launch Party
7–10pm • Splendor Boutique, 100 W. North Loop, Unit H • Free
Complimentary cocktails and discounts to celebrate the relaunch of Splendor’s online store.
Austin Variety Show’s 2nd Anniversary Bash
8pm • Highland Mall, 6001 Airport Blvd. • $10
Cover includes an open bar, food from Rockin’ Tomato, and entertainment by host Troy Dillinger, radio personality Charlie Hodge, comedian Ramin Nazer, Mistress Stephanie and Her Melodic Cat, and two new episodes of The Austin Variety Show.
A Day Show For Esme
1–7pm • Beerland, 711 Red River St. • $10
Benefit show with music by Ted Leo, Knife in the Water, The December Boys, Simple Circuit, and Literature — buy tickets in advance; it is likely to sell out. Proceeds benefit the family of Esme Barrera.
Austin Vida Showcase
9:30pm–2am • Frank, 407 Colorado St. • $6
Music by Hydra Melody, Ex Machina, and The Sounds of Curve
Sweetmeat CD Release Party
10pm–2am • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Free show with music by Foot Patrol and Sweetmeat — which includes members of Austin bands Opposite Day, the Invincible Czars, and Mostly Dead/Mistress Stephanie.
Sunday, Jan. 29
Twin Sister In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show, free Shiner — not a bad combo.
Monday, Jan. 30
SXSW Interactive ATX Community Meet Up
6–8pm • Swan Dive, 615 Red River St. • Free; RSVP requested
SXSW will buy you a drink at this happy hour and networking event for anyone interested in the Interactive fest.
Tuesday, Jan. 31
Party and Event Guide’s Throwback Launch Party
6:30–9pm • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Complimentary drinks by Tequila Avion, food by Peachie Pastry, body painting, photo booth, door prizes, and dancing. Mad Men–style attire encouraged.
**SAVE THE DATE**
CoolinAustin / Austin Writes Music Present: Shot Through the Heart
Friday, Feb. 3 • Frank, 407 Colorado St.
That’s right — it’s time for another showcase. This one features music by Dead Black Hearts, Your Friendly Ghost, Little Radar, and Royal Forest. We’ll announce more details soon, so stay tuned, and we hope to see you there!
Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events
Friday, Jan. 20
Art Attack by Amity
5-8pm • Duo Austin, 225 W. 2nd Street • Free
Local art showcase with a build-your-own cupcake bar, cocktails, and a drawing for 25% off a custom commissioned piece.
Blowout VII Opening Reception
7pm • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301 Guadalupe Street • Free
Complimentary drinks, food, live music, and displays of works by UT art students.
Elizabeth Engelhardt Book Signing
7pm • BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Author Elizabeth Engelhardt will speak and sign her new book, “Mess of Greens.” The event, presented by Edible Austin Magazine, features tastings inspired by the book and complimentary beer from Saint Arnold Brewing Company.
DJ Hot Britches! at Mohawk
9pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free
Hot Britches! will be playing a mix of indie jams, disco, chill wave, dream pop and more. No cover.
SceneTap Launch Party
10:30pm–12:30am • Trophy Room, 310 E. 6th St. / Soho Lounge, 217 E. 6th St.
11pm–1am • Haven Lounge, 409 Colorado St. • Free
Multi-venue launch party for a new mobile app. Get a free Grey Goose or Bacardi cocktail if you have SceneTap downloaded on your phone.
Saturday, Jan. 21
Austin Gorilla Run After Party ***Event of the Week***
10am • 4th Street between Lavaca and Colorado (near Fado Irish Pub) • Donations encouraged
Free food from Fado and live music by Achachay and SPEAK. Entry is free, but there is a suggested donation to benefit the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund.
81 Poppies Fall Overstock Trunk Show at Plain Ivey Jane
2–7pm • Plain Ivey Jane, 408 W. 2nd St. • Free
Complimentary beverages and snacks, a wine tasting from 4–6pm, and discounts on fall and spring items.
Nora and Bethany’s Texas 4000 Benefit Show
9pm–1am • Carousel Lounge, 1110 E. 52nd St. • Suggested donation of $5-$10
Music by The Soapbox Spellbinders, Three Leaf, The Grapes, and Band of Liars. BYO liquor and/or buy beer & wine at the bar. Proceeds benefit Texas 4000, a nonprofit that raises money for cancer research.
Larissa Ness Album Release & Video Premiere Party w/ Zeale
9pm–2am • The ND, East 5th at Brushy Street • Free
Music by DJ Andrew Parsons, Zeale, and Larissa Ness.
The Strawberry Piranhas and Bandfire Quartet @ Caffe Medici
9–11pm • Caffe Medici, 2222 Guadalupe St. • $5
Homecoming show for The Strawberry Piranhas and Bandfire Quartet. Free beer while it lasts.
Sunday, Jan. 22
Cash Mob at HOPE Farmers Market
11am • HOPE Farmers Market, 414 Waller St. • Free (but bring cash)
Be part of a new project to support local business by bringing at least $10 to spend en masse on good stuff at the farmers market.
Befriend the Bears EP Release
8pm–2am • The Parish, 214 E. Sixth St. • $6
Music by Befriend the Bears, the White White Lights, Shakey Graves, and Rikavista. The first 50 people in the door get a free Lone Star. Plus: a photo booth and a chance to win an iPod Shuffle with music by all the bands.
Off Night On
7pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free
Free night of comedy at the Mohawk featuring The New Movement improv group.
Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events
CoolinAustin Presents: Eat Yer Heart Out 2012!
Wednesday, Jan. 4, 9pm-2am
Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th Street
No cover
That’s right — in case you don’t get your fill of rockin’ out to good free music at our Broken Resolutions showcase on Monday, we’ve added a second Free Week showcase. Head east to The Scoot Inn on Wednesday Jan. 4 to get down to an eclectically fun lineup featuring Yer Heart!, Madeline Ava, and Mitch the Champ. Also: Free pizza!
Get more details and RSVP on Facebook, and make sure to invite all your friends.
Announcing CoolinAustin’s first showcase: Broken Resolutions
We’re insanely excited to be co-hosting Broken Resolutions, an evening of killer local music right smack in the middle of Free Week. Come out to Swan Dive on Monday, Jan. 2 to cancel your plans for living a respectable life in 2012. I mean, just look at the squid guy in the poster. It’s Day 2 and he’s already back to hitting the brandy and the pipe. And so can you!
To get you on your way down the road to self-sabotage, allow us to present the face-melting musical stylings of The Soapbox Spellbinders, The White White Lights, Little Radar, and Royal Forest. No cover, no excuses, no mercy!
Big thanks to our esteemed co-presenter Austin Writes Music, as well as all the bands, poster artist/magic man Eric Pulsifer, whitesiren presents, and Swan Dive.
Here’s the Facebook event page — RSVP and make sure to invite your friends!
Holiday party season is in full swing. This week you can make your own chocolate martinis, stumble around East Austin dressed as C-3PO, and squeeze back into that ugly Christmas sweater for another year of yuletide festivities.
Monday, Dec. 12
Dub Academy’s First Annual Christmas Party
8pm–Midnight • Parkside, 301 East 6th St. • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary drinks and raffle tix for people who wear ugly holiday sweaters; photo booths; games with prizes; live music.
Tuesday, Dec. 13
Candy Lane Cocktail Party
6–9pm • Langford Market, 249 West 2nd Street • Free
Complimentary candy-inspired cocktails and mini-candy bar. Accepting donations for the Capital Area Food Bank.
Austin Chronicle Presents: Paper Cuts
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission
Complementary Shock Top beer, desserts from the Frisco Shop, and Bacardi Oakheart Rum. Music by Marmalakes. RSVP to reserve your spot; additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.
It’s Made Of People: One Year Anniversary Variety Show
9pm • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • Free
Free variety show featuring sketches, comedians, and bands.
Coal Vines Wine-Down Holiday Bash
6–10pm • Coal Vines, 314 W. 2nd St. • Free; RSVP requested (RSVP Email)
Complimentary hors d’oeuvres, wine specials, and live music. Bring a wrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots.
Wednesday, Dec. 14
Austin Social Affair Holiday Launch Party
6–9pm • TenOak, 409 Colorado St. • $5 minimum donation
Free Grey Goose cocktails from 6–7; $5 after that. Benefits the Wrapped in Love Foundation.
Gabrieldoes: A Christmas Party
6–10pm • Cazamance Café, 1102 E. Cesar Chavez • Free
Free drinks while they last + food, and holiday music. Feel free to BYOB.
2011 Austin Holiday Formal ***Event of the Week***
9:30pm–2am • American Legion Hall, 2201 Veterans Drive • $10 donation
Free drinks include Fireman’s 4, Sierra Nevada, 360 Vodka, Wiser’s Canadian Whiskey, and El Zarco Tequila. Also: make-your-own chocolate martini bar, live music, photo booth, and raffle. Dress fancy! Donations benefit Austin’s Children’s Shelter.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Santy Panty Party
10pm–1am • Nomad Bar, 1211 Corona Dr. • Free
Complimentary drinks for anyone who dresses up. Featuring comedian James Patrick Robinson, DJ sets, and dancin’.
Thursday, Dec. 15
The Liberty 3rd Annual Christmas Party
4pm–2am • The Liberty, 1618 E. 6th St. • Free
Details TBA.
Beer O’Clock – Austin Community Happy Hour hosted by The Daily Dot
5:30–8pm • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St. • Free
Have a drink or two on The Daily Dot, “the hometown newspaper of the World Wide Web.”
Social Media Club Austin Holiday Party 2011
6:30-8:30pm • Molotov, 719 West 6th Street • Free; RSVP required
Free food from Roll on Sushi + drink specials. Dress “holiday fancy” and bring a new toy to donate to the Toy Drive for Austin.
Beer Society Strikes Back
8–11pm • Jackalope, 404 East 6th • Free; RSVP required
Free pints of Boulevard IPA, courtesy of The Onion Society for Beer Enjoyment.
Volstead Lounge at Hotel Vegas Holiday Party
9pm • Volstead Lounge at Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th Street • Free w/ RSVP; $5 without
Free beer and egg nog while it lasts, plus music by Alpha Rev, Levi Weaver, and Saints of Valory. Christmas sweaters encouraged. RSVP for free admission.
Friday, Dec. 16
Film Night at Green House
8pm–Midnight • Green House, 701 E 53rd St. • Free
Movies, free cocktails and popcorn.
Qua 4th Anniversary Party
9–11pm • Qua, 213 W. 4th St. • Free
Complimentary cocktails from 9–11, half-price bottles all night.
Christmas Sweater Party Champagne Jam
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • $2 if you wear a holiday sweater; $5 if not
Champagne, photo booth, live improv holiday karaoke by Zorch; DJ sets by Kon Karne, Lee Roi, and Butcher Bear.
Saturday, Dec. 17
Thirsty Planet Brewery Tour
11am and 1:30pm • Thirsty Planet Brewing Co., 11160 Circle Drive • Free; RSVP required
Free tour and beer tasting. Make sure to reserve a spot online.
The Backyard Bizarre Bazaar Bizart Show
6pm–Midnight • Green House, 701 E 53rd St. • Free
Art show, fashion show, live music, drinks and food.
I Wanna Be Your Dog II
8pm • 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St. • $5 donation
Free food from Frank; music by The Fleshlights, John Wesley Coleman, Bad Lovers, Foreign Mothers, Dead Space, and Sweat Lodge; raffle to win SXSW wristbands; silent auction. Benefits Austin Pets Alive.
Han Shots First Pub Crawl
8pm–2am • Starts at The Liberty, 1618 E. 6th St. • $5 suggested donation
Dress up as your favorite Star Wars character and go out drinkin’ on the east side. The crawl (which also features games, a raffle and Star Wars trivia) will have stops at The Liberty, Rio Rita, The Brixton, Violet Crown, and Shangri-La. See the event page for schedule info. Benefits Child’s Play.
Secret Show at Hotel Vegas
9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th Street • Free w/ RSVP, $5 without
Music by Stereo is a Lie, The Boxing Lesson, and a mystery headliner. RSVP for free admission.
**SAVE THE DATE: January 2** CoolinAustin’s very first Free Week showcase is set for Monday, Jan. 2 at Swan Dive. We’ll announce the details later this week, but suffice it to say, it will rock yo socks off.
Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events
Friday, Dec. 9:
W Hotel 1st Anniversary Celebration
3–10pm • W Hotel, 200 Lavaca Street • Free
Happy hour with $1.29 specialty cocktails from 3-5pm; champagne toast at 6; disco dance party at 9.
Free Spanish Wine Tasting
4pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Five wine selections to taste.
Aussie’s Beach Bar Customer Appreciation Party
6pm • Aussie’s Grill & Beach Bar • Free
Complimentary food and drinks.
701 & 705 South Lamar Block Party
6pm • Howl Interiors, 705 South Lamar Boulevard, Ste. A • Free
Anniversary party for Moss Boutique and Howl Interiors with free drinks, live music, door prizes, shopping, and a raffle.
CsillaWear Holiday Soiree
6–11pm • The Mosaic, 4600 Mueller Blvd. • Free (RSVP required: Email)
Complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Raffle benefits People’s Community Clinic of Austin.
Drought/Fire/Ash and Pattern Lands Opening Reception
7-10pm • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301A Guadalupe • Free
Local artists Marjorie Moore and Callen Thompson celebrate the opening of their new exhibits. Complimentary drinks by Dripping Springs Vodka, Texas Tea and Wunder-Pilz Kombucha Tea. Cheese provided by Antonelli’s Cheese Shop.
Film Night at Green House
8pm–Midnight • Green House, 701 E 53rd St. • Free
Screenings of “Meet the Feebles” and “Another Stakeout” with free cocktails and popcorn
90s Cuisine: Bayside High Homecoming
9pm–2am • The ND, East 5th at Brushy Street • $5 / $3 with costume
90s dance party with specialty drinks, friendship bracelets, and a photo booth.
BackSpin Records Closing Festivities **Event of the Week**
Fri. 10:30pm–1:30am; Sat. 1–7:30pm, Sun. 11am–5pm • BackSpin Records, 4631 Airport Blvd., Suite 110-A • Free
BackSpin goes out in style with a three-day party featuring more than 30 DJs and MCs — and free beer. See the event page for full lineup.
Saturday, Dec. 10
Thirsty Planet Brewery Tour
11am • Thirsty Planet Brewing Co., 11160 Circle Drive • Free (RSVP required)
Free tour and beer tasting. Make sure to reserve a spot online.
Live Oak Brewery Tour
11:30am–2pm • Live Oak Brewery, 3301 East 5th Street • Free (RSVP required)
Free tour and beer tasting. Make sure to reserve a spot online.
Big Medium presents “Fumes” — An Art Show by Doug Pollard
7pm-Midnight • Big Medium Gallery, 5305 Bolm Rd. #12 • Free
Free food & booze.
The Vagabond Collectives Ultimate Christmas party
8pm–Midnight • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • $5
Music by Driver Friendly (aka Driver F), White White Lights, Major Major Major, and Glitta.
Ray Prim CD Listening Party
8pm–Midnight • One 2 One Bar, 121 East 5th St. • $5
Free Lone Star Tallboys while they last. Listen to the album and check out live performances by Kalu James and Ray Prim.
Trinity Hall Grand Opening: A Skank Family Affair
8pm–2am • Trinity Hall, 401 E. 6th St. • Free
Free show with performances by Mother Falcon, Little Lo, Marmalakes, Cryin’ Cole Wilson & Those Miserable Cowboys, and Dog Gone Dead.
Sunday, Dec. 11
“Office Christmas Party” Swing Dance with the Austin Swing Orchestra
9–11pm • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • $5
The Austin Swing Orchestra plays classics from the ’30s and ’40s as well as some holiday favorites, followed by a set by Heaven for Betsy.
Tuesday, Dec. 13
Austin Chronicle Presents: Paper Cuts
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission
Complementary Shock Top beer, desserts from the Frisco Shop, and Bacardi Oakheart Rum. Music by Marmalakes. RSVP to reserve your spot; additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.
SAVE THE DATE: CoolinAustin’s very first Free Week showcase is set for Jan. 2 at Swan Dive. We’ll announce the details next week, but suffice it to say, it will rock yo socks off.
Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events
Hey, it’s the first wave of holiday parties! If you’re not into the whole eggnog and ugly sweater thing, you can still sip cocktails, watch some silent films with a live soundtrack, dance through the decades, and play with puppies while drinking beer.
Tuesday, Nov. 29
Moonshine Molly Tuesdays
6pm • The North Door, 501 N. IH-35 • Free
First 25 people get a free sample of Moonshine Whiskey and a free Tamale Molly tamale.
Austin Chronicle Presents: Paper Cuts
7–9pm • Palm Door • Free; RSVP required for priority admission
Free food from Chedd’s, drinks from Tito’s Vodka and Shiner, and music by The Tiny Adventurers. RSVP to reserve your spot; additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.
Transistor Six Presents: Heartless Bastards, Moonlight Towers, and Ume
8:30–11:30pm • Frank, 407 Colorado St. • Free
Free show.
Wednesday, Nov. 30
Frock on Vintage Movember Party
5-8pm • Frock On Vintage, 3016 Guadalupe St., Ste. A101 • Free
Complimentary beverages and food; Burt Reynolds photo booth; music by Ripe, Starma, and Gauche.
Violet Crown Cinema Trivia Night
7–10pm • Violet Crown Cinema, 434 W. 2nd Street • Free
Film trivia with free bottomless popcorn and drink specials.
Thursday, Dec. 1
The Driskill Tree Lighting and 125th Anniversary Celebration
6:30–11pm • Driskill Hotel, 604 Brazos Street • Free
Celebrate the lighting of the Driskill tree with treats from 1886 Café & Bakery, champagne, apple cider, hot chocolate and coffee. Live music by Dale Watson, Tje Austin, Betty Soo, Erin Ivey, Sahara Smith, and The Carper Family.
Celluloid Salon **Event of the Week**
7pm • The ND, East 5th and Brushy St. • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary Drambuie cocktails and silent films scored live by This Will Destroy You.
Santa Crawl
8pm • Shangri La, 1016 E 6th St. • Free
Bar crawl through East Austin with a mob of people dressed like Santa, starting at Shangri La and ending up at Hotel Vegas.
Before Dawn CD Release Party
9pm–2am • Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St. • $5
Before Dawn celebrates the release of their new album, Brush with Greatness. Also features performances by KNIFIGHT and Red Cadet. Free CDs and posters while they last.
Back in Time: Throwback Record Dance Party
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar • Free
Go Go Garcia plays some sweet 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s jams.
Friday, Dec. 2
B Scene: Holiday Lounge
6pm • Blanton Museum of Art, 200 East MLK Jr. Blvd. • Free
Free snacks, swing music by The Lucky Strikes, ugly sweater contest, museum tours, cash bar.
Totally Awesome ’80s Karaoke Bash
9–11pm • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free; RSVP required
Retro karaoke with free cocktails by 42Below Vodka.
Customer Appreciation Days at Vanity Salon and Day Spa
10am–7:30pm (Fri. and Sat.) • Vanity Salon and Day Spa, 2118 Oxford Ave. • Free
Free mudslides with Honest Tea and Dripping Springs Vodka, apple cider gingerbread men, and chocolate chip cookies.
Pop Tarts: Pop Music Dance Party with Kid Slyce
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • Free
Self explanatory!
Saturday, Dec. 3
Silver Whisk Holiday Bash
10am–4pm • Silver Whisk Cooking School, 1501 RR 620 N., Ste. C, Lakeway • Free
Free holiday appetizers, wine, cookie decorating, mimosas, and activities.
Thirsty Planet’s Silverback Pale Ale Launch Party
11am • Thirsty Planet Brewing Co., 11160 Circle Drive • Free
Thirsty Planet Brewery taps the first keg of Silverback Pale Ale in honor of the Austin Gorilla Run. The event features a beer tasting, brewery tour, and discounted Gorilla Run registration.
Pints for Pups
Noon–3pm • Hops and Grain Brewery, 507 Calles Street • $10 donation
Fundraiser to benefit local dog rescues, featuring music, food, and dogs available for adoption. Donation includes beer!
Independence Brewing Co. Brewery First Saturday Tour and Beer Tasting
1–3pm • Independence Brewing Co., 3913 Todd Lane #607 • Free
Free tour and tasting. Bring cash if you want to buy merchandise.
Barebones Orchestra’s Annual Holiday Happy Hour
5–8pm • Skinny’s Ballroom, 115 San Jacinto Blvd. • Free
Holiday potluck with burlesque performances and music by Barebones Orchestra and Elephant M. Bring canned goods for Austin Food Bank, and feel free to bring a snack to share.
“A Winter Eden” Group Art Opening at Orbit Salon
7–10pm • Orbit Salon, 1607 E. Cesar Chavez • Free
Free eggnog, desserts, and drinks provided by Bombay Sapphire.
End of Night: Dog & Pony Release Party with Xavier Schipani
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • $3
Holiday ice cream by Wanderlust Ice Cream, music by Boy Friend and Feathers, projections by Bleach Online.
Karaoke Underground
10pm–2am • Nomad, 1213 Corona Drive • Free
Free karaoke night with more than 500 punk and indie classics to choose from.
Sunday, Dec. 4
HAAM Benefit Concert at Stephen F’s Bar and Terrace
8pm–Midnight • Stephen F. Austin Hotel, 701 Congress Ave. • Free; donations accepted
Music by Del Castillo, Dale Watson, Ghosts Along the Brazos, Shinny Ribs and Bettysoo. Donations accepted at the door. Sponsored by Tito’s Vodka and Austinontherocks.com.
The Green Door Record Party
10pm–2am • Rio Rita, 1308 E. 6th St. • Free
Dance party with DJs Von Trapp, Apopalipstick, and Scotty Upton.
Monday, Dec. 5
Mohawk Home 4 the Holidays Ho-Down
8pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free
Featuring Johnny Hottub, Xmas karaoke, ATX Facial Hair Club kissing booth, mistletoe lounge, photo booth, fire, hot toddies, eggnog, and other festivities. Bring a toy to donate to Toys for Tots.
Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events
It’s Thanksgiving week, so most of this week’s events are related to food and/or shopping. Now get out there and chow down on some fried turkey, mac n’ cheese, BBQ or anthropomorphized liquor-soaked hams.
Wednesday, Nov. 23
Tasting: Food Wines for Thanksgiving
4–7pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free tasting of Il Cavaliere Pinot Grigio ‘09, Mont Tauch Grenache Blanc Garrigues ‘09, Prieure Bourgogne Rouge ‘08, and Arroba Pinot Noir ‘08.
Mac & Cheese
10pm–3am • Barbarella, 615 Red River • Cover?
Knuckle Rumbler hosts a dance party with cheesy pop anthems selected by DJ Ding.
Beauty Bar Turkey Fry
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • “Donations accepted”
Fried turkey, drink specials, and music by Not in the Face, John-David Clark, East Cameron Folkcore, and I’d Die For Lo Fi.
Thursday, Nov. 24
Happy Thanksgivin’, fool!
Friday, Nov. 25
A Night at the Cabana: Austin Shop Crawl Kick Off After Party
9pm–2am • Tacos and Tequila • $5; Free with Shop Crawl badge; RSVP requested
Tequila tastings, cocktails, cigar rolling, and music by Oliver Rajamani. Admission is free with a Shop Crawl badge, which you can get by Liking this Facebook page.
Nite School
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar • $3
Music by Ode To Oscillator, Bali Yaaah, DJs Geoff Millions & Scorpio.
Saturday, Nov. 26
Austin Vintage Style Fest 2011
10am–7pm, Sat. and Sun. • Various locations • Free; wristbands $5/advance, $10/day of event
Weekend vintage clothing tour with 40 participating shops and boutiques. The event is free to attend, but if you buy a wristband, you get free beverages and food; discounts at most locations; giveaways; a Movember goodie bag; and free entry to Slacker Magazine’s “Run Hammie Run” Movember party.
Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Market
11am–6pm, Sat. and Sun. • Palmer Events Center • Free
Crafts by 150 local artists, workshops, crafting activities, and demonstrations. Food and booze available for purchase.
Cho Sushi 2nd Anniversary Celebration
11am–11pm • Cho Sushi, 4300 Quinlan Park Road, Suite 105 • Free
Sake tasting, free raffle, half-price sushi, and drink specials.
Art of Texas - Xmas Season Kickoff
11am–6pm • Art of Texas Studio and Gallery, 812 Brentwood Street • Free
Gallery open house with BBQ by Stiles Switch BBQ and live acoustic music.
Rum Hammie Rum Movember Party **Event of the Week**
8pm–2am • Red 7 • $5 donation
Complimentary beverages and baked rum ham contest from 8–10. Stick around for mustache and costumes contests, giveaways, and music by THAT Damned Band, The Crooks, and DJ Scorpio. Benefits Movember.
The Wizard Album CD Release Party
9pm • Salvage Vanguard Theater • $5
Manateemann celebrates the release of “The Wizard Album.” Cover includes beer, Tito’s Vodka cocktails, the album, and a performance by Manateemann.
Sunday, Nov. 27
Pachanga Latino Music Festival Presents: Tex-Mex Tardeadas
3:30-5pm • Plaza Saltillo, 412 Comal St. • Free
Music by Conjunto Romo “Lost Little Rascals”
Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free
This week we celebrate pizza, mustaches, and the birthdays of everyone’s favorite hipster hotspots.
Monday, Nov. 14
“Drink Local” with Treaty Oak Rum and Waterloo Gin
5–7pm • Four Seasons Hotel, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. • Free
Complimentary liquor tastings and appetizers, with music by DJ Mel.
Tuesday, Nov. 15
Grand Opening of Honeycomb Hair Boutique
5:30–8:30pm • Honeycomb Hair Boutique, E. 5th & Brushy Street • Free
Food provided by Molly’s Tamales, Love Balls, Bits & Druthers, Pueblo Viejo and Firefly Pies. Music by jazz trumpeter Ephraim Owens and DJs from Austin’s Dub Academy.
Uncorking Reception at The Tigress Pub
6:30–8:30pm • Tigress Pub, 100 W. North Loop • Free
The Tigress debuts its new barrel-aged cocktail, Widow’s Kiss. Hors d’oeuvres provided.
Bourbon Talk: Makers 46
7–9pm • Trifecta on 3rd, 360 Nueces #30 • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary tasting of Makers 46 bourbon. Become a member of the Meetup group and RSVP to reserve a seat.
Wednesday, Nov. 16
Langford & Friends Craft Fair
5-8pm • Langford Market, 249 W. 2nd Street • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary drinks and treats. To RSVP, call 512-482-8500.
Thursday, Nov. 17
Free Lunch from Google Punchd
Noon–5pm • University Co-op, 2246 Guadalupe Street • Free
Download Google’s Punchd app and get a gift card for free lunch at Biscuits and Groovy, Sugar Shack, Peached, or other Austin food trucks. Live music by Rich O’Toole.
Mustache Mania 2.0
5–9pm • The WonderCraft, 1601 E. Cesar Chavez #103 • Free
A benefit for Livestrong featuring mustache-themed crafts, a raffle, a photo booth, and other festivities.
Icenhauer’s Movember Happy Hour
5:30–8pm • Icenhauer’s, 83 Rainey St. • Free
Happy hour benefiting The Movember Foundation, sponsored by Jameson Irish Whiskey. Proceeds go to local Movember participants The Downtown Mo Bros (donate here).
Red Party at Twin Liquors
5:30-7:30pm • Twin Liquors at Hancock Center, 1000 E. 41st St. • Free
Complimentary Belvedere cocktails, Moet champagne, light bites, a DJ, and more.
The Rogue Pilgrimage Pub Run
6pm • Rogue Running, 500 San Marcos St. • Free
A 4.2-mile Thanksgiving-style pub run with stops at four downtown bars. Costumes are encouraged.
Shangri La Third Anniversary Party
7pm–2am • Shangri La, 1016 E. 6th Street • Free
Free booze, food, koozies, and a photo booth by Alison Narro. Free T-shirts to the first 100 people who donate to Austin Pets Alive. Music by DJ Pagame and DJ Digg.
Ultra8201 presents Politics + The Preservation
10pm • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th Street • $5
Friday, Nov. 18
Language For All: A Concert to Benefit Texas School for the Deaf
7pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Cover?
Live music by Fresh Millions / The Dark Water Hymnal / Gold Beach / The Great Nostalgic / The Pons / The Sour Notes / One Hundred Flowers / Anam Milá
Saturday, Nov. 19
East Austin Studio Tour
Sat. and Sun. (hours vary) • See map for locations • Free
Hundreds of local artists open their doors and show off their works to the public. All of the studios celebrate E.A.S.T. in their own way, so you never really know what kind of interesting things you’ll find. Pick up a catalog at any Austin public library and plan your own route. In the mean time, check out the map and some recommendations from CultureMap Austin.
Artpost Austin
11am–6pm (Sat. and Sun.) • Artpost Austin, 4704 East Cesar Chavez • Free
Free Texas Pitmasters BBQ, Progress Coffee, and Sweet Leaf Tea. Works by more than 35 artists on display. Swing by Sunday afternoon for Coolhaus Ice Cream Sandwiches.
E.A.S.T.: Aron Taylor | Team Captain
11am–6pm • The Off Center, 2211-A Hidalgo St. • Free
Team Captain Studio at the Off Center presents the work of Aron Taylor. Art, booze, games, and good times.
Home Slice Carnival O’ Pizza ***Event of the Week**
Noon–10pm • Home Slice Pizza, 1415 S. Congress Ave. • Free
Hands down the craziest pizza-themed celebration of the year. Featuring: carnival games, magicians, a raffle, contests (pizza-eating, dough-tossing, box-folding, hands on an eggplant sub), and other good stuff. Live music by Crooks, Residual Kid, Flying Balalaika Brothers, Minor Mishap Marching Band, and others. Benefits Austin Bat Cave.
Twin Liquors November Open House
2–6pm • Twin Liquors at Hancock Center, 1000 E. 41st St. • Free
Free tastings of wines, spirits, and beers in celebration of the arrival of Fall.
“West of East” Cocktail Social Hour at Gallery Black Lagoon
6–8pm (Sat. and Sun.) • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301-A Guadalupe St. • Free
“West of East” is a group art exhibition with works by 17 Austin artists on display for the next two weekends. The exhibition is open from 11am–8pm each day, including Cocktail Social Hours with free Deep Eddy cocktails from 6–8pm.
E.A.S.T. Victory Lap Art Exhibit
6–10pm (Sat. and Sun.) • The Historic Victory Grill, 1104 E 11th • Free
E.A.S.T. after-party with food, drinks, music, dancing, and art.
Fuzzy Popsycle Grand Opening Extravaganza
7:30–11pm • Fuzzy Popsycle, 1403 Chestnut Ave. • Free
Free NXNW beer; sno-cones from Baltimore Ballers; snacks by Karma Hummus and Three Little Pigs trailer. Music by Diesel N’ Dixie, Seth Sherman, and Emcee Eats.
Skellies Fall Freak Out
8pm–2am • Club De Ville • $5 cover, or $4 w/ donation of a food item
Music by Neiliyo, FMCAMPERS, DJ Digg, DJ Ramo, and Hume. Raffle with prizes from all sorts of good places (Opal Divine’s, P. Terry’s, Tiff’s Treats, Clown Dog Bikes, Epoch, East Side Pies, Thunderbird and others). If you want to join The Skellies for a leisurely 3-mile bike ride to Club de Ville, meet at The Grackle (1700 E 6th) at 8pm. Bonus: If you bike to the party, you get free beer from Uncle Billy’s.
101x Homegrown Live feat. Electric Touch
9pm–Midnight • Antone’s, 213 W 5th St. • $8
Performances by local artists Electric Touch, Zeale, and The Shears.
The New Day
9pm–2am • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Guest DJs NRich & Hobo D present a night of rare and classic soul music (on vinyl!)
Sunday, Nov. 20
Barbarella’s 2 Year Anniversary Party
10pm–2am • Barbarella, 611 Red River • Free
Celebrate the second birthday of everyone’s favorite dance floor / late-night make-out destination. Music by theGlitoris and DJ Harvey of New Noise; $1 Lone Stars and happy hour prices all night; free Barbarella anniversary T-shirts for the first 100 guests.
Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free
