The Week in Cool: May 24-29Friday, May 24Hops and Grain Brewery Tastings2–6pm Friday; Noon–4pm Saturday • Hops and Grain, 507 Calles St. • FreeThe tap room is open on Friday and Saturday afternoons, and brewery tours are at 1pm and 3pm on Saturday.Free Uruguayan Wine Tasting4–8pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • FreeFree tasting of four types of wines.Sagra’s Grand Re-Re-Opening Party5–7pm • Sagra, 1050 East 11th St. • FreeFree champagne.Blues on the Green Friday Pre-Party with KGSR5pm • Uncle Billy’s, 1530 Barton Springs Road • FreeFree samples of featured spirits, plus specialty cocktails and a chance to win VIP passes to Blues on the Green — which kicks off next Wednesday!2013 Brewskee-Ball National ChampionshipFriday, Saturday, Sunday (check site for times) • Scoot Inn, East 4th and Navasota • FreeA full weekend of skee-vents, with highlights including a cornhole tourney, piñata massacre, inflatable slip-n-slide, karaoke and a lot more. Check out the website for more info.Saturday, May 25Austin Bazaar Music Grand Re-Opening 10am–5pm • Austin Bazaar Music, 2306 W. Howard Lane • FreeFree pizza and Indio beer, giveaways, discounts on music gear, and other festivities.Vinyl Hunt II: A Record Nerd’s Swap Meet1–7pm • The ND, East 5th at Brushy Street • FreeCollectors, browsers, and DJs come together to swap and sell records from their collections. Third Coast Coffee Frios Mio Party4–7pm • In.gredients, 2610 Manor RoadFree cake, ice cream, and “Cold Convicts” (Convict Hill beer + cold coffee).Collision Festival5pm–3am • Monarca Ballroom, 6950 U.S. Hwy. 183 • $5Brand-new music and art festival featuring performances by Mixed Use Media, Organized Crime, Donella Drive, Astro Kid and many others — see the website for full lineup.Short Bus Subs’ South Congress Block Party6–11pm • South Congress Trailer Park, 1603 South Congress Ave. • FreeBYOB party with music by SweetZen, Tommy S, Robo Cougar, and D.R.K.SlagDrop Live Show and Launch Party8pm–Midnight • The Museum of Human Achievement (Lyons & Springdale Road) • $5 suggested donationParty with a mixed bag of literature, music and stage performances. Suggested donations for beer, wine and mixed drinks. Music by The If Onlys, One4All, and Mike Abb.The Good Music Club: Digital Antique / The Asteroid Shop / Nakia8pm–2am • The ND, East 5th at Brushy Street • $5Showcase of some fine Austin acts, curated by Laurie Gallardo.Juicy: A Pop-up Party Celebrating Notorious B.I.G.9pm–2am • Empire Control Room & Garage, 606 E. 7th St. • $3 before 11pm / $5 afterCelebrate Biggie’s birthday week with specialty cocktails, a Biggie photobooth, and music by Kid Slyce.Speakeasy’s Full Moon Party10pm • Speakeasy, 412 Congress Ave. • No cover before 11pmRooftop party with drink specials, glow-in-the-dark gear, and music by DJ Bird Peterson and DJ Rapid RickSunday, May 264th Annual Memorial Sunday Crawfish Boil at Gibson1pm • Gibson, 1109 S. Lamar Blvd. • FreeAdult slip-n-slide, mechanical bull, drink specials, music by More Cowbell, and a mountain of crawfish ($15 for all-you-can-eat).Epic Party for The Make a Wish Foundation2pm • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th St. • $10 donationFree cocktails, pizza from Hoboken Pies, raffle for prizes from local artists and jewelers, and music by Dumb, For Her and the Snow, Drew Smith, and members of Leopold and His Fiction. Donations benefit The Make A Wish Foundation.Groovy Sunday at South Austin Brewing Co.3–6pm • South Austin Brewing Co., 415 East Saint Elmo, # 1D • FreeOpen house with beer samples and live music by Lisa Marshall. Special keg tapping this week is a test batch of oak-aged South Austin ale.Free Island-Style Pig Roast7pm • The Volstead, 1500 East Sixth St. • FreeChef Joe Becerra will be serving up two roasted pigs and a ton of island-inspired sides — all for free. There’s also a tiki drink menu featuring cocktails by Mount Gay Rum and Hendricks Gin.Living Room Live, Featuring the Baker Family7–9pm • The W Austin, 200 Lavaca St. • FreeFree show with Taylor Baker (7:30pm) and The Baker Family (8:30pm).Monday, May 27Brewskee–Ball Knockout Brunch Noon–2pm • The Buzz Mill, 1505 Town Creek Drive • FreeSpecial on all-you-can-eat pancakes and Blue Ox BBQ, plus free beer from noon to 1pm.Toy Joy’s Auction House and Tent Sale3:45–11pm • Toy Joy, 2900 Guadalupe St. • FreeSwing by Toy Joy on its final day on The Drag and buy some marked-down toys and weird store decorations.10 Years of WordPress Party5–8pm • Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces Street • Free; RSVP requiredFree drinks and BBQ. Drunken Spelling Bee @ Mohawk9pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River • FreeTuesday, May 28Trailer Food Tuesdays5–9pm • The Long Center Terrace, 701 W. Riverside Dr. • FreeFood and drinks for sale from several local trucks and trailers, with live music.Wednesday, May 29The Wine Down @ ACL Live: Dana Falconberry5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • FreeBites from Frank, happy hour wine specials, and music by Dana Falconberry.Blues on the Green: Alpha Rev and Wild Child7:30pm • Zilker Park • FreeSolid first installment of the 2013 summer music series.
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The Week in Cool: May 24-29

Friday, May 24
Hops and Grain Brewery Tastings
2–6pm Friday; Noon–4pm Saturday • Hops and Grain, 507 Calles St. • Free
The tap room is open on Friday and Saturday afternoons, and brewery tours are at 1pm and 3pm on Saturday.

Free Uruguayan Wine Tasting
4–8pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free tasting of four types of wines.

Sagra’s Grand Re-Re-Opening Party
5–7pm • Sagra, 1050 East 11th St. • Free
Free champagne.

Blues on the Green Friday Pre-Party with KGSR
5pm • Uncle Billy’s, 1530 Barton Springs Road • Free
Free samples of featured spirits, plus specialty cocktails and a chance to win VIP passes to Blues on the Green — which kicks off next Wednesday!

2013 Brewskee-Ball National Championship
Friday, Saturday, Sunday (check site for times) • Scoot Inn, East 4th and Navasota • Free
A full weekend of skee-vents, with highlights including a cornhole tourney, piñata massacre, inflatable slip-n-slide, karaoke and a lot more. Check out the website for more info.


Saturday, May 25
Austin Bazaar Music Grand Re-Opening
10am–5pm • Austin Bazaar Music, 2306 W. Howard Lane • Free
Free pizza and Indio beer, giveaways, discounts on music gear, and other festivities.

Vinyl Hunt II: A Record Nerd’s Swap Meet
1–7pm • The ND, East 5th at Brushy Street • Free
Collectors, browsers, and DJs come together to swap and sell records from their collections.

Third Coast Coffee Frios Mio Party
4–7pm • In.gredients, 2610 Manor Road
Free cake, ice cream, and “Cold Convicts” (Convict Hill beer + cold coffee).

Collision Festival
5pm–3am • Monarca Ballroom, 6950 U.S. Hwy. 183 • $5
Brand-new music and art festival featuring performances by Mixed Use Media, Organized Crime, Donella Drive, Astro Kid and many others — see the website for full lineup.

Short Bus Subs’ South Congress Block Party
6–11pm • South Congress Trailer Park, 1603 South Congress Ave. • Free
BYOB party with music by SweetZen, Tommy S, Robo Cougar, and D.R.K.

SlagDrop Live Show and Launch Party
8pm–Midnight • The Museum of Human Achievement (Lyons & Springdale Road) • $5 suggested donation
Party with a mixed bag of literature, music and stage performances. Suggested donations for beer, wine and mixed drinks. Music by The If Onlys, One4All, and Mike Abb.

The Good Music Club: Digital Antique / The Asteroid Shop / Nakia
8pm–2am • The ND, East 5th at Brushy Street • $5
Showcase of some fine Austin acts, curated by Laurie Gallardo.

Juicy: A Pop-up Party Celebrating Notorious B.I.G.
9pm–2am • Empire Control Room & Garage, 606 E. 7th St. • $3 before 11pm / $5 after
Celebrate Biggie’s birthday week with specialty cocktails, a Biggie photobooth, and music by Kid Slyce.

Speakeasy’s Full Moon Party
10pm • Speakeasy, 412 Congress Ave. • No cover before 11pm
Rooftop party with drink specials, glow-in-the-dark gear, and music by DJ Bird Peterson and DJ Rapid Rick


Sunday, May 26
4th Annual Memorial Sunday Crawfish Boil at Gibson
1pm • Gibson, 1109 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Adult slip-n-slide, mechanical bull, drink specials, music by More Cowbell, and a mountain of crawfish ($15 for all-you-can-eat).

Epic Party for The Make a Wish Foundation
2pm • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th St. • $10 donation
Free cocktails, pizza from Hoboken Pies, raffle for prizes from local artists and jewelers, and music by Dumb, For Her and the Snow, Drew Smith, and members of Leopold and His Fiction. Donations benefit The Make A Wish Foundation.

Groovy Sunday at South Austin Brewing Co.
3–6pm • South Austin Brewing Co., 415 East Saint Elmo, # 1D • Free
Open house with beer samples and live music by Lisa Marshall. Special keg tapping this week is a test batch of oak-aged South Austin ale.

Free Island-Style Pig Roast
7pm • The Volstead, 1500 East Sixth St. • Free
Chef Joe Becerra will be serving up two roasted pigs and a ton of island-inspired sides — all for free. There’s also a tiki drink menu featuring cocktails by Mount Gay Rum and Hendricks Gin.

Living Room Live, Featuring the Baker Family
7–9pm • The W Austin, 200 Lavaca St. • Free
Free show with Taylor Baker (7:30pm) and The Baker Family (8:30pm).


Monday, May 27
Brewskee–Ball Knockout Brunch
Noon–2pm • The Buzz Mill, 1505 Town Creek Drive • Free
Special on all-you-can-eat pancakes and Blue Ox BBQ, plus free beer from noon to 1pm.

Toy Joy’s Auction House and Tent Sale
3:45–11pm • Toy Joy, 2900 Guadalupe St. • Free
Swing by Toy Joy on its final day on The Drag and buy some marked-down toys and weird store decorations.

10 Years of WordPress Party
5–8pm • Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces Street • Free; RSVP required
Free drinks and BBQ.

Drunken Spelling Bee @ Mohawk
9pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River • Free


Tuesday, May 28
Trailer Food Tuesdays
5–9pm • The Long Center Terrace, 701 W. Riverside Dr. • Free
Food and drinks for sale from several local trucks and trailers, with live music.


Wednesday, May 29
The Wine Down @ ACL Live: Dana Falconberry
5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Bites from Frank, happy hour wine specials, and music by Dana Falconberry.

Blues on the Green: Alpha Rev and Wild Child
7:30pm • Zilker Park • Free
Solid first installment of the 2013 summer music series.

The Week in Cool: March 28–April 3Time to crawl out from under your post-SXSW rock, dust yourself off, and venture back into the world. Here are this week’s picks of the best free and cheap fun to be had in this time of rebuilding.Thursday, March 28Infamous Brewing Company Launch Party6–11pm • Banger’s Sausage House, 79 Rainey St. • FreeBeer samples (7–10pm), food pairings, and live music.Austin Beauty Week Kickoff Party & Salon Showcase7pm-2am • Speakeasy, 412 D Congress Ave. • Free w/ RSVPKick off Austin Beauty Week with complimentary Deep Eddy Ruby Red vodka beverages (for the first hour), a fashion show, hair & makeup exhibit, and other festivities. RSVP requested.Grizzly Adams Family / Holiday / The Gents @ Swan Dive9pm–1am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River St. • $5The New Movement Block Party9:30pm • The New Movement Theater, 616 Lavaca St. • FreeAn “anything-goes” open-mic party hosted by Rob Gagnon, featuring standup, sketch comedy, and performance art.Free Show: Sour Bridges @ The Rattle Inn11pm–1:30am • The Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces St. • FreeFriday, March 29Lerin Spanish Wine Tasting4–8pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • FreeFree tasting of four types of Spanish wine.Free Show: Shakey Graves @ The White Horse 5pm • The White Horse, 500 Comal • FreeWake for Lomography Austin6–10pm • Lomography Gallery Store, 912 Congress Ave. • FreeThe gallery is closing, so it’s time for everyone to drown their sorrows with the help of complimentary drinks and live music.Free Screening: “Beetlejuice” 25th Anniversary Party7–9:30pm • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy St. • FreeFree Fireman’s 4 while it lasts at this free screening.Fatback Circus / Empire Machines / Shiny Empire @ Frank9pm • Frank, 407 Colorado St. • $6Mr. Mustache: A Tribute to Nirvana 9pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free w/ donation to Austin Pets AliveMusic by Mr. Mustache (Nirvana cover set by members of Goodnight Goddess and Dynamite Boy), Power Chief, Del Vipers, and Residual Kid. Donate at least $3 and get a free drink ticket. All proceeds go to Austin Pets Alive.Saturday, March 30Jo’s 14th Annual Pet Parade and Costume ContestNoon • Jo’s Coffee, 1300 S. Congress Ave. • Free to watch; parade registration is $10/advance, $15/day of eventA swarm of costumed pets will parade down South Congress with a marching band, followed by a costume contest, live music, and other festivities. Proceeds from the parade will benefit Austin Pets Alive.Texas Football Fan Fest and Orange-White Scrimmage4–8pm • Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, 23rd and San Jacinto • FreeIt’s finally time for a break from the springtime college football drought. Watch the Longhorns stampede into the stadium at 4:15, try your luck at some tailgate games, and check out the Orange-White Scrimmage at 6:30, with open seating on the north and east sides of the stadium. Everything is free and open to the public.Craft Pride’s Live Music Debut & Divine Reserve Tapping6–10pm • Craft Pride, 61 Rainey St. • FreeCraft Pride is tapping a cask of Saint Arnold’s Divine Reserve No. 13 at this party featuring music by Sour Bridges, Patrick’s Beard & The Rusty Razors, and MaryAnn.March Scootenanny8pm • Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St. • FreeFree show with music by Clyde and Clem’s Whiskey Business, Sour Bridges, and Southern Renaissance.Red River Noise Presents: Future of Indie Vol. III9pm • Hole in the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe • $3 with Facebook RSVP / $5 doorNew showcase series featuring music by Knifight, Pop Pistol and End Wave.Megafauna Tour Kickoff & Vinyl Release Party9pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • $6With The Boxing Lesson, Future Humans, and The Couch.Sphynx / Bobby Jealousy / Sip Sip / Growl @ Hotel Vegas9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1502 E. 6th St. • (Cover?)Free Show: East Cameron Folkcore / Cunto! / Black Eyed Vermillion @ The White Horse9:30pm • The White Horse, 500 Comal St. • FreeSunday, March 31Easter Brunch Party @ Yellow Jacket11am • Yellow Jacket Social Club, 1704 East 5th St. • FreeSpend Easter on the east side at Yellow Jacket’s annual brunch, which will involve a petting zoo and washers tournament.Sunday Sociale at Bungalow 2–6pm • Bungalow, 92 Rainey St. • Free$1 mimosas, $5 Bloody Mary bar, and $2 domestics — plus free tacos with the purchase of a drink. Music by Chorizo Funk & DJ Fndomntl. Matthew’s Easter Circus 5pm • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 East 6th St. • FreeCircus-themed party with music by Holiday, Leopold and His Fiction, and DJ ulovei.“Game of Thrones” Season Premiere Party @ The ND7–10pm • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy St. • FreeWatch last season’s finale and this season’s premiere on the big 25-foot projection screen, with $1 Shiners.Monday, April 1Opening Day at Bar 96Noon • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St. • FreeFree batting cage with prizes, plus drink specials and ballpark snacks.April Fool’s Day Bash with Hops & Grain Brewery6pm • Banger’s Sausage House, 79 Rainey St. • FreeTry some special Hops & Grain brews with food pairings by Banger’s. Music by Wood & Wire from 7-9pm.Tuesday, April 2The Black Angels In-Store Performance5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • FreeFree Shiner.Wednesday, April 3Sons of Fathers In-Store Performance5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • FreeThe Wine Down at ACL Live5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • FreeBites from III Forks, happy hour wine specials, and music by Omar and the Howlers.
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The Week in Cool: March 28–April 3

Time to crawl out from under your post-SXSW rock, dust yourself off, and venture back into the world. Here are this week’s picks of the best free and cheap fun to be had in this time of rebuilding.

Thursday, March 28
Infamous Brewing Company Launch Party
6–11pm • Banger’s Sausage House, 79 Rainey St. • Free
Beer samples (7–10pm), food pairings, and live music.

Austin Beauty Week Kickoff Party & Salon Showcase
7pm-2am • Speakeasy, 412 D Congress Ave. • Free w/ RSVP
Kick off Austin Beauty Week with complimentary Deep Eddy Ruby Red vodka beverages (for the first hour), a fashion show, hair & makeup exhibit, and other festivities. RSVP requested.

Grizzly Adams Family / Holiday / The Gents @ Swan Dive
9pm–1am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River St. • $5

The New Movement Block Party
9:30pm • The New Movement Theater, 616 Lavaca St. • Free
An “anything-goes” open-mic party hosted by Rob Gagnon, featuring standup, sketch comedy, and performance art.

Free Show: Sour Bridges @ The Rattle Inn
11pm–1:30am • The Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces St. • Free


Friday, March 29
Lerin Spanish Wine Tasting
4–8pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free tasting of four types of Spanish wine.

Free Show: Shakey Graves @ The White Horse
5pm • The White Horse, 500 Comal • Free

Wake for Lomography Austin
6–10pm • Lomography Gallery Store, 912 Congress Ave. • Free
The gallery is closing, so it’s time for everyone to drown their sorrows with the help of complimentary drinks and live music.

Free Screening: “Beetlejuice” 25th Anniversary Party
7–9:30pm • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy St. • Free
Free Fireman’s 4 while it lasts at this free screening.

Fatback Circus / Empire Machines / Shiny Empire @ Frank
9pm • Frank, 407 Colorado St. • $6

Mr. Mustache: A Tribute to Nirvana
9pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free w/ donation to Austin Pets Alive
Music by Mr. Mustache (Nirvana cover set by members of Goodnight Goddess and Dynamite Boy), Power Chief, Del Vipers, and Residual Kid. Donate at least $3 and get a free drink ticket. All proceeds go to Austin Pets Alive.


Saturday, March 30
Jo’s 14th Annual Pet Parade and Costume Contest
Noon • Jo’s Coffee, 1300 S. Congress Ave. • Free to watch; parade registration is $10/advance, $15/day of event
A swarm of costumed pets will parade down South Congress with a marching band, followed by a costume contest, live music, and other festivities. Proceeds from the parade will benefit Austin Pets Alive.

Texas Football Fan Fest and Orange-White Scrimmage
4–8pm • Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, 23rd and San Jacinto • Free
It’s finally time for a break from the springtime college football drought. Watch the Longhorns stampede into the stadium at 4:15, try your luck at some tailgate games, and check out the Orange-White Scrimmage at 6:30, with open seating on the north and east sides of the stadium. Everything is free and open to the public.

Craft Pride’s Live Music Debut & Divine Reserve Tapping
6–10pm • Craft Pride, 61 Rainey St. • Free
Craft Pride is tapping a cask of Saint Arnold’s Divine Reserve No. 13 at this party featuring music by Sour Bridges, Patrick’s Beard & The Rusty Razors, and MaryAnn.

March Scootenanny
8pm • Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St. • Free
Free show with music by Clyde and Clem’s Whiskey Business, Sour Bridges, and Southern Renaissance.

Red River Noise Presents: Future of Indie Vol. III
9pm • Hole in the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe • $3 with Facebook RSVP / $5 door
New showcase series featuring music by Knifight, Pop Pistol and End Wave.

Megafauna Tour Kickoff & Vinyl Release Party
9pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • $6
With The Boxing Lesson, Future Humans, and The Couch.

Sphynx / Bobby Jealousy / Sip Sip / Growl @ Hotel Vegas
9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1502 E. 6th St. • (Cover?)

Free Show: East Cameron Folkcore / Cunto! / Black Eyed Vermillion @ The White Horse
9:30pm • The White Horse, 500 Comal St. • Free


Sunday, March 31
Easter Brunch Party @ Yellow Jacket
11am • Yellow Jacket Social Club, 1704 East 5th St. • Free
Spend Easter on the east side at Yellow Jacket’s annual brunch, which will involve a petting zoo and washers tournament.

Sunday Sociale at Bungalow
2–6pm • Bungalow, 92 Rainey St. • Free
$1 mimosas, $5 Bloody Mary bar, and $2 domestics — plus free tacos with the purchase of a drink. Music by Chorizo Funk & DJ Fndomntl.

Matthew’s Easter Circus
5pm • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 East 6th St. • Free
Circus-themed party with music by Holiday, Leopold and His Fiction, and DJ ulovei.

“Game of Thrones” Season Premiere Party @ The ND
7–10pm • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy St. • Free
Watch last season’s finale and this season’s premiere on the big 25-foot projection screen, with $1 Shiners.


Monday, April 1
Opening Day at Bar 96
Noon • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St. • Free
Free batting cage with prizes, plus drink specials and ballpark snacks.

April Fool’s Day Bash with Hops & Grain Brewery
6pm • Banger’s Sausage House, 79 Rainey St. • Free
Try some special Hops & Grain brews with food pairings by Banger’s. Music by Wood & Wire from 7-9pm.


Tuesday, April 2
The Black Angels In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free Shiner.


Wednesday, April 3
Sons of Fathers In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free

The Wine Down at ACL Live
5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Bites from III Forks, happy hour wine specials, and music by Omar and the Howlers.

The Week in Cool: July 12-15


Thursday, July 12
Patagonia Austin Live Music Series
6–7pm • Patagonia Austin, 316 Congress Ave. • Free
Free food, drinks and music.

Alyssa Harrad: “Coming to My Senses”
7–8pm • BookPeople, 6th and Lamar • Free
Gourmet truffles from Delysia Chocolatier, cocktails, and a talk by the author.

Unplugged at the Grove: Quiet Company
8–9pm • Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. • Free
Free outdoor show + drink specials.

Bad Boys and Elevator Action Double Bill
8pm • ColdTowne Theater, 4803-B Airport Blvd. • $5
Every Thursday in July, ColdTowne is opening early to provide free beer and snacks before a show by two up-and-coming improv groups.


Friday, July 13
Frontier Bar’s One Year Anniversary Party
7pm–2am • Frontier Bar, 2421 Webberville Road • Free
Free beer at 7 and 10:30, catered food at 8, Wild West-themed photo booth, mechanical bull, and music by Honky, Garner Sloan & Schooler, and DJs Scorpio and Czech One. Free commemorative screenprinted T-shirts and posters to the first 100 people.

The Austin Series Vol. 2 : Blurred Lines
7–10pm • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301-A Guadalupe St. • Free
Complimentary drinks provided by Deep Eddy Vodka, Circle Brewing Company, Texas Tea and Texas Springs.

Fright Night @ The Scoot Inn
9pm–2am • Scoot Inn, East 4th @ Navasota • Free with spooky costume; $5 without
Friday the 13th party featuring music by The Black Squeeze, The Bus Stop Stallions, and Chesterfield. Costumes encouraged!

Keep It Local Showcase
10pm–2am • The Belmont, 305 W. 6th St. • Free
Music by 10YR, Parking, Super Villains + Kid Slyce.

’80s Dance Party
11pm–2am • Highball, 1142 S. Lamar • Free


Saturday, July 14
Brewery Tour at Uncle Billy’s Lake Travis
4pm • Uncle Billy’s Lake Travis, 6550 Comanche Trail • Free

Takoba’s 2 Year Anniversary Party        **Party of the Week**
8pm–1am • Takoba, 1411 E. 7th St. • Free
Free tacos and Pacifico cerveza ’til it runs out, with music by DJ Manolo Black and happy hour drink prices all day.

Sorne DVD Release Party
9pm • The Blackheart, 86 Rainey St. • Free
Free show.

Driver Friendly w/ Little Radar & Geography
8pm • Stubb’s Indoors, 800 Red River St. • $8
The great local lineup is well worth the cover.

uLOVEi Mustache Bash
8pm–2am • Frontier Bar, 2421 Webberville Road • Free
Complimentary Tito’s drinks 9-10pm and music by uLOVEi, Sonora, and King Louie. Mustaches strongly encouraged!


Sunday, July 15
Groovy Sunday at South Austin Brewing Co.
3–7pm • South Austin Brewing, 415 E. St. Elmo Rd. #1D • Free
Tour the brewery, taste some beer and listen to music by New Mystery Girl.

KGSR Presents “Lakeside Live” with Speak / The Sour Notes
5pm • Uncle Billy’s Lake Travis, 6550 Comanche Trail • Free
Free show with two cool local bands.

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Shoutouts: Amber Demure, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events

The Week in Cool: June 27-July 1


Wednesday, June 27
Blues on the Green with Ben Kweller and Amy Cook
7:30pm • Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road • Free

 
Thursday, June 28
Kick Butt Coffee Music & Booze: Open Mic & Beer Tasting
6:30pm • Kick Butt Coffee, 5775 Airport Blvd. • Free
Open mic night with tastings of beer from Rahr Brewing Co.

Austin Beer Guide Summer Issue Release Party
7pm • Billy’s on Burnet, 2105 Hancock Dr. • Free
Celebrate the release of the new issue of ABG with special brews from Austin Beerworks, Hops & Grain, Jester King, and Live Oak. Buy a beer on the patio and keep the pint glass.

XRay Love Trunk Show at Charm School Vintage
7:30–10:30pm • Charm School Vintage, 2109 E. Cesar Chavez • Free
Free cocktails from Dripping Springs Vodka.

Little Mikey and the Soda Jerks / The Bonfire Choir / Airplanes above us / The Rollfast Ramblers
9pm–2am • Frontier Bar, 2421 Webberville Road • Free
Free show with complimentary vodka cocktails from 9–10.

The Shake’s First Year Anniversary with Christian Bland & The Revelators
9pm–2am • Volstead Lounge, 1500 East 6th St. • Free
Free beer.

Viva Big Bend Launch Party
9pm–2am • The White Horse Saloon, 500 Comal St. • Free
Free show with giveaways and music by Graham Wilkinson, Colin Gilmore, The Lonesome Heroes, and Mike & The Moonpies.


Friday, June 29
Rodney Crowell In-Store Performance
5pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free Shiner.

The Good Music Club #6
7pm • The ND, East 5th at Brushy Street • Free
Live taping of sets by Slowtrain, Scorpion Child, Melogrand, and My Jerusalem.


Saturday, June 30
Real Ale’s 16th Anniversary Party
Noon–5pm • Real Ale Brewing Co., 231 San Saba Ct., Blanco • Free admission, $5 parking
Beer, food, music, tours and special surprises.

Tiki Block Party   ***Party of the Week***
6–9pm • Noble Pig Sandwiches, 11815 620 N., Suite 4 • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary rum cocktails and Polynesian sandwich specials. To RSVP, email rsvptiki@gmail.com.

Strange Brew’s 2nd Birthday Party
6pm–1am • Strange Brew Coffee, 5326 Manchaca Rd. • Free
Free food, free beer, and live music by Dick Walker, Kacy Crowley, Chris Gates, and Bandhaus.

The Mind of Adi’s Wimbledon Night Birthday Party
8pm–Midnight • Club de Ville, 900 Red River • $5
Tennis-themed party with music by Neiliyo, Cover Girl, Froetzel and Dubwerth. Tennis outfits encouraged!

Ladies Night: T Bird & the Breaks / Speak / Whitman / Major Major Major
8pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River • Free for ladies, $10 for dudes
Very cool local lineup.

Zlam Dunk / The Sour Notes / Mobley / Stand-up Comedy
9pm–2am • The Parish, 214 E. 6th St. • $5


Sunday, July 1
Chedd’s Cheesy Brunch in the Triangle
10am–2pm • Chedd’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese, 4601 N. Lamar • Free
Free mimosas.

2nd Annual Splash Mob Flash Mob
2:30–3pm • Corner of 6th and Trinity • Free
Flashmob water fight in the middle of downtown — bring your water guns, water balloons, and a bathing suit. Check out the Facebook page for more instructions.

Fantastic Arcade presents Juegos Rancheros: God of Blades
4–6:30pm • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar • Free
Local indie game studio White Whale Games debuts its new game, God of Blades. Compete for a chance to win T-shirts, limited edition prints and other cool stuff.

L Style G Style’s Bowlorama Issue Release Party
6–9pm • Dart Bowl, 5700 Grover Avenue • Free; RSVP required
Free evening of bowling with prizes for highest and lowest score, best outfit and most dynamic socks. Reserve your free tickets online in advance of the event.

Sun Records Sunday Dance Party, featuring The Derailers
7–10pm • Antone’s, 213 W. 5th St. • Free
Get your two-step on to songs by classic Sun Records artists including Roy Orbison, Elvis, and Jerry Lee Lewis, performed by Austin’s own Derailers.

The Green Door Record Party: Soul Twistin’
10pm–2am • Rio Rita, 1308 E. 6th St. • Free
Vinyl selections by DJs Samantha Wendel (Crooked Bangs) and Cody Leitholt (Crisis Hotlines).

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Shoutouts: Amber Demure, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events

The Week in Cool: May 31 - June 4


Thursday, May 31
Lumineers In-Store Performance
5pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free Shiner.

Learning Secrets w/ Baio
10pm–2am • The Belmont, 305 W. 6th St. • Free
Free show, plus a free Sailor Jerry Rum drink for the first 100 people with the SceneTap iPhone app.


Friday, June 1
Friday Happy Hour with My Fit Foods
4pm • Prize, 202 Colorado St. • Free
Summer wines & beers sponsored by Glazer’s.

Phoebe Hunt In-Store Performance
5pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free Shiner.

Luxe Loves Local
5–7pm • Luxe Apothetique, 201 West 2nd St. • Free
Champagne cocktails, treats, and giveaways.

Rhett Miller In-Store Performance
6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free Shiner.

Movies in the Park: Jurassic Park
8:30pm • Republic Square Park, 5th and Guadalupe • Free

UV Vodka Ladies Night
9pm • Haven, 409-B Colorado St. • Free
Free pink Haven cup to ladies who arrive before 11pm, and free UV Vodka drinks before 1am.


Saturday, June 2
Open Casting Call for “Machete Kills”
10am–6pm • Austin Studios, 1901 E. 51st St. • Free
Here’s a chance to realize your lifelong dream of working alongside Danny Trejo. No experience necessary.

2ND Street Soundcheck
1–7pm • 2nd Street between Colorado and San Antonio • Free
Performances by Polica, Rogue Wave, Alpha Rev, Ponderosa, Seryn and Cowboy & Indian at a festival celebrating local businesses, restaurants and nonprofits.

Friday Night Lights Outdoor Screening        **Party of the Week**
6:30–10pm • Hotel San Jose, 1316 S. Congress Ave. • Free
Free screening of the pilot and finale of Friday Night Lights with the cast and crew in attendance, plus music by Alicia Witt, Tigerbone, and Cowboy and Indian. Food and drinks from Cornucopia Popcorn, Blue Bell, and Sweet Leaf Tea.

QueerBomb 2012
7–10pm • Pine Street Station, 1101 E. 5th at Waller • Free
Rally, procession and afterparty with DJs, drinks and dancing in celebration of Austin’s LGBTQIA community.


Sunday, June 3
Capital Techno Presents Summer Jam 2012
1–9pm • Emma Long Park, 1600 City Park Road • Free entry, but parking is $5/car
All-day party on the shore of Lake Austin featuring a marathon of house and techno tunes. BYOB and food to throw on the grill if you are so inclined.

Groovy Sunday at South Austin Brewing
3–7pm • South Austin Brewing, 415 E. Saint Elmo Rd., Ste. 1D • Free
Drink beer and watch performances by the Saint Elmo Trio and Patrick’s Beard & the Rusty Razors. The Belgian Waffle Company will be selling waffles.

The Green Door Record Party: Women Who Rock Edition
10pm–2am • Rio Rita, 1308 E. 6th St. • Free
DJs Leslie Cottrill and Sala Suber join Scotty Upton for a night of eclectic vinyl rock ‘n’ roll records featuring 60s garage, fuzz, psych, proto punk, 70s glam, folk, heavy, punk and other selections.


Monday, June 4
International Food and Beverage Society Presents: Meat and Greet
8pm • Volstead Lounge at Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • Free
Free BBQ — an island-style whole roasted goat, to be exact — and specials on Mt. Gay Rum. Tunes by DJ Orion.


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Shoutouts: Amber Demure, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events

SXSW RSVP Roundup 2012: Free Drinks Edition, Part 2

It’s not too late! Here is the RSVP info for 22 more SXSW parties with free booze, plus 12 other shows we think are worth going to. As with the first batch of RSVPs (31 parties), all of these are free and open to those without badges or wristbands. Keep an eye on the CoolinAustin Twitter feed for even more party updates from now through festival week. Home stretch!


Multiple Days
PureVolume House
Sun. 3/11–Sat. 3/17 • Various times • 2nd and Trinity Street
Open bar + music — check the website for details throughout the festival.

Hype Machine’s Hype Hotel
Tue. 3/13–Sat. 3/17 • Various times • 504 Trinity St.
Free Tito’s Vodka, Miller Lite, and Taco Bell, plus a pretty ridiculous lineup. (If you’d prefer not to RSVP through Facebook, click the “Enter the slow way” link to type in your info.)

Core Power Day Party
Thu. 3/15–Fri. 3/16 • Noon–5:30pm • Skinny’s Ballroom, 115 San Jacinto St.
Free drinks, food, and music.

MidCoast Takeover
Fri. 3/16–Sat. 3/17 • Noon–Midnight • Shangri La, 1016 E. 6th St.
Free beer from Boulevard Brewery.
 
Starving Artist Showcase
Fri. 3/16 & Sat. 3/17 • 8pm–2am • Peckerheads, 402 E. 6th St.
Free music, beer and food.
 

Wednesday, March 7
Gabrieldoes Presents: South by Southeast
6–10pm • CTC Garden, 1102 E Cesar Chavez St.
Free booze (Hops & Grain beer, Republic Tequila, 360 Vodka), prizes, swag, massages, and desserts; food at a discounted price; music by Driver Friendly, The Please Please Me, Atlas Maior, Garrett T. Capps, and Bud Cahill.


Friday, March 9
TaskRabbit Park Kickoff Backyard BBQ
4:30–8:30pm • 307 E. 2nd St.
Free Franklin BBQ + beer.


Sunday, March 11
Glomper Recharge Hangover Party
3–7pm • Launch787, 606 E. 3rd St.
Free cocktails by Treaty Oak Distilling and kebabs by Verts.

Fluent Party Rock
7–11pm • Maria Maria Cantina, 415 Colorado St.
Open bar + cupcakes by Hey Cupcake! RSVP email


Monday, March 12
Thrillist Presents: Rocktails
10pm–2am • Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces St.
Free drinks, live band karaoke hosted by Asher Roth, and music by Hood Internet, Brenton Duvall, and Valida.


Tuesday, March 13
Jansport Bonfire
1–6pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St.
Free drinks, snacks and giveaways. Music by White Denim, Strange Boys, Bear Hands, and Fly Golden Eagle.

DMX Party featuring Pandora for Business
2–6pm • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St.
Free drinks, contests and live screen printing. To RSVP, text DMXRSVP to 70626


Wednesday, March 14
Goodnight Records Day Party
Noon–5:30pm • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St.
Free beer + music by …Trail of Dead and others.

The Portland Party
Noon–2am • The Grackle, 1700 E. 6th St.
Free bloody marys and coffee from noon–1pm. Free beer from 6–7pm. Music all day.

BAMM.tv SXSW Riverboat Music Showcase
12:30–3pm and 3–5:30pm • Lonestar Riverboat Dock, 50 S 1st Street (behind the Hyatt)
Free Laguinitas Brewing Company beer and snacks + live music. Benefits Blue Dog Rescue.

Eventbrite Arcade Party
1:30–6pm • Side Bar, 604 E 7th St.
Free drinks, food, music and arcade games.


Thursday, March 15
Bloody Mary Morning
10am–Noon • ACL Live at Moody Theater, 310 W. 2nd St.
Bloody Marys by Tito’s Vodka; tacos by Tacodeli; music by Ben Kweller and others.

Relix / Creative Allies SXSW Party
Noon–5:30pm • Maggie Mae’s, 323 E. 6th St.
Free BBQ & booze.

BlackBird Records + SPACE Showcase
8pm–2am • Tap Room @ Six Lounge, 311 Colorado St.
Hosted bar.


Friday, March 16
SpokesBUZZ Showcase
11am–6pm • 512 Bar, 408 E. Sixth St.
Free beer.

Rhapsody Rocks Austin 2012
Noon–6pm • Club De Ville, 900 Red River
Free Red Stripe & Guinness; solid lineup.

Greetings From … Noise Pop
Noon–6pm • Red Eyed Fly, 715 Red River St.
Sponsored by Wente Vineyards.



Best of the Rest: No (Confirmed) Open Bars, but Pretty Damn Cool Anyway
Girl+Guy Party SXSW 2012
Sat. 3/10 • 6pm–Midnight • Stubb’s, 801 Red River
Music by Quiet Company, The Tontons, UME, Wild Moccasins, Dave Wrangler, and The Kingston Springs.

Art Disaster No. 14
Tue. 3/13 • 8pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St.
Music by Boy + Kite, The White White Lights, Cotton Mather, White Mystery, and others. Skip the line with free VIP back-alley entrance by Liking Bleach’s Facebook page.

Consequence of Sound’s COSIGNS, Presented by Knuckle Rumbler and Forecastle Festival
Wed. 3/14 • 11:30am–6pm • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St.
Music by Cloud Nothings, Titus Andronicus, and others.
 
Party Ends Showcase
Wed. 3/14 • 1–10pm • The Highball, 1120 S. Lamar
Featuring music by Astronautalis, Bleubird, Nervous Curtains, and Tiger Waves. Sponsored by Brooklyn Brewery.
 
Sony Electronics + ‘Stache Media SXSW Showcase
Wed. 3/14 • 7:45pm–2am • Red 7, 611 East 7th Street
Music by Eve 6, Say Anything, and others.

GigaCrate SXSW Party
Wed. 3/14 • 8:30pm–2am • Beso Cantina, 307 W. 5th St.
Music by Flosstradamus, Tittsworth, Eh Team and more.

Sonicbids Official SXSW party
Thu. 3/15 • 11:30am–5:30pm • Maggie Mae’s, 323 E. 6th St.
Music by ANR, Clock Opera, and others.   
 
Playing in Traffic Records SXSW Day Party
Thu. 3/15 • Noon–5pm • Whole Foods Rooftop, 6th and Lamar
Music by Speak, Hudson Moore, The Dunwells, and Michelle Armstrong. Sponsored by Thirsty Planet Brewing Co. and Barefoot Wine & Bubbly.

MWTX Party
Thu. 3/15–Sat. 3/17 • Noon–6pm • East Side Drive-In, 1100 E. 5th St.
Killer lineup!
 
Polyvinyl Showcase
Thu. 3/15 • 8pm–2am • Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside
Featuring Of Montreal, Deerhoof, Japandroids, and others.

Scion Presents: Fools Gold Austin Party
Thu. 3/15 • 8pm–2am • Beauty Ballroom, 2015 E. Riverside
Featuring A-TRAK, Flosstradamus, and others.
 
Workaholics House Party
Fri. 3/16 • 1pm–2am • Icenhauer’s, 83 Rainey Street
Let’s get weird! Music by Reptar (total Tommy move!), Youngblood Hawke, Party Supplies, Action Bronson, Freddie Gibbs, Cool Kids, Statik Selektah, Trash Talk and Wavves — with a special performance by the gangsta-rapping wizards themselves.



Photo by Jared Polin (via Flickr)

First Impressions: Brew Exchange

It’s been a bit of a roller coaster ride recently for West Sixth Street. Katz’s Deli and Momo’s closed; 219 West moved in as Union Park packed up and relocated to The Domain, and this Thursday, Brew Exchange will open in the old Annie’s West.

The Brew Exchange concept is simple enough: drinker demand sets the price of the beers. Everyone is ordering Great Divide Espresso Oak-Aged Yeti? The price climbs. No one is ordering Thirsty Planet Buckethead IPA? The price drops. (Based off that, this probably won’t be the cheapest place in town to get a Lone Star.)

We stopped by for the soft opening on Sunday. Though the ticker wasn’t running yet — which was fine since the beer was free — we were able to get a first glimpse at the newest addition to West Sixth Street.

The Good
  • The bartenders: The bartenders we interacted with were attentive and totally knowledgeable about all the beers on tap. When we asked for suggestions, they delivered deep cuts from the menu and never appeared to be annoyed at our carefree/it’s-all-good-to-me approach to ordering beer. Perhaps most importantly, even with a big crowd to deal with, the bartenders never made anyone in our group feel ignored.
  • Private viewing: There are three booths facing TVs that are available for reservation. These tables are topped with what appears to be a light but what is actually a clear plastic dome housing several speakers. It’s not exactly hypersonic sound cool, but it’s a sweet (and probably much more affordable) solution that allows for each table to hear what’s on the TV in front of them.
  • What’s on tap: Brew Exchange offers an impressive beer selection. We’re not talking about the best selection in town, but even the snobbiest of beer aficionados should be able to find something on tap that will please. We found plenty of beers not typically stocked at bars and enjoyed everything we tried.
  • The layout: The bar is shaped nicely and winds down the length of the room. This makes it easy to access from anywhere in the bar and allows for plenty of places to squeeze in to place an order.
  • The look: The interior is masculine but not douchey. The color palette seems inspired by the muted metallic colors of the brews behind the bar with a mix of wood, cooper and dark subway tiles.
  • Bathrooms: As you’d expect from a brand new higher-end bar, the bathrooms were clean.

The Not So Good

  • The ticker: The ticker wasn’t running at the soft opening, which kept us from seeing the fluctuating prices in action, but the management says everything is in order for the Thursday opening. Word is prices can dip as low as $2 for a beer. We’re anxious to see if that really happens.
  • Seating: There’s not much in the way of seating for groups. That’s not a deal breaker, but if you’re looking for a place to sit and chat over a pint, this may not be the ideal location. 
  • It’s West Sixth Street: To be fair, the block isn’t exactly our scene, but Brew Exchange and 219 West could change that. Brew Exchange is actually a cool bar, and with 219 West’s wondrous happy hour within walking distance, we may need to reconsider our position on things west of Congress Avenue.

The Bad

  • Give me a hand: Though the bathrooms look immaculate, there’s no good spot to place your beer while you’re using the facilities. This is a minor gripe, but for guys who like to walk around with a pint in their hand, going No. 1 turns into a bit of a juggling act if there’s not a shelf or ledge above the urinal.

The Verdict
We were worried Brew Exchange would be too bro-y for our taste, but the crowd seemed more chill than the ones we’ve encountered at Kung Fu Saloon (same owners). Not once did a bumped shoulder escalate into a bro-down, and no dudes in tight polo shirts popped up to randomly grind on any females around us.

The concept is fun and seems to lend itself well to a more mature drinking game — one based on exploring new brews as opposed to duct taping a pair of 40-ouncers to your hands. We’ll be curious to see how the fluctuating drink prices, which don’t apply to mixed drinks for the time being, work out. We’ll find out this week. Brew Exchange’s “opening bell” is scheduled for Thursday at 7 p.m.

www.brewexchange.com
Twitter: @72Beers
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/brewexchange

—Eric Pulsifer and Whitney Diehl

ACL Weekend Events: Sept. 15-18



Whether you want to enhance your ACL experience or avoid the fest altogether, here are some events that will let you keep your party going and cost little or nothing to attend.

Thursday, Sept. 15
Grand Opening of Prize
5–8pm • Prize, 202 Colorado St. • Free, RSVP required
Complimentary cocktails and sushi. RSVP by emailing info@prizeaustin.com

LePA Grand Re-Opening Cocktail Party
7–10pm • LePA Skincare, 2520 Longview St. #314 • Free
Complimentary wine, hors d’oeuvres, treats, and giveaways.

Art Disaster 15
8pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th Street • $3 RSVP / $5 Door
Eight bands and three DJs on two stages: Crooks, Wild Child, SORNE, The White White Lights, Schmillion, Boyfrndz, Sleep Good, Sundress; DJ sets by Thick as Thieves and DJ Orion; Miller Lite drink specials all night.

Free ACL Kick Off Show at The Parish
9pm–2am • The Parish, 214 East 6th Street • Free
Free show with performances by Eyes Burn Electric, Electric Touch, The Canvas Waiting, Bk and Mr E.

The Soapbox Spellbinders Live at Red Eyed Fly
11:30pm–2am • Red Eyed Fly, 715 Red River • $5
Full disclosure: These guys are friends of ours. But we’ll be damned if Tristan Shinnick is not the best guitarist in Austin right now. Prove us wrong.


Friday, Sept. 16
Deep Eddy Vodka Garden (Event of the Week)
11am-Midnight; Friday, Saturday, Sunday • 1707 Barton Springs Rd. • Free, RSVP required
This one is not to be missed – a three-day, all-day party with free cocktails, snacks, live music, and god knows what else. For now, all you have to do is Like the Deep Eddy page on Facebook and you’re on the list. We’ll update with more details as they become available.

On the WAYCL
Time TBD; Friday, Saturday, Sunday • 1800 Barton Springs • Free
Free shows all weekend long, including: FM Campers, Knifight, The Nouns, Bali Yaaah (Friday); Diagonals, Kay Leotard, Sleep Good, Night Viking (Saturday); Shakey Graves, Holy Wave, The Act Rights, Zoltars (Sunday) — plus several others.

GAYCL: The Independent Alternative
6pm–Midnight • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 East 6th St. • Free; donations welcome
Free show with performances by Follow That Bird, Rickey Jean Francois, Boy Friend, Kay Leotard, Agent Ribbons, and The Great Aware. All proceeds benefit Equality Texas.

Peligrosa with Chief Boima
9pm • Scoot Inn, 1308 East 4th St. • $5
Even more dance party goodness.

Disco Dive Party ACL Edition
10pm–2am • Dive Bar & Lounge, 11th and Guadalupe • Free
DJs Czech One and Zack Highwire playing Indie Rock/Pop, 80’s, Old School Hip Hop, R&B, Nu Wave.

80s Dance Party at The Highball
11pm–2am • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar • Free
A free 80s party for those who didn’t get their fill of dancing on ACL Day 1.


Saturday, Sept. 17
Shiner Biergarten
10am–3pm, Saturday and Sunday • Flipnotics parking lot, Barton Springs Road @ Kinney • Free
Live music, $2 Shiners, and a chill place to hang out when you need a break from the fest.

Ditch the Fest Fest 2
2pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, Red 7, Beauty Bar, Scoot Inn & Club De Ville • $2 at each venue or $5 for a wristband to get into all venues
Ridiculous amount of bands for ridiculously little money. Free Shiner Bock (while it lasts). Video games, black light painting, performance art, photobooth, screen printing… is this real life?!

Echotone Remix: A Louder Fight for a Louder Night
9pm–2am • The ND at 501 Studios, East 5th and Brushy St. • Free
Three teams of DJs and VJs remix footage and music from the film on a 25-foot screen. Featuring: DJ Orion, 4th Wall, Manolo Black, Jay Smith, and Kid Slyce

Learning Secrets and Silverton Partners Present: Metro Area
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 East 7th St. • $5 RSVP / $8 Door
Dance party with Metro Area DJ set; performances by Indian Jewelry and Rickey Jean Francois; photo booth

Karaoke Underground Post-ACL Party
10pm–2am • Dive Bar & Lounge, 1703 Guadalupe St. • Free
Free karaoke night with more than 500 punk and indie classics to choose from


Photo by Kevin H. (Flickr)

The Week Ahead: Sept. 7-11

Hooray, UT won its first game of the season! I feel so full of… What’s the opposite of shame? Less shame! Let’s celebrate!

Wednesday, Sept. 7
Free Wine Tasting
4-7pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free tasting of Steele and Shooting Star wines.

Palm Door Open House
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine Street • Free; RSVP required
Free food and drinks by Pink Avocado, cupcakes by PolkaDots.

Nerd Nite
7:30–10pm • 29th Street Ballroom at Spider House • Free
Have some free drinks and swag from Google Places and listen to talks about Cambodian shadow puppetry, NYT crossword puzzles, and super-weapons of the future.


Thursday, Sept. 8
Stylelist presents Fashion’s Night Out at Saks
6–9pm • Saks Fifth Avenue, 9722 Great Hills Trail • Free
Complimentary margaritas, music, makeup applications, and sweet treats.

A Night of Rock at Frank
9:30pm–1am • Frank • $6
Music by Leatherbag / The Soapbox Spellbinders / Ethan Kennedy

Shuffle Shuffle with Neiliyo
10pm–1am • Malverde, 400-B W. 2nd St. (upstairs) • Free
Free show with Austin’s favorite electro-funk superstar doing his thing on the balcony.


Friday, Sept. 9
Underwear’s 7-Year Anniversary Party
5–8pm • Underwear, 916-B West 12th Street • Free
Cocktails, treats from Sweet Pop Shop and raffle prizes.

Share the Artist’s Grand Re-Opening
7–9pm • Soma Vida Work / Life Balance & Wellness Center, 1210 Rosewood Drive • Free; RSVP requested
Complimentary appetizers and drinks.

Pure Filth Magazine Release Party
9:30pm–2am • Beauty Bar Austin, 617 E. 7th Street • $5
Specialty drinks; music by Shunda K of Yo Majesty, DJ IWannaBeHer and John Gomi; photos by Chris Martin of Studio MadGods.

Ready, Set, Go! ND’s Re-Launch Celebration
10pm–2am • The ND, East 5th and Brushy St. • $7
Music by L.A.X, Pong, MoTel Aviv, Total Unicorn, and DJ Orion. Food by Tamale Molly. Part of a weekend of parties — for more info, click the link


Saturday, Sept. 10
Tailgating: UT vs. BYU — Game time: 6pm
There are several friendly tailgaters around campus who welcome visitors. Royal’s Lounge (in the park at 15th and Trinity St.) is continuing its tradition of offering complimentary beverages and grub in exchange for suggested charitable donations. Right next door, Longhorn Tailgaters is another longtime tailgating community that just might set you up with a beer and a catered meal if you donate to a local Austin charity. Bevo Boulevard (18th St. between Brazos and San Jac) is another perennial staple with live music and giveaways from various vendors. And of course you can always just pick up a 12-pack and wander around making new friends. Hook ’Em!


Sunday, Sept. 11
Fun Fun Fun Fest Water Olympics
12-6pm • Fiesta Gardens, 2100 Jesse E. Segovia St. • Free
Compete in canoe jousting, paddleboard freestyle, tug-of-war across the lake, and other crazy events to win FFF tix.

Octotea 16 Kickoff Event: The Second Annual Great Wig-Off
4–7pm • John Girard Salon, 800 West 3rd Street, Suite # 1308
Complimentary Deep Eddy Vodka Cocktails, passed appetizers, and door prize drawings for those who wear a wig.

Free Alamo Rolling Roadshow: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Gates at 7:30pm, movie at 9pm • San Jacinto between Fifth and Sixth Streets • $5 suggested donation
Watch the quintessential 80s comedy on the Drafthouse’s 40-foot inflatable screen. Proceeds benefit the 6ixth Street Austin Association. Bring a lawn chair!  


Muchos gracias to Jeremiah at Partay Peeps for leads on several of these events.

Photo by dj @ oxherder arts (Flickr)

The Week Ahead: Aug. 30 - Sept. 4

We’ve finally cracked the record for most 100+ degree days (suck it, 1925!), but in the immortal words of James Murphy, “If you’re worried about the weather, then you picked the wrong place to stay.” With that in mind, let’s go have some drinks.


Tuesday, Aug. 30
New Belgium 1554 Promo at The Draughthouse
5pm • The Draughthouse, 4112 Medical Pkwy
Free BBQ, ice cream, cheese pairings, live music and globe glasses free w/ beer

Free Beer Tuesday @ I Luv Video
5pm • I Luv Video, 4803 Airport Blvd.
Free beer. On a Tuesday.

Furnish 123 Back to School Bash
6–8pm • Furnish 123 Austin, 6601 Burnet Road • RSVP required
Free champagne, baked goods & @cornucopiapops popcorn.


Wednesday, Aug. 31
Wine Down Wednesday
5pm • The Front Porch at ACL Live, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Free wine tastings from Clos du Bois, food sampling by Malaga Tapas & Bar, music by Tje Austin.

Tamale Molly Grand Opening Celebration
7pm–Midnight • The North Door, 501 I-35
Complimentary food and beer while it lasts, with music by Hobo D.


Thursday, Sept. 1
Loft Kickoff Party
6–9pm • Bass Concert Hall, 2350 Robert Dedman Drive
Celebrate the grand opening of The Loft at Bass Concert Hall with free screen-printed T-shirts from Sanctuary Printshop; sandwiches from Jalopy Rotisserie & Press; cupcakes and cake balls made by Sweet Treats by Megan; Cornucopia popcorn; and Sweet Leaf Tea — plus a DJ and a photo booth. (Crazy!)


Saturday, Sept. 3
Grey Goose Vodka Tasting
6–8pm • Barton Creek Resort and Spa, 8212 Barton Club Drive
Complimentary Grey Goose L’Orange Summer Tea.

The Dope Mix
8:30pm–2am • Club de Ville, 900 Red River
Hip-hop & rock show with a keg of free beer, while it lasts.


Plus: A bonus RSVP event for next week…

Wednesday, Sept. 7
Palm Door Open House
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine Street • RSVP required
Free food and drinks by Pink Avocado, cupcakes by PolkaDots


Photo by Lori Greig (Flickr)