CoolinAustin

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)

The Week Ahead: Aug. 15-21

Fly, my pretties, fly — to get some free stuff at these awesome events!

Monday, Aug. 15
CineMondays: “Camp Nowhere”
10pm • 29th Street Ballroom at Spider House, 2906 Fruth Street
Free movie night presented by I Luv Video, with cheap drinks and $1 pizza slices.

Tuesday, Aug. 16
Austin Chronicle presents: Paper Cuts
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401-A Sabine Street • RSVP for priority entry
Free food & drinks from Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Opal Divines, and Dos Equis, with music by The Sour Notes.

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

Bourbon Talk
7pm • Trifecta on 3rd - 360 Nueces St. • RSVP required
Free tastings of Garrison Brother’s Bourbon

Wednesday, Aug. 17
Wine Down Wednesdays at ACL Live
5–7pm • The Front Porch at ACL Live, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Free wine tastings from Clos du Bois, food sampling by Imperia, music by The Trishas

Kenichi’s 10th Anniversary Party
10pm–1am • Kenichi, 419 Colorado Street • RSVP required
Free UV Vodka, Red Bull drink specials & “many other surprises”

Thursday, Aug. 18
Lamberts’ El Patio Party
6–8pm • Lamberts Downtown Barbecue, 401 West 2nd St.
Free tacos, specialty cocktails, DJ set by Adrian Quesada of @OcoteSoulSounds

Shinerhösen: A Neighborhood “Bock” Party
7–11pm • Birds Barbershop, 1902 South Congress Avenue
Free Shiner, koozies, Shiner-flavored Amy’s Ice Cream, Alison Narro photo booth, oompah band, and other festivities

Friday, Aug. 19
Grey Goose Vodka Outdoor Tasting
6–8pm • Intercontinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel, 701 Congress Avenue
Complimentary Grey Goose L’Orange Summer Tea

Carter Beckworth CD Release Party
11pm–12:30am • Saxon Pub, 1320 South Lamar • $10 cover
Cover gets you free Rex Goliath Wine and free Ropollo’s Pizza

Saturday, Aug. 20
Fight for Your Right to Parody with Lamebook.com
6pm–2am • Shangri-La, 1016 E 6th St. • $5 suggested donation
Free beer, DJ sets from Flying Turns’ DJG, Iron Mike and BINK

Back to the 80s Costume Party
9pm • Nomad Bar, 1213 Corona Drive
Drink specials for anyone who dresses in an 80s costume. Live music from 80s rock tribute band Crotch Rock It.

Photo by Dan Pancamo (flickr)

The Week Ahead: May 10–15

Now that last week’s freak cold front is behind us, we’re ready to proclaim that summer is here. Now get out there and enjoy it!

Tuesday, 5/10
The Wagoneers In-Store Show
5pm • Waterloo Records, 6th & Lamar • Free
Free music and Shiner.

Free Beer at I Luv Video
5pm • I Luv Video, 4803 Airport Blvd. • Free
Self-explanatory…

Wednesday, 5/11
Free Wine Tasting at Cool River Café
5–6:30pm • Cool River Café, 4001 W. Parmer Lane • Free
Complimentary appetizers and wine from Alexander Valley Vineyards. You can also buy a glass or bottle for half price.

Wine Down Wednesdays
5–7pm • ACL Live at the Moody Theatre, 310 W. Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Free show with music by Cindy Cashdollar, Bill Kirchin & Sarah Brown. Food samples by Cantina Laredo.

Movies in the Park: The Hudsucker Proxy
Dusk • Republic Square Park • Free
“You know… for kids!”

Dive Bar Grand Opening Party
5pm–2am • Dive Bar and Lounge, 1703 Guadalupe • Free
Free food from Along Came a Slider, free Dive Bar merch. DJ Czech One spinning rare vinyl all night.

Thursday, 5/12
Vagina: The Zine Launch Party
8pm–Midnight • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 East 6th Street • Free
Free cupcakes, live music, giveaways, and a photo booth.

Jose Cuervo Subterraneo Party
10pm–1am • Copper Tank, 504 Trinity St. (aka the Pure Volume House venue) • Free w/ RSVP
Free cocktails and music from DJ Prepmode. RSVP is required.

Friday, 5/13
Austin Bat Cave CD Release Party & Benefit Show
9pm–2am • Mohawk, 10th and Red River • Suggested donation of $5-$10
Live music by Sunset, Focus Group, Western Ghost House, Crooks, and Comanche Club. All proceeds will go to creative writing programs at the Austin Bat Cave.

Saturday, 5/14
Black Sheep Lodge 2nd Birthday Bash
2-5pm • Black Sheep Lodge, 2108 S. Lamar • Free w/ RSVP
RSVP for complimentary beer while it lasts. Plus: crawfish boil, spiked watermelon, drink specials. Music by More Cowbell and Whiskey Shivers.

Crawfish Boil at Gibson
2pm–2am • Gibson Bar, 1109 South Lamar Blvd. • Free
Adult slip-n-slide party, with drink specials and $15 all-you-can-eat crawfish.

Yellow Bike Project’s 14th Birthday Party
4pm–Midnight • 1216 Webberville Rd. • Free
Real Ale beer, Rudy’s BBQ, live music and dancing. 50 free kids’ bikes for the first 50 kids. Music by Hex Dispensers, Mole People, Bike Problems, the Vommettes, and Cominatcha.

Unite: Gay Wedding Themed Launch Party
8pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E. Sixth St. • Free
Free Tito’s Vodka drinks for the first 100 people. Music by Diving and DJs Jorge Peña and Colin Bass.

Sunday, 5/15
Do512 Presents: Honky Tonk Brunch
Noon–4pm • Momo’s, 618 W 6th St. • $3 w/ RSVP, $5 without
Complimentary Deep Eddy Bloody Marys and Deep Lemonades while they last. $10 brunch catered by Hoover’s (worrrth it!). Music by Lucas Hudgins and The Beaumonts.

Room Service Vintage 30th Anniversary Skate Party
8-11pm • Playland Skate Center, 8822 McCann Drive • Free
Free skating party with cake and giveaways. Passes available all week at Room Service Vintage,
107 E. North Loop Blvd.

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The Week Ahead: December 7-12
Get into the holiday spirit(s) with our list of free happenings this week.

Tuesday, Dec. 7
Twelve Days of Christmas Holiday Celebration
5-8pm • Free
Complimentary cocktails and treats.
Stella Says Go, 500 N. Lamar Blvd.

Austin Events 2011 Kickoff Party
6-9pm • Free (Update: RSVPs are now closed.)
Free vodka, beer, cupcakes, candy and prizes.
The Vortex, 2307 Manor Road

Wednesday, Dec. 8
Better Bites Holiday Fair
4-8pm • Free
Free food samples from local establishments
City Hall, 301 W. 2nd St.

24 Diner’s First Anniversary Party
5-9pm • Free
Free food, music, beer and cocktails
24 Diner, West 6th and Lamar

Austin Post Holiday Bash
6-8pm • Free
Free food sponsored by Frank, Cornucopia and The Chocolate Cup, and free drinks for the first 50 guests with RSVPs. Photo booth by Cory Ryan. Donations of canned foods for the Capital Area Food Bank are encouraged.
Gibson Bar, 1109 South Lamar Boulevard

Sailor Jerry Rum Presents: Bad Sports, Shapes have Fangs, and Rayon Beach
8pm • Free (RSVP is required)
Free rum and live music.
Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St.

Thursday, Dec. 9
SoCo Holiday Block Party
5-9pm • Free
Several South Congress businesses will provide free drinks, food and discounts:
y&i clothing boutique – Champagne & dessert plus 15% off merchandise
Storyville – Wine & cheese plus 15% off merchandise
Parts & Labour – Gift wrapping for anything purchased on the street (donations go to Austin Pets Alive)
Goodie Two Shoes – Tamales & Tecates plus 15% off merchandise
Doc’s Motorworks - $2.50 Texas drafts with a receipt from one of the stores in the block party
1109-1123 South Congress Avenue

Objects of Confection Grand Opening Party
6-9pm • Free
Free champagne and cake balls
Community Renaissance Market, 6800 West Gate Blvd, Ste. 120

Celluloid Salon, featuring The Octopus Project
7pm • Free (RSVP is required)
Complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres courtesy of Drambuie. The Octopus Project will provide a live DJ score for four silent films.
The ND @ 501 Studios, 501 I-35

Do512 and Ambhar Tequila Holiday Cocktail Party
7-9pm • Free (RSVP is Required)
Free selection of three specialty cocktails by Ambhar Tequila. Complimentary hors d ‘oeuvres courtesy of Takoba. Music by Saints of Valory.
Takoba, 1411 East 7th Street

MOSS Designer Consignment Grand Opening
7-9pm • Free
Free cocktails, wine and champagne from King Liquor, Tito’s Vodka and Waialua Soda Works.
MOSS Designer Consignment, 705-B South Lamar

Study Breaks Issue Release Party
9:30pm • Free (RSVP is Required)
Free drinks from Enchanted Rock Vodka.
District 301, 301 W. 6th St.

Killer Thursday @ Piranha Killer Sushi
11pm-midnight • Free
Free sushi. Drink specials until 2am. Music by DJ uLOVEi.
Piranha Killer Sushi, 207 San Jacinto Blvd. #202

Friday, Dec. 10
Black Star Co-op Grand Opening, First Tap, and Party
6pm-midnight • Free (RSVP requested)
Black Star Co-Op celebrates its grand opening with the first tapping of its house beers. Live music, free cider and other festivities.
Black Star Co-op Pub & Brewery, 7020 Easy Wind Drive, Suite 100

Tombstone Union “BeLieved” Album Release Party
9pm • Free
Free beer and $1 off Jack Daniels, plus some Jack swag. In addition to Tombstone Union, the lineup includes Stonedakota and Dead Earth Politics.
Dirty Dog Bar, 505 E. 6th St.

Housewives Delight
9pm-2am • Free
Complimentary Fris Vodka from 9pm until it runs out. Music by DJs Blend*E, Cilly C, J.A.M.O.N. and others.
Canvas Bar & Gallery, 105 East 5th Street

Fun Fun Fun Appreciation Party
10pm-2am • Free
Free drinks while they last, karaoke, giveaways and a DJ set by Fun Fun Fun Fest founder Graham Williams.
Red 7, 611 East 7th Street

Karaoke Salvation at The Highball
10:30pm • Free
Free karaoke on the Highball’s main stage, enhanced by strobes and lasers
The Highball, 1120 S. Lamar Blvd.

Saturday, Dec. 11
Bijou Festivus Show
7-10pm • Free
Free beer and snacks. The show includes art, accessories and crafts, and celebrates the release of the Bijou Studio 2011 Calendar, featuring photos by Alison Narro.
Bijou Studio, 1618 East 6th St. (above Liberty)

SantaCon: A Santa Bar Crawl
7pm-2am • Free
Put on a Santa suit and join a bar crawl with dozens of other liquored-up Saint Nicks. The starting location will be announced Friday evening. Donations of clothing will be accepted for Front Steps, a local nonprofit that benefits the homeless.

Austin Variety Show Premiere Party
11pm-1am • Free
Free food from Freddie’s Place and cheap booze at a screening of a new episode of Austin Variety Show. (Recurring event each Saturday in December).
Crow Bar, 3116 S. Congress

80s Dance Party at The Highball
11pm • Free
The event name says it all: The Action Pack hosts an 80s music video dance party at The Highball. Feel free to dress up in 80s gear.
The Highball, 1120 S. Lamar Blvd.

LaLa Land of 1,000 Dances
11:30pm-4am • Free
Free beer at a dance party featuring an all-vinyl mix of soul and 60s garage.
Baby Blue Studios, 1522 E. 12th St.

Sunday, Dec. 12
Molotov’s Service Industry & Friends BBQ
2-10pm • Free
Complimentary Corona and Sailor Jerry and free food from the grill on Moltov’s rooftop patio.
Molotov, 719 West 6th St.

The Liberty’s Annual Chili Cook-Off
3-6pm • Free
Free beer provided by Real Ale at the second-annual chili cook-off. To submit your chili for the contest, email libertychilicookoff@gmail.com – there is a $10 entry fee, which includes a free Liberty apron.
The Liberty, 1618 1/2 E. 6th St.

Barbarella Birthday Bash
10pm-2am • Free
Barbarella celebrates its birthday with free T-shirts and mix CDs, and of course a spirited dance party. $1 PBRs until 11.
Barbarella, 615 Red River St.

Shout out to Jeremiah at Partay Peeps, Amber, FreeEatsATX and other folks who provided event tips. If you dig these listings, make sure to Like us on Facebook and follow @coolinaustin on Twitter for even more updates.

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Cool This Weekend: December 3–5
The lowdown on the best free and cheap fun to be had this weekend.

FRIDAY
Austin Bleet-Up
7:30pm • $7 cover (RSVP)
Beer from Live Oak Brewery (while it lasts), sandwiches, coffee and other goodness. Music by Motel Aviv, Politics, The Lennings, et al.
Whole Foods rooftop terrace, 6th and Lamar

South Austin Gallery Opening: Benefit for Keep Austin Beautiful
7-10pm • Free
Free sandwiches from Grill Haven trailer and cocktails from Balcones Distillery. Music from DJ Aaron Montez. Photo booth.
507 W. Mary St.

101X Homegrown Live Free Show: The Lemurs and Royal Forest
Doors at 8, music at 9:30 • No cover
Local bands. A portion of the bar sales will go to The Ronald McDonald House.
Lucky Lounge

SATURDAY
Independence Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting
1-2pm • Free
Free tour and beer tastings. Bring cash to purchase food and brewery merchandise.
3913 Todd Lane #607

Pink House 4: The Pink House and Stem & Leaf 2010 Wrap-Up Party
2pm-midnight • Free; donations are encouraged
Keg beer sponsored by NXNW Brewery, plus BBQ and other grilled foods. Music from 11 bands.
The Pink House, 2402 E 9th St.

Scamps and Scoundrels: An Urban Dog Challenge – After Party
5-8pm • Free
Drinks sponsored by Tito’s Vodka, Sweet Leaf Tea, Republic Tequila and Uncle Billy’s. Also: Amy’s Ice Cream. The after party is open to the public as well as those who compete in the challenge, which benefits Austin Pets Alive.
Austin Pets Alive, 2807 Manchaca (at Lamar)

Supa Dupa Purple Haze: Official Knuckle Rumbler Big Boi After Party
9pm-2am • $5; $3 w/ RSVP or Big Boi show stub; free with afro (wig or real)
DJs Orion and Prince Klassen spin jams by Jimi Hendrix and Missy Elliot. Photo booth by Annie Ray.
Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th Street (at Navasota)

Speakeasy’s Repeal of Prohibition Celebration
9pm-2am • Free
Free drinks while they last, followed by Dewars specials all night. Dress up 1920s-style (think flappers and fedoras).
Speakeasy, 412 Congress Ave.

90s Music Video Dance Party at The Highball
11pm-2am • Free
The Highball brings back its 90s Dance Party series with a brand new mix of videos.
Highball, 1142 S. Lamar

SUNDAY
Donate & Date Auction
7-9pm • Free with donation of 2 canned goods for the Capital Area Food Bank
Free beer. Key Bar will auction off dates to benefit Heart House of Austin, which receives 100% of the proceeds.
Key Bar, 617 W. 6th Street

The Onion Re-Opening Party
8pm-2am • Free
Free pizza and music to celebrate the opening of The Onion pizzeria’s new location.
One-2-One Bar, 121 E. 5th Street

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