Our next showcase is this Sunday evening at Club DeVille! Some great bands are playing and there will be free beer for those who show up early enough. Click the poster for more details and to RSVP.

Wednesday, May 23
Great Lake Swimmers In-Store Performance
5pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free beer from Shiner.

The Wine Down at ACL Live: Hudson Moore
5–7pm • ACL Live at Moody Theater, 310 W. 2nd St. • Free
Free show with food from Cru.

KVET Free Texas Music Series: Cory Morrow
6:30pm • Nutty Brown Café, 12225 Hwy. 290 West • Free

The Kinks Hoot Night
8pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • $5
A tribute to the music of the Kinks, featuring Cowboy and Indian, Leopold and His Fiction, The Memphis Strange, Dumb, Sideshow Tragedy, and Johnny Coconu.

Free show: Equals, Roger Sellers, Goat of all Texas
8pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E. 6th St. • Free

Step Into the Black Music Series
9pm–12am • Mercury Hall, 615 Cardinal Ln. • Free; RSVP required (now closed)
Free Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum cocktails and performances by The War on Drugs and DJ Rapid Ric.


Thursday, May 24
Mamma Jamma Kick Off Party 2012
6–8pm • GSD&M, 828 W. 6th St. • Free
Free snacks and drinks at a party to kick off fundraising for the annual Mamma Jamma Ride, an event that benefits Texans with breast cancer.

Mohawk Beach Party Series Presents: Braves and Babes
6–9pm • Mohawk, 10th and Red River St. • Free
Beach-themed dance party in honor of Miguel Angel/uLOVEi’s birthday, with Frank hotdogs, cake, candy, drink specials, pools, games, and ticket giveaways.

Austin Social Affair’s Memorial Weekend Kickoff Event
6–10pm • Dogwood, 715 W. 6th St. • $5 donation
Complimentary Stoli cocktails from 6–7pm at a benefit for the Wrapped in Love Foundation.

Hot Glass Cold Beer
7pm • East Side Glass Studio, 507 Calles Street • Free
Glass blowing demonstrations and beer tastings from Hops and Grain.


Friday, May 25
Tortoise & Blonde Launch Party
4–8pm • Eastside Supply Co., 1105 East 6th St. • Free
Free beer, music and Sanctuary Printshop T-shirts (while they last).

Indoor Campout Party and Product Launch for Campsite #5
6–9pm • The WonderCraft, 1601 E. Cesar Chavez • Free
Free beer, food, s’mores and music. Take home free cacti and succulents from Tree-House while supplies last.

Missbehave Boutique’s 3rd Birthday Celebration
6–9pm • Missbehave Boutique, 237 W. 2nd St. • Free
Complimentary champagne, food from Cantina Laredo, manicures and special discounts.

Art Show: Austin Series Vol.2, Brushed Medium
7–10pm • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301 A. Guadalupe St. • Free
Complimentary drinks provided by Deep Eddy Vodka, Circle Brewing Company, Texas Tea & Texas Springs at the opening reception for several local artists.

Free Show: Oh No Oh My / Sunsquabi / The Cartographers / Big Words
8pm–2am • Frontier, 2421 Webberville Rd. • Free
Free vodka drinks from 9-10pm.


Saturday, May 26
Saints of Valory EP Release Show
8pm • The Belmont, 305 W. 6th St. • Free
Free show with Maggie Koerner.

The Good Music Club V
7pm • The ND, East 5th at Brushy St. • Free
Free show with The Boxing Lesson, Good Field, White Dress, and Mr. Lewis & The Funeral Five.

Méduse Jellyfish Lounge Soft Opening Party
9pm–2am • Méduse Jellyfish Lounge, 219 Congress Ave. • Free
We don’t have many details on this one, but suffice it to say the bar has a 350-gallon jellyfish habitat.


Sunday, May 27
CoolinAustin Presents: Megafauna / Airplanes Above Us / Girl Dreams
6–11pm • Club DeVille, 900 Red River St. • $5 donation
Join us on Sunday for an evening showcase featuring three of Austin’s most badass rock bands. In honor of Memorial Day weekend, proceeds from the show will benefit the Texas VFW Foundation, a nonprofit that supports veterans and their families. Doors are at 6pm, and set times are: Girl Dreams at 7pm, Megafauna at 8pm, Airplanes Above Us at 9pm. Stay tuned for more announcements!

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Thursday, May 10
Kendra Scott Trunk Show
5–8pm • Gap Arboretum, 10000 Research Blvd. • Free
Complimentary cocktails from Tito’s Vodka and cupcakes from Hey Cupcake.

Presmer Trunk Show
6–9pm • Estilo Boutique, 234 W. 2nd St. • Free
Complimentary champagne and Delish cupcakes.

Art Over Alzheimer’s
6–9:30 • Platinum Office, 360 Nueces St. #40 • Free
Food, drinks, silent auction of 10 original works, and raffle to support The Alzheimer’s Association.

BASHH (Big Ass Social Happy Hour)
7pm • The Ranch, 710 W 6th St. • Free
Get there early and score some free drink tickets.

Do512 Presents: Wild Child, Sorne
8pm • The Belmont, 305 W. 6th St. • Free w/ RSVP

The Boxing Lesson / Megafauna / Residual Kid
10pm–2am • The ND, 501 N. IH 35 • $6


Friday, May 11
Anders Osborne In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free beer from Shiner.

Melogrand CD Release Party
9pm–2am • Frontier Bar, 2421 Webberville Rd. • Free
Free Skyy Vodka drinks from 9–10pm. Music by Melogrand, End Wave, Wiretree, & Adam Torres.


Saturday, May 12
Thirsty Planet Brewery Tour and Tasting
11am–3pm • Thirsty Planet Brewing Co., 11160 Circle Dr. • Free; RSVP required

Austin Chef Showdown
11:30am–2:30pm • Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St. • Free
Free food from Tacodeli, Kerbey Lane, Hoover’s, Hill’s Café, Tom’s Tabooley, How Do You Roll and lots of others. Music by Best Best Best Friends.

Austin Beerworks’ 1st Anniversary Extravaganzacon
Noon–3pm, 3–6pm • Austin Beerworks, 3009 Industrial Terrace, Suite 150 • Free; RSVP required
Party at the brewery! In addition to the normal lineup, they’ll tap Battle Axe, Sputnik, and Gold Fist, as well as two special anniversary beers. To attend, keep a close eye on the Austin Beerworks Facebook page — they’re releasing 100 tickets to each session every day until Friday.
   
Austin Writes Music Presents: Dive Austin Dive   ***Party of the Week***
9pm–2am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River • $7
Benefit for Austin Pets Alive with music by The Couch, The White White Lights, Little Radar, and Kinky Machine. Complimentary Tito’s Vodka drinks for the first 100 people in the door.


Sunday, May 13
Second Sunday Sock Hop
10pm–2am • Shangri-La, 1016 E. 6th Street • $5
The Mother’s Day edition of the monthly dance party at ‘Shang’ celebrates the ladies of the ’50s and ’60s.


Tuesday, May 15
The Austin Chronicle Presents: Paper Cuts
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission
Free drinks and food from Austin’s Pizza. Music by The Golden Boys. RSVP is required to reserve a spot on the guestlist, but additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.

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Friday, May 4
Serious Whimsy: Paintings by Jeana Baumgardner & Maggie Kleinpeter
7–10pm • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301 A. Guadalupe St. • Free
Complimentary drinks and food, with DJ’ing by Jeff Strange

BacardiPlus Fest
7pm–2am • “The Main” (original Emo’s), 603 Red River • Free; RSVP required
Free Bacardi drinks and music by Big Gigantic, Paper Diamond, GOBI, and Richard Gear. RSVP on Facebook.

Vagina :: The Zine’s Spring Issue Launch Party
8pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E. 6th St. • Free
Free show with music by The Couch, Fellows, and signs.


Saturday, May 5
Live Oak BBQ One Year Anniversary Party
11am–6pm • Live Oak Barbecue, 2713 East 2nd St. • Free beer; food for sale
Crazy meat party with “a mixed assortment of full loins, all kinds of ribs, large steaks, butterflied poultry, sausages as far as the eye can see, and even a few skinned vegetables & tubers for our veg-head friends.” Buy a meat wristband (MEAT WRISTBAND, people!) and get free beer. Food will be ready starting around 2pm.

Tacorama
Noon–3pm • Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St. • Free
Free food, refreshments, music, and activities. Live performances by Southwest Key Ballet Folklorico, Tejano Star AJ Castillo, and the “Cruisin’ Music King” Trampia Guzman. Suggested donation of non-perishable food items for the Capital Area Food Bank.

L Style G Style Cinco de Mayo Issue Release Party
Noon–3pm • Uncle Billy’s on Lake Travis, 6550 Comanche Trail, B-201 • Free; RSVP required
Free taco bar and one free cocktail.

Drinko De Mayo 2012                        **Party of the Week**
2pm–2am • Frontier Bar, 2421 Webberville Rd. • Free
This one sounds loco and I like it: Free beer, 30-foot water slide, Chihuahua races, moon bounce, washers, skeeball contest, piñata contest, water balloon fight, and “The Jackuzzi” — a Jack Daniels-sponsored jacuzzi. Music by Scorpion Child, Hydra Melody, The Young Maths, and others.

The White Horse Presents: Cinco de Mayo Block Party
2pm–2am • The White Horse, 500 Comal St. • Free; donations encouraged
Benefit show for The Revival Fund with music by The Harvest Thieves, The Dalles, Salesman, Lord Buffalo, El Pan, Revenants, The Sideshow Tragedy, Franny&Zooey, and Equals.

La Condesa’s Cinco de Mayo Block Party
4–10pm • West 2nd Street between Guadalupe and San Antonio • Free
Music by Bombasta, La Guerrilla, Mariachi Tamazula, Charanga Cakewalk, Este Vato, Ocote Soul Sounds (DJ set) and Deejay Honeycomb. Food and beverages from La Condesa, Malaga, Cazadores Tequila, Dos XX and Tecate.

Say Om Yoga Grand Opening Party
6–9pm • Say Om Yoga, 5000 Slaughter Lane, Ste. 201 • Free
Free adult beverages, kombucha, food, henna, moon bounce, giveaways, and music by DJ Spacebar.

Cinco De Mayo Party at 1st Down and Stassney
6pm • 1st Down and Stassney Sports Bar & Grill, 730 W. Stassney #120 • Free
Free fajita cookout with games, prizes and music.

The Avengers After-Party
7pm • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar • Free
Superhero-themed cocktails and trivia hosted by Dragon’s Lair Comics and Fantasy. Come dressed as your favorite Avengers character and get a free poster or graphic novel.

Cinco de Mayo Barrio Boombox
7pm–2am • The Volstead & Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • $7
Piñatas, tequila, tacos and music by El Tule, Migrant Kids, Este Vato, Rocoroyo, Double Trouble, Chorizo Funk, and Peligrosa All-Stars.


Sunday, May 6
Blue Dog Rescue’s Perros de Mayo
Noon–8pm • 304 W. 4th St. (Formerly Ginger Man / Ghost Room) • Free
Free food and drinks, including the release of Real Ale’s Devil’s Backbone Belgian Style Tripel. Live music by San Saba County, Nathan Hamilton, The Boxcar Preachers, and more. Benefits Blue Dog Rescue.

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That’s right … the Party of the Week is in San Marcos! Plot twist!!

Wednesday, April 25
Mel’s Meals Round Rock Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting
4–6pm • Mel’s Meals, 1208 N. IH 35 Suite W • Free; RSVP requested
Complimentary skinny margaritas by Z Tequila, soda by SANS soda, and music by Daniel Park.

Heartless Bastards In-Store Performance
5pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free beer from Shiner.
 
The Wine Down @ ACL Live: Candace Bellamy
5–7pm • ACL Live at Moody Theater, 310 W. 2nd St. • Free
Free show with food by with bites from Hickory Street.

Jenny Lawson: “Let’s Pretend This Never Happened”
7pm • BookPeople, 6th and Lamar • Free
Jenny Lawson speaks about her new book. The talk is free, but you need to buy the book from BookPeople to have it signed.

KVET Free Texas Music Series: Casey Donahew Band w/ Curtis Grimes
8pm • Nutty Brown Café, 12225 Hwy. 290 West • Free

Fusebox Festival
April 25–May 6 • Various times, locations and covers
One of Austin’s most unique festivals, Fusebox features a broad variety of art, theater and dance performances. Many of the events are free or under $10. Check the website for full schedule.


Thursday, April 26
Uncle Billy’s 5th Anniversary Party
11am–Midnight • Uncle Billy’s Brewery & BBQ, 1530 Barton Springs Road • Free
Half-price appetizers and $3 pints all day, plus music by Paul Renna.

Chewing the Fat: Delicious Conversations & Free Waffles
Noon–1pm Thu., Fri., Sat. • Fusebox Festival Hub, 1100 E. 5th St. • Free
You guessed it: free waffles! Chat with Fusebox Artistic Director Ron Berry on Thursday, Steve Moore on Friday, and Phil Soltanoff & Rob Ramirez on Saturday.

Mickey Hart Autograph Signing
5–8pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Mickey Hart of The Grateful Dead will sign copies of his new album, Mysterium Tremendum.

Wild Flour Cakery & Boutique Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening Weekend
5:30pm • Wild Flour Cakery & Boutique, 316 N Main St., Suite B, Buda • Free
Ribbon-cutting celebration with free treats from the bakery.

AYC’s 3rd Annual Non-Profit Fair
6–7:30pm • LiveStrong, 2201 East 6th St. • Free for AYC members, $5 for non-members
Food, drinks, and networking opportunities at a party showcasing 20 local non-profits.

Beauty For a Purpose
6–9pm • Plain Ivey Jane, 408 W. 2nd St. • Free; donations encouraged
Complimentary wine, cupcakes, mini-makeovers, and music by DJ Mr. Burnz. Benefits ALLIES, an Austin coalition dedicated to raising awareness about human trafficking.

Pinups for Paws Fundraiser
6–9pm • House Wine, 408 Josephine St. • Free
Complimentary appetizers from 7-9. Benefits local dog shelters.

Bangles & Booze: A Do512 Trunk Show
7pm • Do512 Lounge, 2208 S. Lamar • Free; RSVP required
Trunk show with complimentary treats and beverages.

Austin Social Affair’s 1st Annual Margarita Mixer
7pm • The Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces St. • $5 donation
A benefit for the Make-A-Wish Foundation with complimentary Z Tequila  margaritas from 7–8pm, drink specials and sales from local vendors.

Unplugged at the Grove with The Gourds
8pm • Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. • Free
Free outdoor show + drink specials.

Thursday Night Social Club
8pm • ColdTowne Theater, 4803-B Airport Blvd. • $5
Every Thursday in April, ColdTowne is opening early to provide free beer and snacks before the improv comedy show.

The Boxing Lesson 7inch Vinyl Release Party
9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • $5
The Boxing Lesson celebrates the launch of their new record, featuring performances by Purple, [paperthreat] & The Hi-Tones.

Feist Afterparty featuring Dana Falconberry
10pm • Stubb’s Indoors, 800 Red River St. • Free
Free Dana Falconberry show after Feist performs outside.

Moontower Comedy & Oddity Festival: Charlie Hodge
10:30pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free
Free comedy show.

MR Fest 2012     **Party of the Week**
April 26–28 • Multiple venues around San Marcos Square • Free
Free shows by more than 100 artists, including some of Austin’s best bands: Quiet Company, White Denim, Knifight, Stereo Is a Lie, The White White Lights, Boyfrndz, The Sour Notes, Sphynx, The Eastern Sea, Little Radar, Marmalakes, and Wild Child. Presented by KTSW 899.


Friday, April 27
Del Castillo In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free beer from Shiner.

Lige Williamson, Barebones Orchestra, All Eyes Closed, We The Sea Lions, Pocket Rockets, Boy + Kite
6pm–2am • Skinny’s Ballroom, 115 San Jacinto Blvd. • Cover?

Red Beard Promotions Presents: The Nouns + Follow That Bird + Country Mice + Hot Rod Radio
8pm–2am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River • $5


Saturday, April 28
15th Annual Buda Country Fair and Wiener Dog Races
8am–6pm • Main Street and San Antonio St., Buda • $3 adults, free for kids 12 and under
Wiener dogs racing each other! Also: cook-off, bake-off, pet parade, washer tournament and lots of other activities. Benefits the Buda Lions Club.

Austin Dragon Boat Festival
10am–3pm • Festival Beach at Town Lake, Waller St. @ Festival Beach Rd. • Free
Another distinctly Austin event, the Dragon Boat Festival features dragon boat races, dancing, music, martial arts, games, food, and more.

Eeyore’s 49th Annual Birthday Party
11am–Dark • Pease Park, Lamar and MLK • Free
One of Austin’s oldest traditions, this crazy hippie-fest has something for almost everyone — hula hoops, maypoles, face painting, music, and a lot more. Feel free to come in costume and bring an instrument, and prepare to experience the original standard for keeping Austin weird.

EcoAustin Spring Fling
Noon–6pm • Hops & Grain Brewery, 507 Calles Street #101 • $10 suggested donation
Free Hops & Grain beer and live music by The Niel Nasset Band, Patton Sparks, Horseshoes & Hand Grenades, Taylor Pritchet, and Dallas Seely. Donations benefit the Trail Foundation of Austin.

South Austin Pitch and Pooch Family Golf Outing and Canine Extravaganza
Noon–8pm • Butler Park Pitch and Putt, 301 Lee Barton Drive • $5 suggested donation
A benefit for The Dream Come True Foundation featuring food catered by P. Terry’s, a dog costume contest, a silent auction, golf, music and dance performances.

Applied Pressure presents: NickNack - State Machine LP Release Party
9pm–2am • The Belmont, 305 W. 6th St. • Free
Sets by NickNack and The LOEGz, Lophi, BoomBaptist, ABT, Bird Peterson, Kid Slyce, 4th Wall, Hobo D, and Goon.

Blue October Afterparty featuring Eyes Burn Electric
11pm • Stubb’s Indoors, 800 Red River St. • Free
Free Eyes Burn Electric show after Blue October performs outside.


Sunday, April 29
Jessie Street Eats Grand Opening
11am–2pm • Jessie Street Eats, 415 Jessie St. • Free
Live music, free beer, and food from Clem’s Hot Diggity Dogs, Mister Fruit Cup, Bahn-Bahn, Chocosutra, Ice Cream Social, Fatback Boucherie, plus an eating contest featuring Hungry Todd Rungy. 

Oldies But Goodies
Noon–3pm • Parts + Labour, 1117 South Congress Ave. • Free; donations accepted
A benefit for Austin Pets Alive featuring complimentary snacks and beverages from Jo’s Coffee and Tito’s Vodka, dog treats from Sugar Mama’s, a raffle, a dog photo booth, and a chance to adopt some older loveable dogs.

Mohawk Beach Party Series Presents: Burgess Meredith
5–9pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free
Food by Frank, sno-cones, giveaways, drink specials, and music by Burgess Meredith + DJ Saturday Night Matador. Sponsored by Pucker Vodka, Crispin Cider and Frank.

Little Radar Album Release Show, with The Couch + The Baker Family
8pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • $6
Our friends Little Radar celebrate the release of their first full-length album.


Monday, April 30
The Good Music Club #4
7pm • The ND @ 501 Studios, 501 N. I-35 • Free
Free show and professional live taping with 5-song sets by Lonesome Heroes, The Sour Notes, Frank Smith & The Dalles. The first 100 drinks are sponsored by Tito’s Vodka.

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This week is brought to you by the color green.

Wednesday, April 18
The Wine Down: Ariel Abshire
5–7pm • ACL Live at Moody Theater, 310 W. 2nd St. • Free
Free show with food by Coal Vines.

Tom Angleberger: “Fake Mustache”
6–7pm • BookPeople, 6th and Lamar • Free
Talk and book signing with free Austin’s Pizza.


Thursday, April 19
Joe Pug In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free beer from Shiner.

Tapeña Meet-Up
5–7pm • Roaring Fork, 701 Congress Ave. • Free, RSVP required
Tapeña wines paired w/ complimentary tapas.

Green Alley Salon & The Care Communities Fundraiser
6–8:30pm • Green Alley Salon, 6905 Dallas Dr. • Free; donations encouraged; RSVP required
Free beer from Independence Brewery, cocktails from Chaos Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres provided by Bittersweet Cakes & Catering, cookies from Tiff’s Treats, mini cheesecakes by Nonie’s Sweeties, chair massages, swag bags, and music by Haydn Vitera. Benefits The Care Communities.

House Gallery Opening Reception
7–11pm • House Gallery, 2206 New York Ave. • Free
Complimentary beverages at a gallery reception for artists Alejo Ramírez and Noah Marion.

Unplugged at the Grove: Hudson Moore
8pm • Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. • Free
Free outdoor show + drink specials.

Collective of Lady Arm Wrestlers presents: CLAW2
8–11pm • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St. • Free; donations accepted
Eight competitors arm wrestle for charity. Benefits Austin nonprofit The Upside of Down.

Melvins Afterparty with Tweak Bird, Sky Crawler, and Boars
10pm–2am • Red 7, 611 East 7th St. • Free
Free show.

HAAM Corporate Battle of the Bands Afterparty
11pm–2am • Antone’s, 213 W. 5th St. • $5
Mad Men-themed cocktail party with food from Pink Avocado, drink specials from Tito’s Vodka, performances by Zeale and Learning Secrets, and a photobooth. Benefits the Heath Alliance for Austin Musicians.


Friday, April 20
Willie Nelson Statue Unveiling Ceremony
4pm • 2nd and Lavaca Streets • Free
The unveiling ceremony will feature an appearance by the man himself as well as other Texas musicians.

Gary Primich All-Star Tribute In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and refreshments from Shiner.

420 Dirtbags Showcase
5pm–1am • Billy Cannon’s Smoke & Ink, 6800 West Gate Blvd. Ste 117 • $5
Free beer, DJs, and live music.

Fire Fest Presents: The Matchbox Showcase
7pm–Midnight • The Trophy Club, 310 E 6th St. • Free w/ RSVP
Free beer if you Like Fire Fest on Facebook. Performances by Holiday, Bobby Jealously, Burning Avalanche, The Wolf, Black Tabs, and La Migra.

Austin’s Green City Mixer        ***Party of the Week***
7pm–Midnight • House + Earth, 1214 West 6th St. • Free; RSVP requested
Celebrate Earth Day with free beer from Hops and Grain, tequila mixers from Republic Tequila, wine tasting by Duchman Family Winery, food from Veggytopia and Urban Roots, chair massages, and live music. RSVP here.

Top Notch Movie Night: Dazed and Confused
8–10:30pm • Top Notch Hamburgers, 7525 Burnet Rd. • Free
A special 4/20 screening of Richard Linklater’s classic flick, with food specials and door prizes from Oat Willie’s. Bring lawn chairs.

Red River Noise presents: Amplified Heat, Scorpion Child & Professor Cowboy
9pm–1am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River St. • $6

Chad Swiatecki’s Birthday Show
9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • $5
Music by The Nouns, The Ugly Beats, The Golden Boys, and The Black.

Night Fever! Volume XXIV: 420 Edition
9pm–2am • Volstead Lounge, 1500 E. 6th St. • Free
Music by DJ Chicken George, DJ Manny, Richard.Gear, and El Dopa.

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


Saturday, April 21
Record Store Day in Austin
All day • Record stores all over town • Free
Show your local independent record stores some love and they’ll return the favor with giveaways, discounts, and sales of limited edition vinyl. Garbage (yes, *the* Garbage) is even scheduled to make an appearance at Waterloo. Check out Do512 for a list of participating stores.

Thirsty Planet Brewery Tour
11am • Thirsty Planet Brewing Co., 11160 Circle Drive • Free; RSVP required

IBIZ Districts Spring Fling
11am–5pm • Various locations • Free
Several events around town will promote local businesses with sales, giveaways, food, drinks, scavenger hunts, and games: South First Art Walk, “Just Say Hi” Scavenger Hunt, Lo-Burn Spring Fling Sidewalk Sale, and North Loop Spring Fling Sidewalk Sale.

Pints for Pups
Noon–3pm • Independence Brewing, 3913 Todd Lane #607 • $10 donation
Drink beer, listen to music, save puppies. Your donation gets you a pint glass that can be filled three times.

Twin Liquors April Open House
2–6pm • Twin Liquors Hancock Center, 1000 E. 41st St., Ste. 810 • Free
Free wine, spirits, and beer.

Uncle Billy’s Lake Travis Brewery Tour
4pm • Uncle Billy’s Lake Travis, 6550 Comanche Trail, Unit B • Free

Riverside Villas Grand Opening
4–6pm • Riverside Villas, 2001 Faro Drive • Free
Free cupcakes from Hey Cupcake and live music by local singer/songwriter Ricky Stein and The Warm Guns.

Karaoke Underground
10pm–2am • Dive Bar, 1703 Guadalupe • Free
Free karaoke night with more than 600 punk and indie classics to choose from.


Sunday, April 22
Urban Betty’s 5th Annual Clothing Swap
2–5pm • Urban Betty, 1206 W 38th St., Suite 1107 • Free; RSVP required
Swap your gently worn clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, scarves and belts. Unclaimed items will be donated to Safe Place.  Ladies only.


Monday, April 23
Clubhouse: A Standup Comedy Show
9–10:15pm • The New Movement Theater Downtown, 616 Lavaca • Pay what you want
Ten comics each perform five minutes of all-new material. The show is hosted by Kath Barbadoro, with special guests including Grow Up Radio’s Seth Cockfield, The Encyclopedia Show’s Katie Pengra, and Stag Comedy’s Mac Blake.

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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

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

Party arty, dudes.

Wednesday, Nov. 9
Dale Earnhardt Jr. Jr. In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Live music by a fun band in a cool record store.

Free Wine Tasting at Cool River Café
5–6:30pm • Cool River Café, 4001 W. Parmer Lane • Free
Complimentary tastings of Chappellet Mountain Cuvee and William Hill Chardonnay, plus free hand-passed appetizers.

arkFit at Gallery D Launch Party
6–9pm • Gallery D, 436 W. 2nd St. • Free
Cocktails by Tito’s Vodka, bites by Buenos Aires Café, raffle and live music. Benefits Citizen Generation.

Cookies & Champagne
7–9pm • Plain Ivey Jane, 408 W 2nd St. • Free
Free cookies and champagne. Bring items to donate to SafePlace and get 10 percent off any apparel purchase.

Lustre Pearl’s 360 Hula Hoop Happy Hour
10pm–Midnight • Lustre Pearl, 97 Rainey St. • Free
360 Vodka samples, $3 cocktails, and hula hoop lessons.


Thursday, Nov. 10
Free Sparrow Hawk Wine Tasting
5–6:30pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free tastings of Sparrow Hawk 2009 Chardonnay Russian River Valley, 2009 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley, and Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma 2007.

Scott + Cooner Cocktail Party
5:30–7:30pm • Scott + Cooner, 115 W. 8th St. • Free
Complimentary cocktails and catering by Ranch 616.

Cautiously Feral: Group Exhibition Opening Reception
7–9pm • Paloma Botanical Beauty Parlour, 4600 Mueller Blvd. #1005 • Free
Wine, appetizers, door prizes, and art by Texas-based artists.

Prom Night 80s Style
8pm • Gibson Bar, 1109 S Lamar Blvd. • Free
Trash-can punch, drink specials, DJ, 80s-themed bingo hosted by Trevin from 101X, and a costume contest with prizes.


Friday, Nov. 11
Switched On: In-Store Party
Noon–9pm • Switched On / Take Heart Shop, 1111 11th St. • Free
How could you miss an opportunity to celebrate 11/11/11 at 1111 11th St.? Take Heart is offering wine and snacks from 6–8pm, and Switched On staff will be DJing throughout the day.

Yellowcard In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Live music and free beer from Shiner.

.36 Release Beer and Bourbon Tasting at the Whip In
5–7pm • Whip In, 1950 South I-35 (near Oltorf) • Free
Free bourbon samples, $3 pints of Ranger Creek beer, and live music.

Bar 96’s 1-Year Anniversary Party
6–9pm • Bar 96, 96 Rainey Street • Free
Free appetizer buffet and live music by The Soldier Thread, The Preservation, Blank Slate, and Minor Mishap marching band.

Nigel Tufnel Day
7–10pm • North by Northwest Restaurant & Brewery, 10010 Capital of TX Hwy N. • $2 donation
NXNW celebrates 11/11/11 with a tribute to Spinal Tap lead guitarist Nigel Tufnel, whose amp infamously “goes to 11.” The night starts with a screening of “This Is Spinal Tap” at 7, followed with performances by Iron Menorah and a Spinal Tap cover band. NXNW will also tap a special cask of its “Spinal Hop” brew. Costumes are encouraged, and proceeds benefit Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM).

Karaoke Apocalypse at Frontier Bar
9pm • Frontier Bar, 2421 Webberville • Free
Live-band karaoke, no cover.

Old Men w/ Fuzz Pedals: A Benefit for Family Eldercare
9pm–2am • Hole in the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe • $5 donation
Music by The Midgetmen, Teen Noir, The Distant Seconds, and We’ll Go Machete. Proceeds benefit Family Eldercare’s Holiday Giving Drive. Get free admission if you donate a gift card from HEB, Target, Walmart, or Randalls. Donate extra cash and you could win free haircuts from Birds Barbershop.

The Black Light Masquerade
9pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • Free (?)
Hosted bar courtesy of Sailor Jerry from 9–10pm, plus screen printing, mask making, body painting, and live music.

11/11/11 Playboy Party
10pm–2am • The Madison, 307 West 5th St. • Free
Complimentary drinks from 10–11pm, with music by Playboy Playmate DJ Kay Jay.


Saturday, Nov. 12
East Austin Studio Tour
Nov. 12, 13, 19, 20 (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.

Storied Firearms Christmas Bazaar
10am–2pm • Storied Firearms, 9300 Hwy. 290 West • Free
Festive food and drinks, shooting competitions, giveaways, and other activities.

Artpost Austin
11am–6pm (Saturday and Sunday) • Artpost Austin, 4704 E. Cesar Chavez • 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.

The Revival
3pm–2am • Hole in the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe • Free
Free show with 18 bands performing, including Clyde and Clem, Franny & Zooey, The Eastern Sea, and others. Benefits The Revival Fund, a local nonprofit that aids local Austin musicians who are in need.

6th Annual Backyard Art Show   **Event of the Week**
4pm–Midnight • Green House, 701 E. 53rd Street • Free
Beer from Independence Brewing Co.; music by Seven Itch Stitch, Shootin’ Pains, Black Salve, Rabbit Fist and Talmadge D’Amor; art by more than 20 local artists.
 
Handshakes Grand Opening
4pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E 6th St. • Free
A 90s-themed milkshake social with Thanksgiving shakes (pumpkin pie, cranberry, and other deliciousness), plus music by Hot Britches & uLovei.
 
“West of East” Opening Reception at Gallery Black Lagoon
6–9pm • 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 opening reception on Saturday features complimentary cocktails by Deep Eddy Vodka, coffee from Cuvee Roasting Co., and snacks by Beanitos. 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 (Saturday and Sunday) • The Historic Victory Grill, 1104 E 11th • Free
E.A.S.T. after-party with food, drinks, music, dancing, and art.
 
Cobra Show: E.A.S.T. Party
6–11pm • Cobra Studios, 902 Gardner Road • Free
Complimentary cocktails from Dripping Springs Vodka, with live music by Lost Soul Revue and Channel 13.
 
ShowGO!
7:30pm • 29th Street Ballroom • $6
Stand-up comedy, short films, music videos and other entertainment. Benefits victims of the Bastrop wildfires.

VJ Showcase Night at The Highball
10pm–2am • The Highball • Free w/ RSVP
Video remixes, mash-ups, and classic cuts performed live on stage by DJ Orion, Kid Slyce, DJ Ding, and VJ 4th Wall. RSVP on Do512 to get in for free.


Sunday, Nov. 13
Second Sunday Sock Hop
9pm–Midnight • Shangri-La, 1016 E. 6th Street • $5
The monthly dance party at ‘Shang’ features DJs Shorty Stump, TiMurphy and Second Line Social spinning the best of the 50s, 60s and 70s, in genres including R&B, vintage rock n’ roll, doo woop, girl groups, rockabilly, and soul.


Shoutouts ‘n Plugs: Amber, Jeremiah, The Facebook, The Twitter

T Bird and The Breaks, East Cameron Folklore, Guns of Navarone

Mohawk (Outside) @ 7 p.m.

Soul band T Bird and The Breaks (recommended if you like: James Brown, Black Joe Lewis and the Honey Bears, The Black Crowes) headline this launch party for Revival Fund, a fund designed to provide temporary financial assistance to Austin-area musicians and their families in times of crisis. As if T Bird and his bad-ass brass section wasn’t enough to ensure a good time, food from Frank, drinks from Sailor Jerry, Thunderbird coffee and giveaways throughout the night should seal the deal.

 LISTEN: T Bird and The Breaks on Daytrotter

Ringo Deathstarr, The Carrots, The Ugly Beats, The Hi-Tones

Emo’s (Outside) @ 9 p.m

The Ugly Beats (RIYL: sunny vintage pop-rock a la The Kinks) play earlier in the night sandwiched between The Hi-Tones and ’60s girl group The Carrots. The evening comes to a loud and fuzzy head with the droning guitar of shoegazers Ringo Deathstarr (RIYL: My Bloody Valentine, The Jesus and Mary Chain).

 LISTEN: Ringo Deathstarr on Hype Machine 

 LISTEN: The Carrots on Hype Machine 

 WATCH: The Ugly Beats on Vimeo