CoolinAustin
The Week in Cool: Feb. 20-27

Tuesday, Feb. 21
Lucy’s Mardi Gras Celebration
11am • Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar, 506 West Ave. • Free
Live music by Boogaloo, Austin Knights Brass Band, and The Twalls. Special menu and cocktails — including a crawfish boil starting at 3pm.

Mardi Gras Gibson Style
4pm • Gibson Bar, 1109 S. Lamar • Free
Cajun food from Luke’s Inside Out, Abita beer, Hurricane specials, king cake, and Mardi Gras–themed trivia.

Rogue Running’s Fat Tuesday Pub Run
6–9pm • Rogue Running, 500 San Marcos St., #104 • Free
A four-mile run with stops at four bars. Bring cash and feel free to dress up in Mardi Gras attire.

Paper Cuts: Whiskey Shivers
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission
Free food from Austin’s Pizza and beverages from Tito’s Vodka, Woodchuck Cider, and Sweet Leaf Tea. Music by Whiskey Shivers. RSVP was required to reserve a spot, but additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.

Mardi Gras at Hotel Vegas        ***Event of the Week***
8pm–Midnight • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • Free
Free food, free Abita, and music by Gumbo Ce Soir and Roxy Roca.

Brazilian Mardi Gras
8pm–2am • Flamingo Cantina, 515 East 6th St. • $5
Catered food, special cocktails, and music by Os Alqumistas, Seu Jacinto, Morena Sou


Wednesday, Feb. 22
Schemer at SouthBy Pre-Party
5:30–9pm • Gibson Bar, 1109 S. Lamar • Free; RSVP required
Free drinks and food. See the link for RSVP details.

National Margarita Day with Republic Tequila at Santa Rita Cantina
6–8pm • Santa Rita Cantina, 5900 W. Slaughter Ln. and 1206 W. 38th St. • Free
Republic Tequila drink specials and tastings, all night happy hour, live music, trivia and prizes.


Thursday, Feb. 23
Take the EDGE Off Thursday w/ League of Rebels Clothing
6–9pm • Edge Boutique, 411 Brazos St. • Free; RSVP requested
Drinks by Leprechaun Cider Co., photo session by Phillip Leach.

ATX Vegan Drinks
7–9pm • The Brixton, 1412 E. 6th St. • Free
The Brixton will be offering a selection of vegan beers and cocktails, including a vegan White Russian, and Arlo’s Food Truck will be selling vegan food across the street from the bar.

The Worst Tattoo in Austin
8pm–2am • 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St. • $5
Contestants compete for $1,000 in tattoo prizes, with music by The Mole People, a burlesque half-time show, and cheap booze sponsored by Sailor Jerry’s.


Friday, Feb. 24
Beer Tasting at Rosedale Market
4–6pm • Rosedale Market, 1309 W. 45th St. • Free
Taste beer selections from Brooklyn Brewery and Harpoon Brewery.

ARTCRANK Austin 2012 | Opening Night Party
6–11pm • Pine Street Station, 1101 E. 5th St. • Free
Craft beers by Widmer Brothers Brewing will be available in ARTCRANK pint glasses, with proceeds going LIVESTRONG.

Fabricker Grand Opening Celebration
7–10pm • Fabricker, 4631 Airport Blvd., Ste. 119 • Free
Drinks by Chaos Cocktails and bites by SugaPlump Catering and Pastries.

Major Major Major Digital Release Party
8pm • Gypsy Lounge, 1504 E. 6th. St. • $5 w/ RSVP, $7 door
Free beer while it lasts and music by Major Major Major, Tiger Waves and Pre War.


Saturday, Feb. 25
Lee Leffingwell Campaign Headquarters Grand Opening and Rolling Roadshow
6–9pm • Leffingwell Campaign Headquarters, 2406 Manor Rd. • Free
Free BBQ, beer, live music, and the Alamo Drafthouse Rolling Roadshow screening of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

Austin Wedding Party
7–10pm • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301-A Guadalupe St. • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary cocktails.

6th Annual Misprint Beard & Moustache Competition
8–11pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • $8 advance, $10 door
Awards handed out at this awesome annual event include Fiercest Chops, Gnarliest Beard, and Sweetest Stache. Also: drink specials, celebrity judges, music by Andy the Mouth, and photography by Alison Narro. Hosted by Matt Bearden.

ZEALE Full Band Debut
9pm–Midnight • Beauty Bar, 617 E 7th St. • Cover?
Austin’s favorite hip-hop artist performs with his new live band. Plus: The Shears, Sphynx, and Prom Date.

Local Night for Local People
9pm–2am • Frank, 407 Colorado St. • $8 w/ RSVP; $10 door
Music by Western Ghost House, Dead Black Hearts, New Roman Times, Stereo is a Lie, and Oh No Oh My. A $20 VIP package includes beverages, merch, and gifts from Frank and Whitesiren.

Pisces Blacklight, PJ’s & Lingerie Party
9pm–2am • Club 606, 606 East 7th St. • Free
Dance party featuring UV body painting and beats by DJ Guardian, ExStus, Sir Jackson, and others. Donations for Safeplace accepted at the door.

West by West Campus Afterparty
9pm • Hole in the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe St. • Cover?
Free food + music by  Major Major Major, Waldo and The Naturals, and Auroravore.


Sunday, Feb. 26
BarCraft ATX
3–7pm • Pluckers Wing Bar, 2222 Rio Grande • Free
Free drinks for the first 160 people through the door, courtesy of SXSW and Game Republik.

Switched On 2-Year Anniversary/Analog Synth Party
4pm–2am • 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St. • Free
An all-day bring-your-own synth party, ending with a night of music by Pat A. Physics, The Synth Freq, Pailo, God’s Gun, and DJs Veronica Ortuno & Malcolm Elijah.

Hollywood at the Highball
6pm • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Oscar party with bingo, movie trivia, and a prize for the table with the most accurate award predictions. Dress classy — Annie Ray will be snapping red carpet photos from 6–6:30pm.

Black Sheep Lodge Oscars Watch Party and Trailer Contest
6pm • Black Sheep Lodge, 2018 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Drink specials, prizes, games (including trivia and bingo), and a screening of the top 10 entries in the Oscars Trailer Contest.

theGlitoris Presents: Re-Vurse! at Beauty Ballroom
10pm–2am • Beauty Ballroom, 2015 E. Riverside Dr. • $3 after midnight for 21+; $5 for 18+
The first installment of Glitoris’ new Sunday night gig at Beauty Ballroom, featuring reverse Happy Hour after midnight.


Monday, Feb. 27
Band of Heathens In-Store Performance
5–6:30pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show with beer provided by Shiner.

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Shoutouts: Amber, Partay Peeps, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events


Photo by Andy Castro (Flickr)

The Week Ahead: December 7-12Get into the holiday spirit(s) with our list of free happenings this week. Tuesday, Dec. 7Twelve Days of Christmas Holiday Celebration5-8pm • FreeComplimentary cocktails and treats.Stella Says Go, 500 N. Lamar Blvd.Austin Events 2011 Kickoff Party6-9pm • Free (Update: RSVPs are now closed.)Free vodka, beer, cupcakes, candy and prizes.The Vortex, 2307 Manor Road
Wednesday, Dec. 8Better Bites Holiday Fair4-8pm • FreeFree food samples from local establishmentsCity Hall, 301 W. 2nd St.24 Diner’s First Anniversary Party5-9pm • FreeFree food, music, beer and cocktails24 Diner, West 6th and LamarAustin Post Holiday Bash6-8pm • FreeFree 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 BoulevardSailor Jerry Rum Presents: Bad Sports, Shapes have Fangs, and Rayon Beach8pm • Free (RSVP is required)Free rum and live music.Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St.Thursday, Dec. 9SoCo Holiday Block Party5-9pm • FreeSeveral South Congress businesses will provide free drinks, food and discounts:y&i clothing boutique – Champagne & dessert plus 15% off merchandiseStoryville – Wine & cheese plus 15% off merchandiseParts & Labour – Gift wrapping for anything purchased on the street (donations go to Austin Pets Alive)Goodie Two Shoes – Tamales & Tecates plus 15% off merchandiseDoc’s Motorworks - $2.50 Texas drafts with a receipt from one of the stores in the block party1109-1123 South Congress AvenueObjects of Confection Grand Opening Party6-9pm • FreeFree champagne and cake ballsCommunity Renaissance Market, 6800 West Gate Blvd, Ste. 120Celluloid Salon, featuring The Octopus Project7pm • 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 Party7-9pm • 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 StreetMOSS Designer Consignment Grand Opening7-9pm • FreeFree 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 Party9:30pm • Free (RSVP is Required)Free drinks from Enchanted Rock Vodka.District 301, 301 W. 6th St.Killer Thursday @ Piranha Killer Sushi11pm-midnight • FreeFree sushi. Drink specials until 2am. Music by DJ uLOVEi.Piranha Killer Sushi, 207 San Jacinto Blvd. #202 Friday, Dec. 10Black Star Co-op Grand Opening, First Tap, and Party6pm-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 Party9pm • FreeFree 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 Delight9pm-2am • FreeComplimentary 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 StreetFun Fun Fun Appreciation Party10pm-2am • FreeFree 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 Highball10:30pm • FreeFree karaoke on the Highball’s main stage, enhanced by strobes and lasersThe Highball, 1120 S. Lamar Blvd.Saturday, Dec. 11 Bijou Festivus Show7-10pm • FreeFree 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 Crawl7pm-2am • FreePut 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 Party11pm-1am • FreeFree 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 Highball11pm • FreeThe 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 Dances11:30pm-4am • FreeFree 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 BBQ2-10pm • FreeComplimentary 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-Off3-6pm • FreeFree 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 Bash10pm-2am • FreeBarbarella 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.
(Photo)

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.

(Photo)

The Weekend Flow: December 1-6Thanksgiving Leftovers Edition
Behold an amazing week full of fun, cheap and free stuff to enjoy as you recover from a week of turkey and dressing sandwiches. Get into the holiday spirit while drinking complimentary spirits. Keep your gluttonous streak going by gorging yourself on jumbo turkey legs, grilled burgers and massive quantities of pizza. Embrace your inner manliness. Impersonate Santa. Dance your face off. There’s a little bit of something for everyone, so you’ve got no excuse to be lame.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 2Midtown Commons Grand Opening Party6pmFree cocktails and food. Presented by Rare Magazine.Midtown Commons, 810 W. St Johns Ave.Free, RSVP requiredRock Out Cook Out9pmFree burgers n’ hotdogs. Music by Dirty Dancing, The Vitamins and Not in the Face.Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St.Free, no RSVPTHURSDAY, DEC. 3Santa Crawl8pm-2amCrawl from bar to bar in East Austin with a huge mob of Santas. Find a cheap Santa suit and be part of the holiday madness. Must say, sounds pretty amazing.Meet at Shangri-La, 1016 E. 6th St., at 8pmFree, no RSVPHoliday Tweetup5:00-7:30pmFree samples of holiday wines, cheeses and snacks from Central Market’s catering department. Prince Klassen will be there rockin’ a DJ set. Presented by Launch787 and This Is Life In Austin.Central Market, 4001 N Lamar Blvd., Ste. 100Free, no RSVPHoliday Glitz & Glamour6-9pmFree cocktails by Paula’s Texas Spirits, hors d’oeuvres by III Forks. Benefits Zach Scott Theatre & AIDS Services of Austin.Beyond Tradition, 221 W. 2nd. St.Free, No RSVPAustin Radiance6-8pmFree drinks from Belvedere & Red Bull, and free food from Kenobi & DelishThe Salon at Saks Fifth Avenue, 9722 Great Hills Trail$10 suggested donation, benefits cancer research. No RSVP.FRIDAY, DEC. 4Like, Totally: The Highball ’80s Karaoke Party11pm-2amPrepare for the ’80s dance party Saturday night with a little ’80s karaoke action on Friday.Free, no RSVPSATURDAY, DEC. 5Carnival-O-Pizza Noon-7pmGames, carnival-style booths, live music, raffles, break dancers, an Annie Ray photo booth and more… with beer and pizza! Plus: contests including Pizza Tossing, Extreme Pizza Eating, Pizza Box Folding, and “Hands on an Eggplant Sub.” If you want to enter any of the contests, stop by Home Slice to register.Free entry. No RSVP.1415 S. Congress Ave.First Saturday Stroll on S. 1stNoon-8pmFree Shiner, nog and cider; in-store performance by The Tunnels. Click the link for a full list of locations.Free, no RSVPManFest2-7pmFree Lone Star Beer and Cazadores Tequila, plus turkey legs, a jousting contest and a centaur photo booth. Get a “Fast Pass” to skip the drink line if you wear a full barbarian/renaissance costume (Bird’s says: “In other words, if you wear chain mail or a loincloth, you get a dedicated bartender and no lines for all that free man milk”). Terrific! Bird’s Barbershop, 1902 S. Congress Ave.Free. No RSVP.Smirnoff Presents: Be There6-10pmFree Smirnoff beverages, with performances by DJ Peanut Butter Wolf and Foot Patrol.Update: Secret location has been revealed as Pine Street Studio, 1101 E. 5th St. **EMAIL bethereaustin09@gmail.com to RSVP!**Free w/ RSVP. There is a an option to bring a +1; just mention you and your guest’s name in the email.Neiliyo, Freshmillions and Missions9pm-2amFree beer (donations encouraged); BYO liquor if you wannaBaby Blue, 1522 E. 12thFree. No RSVP.TXRD Lonestar Rollergirls Present: Cirque De Freak10pm-2amThe TXRD Lonestar Rollergirls are closing out their 2009 season in style: with a freakshow-themed party at Scoot Inn. Carnival games, costumes and music are just a few of the freaktastic things that will greet partygoers—not to mention @DeathwishDena, who will probably hurt you if you don’t come.$6 cover supports the teamScoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St.Bust a Move: 80s Dance Party11pm-2amGet down to 80s hip hop, pop and rock; win prizes; watch old-school music vids on the big screenThe Highball, 1142 S. LamarFree, No RSVPSUNDAY, DEC. 6Biking Scavenger Hunt: Team-Drawing PartyDrink free beer and enter your name in a drawing to participate in the All For Santa’s Love Biking Scavenger Hunt (which will take place Dec. 13). Bring 2 canned food items to donate. If your name is drawn, the scavenger hunt entry fee is $5.Thunderbird Coffee Bar, 2200 ManorNo RSVP

The Weekend Flow: December 1-6
Thanksgiving Leftovers Edition

Behold an amazing week full of fun, cheap and free stuff to enjoy as you recover from a week of turkey and dressing sandwiches. Get into the holiday spirit while drinking complimentary spirits. Keep your gluttonous streak going by gorging yourself on jumbo turkey legs, grilled burgers and massive quantities of pizza. Embrace your inner manliness. Impersonate Santa. Dance your face off. There’s a little bit of something for everyone, so you’ve got no excuse to be lame.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 2
Midtown Commons Grand Opening Party
6pm
Free cocktails and food. Presented by Rare Magazine.
Midtown Commons, 810 W. St Johns Ave.
Free, RSVP required

Rock Out Cook Out
9pm
Free burgers n’ hotdogs. Music by Dirty Dancing, The Vitamins and Not in the Face.
Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St.
Free, no RSVP


THURSDAY, DEC. 3
Santa Crawl
8pm-2am
Crawl from bar to bar in East Austin with a huge mob of Santas. Find a cheap Santa suit and be part of the holiday madness. Must say, sounds pretty amazing.
Meet at Shangri-La, 1016 E. 6th St., at 8pm
Free, no RSVP

Holiday Tweetup
5:00-7:30pm
Free samples of holiday wines, cheeses and snacks from Central Market’s catering department. Prince Klassen will be there rockin’ a DJ set. Presented by Launch787 and This Is Life In Austin.
Central Market, 4001 N Lamar Blvd., Ste. 100
Free, no RSVP

Holiday Glitz & Glamour
6-9pm
Free cocktails by Paula’s Texas Spirits, hors d’oeuvres by III Forks. Benefits Zach Scott Theatre & AIDS Services of Austin.
Beyond Tradition, 221 W. 2nd. St.
Free, No RSVP

Austin Radiance
6-8pm
Free drinks from Belvedere & Red Bull, and free food from Kenobi & Delish
The Salon at Saks Fifth Avenue, 9722 Great Hills Trail
$10 suggested donation, benefits cancer research. No RSVP.


FRIDAY, DEC. 4
Like, Totally: The Highball ’80s Karaoke Party
11pm-2am
Prepare for the ’80s dance party Saturday night with a little ’80s karaoke action on Friday.
Free, no RSVP


SATURDAY, DEC. 5
Carnival-O-Pizza
Noon-7pm
Games, carnival-style booths, live music, raffles, break dancers, an Annie Ray photo booth and more… with beer and pizza! Plus: contests including Pizza Tossing, Extreme Pizza Eating, Pizza Box Folding, and “Hands on an Eggplant Sub.” If you want to enter any of the contests, stop by Home Slice to register.
Free entry. No RSVP.
1415 S. Congress Ave.

First Saturday Stroll on S. 1st
Noon-8pm
Free Shiner, nog and cider; in-store performance by The Tunnels. Click the link for a full list of locations.
Free, no RSVP

ManFest
2-7pm
Free Lone Star Beer and Cazadores Tequila, plus turkey legs, a jousting contest and a centaur photo booth. Get a “Fast Pass” to skip the drink line if you wear a full barbarian/renaissance costume (Bird’s says: “In other words, if you wear chain mail or a loincloth, you get a dedicated bartender and no lines for all that free man milk”). Terrific!
Bird’s Barbershop, 1902 S. Congress Ave.
Free. No RSVP.

Smirnoff Presents: Be There
6-10pm
Free Smirnoff beverages, with performances by DJ Peanut Butter Wolf and Foot Patrol.
Update: Secret location has been revealed as Pine Street Studio, 1101 E. 5th St.
**EMAIL bethereaustin09@gmail.com to RSVP!**
Free w/ RSVP. There is a an option to bring a +1; just mention you and your guest’s name in the email.

Neiliyo, Freshmillions and Missions
9pm-2am
Free beer (donations encouraged); BYO liquor if you wanna
Baby Blue, 1522 E. 12th
Free. No RSVP.

TXRD Lonestar Rollergirls Present: Cirque De Freak
10pm-2am
The TXRD Lonestar Rollergirls are closing out their 2009 season in style: with a freakshow-themed party at Scoot Inn. Carnival games, costumes and music are just a few of the freaktastic things that will greet partygoers—not to mention @DeathwishDena, who will probably hurt you if you don’t come.
$6 cover supports the team
Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St.

Bust a Move: 80s Dance Party
11pm-2am
Get down to 80s hip hop, pop and rock; win prizes; watch old-school music vids on the big screen
The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar
Free, No RSVP


SUNDAY, DEC. 6
Biking Scavenger Hunt: Team-Drawing Party
Drink free beer and enter your name in a drawing to participate in the All For Santa’s Love Biking Scavenger Hunt (which will take place Dec. 13).
Bring 2 canned food items to donate. If your name is drawn, the scavenger hunt entry fee is $5.
Thunderbird Coffee Bar, 2200 Manor
No RSVP

The Weekend Flow: Oct. 9-11Presented (mostly) without comment because I am ashamed at how late this is. Hey, blame it on ACL or something. BUT: starting next week, we’ll more than make up for it, as a pretty sweet little lineup of events is scattered throughout the rest of the month. Be on the lookout. And feel free to @ me if you’re out and about and find something post-worthy, or want to punch me in the face, or whatever. Fer serr’s.FRIDAY, Oct. 9Second Fridays Craft Fair Celebrates John Lennon’s Birthday6-10pmFree Lone Star, with music by Wonder Toad doing acoustic covers of Lennon songsBring used books, DVDs, CDs and games to donate to charityFrugal Media, 5400 N Lamar Blvd, Ste. 103Free, No RSVPSuper Happy Hour at Cheer Up Charlie’s5pm-4amFree beer while it lasts, with dance music by Joshua Distance, Blake Brandon, Hot Britches!, Shooknite, DJ Teenage Wolf, DEEJAY YAYYAYCheer Up Charlies, corner of E. 6th & WallerFree, No RSVPSATURDAY, Oct. 10Royal’s Lounge Tailgate: UT vs. Colorado9am-9pm (game time is 6:15pm)Free Tito’s Vodka, Shiner kegs, Heineken, Newcastle, and buffalo sliders!Throw in a buck or two for charity while you’re there; these are some cool guys15th and Trinity tailgate lot — Look for the big white tent with Tito’s flags in the middle of the Trinity side. Come check out our setup in the same park.Free, No RSVPSUNDAY, Oct. 11Hair Metal Pedal Party5pmFree Lone Star, bike races, BMX contest and a DJ set Bird’s Barbershop, 1107 E. 6thFree, No RSVPA Place to Bury Strangers in-store performance5-6pmFree Shiner & live musicWaterloo Records, 6th and LamarFree, no RSVPBeer Town Austin’s Bike Pub Crawl3:30pmCasual ride with stops at Dog & Duck Pub, Crown & Anchor Pub, Draught House, and Flying SaucerBring ID and $ for drinks

The Weekend Flow: Oct. 9-11
Presented (mostly) without comment because I am ashamed at how late this is. Hey, blame it on ACL or something. BUT: starting next week, we’ll more than make up for it, as a pretty sweet little lineup of events is scattered throughout the rest of the month. Be on the lookout. And feel free to @ me if you’re out and about and find something post-worthy, or want to punch me in the face, or whatever. Fer serr’s.

FRIDAY, Oct. 9
Second Fridays Craft Fair Celebrates John Lennon’s Birthday
6-10pm
Free Lone Star, with music by Wonder Toad doing acoustic covers of Lennon songs
Bring used books, DVDs, CDs and games to donate to charity
Frugal Media, 5400 N Lamar Blvd, Ste. 103
Free, No RSVP

Super Happy Hour at Cheer Up Charlie’s
5pm-4am
Free beer while it lasts, with dance music by Joshua Distance, Blake Brandon, Hot Britches!, Shooknite, DJ Teenage Wolf, DEEJAY YAYYAY
Cheer Up Charlies, corner of E. 6th & Waller
Free, No RSVP


SATURDAY, Oct. 10
Royal’s Lounge Tailgate: UT vs. Colorado
9am-9pm (game time is 6:15pm)
Free Tito’s Vodka, Shiner kegs, Heineken, Newcastle, and buffalo sliders!
Throw in a buck or two for charity while you’re there; these are some cool guys
15th and Trinity tailgate lot — Look for the big white tent with Tito’s flags in the middle of the Trinity side. Come check out our setup in the same park.
Free, No RSVP


SUNDAY, Oct. 11
Hair Metal Pedal Party
5pm
Free Lone Star, bike races, BMX contest and a DJ set
Bird’s Barbershop, 1107 E. 6th
Free, No RSVP

A Place to Bury Strangers in-store performance
5-6pm
Free Shiner & live music
Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar
Free, no RSVP

Beer Town Austin’s Bike Pub Crawl
3:30pm
Casual ride with stops at Dog & Duck Pub, Crown & Anchor Pub, Draught House, and Flying Saucer
Bring ID and $ for drinks

More ACL parties! RSVP now!

Music Lounge and Rock the Vote parties
Free booze, burgers, ice cream, lawn games and other crazy stuff at two parties this Saturday during and after ACL
The Music Lounge: Noon-6pm
Rock the Vote: 10pm-2am
It all goes down at the American Legion Hall, at Lake Austin Blvd. & Atlanta Street (by the MoPac pedestrian bridge, right across the lake from the festival)
Music lineup includes The Riverboat Gamblers, Sock Hop DJs, Ume, The Soldier Thread & DJ Thibault
RSVP REQUIRED. Email musiclounge@bmfmedia.com
This is gonna fill up really quickly so sign up now!

Laser-Beam Dance Party, feat. Nasa and Vega
Free ACL after-party at the Mohawk
Saturday night, 8pm-2am
Sponsored by Hornitos Tequila, so maybe some free booze?
Mohawk, 912 Red River
RSVP required: http://www.jellynyc.com/nasa/

The Weekend Flow: September 10-13

Doesn’t the new logo rock? Thanks, Ellie!

THURSDAY Sept. 10 
Austin Tidbits vodka tasting
Free Dripping Springs Vodka
6-8 pm
Free, No RSVP.
Y & I Boutique, 1113 S. Congress Ave.
http://www.drippingspringsvodka.com/events.html

Adelante’s Curb Service Launch Party
Free drinks from Savvy Vodka, free desserts from Coco Paloma Desserts, live music by the Dennis Ludiker Trio. First 50 people will receive a swag bag.
6pm
Free, No RSVP.
26 Doors Shopping Center, 1206 West 38th Street

September Social tweet-up
Free food from local steakhouses and ice cream from Nada Moo Ice Cream
5:30pm
Free, No RSVP.
Submerged, 333 E. 2nd St.


FRIDAY Sept. 11
Fashion and Food
Free sushi and martinis at an event that benefits families of the 9/11 terrorist attacks
6-9pm
Free
RSVP is required (click the above link)! Only the first 150 to the event will be admitted.
Joie de Vie European Salon and Spa, 713 E. 6th St.

Premiere screening of HBO series “Bored to Death”
Complimentary food and beverages (and an appearance by the talented and ubiquitous DJ Prince Klassen) at the local premiere of the new HBO comedy series starring Jason Schwartzman
8-11pm
RSVP is CLOSED, unfortunately!
Action Figure East Side Stages
3000 East Cesar Chavez

Shake It Up!
Neiliyo hosts an evening of music by Butcher Bear & Charlie, The Hearts and The Minds, Young Mammals, Ramesh and others. Annie Ray photo booth.
8pm-2am
$5. No RSVP required.
Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th at Navasota


SATURDAY Sept. 12
Free 3D movie screenings at Alamo Drafthouse Village
Free 3D screenings of “Coraline” and “Battle for Terra,” hosted by Fantastic Fest and RealD
11am
Alamo Drafthouse Village, 2700 Anderson Lane
Free – first come, first served

The Trash Project
(Note: I can’t believe they didn’t call this “Trashdance”)
An evening of dance performed by the employees and machinery of Austin’s Solid Waste Service Department, showcasing 20-25 employees and over 15 vehicles in a choreographed dance program. Graham Reynolds, award-winning musician and composer, is creating an original musical score. Graham’s score will incorporate samples of the Solid Waste machinery and the performance will feature a live trio of piano, violin, and cello.
7:30pm
Free. No RSVP.
Austin Studios Tarmac, 1901 East 51st Street

Brylee Jam benefit concert
Performances by Wine & Revolution, The Ugly Beats, Chelsea Manor, and English Teeth; photo booth by Annie Ray Photography; raffle. Benefits Brylee Bowman, a child in need of medical treatments for a blood disorder.
7pm
$5 donation. No RSVP.
Trophy’s Bar & Grill, 2008 S. Congress Ave.


SUNDAY Sept. 13
Austin Twestival
Fundraiser featuring arcade games, Nintendo Wii, PS3, X-Box 360, air hockey, pool and door prizes. Benefits nonprofit organization Mobile Loaves and Fishes, which hopes to raise $10,000 to purchase an RV for homeless Austin residents.
1-5pm
Donation of $5 and up – buy tickets here
Buffalo Billiards, 201 East 6th Street

The Gourds performing poolside at Lakeway Resort and Spa
6-8pm
$5
101 Lakeway Drive

Second Sunday Sock Hop
Monthly dance party at ‘Shang’ features local DJs spinning the best of the 50s, 60s and 70s, in genres from R&B, vintage rock n’ roll, doo woop, girl groups, rockabilly, garage, first wave ska and soul.
$5. No RSVP.
Shangri-La, 1016 E. 6th St.