What’s Cool This Weekend: Dec. 15-16 Saturday, Dec. 15Frankenbike10am–4pm • Austin’s Yellow Bike Project, 1216 Webberville Road • Free; donations acceptedBike swap meet with beer provided by Independence Brewing Co and pizza from Austin’s Pizza. Bring warm clothes and blankets to donate to Niki Covers The Cold.Austin Flea Holiday Show benefiting SafePlace11am–5pm • Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside • FreeMarket of handmade and vintage wares from local vendors, with music by Graham Wilkinson.Holiday Open House Party5–9pm • Atianna Place Apartments, 709 Lamar Place • FreeFree hot spiced wine, wine tasting and Belgium-style beers all night. Complimentary BBQ brisket, holiday appetizers and desserts will be served from 6pm-9pm or until they’re gone.House Wine Holiday Party6pm–Midnight • House Wine, 408 Josephine St. • FreeFree wine tasting and Belgium-style beers all night. Complimentary holiday appetizers and desserts will be served from 7pm-9pm or until they’re gone. Holiday music by Doug Anthony and Chris Strand with friends.Free Show: Once Per Axis / Sour Bridges / The Black Owl Society9pm–1am • The Scoot Inn, East 4th and Navasota • FreeEnd of the World Party9pm–1am • Frank, 4th and Colorado • $6Music by Befriend the Bears, Calliope Musicals and The Sound of Curves.Night Fever: Holiday Cheer10pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • No cover before 11p / $3 after 11pHoliday cheer and vinyl grooves by DJ Boris Wright, Spence (Austin Boogie Crew), and DJ BSears (Magnetic Recordings.)Sunday, Dec. 16Austin Remixed7:30–10:30pm • The ND, E. 5th @ Brushy Street • FreeLocal musicians — including Dana Falconberry, DJ Orión, Adrian Quesada, Blaze, Graham Reynolds + Butcher Bear, and others — remix sounds recorded around Austin.
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What’s Cool This Weekend: Dec. 15-16
 
Saturday, Dec. 15
Frankenbike
10am–4pm • Austin’s Yellow Bike Project, 1216 Webberville Road • Free; donations accepted
Bike swap meet with beer provided by Independence Brewing Co and pizza from Austin’s Pizza. Bring warm clothes and blankets to donate to Niki Covers The Cold.

Austin Flea Holiday Show benefiting SafePlace
11am–5pm • Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside • Free
Market of handmade and vintage wares from local vendors, with music by Graham Wilkinson.

Holiday Open House Party
5–9pm • Atianna Place Apartments, 709 Lamar Place • Free
Free hot spiced wine, wine tasting and Belgium-style beers all night. Complimentary BBQ brisket, holiday appetizers and desserts will be served from 6pm-9pm or until they’re gone.

House Wine Holiday Party
6pm–Midnight • House Wine, 408 Josephine St. • Free
Free wine tasting and Belgium-style beers all night. Complimentary holiday appetizers and desserts will be served from 7pm-9pm or until they’re gone. Holiday music by Doug Anthony and Chris Strand with friends.

Free Show: Once Per Axis / Sour Bridges / The Black Owl Society
9pm–1am • The Scoot Inn, East 4th and Navasota • Free

End of the World Party
9pm–1am • Frank, 4th and Colorado • $6
Music by Befriend the Bears, Calliope Musicals and The Sound of Curves.

Night Fever: Holiday Cheer
10pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • No cover before 11p / $3 after 11p
Holiday cheer and vinyl grooves by DJ Boris Wright, Spence (Austin Boogie Crew), and DJ BSears (Magnetic Recordings.)


Sunday, Dec. 16
Austin Remixed
7:30–10:30pm • The ND, E. 5th @ Brushy Street • Free
Local musicians — including Dana Falconberry, DJ Orión, Adrian Quesada, Blaze, Graham Reynolds + Butcher Bear, and others — remix sounds recorded around Austin.

Source: facebook.com

What’s Cool Tonight: Thursday, Dec. 13 PRIZE Holiday Party5–9pm • Prize, 202 Colorado St. • FreeFree Franklin BBQ and local beer.Patagonia Austin + RajiWorld Present: Billy Harvey6pm • Patagonia, 316 Congress Ave. • FreeComplimentary beer and wine, with music by Billy Harvey.Treaty Oak Distilling Co. Winter Luau 6–8pm • Twin Liquors Hancock, 1000 E. 41st St. • FreeComplimentary cocktails and free food from Lucy’s Fried Chicken.Holiday Party @ Underwear6:30–8:30pm • Underwear, 916-B W. 12th St. • FreeFree champagne and treats.Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at Kung Fu Saloon 7pm • Kung Fu Saloon, 510 Rio Grande • FreeGet a free drink if you bring an unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots.The Good Music Club CD Release and Holiday Party 9:30pm–1:30am • Frank, 4th and Colorado St. • FreeListen to the new Good Music Club album, which is chock full of music by awesome Austin bands. Then, check out a live performance by Jack Wilson.… Tune in tomorrow for our roundup of cool things to do this weekend!
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What’s Cool Tonight: Thursday, Dec. 13

PRIZE Holiday Party
5–9pm • Prize, 202 Colorado St. • Free
Free Franklin BBQ and local beer.

Patagonia Austin + RajiWorld Present: Billy Harvey
6pm • Patagonia, 316 Congress Ave. • Free
Complimentary beer and wine, with music by Billy Harvey.

Treaty Oak Distilling Co. Winter Luau
6–8pm • Twin Liquors Hancock, 1000 E. 41st St. • Free
Complimentary cocktails and free food from Lucy’s Fried Chicken.

Holiday Party @ Underwear
6:30–8:30pm • Underwear, 916-B W. 12th St. • Free
Free champagne and treats.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at Kung Fu Saloon
7pm • Kung Fu Saloon, 510 Rio Grande • Free
Get a free drink if you bring an unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots.

The Good Music Club CD Release and Holiday Party
9:30pm–1:30am • Frank, 4th and Colorado St. • Free
Listen to the new Good Music Club album, which is chock full of music by awesome Austin bands. Then, check out a live performance by Jack Wilson.


… Tune in tomorrow for our roundup of cool things to do this weekend!

Source: Flickr / allialli

The Week in Cool: Nov. 16-20“Come to Our Party” Edition! Friday, Nov. 16Pole Position — Presented by Kevin Paige Art and CoolinAustin8pm–12:30am • The Palm Door, 403 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP requiredSure, we’re just piling more onto this weekend’s F1nsanity, but true to our roots, we’re keeping things cheap and local. There’s no cover to get in. The drinks — graciously provided by Treaty Oak — are free all night. And the music — Austin faves Girl Dreams, Little Radar, and DJ Isabel J — just rocks. None of that glitzed-up $10,000 bottle service nonsense. Admission is subject to capacity, so RSVP now, stash your car somewhere east of 35, and get there early. Patagonia Austin Concert Series Presents: Lance Herbstrong6pm • Patagonia, 316 Congress Ave. • FreeComplimentary beer and wine, with music by Lance Herbstrong.Austin Fan FestVarious times, Fri.–Sun. • Multiple stages on 3rd and 4th streets near Colorado • FreeFor those willing to venture into the heart of F1 madness, this is a full weekend of free shows by some good local bands. Highlights include Quiet Company, T-Bird & The Breaks, Speak, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, and a bunch of others. See the schedule for the full list.Saturday, Nov. 175th Annual Sol Fest at Cherrywood Coffeehouse10am–Midnight • Cherrywood Coffeehouse, 1401 E. 38 1/2 St. • $5 presale tickets at Waterloo Records, or $7 at the doorShowcase of local artists, DJs, photographers, music, food.East Austin Studio Tour11am–6pm, Sat. and Sun. • See map for locations • FreeHundreds 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, and check out the full list of special E.A.S.T. events here. Hot Glass Cold Beer + E.A.S.T. Auction7–10pm • The East Side Glass Studio, 507 Calles St. • FreeFree beer samples from Hops & Grain and hot glassblowing demos by The East Side Glass Studio artists. Auction proceeds will go to support E.A.S.T.E.A.S.T. Artist Appreciation Party7pm–Midnight • Tillery Park, 801 Tillery St. • $5 suggested donationComplimentary beverages from Hops & Grain, meats by Micklethwait Craft Meats, live screen printing by Nettie’s Cloth & Ink, and music by Pharaohs, Rayon Beach, and Dikes Of Holland.Sunday, Nov. 18Blood! Thunder! Mustard! Rock -n- Roll BBQ3pm • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • FreeFree BBQ and live rock music. Free food starts at 5pm.Groovy Sunday Open House at South Austin Brewing Co.3–7pm • South Austin Brewing Co., 415 E. St. Elmo Rd. #1D • FreeTour the brewery, taste some beer and listen to music by The Colin Gilmore Band. Craft ice cream and kolaches provided by Ice Cream Social.Poached Austin’s Service Industry Party 10pm–2am • Haddington’s Fox Tavern, 601 W. Sixth St. • Free; must work in service industryPost-F1 party for anyone working in Austin restaurants/hospitality. One free cocktail per person and special prices after that.Tuesday, Nov. 20The Austin Chronicle Presents Paper Cuts: Crooked Bangs7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admissionFree food from Nuevo León and free drinks from Shiner and Deep Eddy Vodka. Music by Crooked Bangs. RSVP is required to reserve a spot on the guestlist, but additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party hasn’t hit capacity.
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The Week in Cool: Nov. 16-20
“Come to Our Party” Edition!

Friday, Nov. 16
Pole Position — Presented by Kevin Paige Art and CoolinAustin
8pm–12:30am • The Palm Door, 403 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required
Sure, we’re just piling more onto this weekend’s F1nsanity, but true to our roots, we’re keeping things cheap and local. There’s no cover to get in. The drinks — graciously provided by Treaty Oak — are free all night. And the music — Austin faves Girl Dreams, Little Radar, and DJ Isabel J — just rocks. None of that glitzed-up $10,000 bottle service nonsense. Admission is subject to capacity, so RSVP now, stash your car somewhere east of 35, and get there early.

Patagonia Austin Concert Series Presents: Lance Herbstrong
6pm • Patagonia, 316 Congress Ave. • Free
Complimentary beer and wine, with music by Lance Herbstrong.

Austin Fan Fest
Various times, Fri.–Sun. • Multiple stages on 3rd and 4th streets near Colorado • Free
For those willing to venture into the heart of F1 madness, this is a full weekend of free shows by some good local bands. Highlights include Quiet Company, T-Bird & The Breaks, Speak, Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears, and a bunch of others. See the schedule for the full list.


Saturday, Nov. 17
5th Annual Sol Fest at Cherrywood Coffeehouse
10am–Midnight • Cherrywood Coffeehouse, 1401 E. 38 1/2 St. • $5 presale tickets at Waterloo Records, or $7 at the door
Showcase of local artists, DJs, photographers, music, food.

East Austin Studio Tour
11am–6pm, Sat. and Sun. • 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, and check out the full list of special E.A.S.T. events here.

Hot Glass Cold Beer + E.A.S.T. Auction
7–10pm • The East Side Glass Studio, 507 Calles St. • Free
Free beer samples from Hops & Grain and hot glassblowing demos by The East Side Glass Studio artists. Auction proceeds will go to support E.A.S.T.

E.A.S.T. Artist Appreciation Party
7pm–Midnight • Tillery Park, 801 Tillery St. • $5 suggested donation
Complimentary beverages from Hops & Grain, meats by Micklethwait Craft Meats, live screen printing by Nettie’s Cloth & Ink, and music by Pharaohs, Rayon Beach, and Dikes Of Holland.


Sunday, Nov. 18
Blood! Thunder! Mustard! Rock -n- Roll BBQ
3pm • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • Free
Free BBQ and live rock music. Free food starts at 5pm.

Groovy Sunday Open House at South Austin Brewing Co.
3–7pm • South Austin Brewing Co., 415 E. St. Elmo Rd. #1D • Free
Tour the brewery, taste some beer and listen to music by The Colin Gilmore Band. Craft ice cream and kolaches provided by Ice Cream Social.

Poached Austin’s Service Industry Party
10pm–2am • Haddington’s Fox Tavern, 601 W. Sixth St. • Free; must work in service industry
Post-F1 party for anyone working in Austin restaurants/hospitality. One free cocktail per person and special prices after that.


Tuesday, Nov. 20
The Austin Chronicle Presents Paper Cuts: Crooked Bangs
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission
Free food from Nuevo León and free drinks from Shiner and Deep Eddy Vodka. Music by Crooked Bangs. RSVP is required to reserve a spot on the guestlist, but additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party hasn’t hit capacity.

Source: ohantoniodelgado.com

The Week in Cool: July 19-23


Thursday, July 19
Opening Party of the Diana World Tour
6–10pm • Lomography Gallery Store, 912 Congress Ave. • Free
Free beer tastings from Black Star Co-op, refreshments from ID Soda, ice cream sandwiches from Cow-Tipping Creamery, and entertainment by the Austin Phonograph Company.

No Touching! The Second Arrested Development Quiz
8pm • Jax Neighborhood Café, 2828 Rio Grande • $5
Teams of up to six players compete for prizes worth up to $500.

Red River Comedy Period
9:30pm • Red 7, 611 E. 7th St. • Free
Free comedy show with performances by Jared Hawley, John Tole, Kat Ramzinski, Jared Walls, Rob Gagnon and others. Hosted by Jake Flores with music by Sebastian Nebula.


Friday, July 20
Old Bridge Cellars Wine Tasting
4–8pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free wine tasting.

I Luv Video 30th Anniversary Costume Party Extravaganza
7pm–2am • 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St. • $2 with costume, $5 without
Dress up as your favorite movie character for a night of music and games, including trivia, musical chairs, drunk Twister, costume contests and more. First 50 people through the door get a free gift bag with swag from I Luv Video and Spider House. Live music by The Well, Encino Men, Run Man Run!, Space Camp, and DJ Captain America.

Michale Graves of The Misfits
7pm–2am • Frontier Bar, 2421 Webberville Road • Free
Free show by Michale Graves, as well as Flametrick Subs, Mariachis del Inferno, Top Dead Center, The Babyshakers, and Back to Riverdale. Face painting, photobooth, and Batman movies projected on the outdoor screen. Come dressed as Batman for a chance to win free drinks.

101X Homegrown Live: Hacienda and The Preservation
8pm • The Blackheart, 86 Rainey St. • Free
Free show.

Headdress and True Widow at Hotel Vegas
9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • Free
Free show.


Saturday, July 21
Fashion Trunk Show & Sale in Hyde Park
1–7pm • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301 A. Guadalupe St. • Free
Free drinks and treats, plus shopping and live music.
 
Bikini Car Wash Fundraiser
2–9pm • The White Horse Saloon, 500 Comal St. • $5 suggested donation
Free beer, liquor snow cones, food, raffle + music by The Blind Pets, Black Pistol Fire, Shakey Graves, and Black Tabs.
 
The 2012 Quesoff                ***Party of the Week***
5–8pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River • Free
Free queso and chips at an amazing showdown of cheesy goodness created by the likes of Kerbey Lane, Frank, Cuatros, Red’s Porch, and a bunch of regular Joes.

Superhero Party
10:30pm–2am • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar • $5 online, $7 at the door
Crazy dance party with a laser light show, dancers, a photobooth and beats by DJ Fuckin’ A.


Sunday, July 22
Tuaca Summer Snow Day
4pm • Molotov Lounge, 719 W. 6th St. • Free
Winter-themed party featuring vanilla citrus TUACA cocktails.

Cinema East: “Sun Don’t Shine”
7–11pm • Yellow Jacket Track Field, 1156 Hargrave St. • $3
Screening and Q&A. BYOB.

East Side Showroom Anniversary Party
9pm • East Side Showroom, 1100 E. 6th St. • Free
Drink specials, special seasonal cuisine, and live music by Dave Quanbury’s Big Band.


Monday, July 23
Seth Walker In-Store Performance
5pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show and free Shiner.

Like us on the Facebook  •  Tweet at us on the Twitter

Shoutouts: Amber Demure, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events

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

The Week in Cool: Feb. 7-13


Tuesday, Feb. 7
Free Cheese by Antonelli’s Cheese Shop
Each night this week • Multiple locations • Free
Antonelli’s celebrates its second birthday by offering free cheese plates (while they last) at multiple locations around Austin this week. Tuesday — 24 Diner, Fino and Hopfields; Wednesday — Bartlett’s, Fion Wine Pub, House Pizzeria; Thursday — Chez Zee, Max’s Wine Dive, The Steeping Room; Friday — Coal Vines, The Seedling Truck.

Randy Fertel: The Gorilla Man and the Empress of Steak
7pm • BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Free beer from Saint Arnold Brewing Company. Randy Fertel, author of “The Gorilla Man and the Empress of Steak,” will speak and sign copies of the book.

Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog: Live!
8pm • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar • $5
An “all singing, all dancing” live performance of the cult web series.

Migrant Kids, Girl Dreams, Easy Tiger, Shortwave Party
10pm • Hole in the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe St. • Free
Free show with four local bands.


Wednesday, Feb. 8
Uncle Billy’s Brewery Tour
6–7pm • Uncle Billy’s Brewery & BBQ, 1530 Barton Springs Road • Free; RSVP requested
Take a behind-the-scenes tour and sample beer with the brewmaster. Post on the Uncle Billy’s Facebook wall to RSVP.

Austin Chronicle Short Story Contest Party
7pm • BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
The Chronicle announces the winners of its annual short story contest. Complimentary refreshments and hors d’ oeuvres.

Gap at Central Park Spring Collection Launch Cocktail Party
7–10pm • The Gap, 4001 North Lamar Blvd. • Free
Complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres + special discounts.

Trivia Night at The Brixton: Sex & the City and The Sopranos
8–10pm • The Brixton, East 6th at Onion Street • Free
That’s right: a trivia night with an eclectic mix of questions about “Sex & the City” and “The Sopranos.” Drink specials on Godfathers and Cosmopolitans.


Thursday, Feb. 9
Cash Mob Austin at TenOak
5pm • TenOak, 4th and Colorado • Free (but bring cash)
Be part of a new project to support local business by bringing at least $10 to spend en masse with fellow cash mobsters.

Beatles Happy Hour
5:30pm • Baker Street Pub, 3003 South Lamar Blvd. • Free; RSVP required
Google Places hosts a free happy hour featuring Beatles-themed drinks, music, and memorabilia.

Flower Hour
7–9pm • The Seedling Truck • Free
Complimentary appetizers & live music. Check the Facebook page on the day of the event for location.

Love Bites Art Opening
7–10pm • Bijou Studio, 1618 E. 6th St. • Free
Art show with free beer and snacks.

No Play Music 7-Inch Release Party
7pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River • $8
The great mostly local lineup makes this show well worth the cover: Speak, Marmalakes, Roky Moon & Bolt, Calm Blue Sea, Follow That Bird, The Sour Notes, Buxton, and Technicolor Hearts

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

Burning Avalanche, Befriend the Bears, The Antic Romantics, The Scarlett Effect
9pm • Hole in the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe St. • Free
Free show.


Friday, Feb. 10
Vogue Valentine Party
5–8pm • Rene Guest Jewelry Design House, 1200 E. 11th St, Ste. 106 • Free
Complimentary drinks by Treaty Oak Rum and Tito’s Sweet Tea Vodka, live music, and a pin-up photo shoot.

Austin Beauty Week: Sizzle Your Style
6–9pm • John Girard Salon, 800 W. 3rd St. • Free
Wrap up Austin Beauty Week in style with complimentary cocktails and hair styling. 10% of purchases that night will support Go Red for Women.

Octopus Project Aftershow: Little Radar
11:30pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River • $5
Head to Mohawk for a late set by our pals Little Radar — they’ve played two of our showcases and are an amazing up-and-coming Austin band.


Saturday, Feb. 11
South Austin Brewing Grand Opening Party
2–7pm • South Austin Brewing Company, 415 E. Saint Elmo Rd., Unit 1D • Free
Celebrate the grand opening of Austin’s newest craft brewery with tours, tastings of Belgian-style beer, and music by The Everydudes. Yumé Burger, a new Austin food truck, will be selling food.

Beef & Cake Party        ***Event of the Week***
6–10pm • The WonderCraft, 1601 E. Cesar Chavez St. #103 • Free
Free beer from Saint Arnold Brewing Company, vodka cocktails by Tito’s Vodka, cake by Blue Note Bakery, music by DJ Hot Britches, photobooth by Lucy Blue Studio, and a raffle to benefit Austin Pets Alive.

A Giant Dog LP Release Party
6–11pm • Trailer Space Records, 1401-A Rosewood • Free
Free beer + music by The Abominable Mex, The French Inhales, Bad Lovers, A Giant Dog, and Coma in Algiers.

Valloween
9pm–1am • Space 12, 3121 E. 12th St. • $5-$10 donation
A dance party for people who prefer Halloween to Valentine’s Day. Free beer + music by DJ One Night Stand, Deep Time, and DJ Obnoxio. Proceeds benefit Inside Books Project and Space 12.

Flying Turns 2nd Anniversary
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • $5
Music by Flying Turns and Jerome Derradji, a Chicago-based DJ and producer. Hosted bar courtesy of Treaty Oak Rum and Waterloo Gin.


Sunday, Feb. 12
Yumé Burger Soft Launch
Noon–6pm • Hops & Grain, 507 Calles St. #101 • Free
Try out the menu of Yumé Burger, a new Austin food truck that specializes in Japanese inspired hamburgers.

Do512 Presents: Brew Exchange Soft Launch
6-8pm • Brew Exchange, 706 W. 6th St. • Free; RSVP required
Free beer with RSVP – make sure you get there early.

The Girls of The 512 Valentine’s Auction
7:30pm • 512 Bar, 408 E. 6th St. • Free
Complimentary drinks and finger foods starting at 7:30pm. Bid on dates with the ladies of The 512 to benefit The Love-A-Bull Foundation.


Monday, Feb. 13
Javier Chaparro and Salud In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show (and probably free beer)

Red Beard Promotions, Isabel J and uLOVEi Present: Don’t Worry Baby
10pm–2am • Volstead Lounge, 1500 E. 6th St. • Free
Free Brooklyn Lager + oldies, R&B, and doo-wop selections by Isabel J and uLOVEi . Fifties garb is encouraged.


Plugs: PSST! We’re up for a Statesman Social Media Award — if you’re a fan of what we do, we’d be eternally grateful if you could throw a vote our way!

Also: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter

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

The Week in Cool: Feb. 1-5

Our next showcase is this Friday! Click the poster (designed by CiA’s own Eric Pulsifer) to RSVP on Facebook.


Wednesday, Feb. 1
Wine Down Wednesday
6–8pm • DuO, 225 West 2nd St. • Free
Complimentary glass of wine from Cru wine bar while you shop at DuO. Afterwards, head to Cru with your DuO receipt and get 20% off your meal.

Living Record Music Documentary Night Presents “Don’t Look Back”
7pm • Jo’s Coffee, 242 W. 2nd St. • Free
Free screening of DA Pennebaker’s documentary about Bob Dylan’s 1965 tour of England, hosted by the Austin Film Festival.

Tom Waits Hoot Night
8pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • $5
A Tom Waits tribute night with performances by Shakey Graves, Charlie Faye, Rob Franco of the Venus Illuminato, Johnny Dango of The Memphis Strange, Jack Wilson, Kurt McMahan of King Biscuit, members of Cowboy and Indian, Shane Bartell, Taber Maine, and others.


Thursday, Feb. 2
Anthony Green In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show + free Shiner.

Groundhog Day Happy Hour
5–8pm • Mohawk • Free
Drink specials + Bill Murray’s Groundhog Day on repeat.

Big-Ass Social Happy Hour (BASHH)
6pm • The Ranch, 710 West 6th St. • Free
Laid-back happy hour with all kinds of cool folks from Austin’s social media community and beyond. If you get there early enough, you can get a free drink ticket.

First Thursday: February Fun
7–10pm • Goodie Two Shoes, 1111 S. Congress Ave. • Free
Complimentary drinks, snacks, styling and sales.

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

DJ Honeycomb and Malverde Present: Shuffle Shuffle
10pm–2am • Malverde, 400 W. Second, Ste. 400-B • Free
Every Thursday this month, DJ Honeycomb and Malverde present Shuffle Shuffle. This week’s guest DJ is DJ Chicken George.


Friday, Feb. 3
Free Wine Tasting with Esprit du Vins
4-8pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free tasting featuring: Trimbach Pinot Blanc ’07, Lamarque Grande Cabanes Rose 2010, Ch. De la Chaize Brouilly ’09, Lamargue Syrah Les Grand Cabanes ’08, and Trimbach Gewurztraminer Vendage Tardives ’01.

The Asteroid Shop @ Fox on First
5pm • Fox on First, 1906 S. 1st St. • Free
Free show by the Asteroid Shop + free food + free beer.

Beauty Goes Red: Austin Beauty Week Kickoff Party
6:30–9:30pm • Speakeasy, 412 Congress Ave. • Free w/ RSVP
A red-themed party with complimentary red drinks provided by Bacardi Dragon Berry and sweet treats by Sara Belle’s Bakery. Plus: swag bags for the first 50 guests, silent auction, chair massages, and music by DJ Big Rich. Benefits Central Texas Go Red for Women.

Art Opening — Dimensions: Constructed Exploration & The Painted Print
7–10pm • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301 A. Guadalupe St. • Free
Complimentary drinks (Deep Eddy Vodka) and food (The Parlor & Austinuts) at a gallery reception featuring new works by Jonathan Sanders and David Lujan.

CoolinAustin & Austin Writes Music Present: Shot Through the Heart   **Event of the Week**
9pm–2am • Frank, 407 Colorado St. • $6
That’s right: It’s time for another CiA/AWM showcase. The all-local lineup features Royal Forest, Your Friendly Ghost, Dead Black Hearts, and Little Radar. We hope to see you out there!


Saturday, Feb. 4
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.

Be Our Valentine: Annual Valentine’s Trunk Show
2–7pm • Plain Ivey Jane, 408 W 2nd St. • Free
Complimentary drinks, treats from Sugar Pop Sweet Shop, and local shopping.

We’ll Go Machete, Cabra, Aetherhawk, Honey & Salt
6–10pm • Trailer Space Records, 1401 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free show + free beer.

Red Bull Skooled Tour
8pm–2am • Scoot Inn, East 4th @ Navasota • Free
Texas indie rap groups A.Dd+, The Niceguys, Worldwide, Kydd, and DJ Sober
make a stop in Austin on their six-city tour through Texas. The free show features Cold Cris.

Good Field Album Release Party w/ Jesse Woods and Sleep Good
8pm–2am • Baby Blue Recording Studio, 1522 E. 12th St. • $5
Cover includes free keg beer.


Sunday, Feb. 5
“Material Girl” Super Bowl Party
5pm • Side Bar, 602 E. 7th St. • Free
Madonna-themed Super Bowl party with complimentary food and Corona for the first 50–100 people. Plus: best dressed Madonna talent competition (with prizes), projections of the game, and a Material Girl after-dance party with music by DJ Czech One.

Super Bowl Watch Party at The ND
5pm • The ND, East 5th St. at Brushy St. • Free
Watch the game, supplemented with music by DJ Orion.

Airplanes Above Us with the Madisons
7pm–2am • Red Eyed Fly, 715 Red River St. • $5
Also featuring Kiddoo & The Dude, The Holler Time, and Tippus.


Plugs: PSST! We’re up for a Statesman Social Media Award — if you’re a fan of what we do, we’d be eternally grateful if you could throw a vote our way!

Also: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter

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

The Week Ahead: Jan. 24-31

By our count, there are 17 ways to get free drinks this week. Good luck out there…


Tuesday, Jan. 24
Kenichi VIP Event
5–7pm • Kenichi, 419 Colorado St. • Free; RSVP requested
Complimentary cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres. Text your name and phone number to 512-430-4339 to join the VIP List; then RSVP by emailing: marketing@kenichiaustin.com

Paper Cuts Live Music Series: Not In the Face!
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission (closed)
Free tacos from Tacos and Tequila, vodka from Deep Eddy Vodka, and Sapporo beer. Music by Not in the Face! RSVP was required to reserve a spot, but additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.

The South Austin Social Club Monthly Meet-Up
7pm • Crow Bar, 3116 South Congress • Free
Meet-up for the Austin creative community, featuring music by Christy Claxton Band and Noelle Hampton.


Wednesday, Jan. 25
Glitz and Glam Happy Hour
4–7pm • Frock On Vintage, 3016 Guadalupe, Ste. A101 • Free
Complimentary wine and cocktails, plus free hairstyling and makeup by Waterstone Aesthetics.

EPIC’s 4th Anniversary Happy Hour
5:30-7:30pm • Delta Millworks, 4701 East 5th St. • Free
Appetizers from Salt Lick, cocktails by Dripping Springs Vodka, and music by Eagle Eye Williamson.

40 Con Queso
5:30-9pm • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • Free
Free show by Best Fwends and Chablis.

Weird Coupons Launch Party     ***Event of the Week**
6–9pm • GSD&M, 828 W. 6th • Free; RSVP requested
Offerings from How Do You Roll Sushi, The Pie Society, Austin East Ciders, Deep Eddy Vodka, The Tamale Hut, and Z Tequila.

Gabrieldoes Wednesdays
6-10pm • CTC Garden, Cazamance Café, 1102 E Cesar Chavez • $5 suggested donation
Complimentary vodka courtesy of 360 Vodka, food from Cazamance Café, and live music. Feel free to BYOB.

Kim Simpson Book Signing
7pm • BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Musician & KUT Radio Host Kim Simpson will speak and sign copies of her book “Early ’70s Radio: The American Format Revolution.” Free beer from Saint Arnold Brewing Company.

There Will Be Cake
10pm • Coldtowne Theatre, 4803-B Airport Blvd. • $5
Comedy show with free cake from our friends at SugaPlump Pastries.


Thursday, Jan. 26
Lomographic Safari New Product Release Party
6–9pm • Lomography Gallery Store, 912 Congress Ave. • Free
Food, drinks, and music.

Austin Beer Guide Winter Edition Release Party
7-11:30pm • Draught House, 4112 Medical Pkwy. • Free
Celebrate the release of the Winter issue of the guide with a keg of Bourbon Barrel Night RYE-der.

Airbnb airAmbassador Launch Party
8–11pm • Hangar Lounge, 318 Colorado • Free; RSVP required
Drinks, treats, photo booth and music by DJ Mighty Mike. First 50 people in the door receive free gift bags.

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

Block Party: A Comedy Mixtape
9:30pm • The New Movement Theatre, 1819 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Try out some improv (or any kind of performance) for 5 minutes in front of a live audience.


Friday, Jan. 27
Remember Dublin Dr Pepper
11am–11pm • All P. Terry’s locations
Free Dublin Dr Pepper T-shirts all day with the purchase of a large Dublin Dr Pepper.

The Preservation In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
The Preservation celebrates the vinyl release of their album Two Sisters with a free show and free Shiner.

PRINT+addition Presents: Michael Seiben
6–9pm • Industry Screenprint Studio, 618-C Tillery St. • Free
Free beer from Austin Beerworks and music by DJ Gibb. Create your own shirt with the screen press — $20 to buy a blank shirt, or $10 if you bring your own.

MysteryPeople Presents: R.J. Ellory
7pm • BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
R.J. Ellory will speak and sign copies of his book “A Quiet Vendetta”. Free beer, wine, and snacks.


Sat., Jan. 28
EastSide Bikini Company Grand Opening
Noon–9pm • EastSide Bikini Company, 2502 Webberville Rd. • Free
Food, drinks, music, door prizes, giveaways, and discounts on all bikinis.

Splendor Boutique Launch Party
7–10pm • Splendor Boutique, 100 W. North Loop, Unit H • Free
Complimentary cocktails and discounts to celebrate the relaunch of Splendor’s online store.

Austin Variety Show’s 2nd Anniversary Bash
8pm • Highland Mall, 6001 Airport Blvd. • $10
Cover includes an open bar, food from Rockin’ Tomato, and entertainment by host Troy Dillinger, radio personality Charlie Hodge, comedian Ramin Nazer, Mistress Stephanie and Her Melodic Cat, and two new episodes of The Austin Variety Show.

A Day Show For Esme
1–7pm • Beerland, 711 Red River St. • $10
Benefit show with music by Ted Leo, Knife in the Water, The December Boys, Simple Circuit, and Literature — buy tickets in advance; it is likely to sell out. Proceeds benefit the family of Esme Barrera.

Austin Vida Showcase
9:30pm–2am • Frank, 407 Colorado St. • $6
Music by Hydra Melody, Ex Machina, and The Sounds of Curve

Sweetmeat CD Release Party
10pm–2am • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Free show with music by Foot Patrol and Sweetmeat — which includes members of Austin bands Opposite Day, the Invincible Czars, and Mostly Dead/Mistress Stephanie.


Sunday, Jan. 29
Twin Sister In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free show, free Shiner — not a bad combo.


Monday, Jan. 30
SXSW Interactive ATX Community Meet Up
6–8pm • Swan Dive, 615 Red River St. • Free; RSVP requested
SXSW will buy you a drink at this happy hour and networking event for anyone interested in the Interactive fest.


Tuesday, Jan. 31
Party and Event Guide’s Throwback Launch Party
6:30–9pm • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Complimentary drinks by Tequila Avion, food by Peachie Pastry, body painting, photo booth, door prizes, and dancing. Mad Men–style attire encouraged.


**SAVE THE DATE**
CoolinAustin / Austin Writes Music Present: Shot Through the Heart
Friday, Feb. 3 • Frank, 407 Colorado St.
That’s right — it’s time for another showcase. This one features music by Dead Black Hearts, Your Friendly Ghost, Little Radar, and Royal Forest. We’ll announce more details soon, so stay tuned, and we hope to see you there!

Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter

Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events

The Weekend Ahead: Jan. 20-22

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

The Week Ahead: Dec. 12-18

Holiday party season is in full swing. This week you can make your own chocolate martinis, stumble around East Austin dressed as C-3PO, and squeeze back into that ugly Christmas sweater for another year of yuletide festivities.


Monday, Dec. 12
Dub Academy’s First Annual Christmas Party
8pm–Midnight • Parkside, 301 East 6th St. • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary drinks and raffle tix for people who wear ugly holiday sweaters; photo booths; games with prizes; live music.


Tuesday, Dec. 13
Candy Lane Cocktail Party
6–9pm • Langford Market, 249 West 2nd Street • Free
Complimentary candy-inspired cocktails and mini-candy bar. Accepting donations for the Capital Area Food Bank.

Austin Chronicle Presents: Paper Cuts
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission
Complementary Shock Top beer, desserts from the Frisco Shop, and Bacardi Oakheart Rum. Music by Marmalakes. RSVP to reserve your spot; additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.

It’s Made Of People: One Year Anniversary Variety Show
9pm • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • Free
Free variety show featuring sketches, comedians, and bands.

Coal Vines Wine-Down Holiday Bash
6–10pm • Coal Vines, 314 W. 2nd St. • Free; RSVP requested (RSVP Email)
Complimentary hors d’oeuvres, wine specials, and live music. Bring a wrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots.


Wednesday, Dec. 14
Austin Social Affair Holiday Launch Party
6–9pm • TenOak, 409 Colorado St. • $5 minimum donation
Free Grey Goose cocktails from 6–7; $5 after that. Benefits the Wrapped in Love Foundation.

Gabrieldoes: A Christmas Party
6–10pm • Cazamance Café, 1102 E. Cesar Chavez • Free
Free drinks while they last + food, and holiday music. Feel free to BYOB.

2011 Austin Holiday Formal    ***Event of the Week***
9:30pm–2am • American Legion Hall, 2201 Veterans Drive • $10 donation
Free drinks include Fireman’s 4, Sierra Nevada, 360 Vodka, Wiser’s Canadian Whiskey, and El Zarco Tequila. Also: make-your-own chocolate martini bar, live music, photo booth, and raffle. Dress fancy! Donations benefit Austin’s Children’s Shelter.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Santy Panty Party
10pm–1am • Nomad Bar, 1211 Corona Dr. • Free
Complimentary drinks for anyone who dresses up. Featuring comedian James Patrick Robinson, DJ sets, and dancin’.


Thursday, Dec. 15
The Liberty 3rd Annual Christmas Party
4pm–2am • The Liberty, 1618 E. 6th St. • Free
Details TBA.

Beer O’Clock – Austin Community Happy Hour hosted by The Daily Dot
5:30–8pm • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St. • Free
Have a drink or two on The Daily Dot, “the hometown newspaper of the World Wide Web.”

Social Media Club Austin Holiday Party 2011
6:30-8:30pm • Molotov, 719 West 6th Street • Free; RSVP required
Free food from Roll on Sushi + drink specials. Dress “holiday fancy” and bring a new toy to donate to the Toy Drive for Austin.

Beer Society Strikes Back
8–11pm • Jackalope, 404 East 6th • Free; RSVP required
Free pints of Boulevard IPA, courtesy of The Onion Society for Beer Enjoyment.

Volstead Lounge at Hotel Vegas Holiday Party
9pm • Volstead Lounge at Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th Street • Free w/ RSVP; $5 without
Free beer and egg nog while it lasts, plus music by Alpha Rev, Levi Weaver, and Saints of Valory. Christmas sweaters encouraged. RSVP for free admission.


Friday, Dec. 16
Film Night at Green House
8pm–Midnight • Green House, 701 E 53rd St. • Free
Movies, free cocktails and popcorn.

Qua 4th Anniversary Party
9–11pm • Qua, 213 W. 4th St. • Free
Complimentary cocktails from 9–11, half-price bottles all night.

Christmas Sweater Party Champagne Jam
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • $2 if you wear a holiday sweater; $5 if not
Champagne, photo booth, live improv holiday karaoke by Zorch; DJ sets by Kon Karne, Lee Roi, and Butcher Bear.


Saturday, Dec. 17
Thirsty Planet Brewery Tour
11am and 1:30pm • Thirsty Planet Brewing Co., 11160 Circle Drive • Free; RSVP required
Free tour and beer tasting. Make sure to reserve a spot online.

The Backyard Bizarre Bazaar Bizart Show
6pm–Midnight • Green House, 701 E 53rd St. • Free
Art show, fashion show, live music, drinks and food.

I Wanna Be Your Dog II
8pm • 29th Street Ballroom, 2906 Fruth St. • $5 donation
Free food from Frank; music by The Fleshlights, John Wesley Coleman, Bad Lovers, Foreign Mothers, Dead Space, and Sweat Lodge; raffle to win SXSW wristbands; silent auction. Benefits Austin Pets Alive.

Han Shots First Pub Crawl
8pm–2am • Starts at The Liberty, 1618 E. 6th St. • $5 suggested donation
Dress up as your favorite Star Wars character and go out drinkin’ on the east side. The crawl (which also features games, a raffle and Star Wars trivia) will have stops at The Liberty, Rio Rita, The Brixton, Violet Crown, and Shangri-La. See the event page for schedule info. Benefits Child’s Play.

Secret Show at Hotel Vegas
9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th Street • Free w/ RSVP, $5 without
Music by Stereo is a Lie, The Boxing Lesson, and a mystery headliner. RSVP for free admission.



**SAVE THE DATE: January 2** CoolinAustin’s very first Free Week showcase is set for Monday, Jan. 2 at Swan Dive. We’ll announce the details later this week, but suffice it to say, it will rock yo socks off.

Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter

Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events