The Week in Cool: May 14-18
Tuesday, May 14
Free In-Store DJ Set by Snowden
5pm • Waterloo Records, 600 N. Lamar • Free
Free drinks from Tuaca.
BYOV.inyl
5pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free
Open turntables — just bring your records and they’ll play ‘em. Bonus: all-night happy hour specials.
KUT Views & Brews: What We Love, Why We Love It and What It Means
5:30pm • Cactus Café, 2247 Guadalupe St. • Free
Roundtable discussion about the nature of super-fandom with KUT producer Mike Lee, Kareem Babr from the Hideout Theatre, and Lars Nilson from Austin Film Society. Also featuring live improv comedy from Hideout regulars.
Paper Cuts: The Peterson Brothers
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP for priority admission
Free food from Austin’s Pizza and free drinks from Tito’s Vodka and Firestone Walker Brewing Co. 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.
Free Film Tuesdays: Repo Man
7–10pm • The ND, East 5th at Brushy Street • Free
Celebrate Emilio Estevez’s birthday with a free screening, cheap drinks and pizza.
Wednesday, May 15
The Wine Down: Jitterbug Vipers
5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Bites from Coal Vines, happy hour wine specials, and music by Jitterbug Vipers.
Swift’s Attic 1st Birthaversary Party
8pm • Swift’s Attic, 315 Congress Ave. • Free
Complimentary cocktails and snacks including Squid Fries, Bahn Minis, mussels, and Swiftine.
Thursday, May 16
Torchy’s Tacos Round Rock Grand Opening
7–10am • Torchy’s Tacos, 2150 E. Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock • Free
Stop by for a free breakfast taco and enter a raffle to win free tacos for a year.
Flaps & Taps @ The Buzz Mill
5–8pm • The Buzz Mill, 1505 Town Creek Drive • Free
Complimentary draft beer tastings and $5 flapjack wraps.
The Social Re-Grand Opening Event
6–9pm • The Social, 1817 E. Oltorf St. • Free; donations requested
Complimentary cocktails from Deep Eddy Ruby Red Vodka and Sailor Jerry Rum, fashion show by Creatures Boutique, and music by DJ Jeff Strange and Suite 709. Benefits Austin Humane Society — donate via Eventbrite to reserve a spot.
Whitley Grand Opening Party
6:30–8:30pm • Whitley, 301 Brazos St. • Free; RSVP required
Poolside deck party with complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.
The Great Bourbon Experience
7–10pm • The Belmont, 305 W. 6th St. • Free; RSVP required
Free bourbon tasting. RSVP on Facebook or call (512) 476-2100.
Unplugged at the Grove: Carolyn Wonderland
8pm • Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. • Free
Free show, drink specials. Additional parking available at Bicycle Sports Shop down the street at 517 S. Lamar Blvd.
Boy + Kite EP Release Party
8pm • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th St. • $7
Music by Boy + Kite, The Plastic Habit and Slomo Drags.
Republic Square Movies in the Park: The Fifth Element
8:30pm • Republic Square Park, 5th and Guadalupe • Free
Free screening.
The Boxing Lesson Album Release Party
9pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • $8
Lineup includes Obscured by Echoes at 10pm, Megafauna at 11pm, and The Boxing Lesson at midnight.
Friday, May 17
Bike to Work Day
7:30–9:30am and 4–6:30pm • Various Locations • Free
Free food, coffee, drinks and swag at several places around town for people who bike to and from work. Morning locations include City Hall; City of Austin Public Works Department (1st and Barton Springs); Mueller Neighborhood Association; Bouldin Creek Café; Juiceland (Burnet location); and Wheatsville Coop. Afternoon hubs include Bicycle Sport Shop (free Real Ale beer and snacks); Mellow Johnny’s (free beer and a nacho bar); Ozone Bike Dept. (free Austin’s Pizza and Independence Brewing Co. beer); and Bikealot. Check out the website for addresses and more details about all the freebies.
Hops and Grain Brewery Tastings
2–6pm Friday; Noon–4pm Saturday • Hops and Grain, 507 Calles St. • Free
The tap room is open on Friday and Saturday afternoons, and brewery tours are at 1pm and 3pm on Saturday.
UMeTime Austin Bar Crawl
7pm • Starts at The Belmont, 305 W. 6th St. • Free
Drink specials at several Warehouse District bars, including Belmont, Austin Ale House, TenOak, The Hangar Lounge, and Speakeasy. Wear orange, and check the event page for more info.
Official Refrosh Launch Party
8pm • Lucky Lounge, 209 W. Fifth St. • Free; RSVP required
Free drinks by Deep Eddy Vodka, food, ping pong, and music.
The Bus Stop Stallions / Fatback Circus @ Swan Dive
9pm • Swan Dive, 615 Red River St. • $5
Fatback Circus @ 10:30, Bus Stop Stallions @ 11:40
Saturday, May 18
O. Henry Pun-Off World Championships
11am–6pm • Brush Square Park, 409 E. Fifth Street • Free
36th-annual showdown between Austin’s (nay, the world’s) best punslingers.
Whole Foods Block Party
11am–5pm • Whole Foods, 6th and Lamar • Free
Music, activities, grilled food and local beer.
Renegade Craft Fair
11am–7pm Saturday and Sunday • Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road • Free
Check out handmade goods from more than 150 indie crafters, with a music stage by Waterloo Records and other festivities.
Black Sheep Lodge’s 4th Anniversary Party
1pm–1am • Black Sheep Lodge, 2108 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Black Sheep is celebrating its 4th year with a Renaissance-themed party, featuring drink specials, turkey legs, roasted corn, sno cones, games, giveaways, and a bounce castle. Costumes encouraged.
Austin Pets Alive Fundraiser with Hops & Grain Brewing Co.
5pm • In.gredients, 2610 Manor Road • Free
Happy hour prices on Hops & Grain beers, with proceeds benefiting Austin Pets Alive. Plus: live music, a raffle, and a chance to adopt some cool dogs in need of homes.
Comedian Rap Battle Authority @ The New Movement
9–10:30pm • The New Movement, 616 Lavaca St. • $5
Standup comedy from eight comedians, followed by a freestyle rap battle. Hosted by Rob Gagnon. BYOB.
The Week in Cool: April 25 - May 1
The best free, cheap and cool stuff to check out in the week ahead.
Thursday, April 25
Consuela’s Grand Opening Party
11am–5pm • Consuela, 910 Congress Ave. • Free
Free cupcakes, cocktails and Couture Collection giveaways.
Flaps & Taps @ The Buzz Mill
5–8pm • The Buzz Mill, 1505 Town Creek Drive • Free
Complimentary draft beer tastings and $5 flapjack wraps.
Saint Arnold Icon Blue Cask & Glass Night
5:30pm • Craft Pride, 61 Rainey St. • Free
Order a pint of Saint Arnold’s Cascadian Dark Ale and keep the glass.
Micheladas Cafe y Cantina’s Grand Opening Bash
6pm • Micheladas Cafe y Cantina, 333 East 2nd St. • Free
Complimentary food and beer, rooftop salsa dancing lessons, live music, giveaways, and party games.
Big Hearts for Brave Hearts Launch Party Happy Hour
6–8pm • Molotov, 719 W. 6th St. • $10 donation
Donation at the door gets you free appetizers, champagne cocktails, mini Smirnoff cocktails, and a chance to win door prizes from Hopdoddy, Synergy, Orbit Salon and others. Benefits Hospice Austin’s Camp Brave Heart.
Brew Exchange’s 1 Year Anniversary Party
7pm • Brew Exchange, 706 West 6th St. • Free
Music by Zeale and DJ Mike Swing, and giveaways of “goodie bags full of awesome stuff.”
Unplugged at The Grove: Dirty River Boys
8pm • Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. • Free
Free show, drink specials. Additional parking available at Bicycle Sports Shop down the street at 517 S. Lamar Blvd.
Heroine Zine Issue One Release Party
9pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E. 6th St. • $5 suggested donation
Dance party with music by DJ SIR of GirlFriend and others. Donations get you a copy of the zine and will benefit Girls Rock Camp Austin.
Friday, April 26
Hops and Grain Brewery Tastings
2–6pm Friday; Noon–4pm Saturday • Hops and Grain, 507 Calles St. • Free
The tap room is open on Friday and Saturday afternoons, and brewery tours are at 1pm and 3pm on Saturday.
Free Organic Wine Tasting with Vina Ijalba
4–8pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free tasting of four types of organic wines.
Guadalupe Brewing Tasting
5pm • Growler Room, 6800 Burnet Rd., Ste. 2 • Free
Try samples of Guadalupe Brewing beers including Honey Ale, Scotch Ale, Americano Wheat and Guadalupe IPA — and try to score some free coasters, T-shirts and even a few growler fills.
Free Show: Cunto @ The Buzz Mill
7pm • The Buzz Mill, 1505 Town Creek Drive • Free
Mondo Gallery Opening Reception: Mike Mitchell Solo Show
7–10pm • Mondo Gallery, 4115 Guadalupe St. • Free
Opening of an exhibit by the very talented movie poster artist Mike Mitchell.
Freak SPFX Presents: The Austin Zombie Crawl
8pm–2am • Begins at Metal and Lace, 720 Red River • Free to participate; wristbands $20
Undead bar crawl down Red River and Dirty 6th with costume contests and drink specials (if you buy a wristband). See the website for locations, schedule and wristband details.
Free Show: Holiday / Twin Vision / Gang Sign @ Cheer Up Charlie’s
9pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E. 6th St. • Free
Saturday, April 27
FrankenBike #93
10am–4pm • University Cyclery, 2901 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Beer from Independence Brewing Company and slices from Austin’s Pizza.
Thirsty Planet Brewery Tours
11am and 1:30pm • Thirsty Planet Brewery, 11160 Circle Drive • Free; RSVP required
Tour the brewery and sample some Thirsty Planet beers. Reserve your free tickets online — and hurry, because they usually sell out a few days before the tour.
Eeyore’s 50th Birthday Party
11am–Dark • Pease Park, Lamar @ MLK Blvd. • Free
You don’t know the true meaning of “Keep Austin Weird” until you’ve been to Eeyore’s Birthday Party. Imagine hundreds of hippies young and old gathering together to engage in all manner of costumed and/or partially clothed festivities — music, dancing, games, and whatever else feels like a good idea at the time. Hey, it may not be everyone’s cup of psychedelic tea, but it’s a milestone year for one of Austin’s time-honored traditions, and it’s a crazy spectacle worth checking out at least once.
Blanton Fifty Fest
Noon–Midnight • Blanton Museum, 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. • Free
All-day arts celebration with live music, T-shirt screen-printing, an art lab, photobooths, door prizes and more. Headlining set by T Bird and the Breaks starts at 10pm.
Wimberley Valley Winery’s 30th Anniversary Party
1–5pm • Wimberley Valley Winery, 2825 Lone Mountain Rd., Driftwood • Free
Free wine slushies, live music from Matthew Ian, outdoor games, and food for sale from Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ.
Grand Opening of Baton Creole
3–7pm • Baton Creole, 907 E. 6th St. (Eastside Eats Food Court) • Free
Free Cajun food samples and complimentary beverages from Sailor Jerry Rum and Live Oak Brewery, with music by Gumbo Ce Soir and DJ Cut-a-Rug.
Free Show: Super Funky April Scootenanny
8pm • Scoot Inn, East 4th St. at Navasota • Free
Music by The Larues and Roxy Roca.
Sunday, April 28
Sunday Sociale at Bungalow
2–6pm • Bungalow, 92 Rainey St. • Free
$1 mimosas, $5 Bloody Mary bar, and $2 domestics — plus free crawfish and tacos with the purchase of a drink starting at 2 (get there early!). Music by uLOVEi & Abe the Assassin.
Free In-Store Performance: Jad Fair
5pm • Waterloo Records, 600 N. Lamar • Free
Free Show: New Order + Joy Division Cover Bands @ Cheer Up Charlie’s
8pm • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E. 6th St. • Free
Monday, April 29
Avalanche @ Holy Mountain
9pm • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th Street • Free
A night of free music and comedy performances hosted by the very funny Chris Cubas.
Drunken Spelling Bee
9pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River • $5
Tuesday, April 30
Trailer Food Tuesdays
5–9pm • The Long Center Terrace, 701 W. Riverside Dr. • Free
Food for sale from several local food trucks, plus live music by Fingerpistol.
Free & Queer Cinema Presents: Top Gun
7–10pm • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy Street • Free
Free beer to the first 20 people and to anyone in booty shorts. Giveaways all night from Q Toys, AIDS Services of Austin and Birds Barbershop.
Budweiser’s Made in Austin Party
8pm–Midnight • ACL Live, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free; RSVP required (sold out for now)
Free show with Big Gigantic and Griz, with (free?) beer from Budweiser.
Attendance Records Spring Fever Showcase
9pm • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th Street • $5 donation
Music by Henry + The Invisibles, Royal Forest, Pharaohs, and Milezo. Proceeds benefit Attendance Records, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting teachers and students with local writers, artists and musicians.
Free Show: Dancinatra / End Wave / Poppy Red @ Cheer Up Charlie’s
9pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E. 6th St. • Free
Wednesday, May 1
The Wine Down, featuring Suite 709
5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Bites from Bonneville, happy hour wine specials, and music by Suite 709.
Augusten Burroughs Talk and Signing @ BookPeople
7pm • BookPeople, 6th and Lamar • Free
Author Augusten Burroughs will speak and sign his latest book, “This is How.” The talk is free, but tickets to the signing are only available if you purchase of the paperback edition of the book from BookPeople.
Firefly Moonshine Launch Party
7:30–9pm • Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar, 506 West Ave. • Free
Free appetizers, moonshine tastings, and live music by Horseshoes & Hand Grenades.
Free Show: Wood & Wire @ Rattle Inn
8:30pm • Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces St. • Free
Free Stand-Up Comedy Wednesdays Showcase @ The Tap Room
10pm • The Tap Room, 4th and Colorado (under Six Lounge) • Free
The Week in Cool: April 15-20
Monday, April 15
Shinyribs Free In-Store Performance
5pm • Waterloo Records, 600 N. Lamar • Free
With free drinks by Z Tequila.
Free Show: Lilly Hiatt @ Cactus Café
7:30pm • Cactus Café, 2247 Guadalupe • Free
Avalanche @ Holy Mountain
9pm • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th Street • Free
A night of music and comedy hosted by the very funny local comic Chris Cubas.
Drunken Spelling Bee: Harry Potter Edition
9pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free
Hosted by Blake Midgette and Austin comedian Jake Flores.
Motown on Mondays @ Frank
9pm • Frank, 4th and Colorado • Free
Motown dance party featuring 60s classics and remixes by the MOM DJs.
TNM Clubhouse — with Host Kath Barbadoro
9:30pm • The New Movement Theater, 616 Lavaca St. • Pay what you want
Ten comics performing 5-minute sets of new material, followed by 3 headliners.
Tuesday, April 16
Pizza/ Listening Party for Major Lazer
1pm • Waterloo Records, 600 N. Lamar • Free
Eat free pizza while listening to the new Major Lazer album.
Meat Puppets In-Store Performance
5pm • Waterloo Records, 600 N. Lamar • Free
Free beer from Shiner.
Paper Cuts: Shakey Graves
7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission — sold out for now
Free food from Austin’s Pizza and free drinks from Pacifico and Dripping Springs Vodka. Music by Dikes of Holland. 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.
Style & Wine 101
7–9pm • Estilo, 234 W. 2nd St. • Free; RSVP required
Winemaker Federico Cerelli, of Castello di Gabbiano, will share some of his wines at an event showcasing men’s fashions styled by Estilo experts. To RSVP, email Stephanie@estiloaustin.com.
Improv Zero: A Free Improv Comedy Class
8pm • The New Movement Theater, 616 Lavaca St. • Free
Free improv workshop led by the pros at New Movement.
theGlitoris Presents: TuezGayz Selena Tribute
10pm–2am • Barbarella, 611 Red River St. • (Cover?)
Celebrate Selena’s birthday with a night of musical tributes and costumes. $2 wells till 11.
Wednesday, April 17
The Wine Down, featuring Este Vato
5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Bites from Hickory Street, happy hour wine specials, and music by Sideshow Tragedy.
Art Party @ Hyde Park Bar & Grill
5–7pm • Hyde Park Bar & Grill South, 4521 West Gate Blvd. • Free
Complimentary appetizer buffet at the debut of a new exhibit featuring works by Heather Meyer, Brian Imler and Karla Man.
Fusebox Festival: Opening Night Parties
6pm–Midnight • 912 Congress Ave. and other locations; see site for details • Free
Celebrate the kickoff of the 2013 Fusebox Festival (which runs April 17–28) with several free events. The Opening Night Happy Hour, featuring the Fusebox margarita, starts at 6pm, and the Opening Night Party gets going at 9pm. See the Fusebox website for the full schedule.
Thursday, April 18
Flaps & Taps @ The Buzz Mill
5–8pm • The Buzz Mill, 1505 Town Creek Drive • Free
Complimentary draft beer tastings and $5 flapjack wraps.
Tribeza Presents: The Lawn Party [POSTPONED until Wed. 4/24]
6–9pm • French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St. • $10 (includes food & drinks)
Spring fashion event featuring lots of food and beverages, which are included in the cover price. Food includes sliders, cotton candy, macarons, ice cream, and other selections provided by Frank, Max’s Wine Dive, Cornucopia, Cloud 9 Cotton Candy and Macarons by Jane. Drinks include cocktails by Deep Eddy Vodka and wine from Spicewood Vineyards, as well as Corona, Corona Light, Negra Modelo, and Modelo Especial. The event also features a fashion show, lawn games, and music by Ava Arenella.
Unplugged at The Grove: Suzanna Choffel
8pm • Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. • Free
Free show, drink specials. Additional parking available at Bicycle Sports Shop down the street at 517 S. Lamar Blvd.
Friday, April 19
Hops and Grain Brewery Tastings
2–6pm Friday; Noon–4pm Saturday • Hops and Grain, 507 Calles St. • Free
The tap room is open on Friday and Saturday afternoons, and brewery tours are at 1pm and 3pm on Saturday.
Red Bull Sound Select Presents: Bun B
9pm–2am • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy Street • $3
Just $3 to see Bun B, along with Max Frost, Bagheera, Digital Wild. Tickets on sale at the door only.
Fly Society Presents: Zeale / Phranchyze / Flash Fellowz / LNS Crew
9pm–2am • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th St. • $5
Great hip-hop lineup for five bucks.
Freebie Friday: Adrienne Mack-Davis / The Holiday / The Wolf / Brut Force
9:30pm–2am • Spider House, 2906 Fruth St. • Free
Saturday, April 20
Spec’s Fest
10am–7pm • Spec’s Arbor Walk, 10515 N. MoPac and Spec’s Brodie Lane, 4970 W. Hwy. 290 • Free
Sample wines, beers, spirits and food, with special discounts, door prizes, and giveaways.
5th Annual South First Street Art Walk
10am • Multiple South Austin stores • Free
Music, art and giveaways at several independent 78704 businesses. See the website for a list of participating stores.
North Loop Spring Fling Sidewalk Sale-A-Bration
11am–7pm • Multiple North Loop businesses • Free
Full day of food, specialty drinks, vintage shopping, giveaways and other festivities in North Loop’s local business district. See the website for a list of participating stores.
Thirsty Planet Brewery Tours
11am and 1:30pm • Thirsty Planet Brewery, 11160 Circle Drive • Free; RSVP required
Tour the brewery and sample some Thirsty Planet beers.
Record Store Day
Check store hours • Multiple venues • Free
Austin’s independent record stores join a nationwide celebration, featuring special deals, about 400 exclusive releases, and record signings. Waterloo Records is hosting autograph sessions with Ian McLagan (3pm) and Roky Erikson (5pm). Other participants include End of an Ear, Encore Records, Antone’s Record Shop, Breakaway Records, and Musicmania. See the Record Store Day website for more info, and check with each store for hours.
Pints for Pups
Noon–3pm • Independence Brewing Co., 3913 Todd Lane #607 • $10 donation
Donation gets you a commemorative pint glass that can be filled three times with various Independence brews. Music by The Warm Guns. Proceeds will benefit local dog shelters and advocacy groups.
Free Show: Eagle Claw / Ink Blot / Lug / Brink of Disaster / Slurr
8pm • Dirty Dog Bar, 505 E. 6th St. • Free
Sphynx / Henry & the Invisibles / Chappo / Prom Date
8:30pm–2am • Scoot Inn, East 4th St. at Navasota • $5
Sphynx will debut their yet-to-be-released album, “Golden Garden.” Advance tix available online.
Night Fever Volume XXXV: 420 Edition
9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • $5 before 11pm, $8 after
A “soul shakedown party” with music by Hail Marley (Bob Marley tribute band), El John Selector, and Aquaman Chill.
A Smoker’s Delight: Variety Show
9:30pm • Frank, 4th and Colorado • $5
Featuring performances by Phranchyze, The Bandulus, and Holiday Mountain.
East Cameron Folkcore / Not In The Face / Gilded Splinters
10pm • White Horse, 500 Comal St. • (Cover?)
The Week in Cool: March 28–April 3
Time to crawl out from under your post-SXSW rock, dust yourself off, and venture back into the world. Here are this week’s picks of the best free and cheap fun to be had in this time of rebuilding.
Thursday, March 28
Infamous Brewing Company Launch Party
6–11pm • Banger’s Sausage House, 79 Rainey St. • Free
Beer samples (7–10pm), food pairings, and live music.
Austin Beauty Week Kickoff Party & Salon Showcase
7pm-2am • Speakeasy, 412 D Congress Ave. • Free w/ RSVP
Kick off Austin Beauty Week with complimentary Deep Eddy Ruby Red vodka beverages (for the first hour), a fashion show, hair & makeup exhibit, and other festivities. RSVP requested.
Grizzly Adams Family / Holiday / The Gents @ Swan Dive
9pm–1am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River St. • $5
The New Movement Block Party
9:30pm • The New Movement Theater, 616 Lavaca St. • Free
An “anything-goes” open-mic party hosted by Rob Gagnon, featuring standup, sketch comedy, and performance art.
Free Show: Sour Bridges @ The Rattle Inn
11pm–1:30am • The Rattle Inn, 610 Nueces St. • Free
Friday, March 29
Lerin Spanish Wine Tasting
4–8pm • East End Wines, 1209 Rosewood Ave. • Free
Free tasting of four types of Spanish wine.
Free Show: Shakey Graves @ The White Horse
5pm • The White Horse, 500 Comal • Free
Wake for Lomography Austin
6–10pm • Lomography Gallery Store, 912 Congress Ave. • Free
The gallery is closing, so it’s time for everyone to drown their sorrows with the help of complimentary drinks and live music.
Free Screening: “Beetlejuice” 25th Anniversary Party
7–9:30pm • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy St. • Free
Free Fireman’s 4 while it lasts at this free screening.
Fatback Circus / Empire Machines / Shiny Empire @ Frank
9pm • Frank, 407 Colorado St. • $6
Mr. Mustache: A Tribute to Nirvana
9pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free w/ donation to Austin Pets Alive
Music by Mr. Mustache (Nirvana cover set by members of Goodnight Goddess and Dynamite Boy), Power Chief, Del Vipers, and Residual Kid. Donate at least $3 and get a free drink ticket. All proceeds go to Austin Pets Alive.
Saturday, March 30
Jo’s 14th Annual Pet Parade and Costume Contest
Noon • Jo’s Coffee, 1300 S. Congress Ave. • Free to watch; parade registration is $10/advance, $15/day of event
A swarm of costumed pets will parade down South Congress with a marching band, followed by a costume contest, live music, and other festivities. Proceeds from the parade will benefit Austin Pets Alive.
Texas Football Fan Fest and Orange-White Scrimmage
4–8pm • Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, 23rd and San Jacinto • Free
It’s finally time for a break from the springtime college football drought. Watch the Longhorns stampede into the stadium at 4:15, try your luck at some tailgate games, and check out the Orange-White Scrimmage at 6:30, with open seating on the north and east sides of the stadium. Everything is free and open to the public.
Craft Pride’s Live Music Debut & Divine Reserve Tapping
6–10pm • Craft Pride, 61 Rainey St. • Free
Craft Pride is tapping a cask of Saint Arnold’s Divine Reserve No. 13 at this party featuring music by Sour Bridges, Patrick’s Beard & The Rusty Razors, and MaryAnn.
March Scootenanny
8pm • Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th St. • Free
Free show with music by Clyde and Clem’s Whiskey Business, Sour Bridges, and Southern Renaissance.
Red River Noise Presents: Future of Indie Vol. III
9pm • Hole in the Wall, 2538 Guadalupe • $3 with Facebook RSVP / $5 door
New showcase series featuring music by Knifight, Pop Pistol and End Wave.
Megafauna Tour Kickoff & Vinyl Release Party
9pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • $6
With The Boxing Lesson, Future Humans, and The Couch.
Sphynx / Bobby Jealousy / Sip Sip / Growl @ Hotel Vegas
9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1502 E. 6th St. • (Cover?)
Free Show: East Cameron Folkcore / Cunto! / Black Eyed Vermillion @ The White Horse
9:30pm • The White Horse, 500 Comal St. • Free
Sunday, March 31
Easter Brunch Party @ Yellow Jacket
11am • Yellow Jacket Social Club, 1704 East 5th St. • Free
Spend Easter on the east side at Yellow Jacket’s annual brunch, which will involve a petting zoo and washers tournament.
Sunday Sociale at Bungalow
2–6pm • Bungalow, 92 Rainey St. • Free
$1 mimosas, $5 Bloody Mary bar, and $2 domestics — plus free tacos with the purchase of a drink. Music by Chorizo Funk & DJ Fndomntl.
Matthew’s Easter Circus
5pm • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 East 6th St. • Free
Circus-themed party with music by Holiday, Leopold and His Fiction, and DJ ulovei.
“Game of Thrones” Season Premiere Party @ The ND
7–10pm • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy St. • Free
Watch last season’s finale and this season’s premiere on the big 25-foot projection screen, with $1 Shiners.
Monday, April 1
Opening Day at Bar 96
Noon • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St. • Free
Free batting cage with prizes, plus drink specials and ballpark snacks.
April Fool’s Day Bash with Hops & Grain Brewery
6pm • Banger’s Sausage House, 79 Rainey St. • Free
Try some special Hops & Grain brews with food pairings by Banger’s. Music by Wood & Wire from 7-9pm.
Tuesday, April 2
The Black Angels In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free Shiner.
Wednesday, April 3
Sons of Fathers In-Store Performance
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
The Wine Down at ACL Live
5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • Free
Bites from III Forks, happy hour wine specials, and music by Omar and the Howlers.
CiA @ SXSW: Wednesday, March 13
Here are today’s free party highlights — enjoy! Stay tuned to our Twitter feed for more party tips and reports from the field.
Hipstamatic #Morning After Brunch
11am–4pm • Haus of Hipstamatic, 509 Brushy St. • RSVP required; now closed
Mexican food from La Condesa, coffee, mimosas, a Bloody Mary bar, a photobooth and other surprises. Badges and wristbands will get priority entry. Music by Redd Volkaert, Warren Hood & the Goods, and Quiet Company.
The Warner Sound Showcase
11am–6pm • The Belmont, 305 W. 6th Street • No RSVP required
Free official showcase with performances by Fitz and The Tantrums, Bonaparte, Saints of Valory, and Ashley Monroe. Open to the public, but badges will probably get priority.
Waterloo Records Day Shows
11am–7pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • No RSVP required
Today’s highlights: Tegan & Sara (2pm); Macklemore & Ryan Lewis (3pm); Robert DeLong (6pm).
T-Mobile Austin House Party
11am–Midnight • Papi Tino’s, 1306 E. 6th St. • Free; no RSVP required
Free tacos, giveaways, video games, screen-printing, and bands. Check out The Mowglis at 6pm and The Sheepdogs at 8:30.
Consequence of Sound’s Cosigns II
11:30am–6pm • The Parish Underground/ Beale St. Tavern, 214 E. 6th St. • RSVP requested; still open
Free beer and tea. Bands include Fort Lean, St. Lucia, The Thermals, Mac DeMarco, Chelsea Light Moving, and several others.
B3SCI Presents: Day Party Takeover
11:45am–5pm • Maggie Mae’s, 323 E. 6th St. • RSVP required; list still open
Free drinks and popcorn. Lineup highlights:
12:15 PM Blondfire
1:50 PM Ghost Beach
2:45 PM Gold Fields
3:35 PM Wildcat! Wildcat!
4:20 PM Trails and Ways
4:25 PM The 1975
Gobbler Grill
Noon–5pm • 350 Trinity St. (across from the convention center, between 3rd & 4th) • RSVP requested
Free food, beer, and music.
Hype Hotel Day Party: Gorilla vs. Bear & Yourstru.ly
Noon–6pm • The Whitley, 3rd & Brazos • RSVP required; still open
Free booze, good bands, and if you’re lucky you might just score a Cool Ranch Doritos taco or two. You’ll need to pick up your Hype Hotel wristband before you can go in. Wednesday’s lineup includes:
Noon Empress Of
1pm Fear of Men
2:00 Antwon
3:00 Charli XCX
3:30 John Talabot
4:00 Shlomo
4:30 Ryan Hemsworth
5:00 Disclosure
Rock On Foundation Presents: Sneakers & Speakers
Noon–6pm • Club Deville, 900 Red River St. • RSVP required; still open for now
Free beer from (512) Brewing Company, complimentary cocktails from Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and BBQ from Rudy’s. Music by Oh No Oh My, Feathers, Dallas Green, The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, Chuck Inglish (The Cool Kids), and Stak5 (aka Stephen Jackson of the San Antonio Spurs).
Paste & HGTV Present: The Stages on Sixth
Noon–6pm • The Stage on 6th, 508 E. 6th St.
Free booze and a long lineup of bands including Guards (1pm), Foxygen (2pm), The Shout Out Louds (5pm) and many others.
Under The Radar SXSW Party
Noon–6pm • Flamingo Cantina, 515 E. 6th Street • No RSVP required
Free Sapporo beer and a good lineup including Shout Out Louds, Doldrums, Young Dreams, and Surfer Blood (5pm).
Spotify House
Noon–6pm, Monday–Friday • Cenote, Cesar Chavez & Medina Street • RSVP requested; still open for now
Free drinks and food for Spotify Premium members. Wednesday’s music lineup: Neon Indian (DJ set), Flume, The Last Bison, and more.
Bands, Beer, and Burgers Vol. 2
Noon–6:30pm • Hostelling International, 2200 S. Lakeshore Blvd. (off Riverside) • RSVP required; now closed
Free local beer from Live Oak Brewing and Hops & Grain. Burgers for sale. Music by Bobby Jealousy, Burgess Meredith, and others.
The Fader Fort
Noon–8pm • Pine Street Station, East 5th @ Brushy Street • RSVP required; list now closed
Free drinks and a day full of music — might as well check it out today before it gets insane starting Thursday. Make sure to pick up your Fader wristband on the other side of the venue before you line up to go in.
Free Now! Presented by Beautiful Buzz and Deli Radio
Noon–2am • Brew Exchange, 708 W. 6th St. • RSVP required; now closed
Free food, drinks, and music by more than 25 bands. Wednesday’s lineup highlights include Tall Ships (2pm), Ghost Beach (5:30), The Chevin (6:50); Sunbears (7:30), and tons of others.
The Portland Party
Noon–2am • The Grackle, 1700 E. 6th St. • No RSVP required
Free beer from 3-4pm and free wine from 6–7pm.
Midcoast Takeover
Noon–2am • Shangri La, 1016 E. 6th St. • No RSVP required
Free margaritas for the first 200 people, and a lineup of more than 20 bands.
LiveMusicCapitol.org Day Show
Noon–2am • Frontier Bar, 2421 Webberville Road • No RSVP required
Fun lineup featuring Your Friendly Ghost @ noon, Night Panther @ 2:35, The Astronaut Suit @ 3:30, and many others.
British Music Embassy
1–6pm • Latitude 30, 512 San Jacinto St. • RSVP required; list looks like it’s still open
Always a chill place to spend the afternoon and catch some fun bands from across the pond. Usually with some free food and drinks in the mix.
Urban Outfitters Backlot Sesh
1–6:30pm • Urban Outfitters, 2406 Guadalupe St. • No RSVP required
Free beer and a lineup including Icona Pop at 6pm.
Pandora Discovery Den
1pm–1am (with a break from 6–8pm) • Antone’s, 213 W. 5th St. • RSVP required; list closed
Lineup highlights include Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears (4pm); Chali 2NA (5:40pm); Dead Prez (11pm); and Macklemore & Ryan Lewis (midnight).
Macbeth Presents Filter On Rainey Showcase
2–6pm • Lustre Pearl, 97 Rainey St. • RSVP required; still open for now
Music by Wild Feathers (2pm), Solid Gold (3pm), In the Valley Below (4pm), and !!! (5pm). SX badges get priority, so once again, early is the word of the day.
DTS and Slacker Present: 2013 Filter On Rainey Showcase
2–7pm • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St. • RSVP required; list is still open for now
Afternoon party lineup:
2pm The Neighbourhood
3pm Blondfire
4pm Guards
5pm Akron/Family
6pm Lord Huron
Spotify Live Night Party
7pm–?? • 1100 E. 5th St. (across the street from Fader Fort) • RSVP required; still open for now
Music by Kendrick Lamar, Youngblood Hawke, Cazette, and Hesta Prynn.
CoolinAustin at SXSW: Tuesday, March 12
Woohoo, it’s time for SXSW Music! Here are the party highlights for tonight — thanks for stoppin’ by! Keep watching our Twitter feed for updates.
T-Mobile Austin House Party
11am–Midnight, Monday–Wednesday • Papi Tino’s, 1306 E. 6th St. • Free; no RSVP required
Free tacos, giveaways, video games, screen-printing, and bands. Today’s lineup features RDGLDGRN (4pm); Tyler Bryant & the Shakedown (5pm); American Authors (6pm); Nightmare & the Cat (7pm) and The Jane Doze (8pm).
Spotify House
Noon–6pm, Monday–Friday • Cenote, Cesar Chavez and Medina Street • RSVP requested; still open for now
Free drinks and food for Spotify Premium members. Today’s music lineup: Jamie N Commons, Twenty One Pilots, White Panda (DJ Set), Sam Spiegel (DJ Set), and Classixx (House DJ). Today’s food sponsor is Hat Creek Burgers.
Pandora Discovery Den
1pm–1am (w/ a break from 6–8pm), Tuesday thru Friday • Antone’s, 213 W. 5th St. • RSVP required; list closed
Today’s lineup: Breakbot (3:40); Anamanaguchi (4); Guards (4:40); The Hood Internet (5); Ghost Beach (5:40) — [break] — TOKiMONSTA (9pm); St. Lucia (10); Surfer Blood (11); The Gaslamp Killer (midnight). [Note – the night shows will probably be packed, so get there early.]
Red Bull Sound Select Presents: 120 Hours in Austin
Doors @ 4pm • Gatsby’s, 409 E. 6th St. • RSVP requested; still open for now
Today’s lineup includes Best Coast, Big Black Delta, Hands, and Beach Party.
Weird Moments Party
2–9pm • Handle Bar, 5th and Brazos streets • RSVP requested; still open for now
Free drinks and music by The Eastern Sea and Archnemesis.
East Side Collider
2–9pm • Hotel Vegas / Volstead Lounge, 1500 E. 6th St. • No RSVP required
Free drinks while they last, with music by Black & White Years (4:30), Featherface (5:30); Phranchyze (7:30); What Made Milwaukee Famous (8:30pm); and many others.
Third Annual Frog Music Licensing Unofficial Showcase
5pm–Midnight • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St. • RSVP requested (but possibly not required)
Music by Quiet Company, T Bird and the Breaks, The Eastern Sea, Wild Child and others. Word on the street is that there may be free tacos (but that ain’t confirmed just yet).
Planet Québec Opening Night Party
6:30pm¬–2am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River Street • RSVP required, still open
Free drinks and finger food.
Jansport Party @ Viceland
8pm • Viceland, 401 E. Cesar Chavez • RSVP required; list closed
Free drinks and music by Divine Fits, Japandroids, Wavves, Skaters and Team Spirit.
CoolinAustin at SXSW: Monday, March 11
Here are some recommendations of the best parties to check out tonight. Watch our Twitter feed for updates, and come back here each day for more free party tips!
T-Mobile Austin House Party
11am–Midnight, Monday–Wednesday • Papi Tino’s, 1306 E. 6th St. • Free; no RSVP required
Free tacos, giveaways, video games, screen-printing, and bands. Tonight’s lineup features John Wayne Bro (5pm); Clairy Browne (6pm); 7Lions (7:15pm); and Austin’s own Driver Friendly (8pm).
Spotify House
Noon til “close”, Monday–Friday • Cenote, Cesar Chavez and Medina Street • RSVP requested; still open for now
Free drinks and food for Spotify Premium members. Today’s music lineup: Ivan & Alyosha, Robert Delong, Watch the Duck (DJ Set).
Strange Brew 2: Covert Curiosity and Ender Productions Kickoff Party
2pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • No RSVP required
Free drinks from El Jimador Tequila, and free pizza delivered at different times through the afternoon. There are a ton of bands on the lineup, including All My Friends (7pm); T Bird and the Breaks (9:30pm); and French Horn Rebellion (1:15am).
Yappem Party
5–10pm • Parking lot at 318 E. 5th St. (across from Eddie V’s) • Free; no RSVP required
Free Lone Star Bock, wine, and food, plus a giant inflatable Velcro wall. You need to download the free Yappem app to get in.
COHO 5.0
6–10pm • Hudson on Fifth, 301 West 5th Street • RSVP required; list closed
Free food and drinks.
GSD&M Presents: The Industry Party
7pm–Midnight • GSD&M, 828 W. 6th St. • RSVP required; list closed
Performances by Wild Cub, Delta Spirit, and Reggie Watts, plus food and drink (unclear whether it’s free), F1 driving simulators, interactive art and a bunch of other stuff. Make sure to get there early to claim a wristband.
WillCall’s Secret SXSW Party
7:30pm • Javelina, 69 Rainey St. • RSVP required; still open (for now)
Open bar starting at 8pm, with music by Charli XCX, Guards, Generationals, Alpine, Blondfire and others. To RSVP, download the free WillCall app on your iPhone or Android, create an account, and “purchase” the free tickets in the app.
Viceland Party
8pm • Viceland, 401 E. Cesar Chavez • RSVP required; list closed
Tonight’s lineup includes Breakbot, Peace, Hood Internet, and Brenmar.
#FeedTheBeat SXSW
8pm • The Whitley, 3rd & Brazos (Hype Hotel) • RSVP required; list closed
Free show by Passion Pit and Wildcat! Wildcat! They’ll be filming an “experimental, fan-made rockumentary” at the party, so get ready for that. Word of caution: We’re expecting very long waits to get into this one, so get there 45 minutes to an hour early to avoid standing in a gigantic line.
SXSW 2013 RSVP Roundup: Part 3
Only one week left to go! There’s not much time to waste, so here’s your third wave of SXSW party RSVPs — just the good stuff, none of the nonsense. These parties should all be open to people without badges or wristbands, but some are tougher to get into than others, so show up early!
In case you missed ’em, check out our first and second RSVP Roundups — and for more festival tips and the full list of all the parties we’ve posted so far, swing by our SXSW page.
Stay tuned to this site, our Twitter feed, and our Facebook page for more RSVP updates, band recs and other SXSW-related goodness. Good luck out there!
Multiple Days
The Hype Hotel Day Parties
Wed. 3/13 through Sat. 3/16 • The Whitley, 3rd & Brazos • Noon
These are some of the better SXSW parties each year — free booze, great bands, and if you’re lucky you might just score a Cool Ranch Doritos taco or two. Lineup highlights so far include: Charli XCX, Austra, Chvrches, St Lucia, Youth Lagoon, Kitty, Toro Y Moi, Blue Hawaii, and a whole lot more. (Note that the night parties are badges-only this year.)
Spotify House
Mon. 3/11 through Fri. 3/15 • Cenote, 1010 E. Cesar Chavez • Noon
Last year Spotify put together a nice little lineup of up-and-coming bands, and we expect this year to be even better — no announcements have come yet. Another bonus: free drinks and food for Spotify Premium users.
Friday, March 8
Do512’s Epic Interactive Party
7:30pm • The Belmont, 305 W. 6th St.
Free Deep Eddy Vodka cocktails while they last, with music by Akron/Family, Air Review, Hello Wheels, and Seryn.
The SpareFoot Party
8pm–2am • The ND, 5th and Brushy
Hip-hop/DJ showcase with music by K.Flay, Jayceeoh, DJ Expo, Applied Pressure and Table Manners Crew.
Saturday, March 9
Circle Brewing Company’s 2nd Anniversary Party
1–5pm • Circle Brewing Company, 2340 W. Braker Lane, Ste. B
Not really a SXSW party (or anywhere near downtown), but it’ll be a good time anyway — and a chance to support Austin’s local brewers!. Get three small beer samples for free, or three full-sized samples with the purchase of a $10 pint glass.
Monday, March 11
COHO 5.0
6–10pm • Hudson on Fifth, 301 West 5th Street
Free food and drinks. (Find the “Freebies” option at the bottom of the ticket types list on the invite.)
GSD&M Presents: The Industry Party
7pm–Midnight • GSD&M, 828 W. 6th St.
Performances by Wild Cub, Delta Spirit, and Reggie Watts, plus food and drink (unclear whether it’s free), F1 driving simulators, interactive art and a bunch of other stuff.
#FeedTheBeat SXSW
8pm • The Whitley, 3rd & Brazos (Hype Hotel)
Free show by Passion Pit and Wildcat! Wildcat! They’ll be filming an “experimental, fan-made rockumentary” at the party, so get ready for that.
Tuesday, March 12
Hipstamatic SXSW #MorningAfter Brunch
11am-4pm • Haus of Hipstamatic, 509 Brushy St.
Crazy brunch with free food, coffee, mimosas, Bloody Marys and music — including a DJ set by Neon Indian. (Note: Badgeholders will get priority at this one, but they’ll also be letting in people from the RSVP list based on capacity. So, get there early.)
Wednesday, March 13
Rock On Foundation Presents: Sneakers & Speakers
Noon–6pm • Club Deville, 900 Red River St.
Free beer from (512) Brewing Company, complimentary cocktails from Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and BBQ from Rudy’s. Music by Oh No Oh My, Feathers, Dallas Green, The Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band, Chuck Inglish (The Cool Kids), and Stak5 (aka Stephen Jackson of the San Antonio Spurs).
Macbeth Presents Filter On Rainey Showcase
2–6pm • Lustre Pearl, 97 Rainey St.
Music by !!!, Wild Feathers, Solid Gold, and In the Valley Below. SX badges get priority, so once again, early is the word of the day.
Spotify Live Night Party
7pm • 1100 E. 5th St. (across the street from Fader Fort)
No details on this one yet beyond “live performances and a stunning visual show” — stay tuned for lineup announcements.
Thursday, March 14
Mint Records + Riot Act Media Day Party
11:30am–6pm • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E. 6th St.
Performances by Nardwuar & The Evaporators, Andrew WK, Dana Falconberry, The Blank Tapes, Deaf Club, and several others. Sponsored by PBR so maybe there’ll be some free beer.
AFHC & Japan Nite Presents - Japan Preview Day Show
1–7pm • The Grackle, 1700 E. 6th St.
Free food and beer, with music by a slate of Japanese bands.
Friday, March 15
Sonicbids Official SXSW Party
11:30am–5:30pm • Maggie Mae’s, 323 E. 6th Street
Free drinks and food, plus music by 12 bands including Wild Cub, Hey Marseilles, Imaginary Cities, Royal Teeth and others. (Note: This is billed as an official party, but in years past we’ve had no problem getting in with just an RSVP.)
Turntables on Town Lake
1–4pm • Leaves from Capital Cruises, 208 Barton Springs Rd.
Yacht party with free beer while it lasts, food, giveaways, and music by Deejay Theory, DJ Orion, DJ KB and others. (Note: They just added a “guaranteed entry” ticket option for $25 … which will probably make it tougher to get in for free. But, who knows?)
Saturday, March 16
Rachel Ray Feedback Party
10am–4pm • Stubb’s, 801 Red River St.
Free food and drinks, and a legit lineup featuring Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, Eagles of Death Metal, Delta Rae, Bob Schneider and others. We can’t say this enough: Get there super early if you want to avoid waiting in a gigantic line. Don’t say we didn’t warn ya!
Reverb Party
11am–6pm • Dirty Dog Bar, 505 E. 6th St.
Free beverages and music by The Hush Sound, High Highs, UME, Man Without Country, Slow Magic, and others.
Do512 Presents: The Big One
11am–6pm • TOPS Warehouse, 1100 E. 5th Street
Performances by The Polyphonic Spree, Big Freedia, Girl in a Coma and others.
The Week in Cool: Feb. 22–23
Friday, Feb. 22
SideCar Launch Party
6–9pm • Molotov, 719 W. 6th Street • Free
Download the SideCar app on your smartphone at the party and receive free drinks, swag, and a $10 SideCar credit.
ARTCRANK Austin Opening Night Party
6–11pm • Pine Street Station, East 5th St & Waller St. • Free
Bike-themed art show benefiting the LiveStrong Foundation. Buy a $5 ARTCRANK pint glass and fill ’er up with Widmer Brothers beer.
West by West Campus Backyard Film Fest
7:30pm • Seneca Falls Co-op, 2309 Nueces St. • Free
Complimentary snacks and hot cocoa at a free mini-film fest judged by a jury of local filmmakers. BYOBB (Bring Your Own Blanket & Beer).
Saturday, Feb. 23
FrankenBike # 91
10am–4pm • Freewheeling Bicycles, 2401 San Gabriel • Free
Free monthly bike-swap/hangout, sometimes with free beer and/or food.
MapJam 2013
Noon–11pm • Multiple venues — see map • Free
Free all-day local music festival that spans across seven eastside venues, featuring Mother Falcon, Wood and Wire, Residual Kid, and many others.
West by West Campus
Noon–11pm • 21st Street Co-op, 707 W. 21st St. (and adjacent houses) • Free
Free all-day music fest with several dozen bands and other fun things to do.
Airbnb Presents Homeroom: Austin
3–6pm • Pine Street Station, East 5th St & Waller St. • Free; RSVP required
Airbnb meetup with free drinks and food, plus giveaways and tips on prepping for SXSW.
SXSW 2013 RSVP Roundup: Part 2
We’re just two weeks away from SXSW mayhem, and to help fan the flames, we’re dropping another batch of RSVPs on y’all today. Same deal as always: These parties should all be open to people without badges or wristbands, but some are tougher to get into than others — think Rachel Ray, Pandora, and all the Filter parties, to name a few — so make sure to show up early if you want to avoid crazy lines.
In case you missed it, you can check out our first RSVP Roundup here — and for more festival tips and the full list of parties we’ve posted so far, swing by our special SXSW page.
Stay tuned to this site, our Twitter feed, and our Facebook page for more RSVP updates, band recs and other SXSW-related goodness. Good luck out there!
Multiple Days
The Outlaw Roadshow
Sat. 3/9 and Sat. 3/16 • 8pm • Rusty’s Austin, 405 East 7th St.
Three stages with music by 17 up-and-coming acts, including Little Brave, Vox Pop, Tyler Stenson and others. RSVP separately for Day 1 and Day 2.
The Buffalo Lounge
Mon. 3/11 (3–6pm); Tue. 3/12 and Wed. 3/13 (Noon–5pm) • 512 Bar, 408 E. 6th St.
Free drinks, food and music.
Red Bull Sound Select Presents: 120 Hours in Austin
Tue. 3/12 through Sat. 3/16 • 7pm • Gatsby’s, 409 E. 6th St.
Five nights of parties — and you can help choose the openers. Full lineups TBA. (Note: Requires registration via Facebook.)
Pandora Discovery Den
Tue. 3/12 through Fri. 3/15 • 1pm–1am • Antone’s, 213 W. 5th St.
Massive lineup at this four-day series, including Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Dead Prez, St. Lucia, The Hood Internet, Chali 2na and many others. (Note: These shows will be among the tougher unofficial parties to get into, but it doesn’t hurt to get yourself on the list and hope for the best.)
DTS And Slacker Present: 2013 Filter On Rainey Showcase
Wed. 3/13 and Thu. 3/14 • 1–7pm; 8pm–1am • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St.
Hey, it’s another Filter showcase on Rainey Street! This one features Cold War Kids, Blondefire, !!!, Delorean, and others.
British Music Embassy
Wed. 3/13 through Sat. 3/16 • 1-6pm • Latitude 30, 512 San Jacinto St.
Always a chill place to spend the afternoon and catch some fun bands from across the pond. Usually with some free food and drinks in the mix.
Dr. Martens and Filter @ SXSW
Thu. 3/14 and Fri. 3/15 • 3–7 pm + 9pm–1am • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St.
Two days and nights of free music featuring Surfer Blood, The Thermals, Caveman, Wavves and others. (Note: Badges get bigtime priority at these Filter parties, but if you RSVP and show up early enough they’ll let you in.)
The Dickies House: Filter on Rainey Showcase
Thu. 3/14 and Fri. 3/15 (2–7pm + 9pm–2am); Sat. 3/16 (1–6pm) • Lustre Pearl, 97 Rainey St.
Another legit Filter lineup: Fitz & the Tantrums, Diiv, The Joy Formidable, Frightened Rabbit, Diamond Rings, Icona Pop, Divine Fits, Talib Kweli and others.
Wuwu Fest
Thu. 3/14 through Sun. 3/17 • 2pm–2am • Wuwu Sushi, 1407 East 7th St.
Free sushi and music by Why?, Wild Child, The Ton Tons, Letting Up Despite Great Faults, The Baker Family, and others.
Thursday, March 7
BIG BASHH (Big Ass Social Happy Hour)
7pm–2am • The Ranch, 710 West 6th St.
Relaxed mixer with free drink tickets for those who get there early enough.
Friday, March 8
Ignite Social Media Party
7–10pm • Molotov, 719 West 6th St.
Free drinks and BBQ sandwiches. The RSVP password is: Igniteinsider
Saturday, March 9
Yammer Meet-Up
10am–6pm • Hangar Lounge, 318 Colorado St.
Tech industry hangout with free beverages and music.
SXSW Food Crawl 2013
Noon–2pm • Meets at the Terrace of the Long Center for Performing Arts, S. 1st St. at Riverside Drive
Join a swarm of food bloggers as they bounce around between various downtown eateries. Schedule TBA.
Klout Afternoon Delight Luncheon
Noon–4pm • Klout Krib, 320 Le Grande Ave. (off East Riverside)
Food, libations, and music.
MySearchNetwork.com SXSWi Local Throw-down Show-down 2013
Noon–5pm • Darwin’s Pub, 223 E 6th St.
Free local food, beer and tequila, with live music and DJs.
Sunday, March 10
Whole Planet Foundation’s Unofficial Showcase
11am–7pm • Whole Foods, 525 N. Lamar Blvd.
Wine, beer and snack “samples” plus a solid lineup with local faves Quiet Company, What Made Milwaukee Famous, O Conqueror, The Preservation, and others. Proceeds support The Whole Planet Foundation’s global programs.
SF MusicTech Happy Hour
5–7pm • Conduit Corner, 7th & Congress
Happy hour with free food.
Techweek Chicago Party
8pm–Midnight • The Copa Bar & Grill, 217 Congress Ave.
Open bar, 312 Beer, Chicago-style hot dogs, and live music. Interactive badge-holders get priority, but they’ll admit people from the guestlist on a first come, first served basis.
Monday, March 11
Gigya Grill Happy Hour
3–5pm • Copa Bar & Grill, 217 Congress Ave.
Techie happy hour w/ complimentary drinks and food. (Note: This Eventbrite is just a request for an invitation; they will email you to confirm later.)
COHO 5.0
6–10pm • Hudson on 5th, 301 West 5th St.
Free drinks, food, treats from GoodPop, photobooth, music and more.
Tuesday, March 12
Reeperbahn Festival Stage
3–5pm • German Haus @ Icenhauer’s, 83 Rainey Street
Free beer (possibly only for badgeholders) and German bands.
Wednesday, March 13
Consequence of Sound’s Cosigns II
11:30am–6pm • The Parish Underground/ Beale St. Tavern, 214 E. 6th St.
Lineup is still TBA, but this is always a good show, so get your RSVP in now.
Bands, Beer, and Burgers Vol. 2
Noon–6:30pm • Hostelling International, 2200 S. Lakeshore Blvd. (off Riverside)
Free local beer from Live Oak Brewing and Hops & Grain. Burgers for sale. Music by Bobby Jealousy, Burgess Meredith, and others.
Thursday, March 14
The Midgetmen’s Texas Jumpstart 6
Noon–5:30pm • Side Bar, 602 E. 7th St.
Complimentary beverages. Music by The Midgetmen, Paws, Hounds Below, and others. More details coming soon.
We Listen For You / sonaBLAST! Records Unofficial SXSW Party
Noon–7pm • Kenny Dorham’s Backyard, 1106 E. 11th St.
Free show featuring Royal Bangs, Miracles Of Modern Science, Et Tu Brucé, and an acoustic set by Rod Argent and Colin Blunstone of The Zombies, plus many others.
Friday, March 15
After The Gold Rush
Noon–6pm • Red Eyed Fly, 715 Red River St.
Nice lineup featuring Youth Lagoon, Surfer Blood, Poolside, Caveman, Bear Mountain and some other buzzy folks. Sponsored by Heineken and Hophead Vodka.
The Tumblr House: Filter on Rainey Showcase
2–7pm and 9pm–2am • Clive Bar, 609 Davis St.
Another chapter in Filter’s blitzkrieg takeover of the Rainey Street district, this shindig features the likes of Ra Ra Riot, Vacationer, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Andrew WK, Kitten, and a handful of other cool peeps.
Saturday, March 16
Rachel Ray Feedback Party
10am–4pm • Stubbs
Music by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Eagles of Death Metal, Frightened Rabbit, Delta Rae and others. Free food and drinks, too, but only if you’re willing to stand in the longest line at SXSW. Seriously — get there as early as possible.
Good Danny’s Day Party
10am–6pm • The Parish / The Parish Underground, 214 East 6th St.
Free drinks, food and giveaways from Tito’s Vodka, East Side Pies and Progress Coffee.
Pop Montreal Day Party
Noon–6pm • Liberty, 1618-1/2 East 6th St.
Free drinks if you get there early enough. Music by Bernie Worrell Orchestra, Pat Jordache, Sinkane and others.
Heard about any cool events you don’t see on the list yet? Shoot us an email and let us know!


![The Week in Cool: April 15-20Monday, April 15 Shinyribs Free In-Store Performance5pm • Waterloo Records, 600 N. Lamar • FreeWith free drinks by Z Tequila.Free Show: Lilly Hiatt @ Cactus Café7:30pm • Cactus Café, 2247 Guadalupe • FreeAvalanche @ Holy Mountain9pm • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th Street • FreeA night of music and comedy hosted by the very funny local comic Chris Cubas.Drunken Spelling Bee: Harry Potter Edition9pm • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • FreeHosted by Blake Midgette and Austin comedian Jake Flores.Motown on Mondays @ Frank9pm • Frank, 4th and Colorado • FreeMotown dance party featuring 60s classics and remixes by the MOM DJs.TNM Clubhouse — with Host Kath Barbadoro9:30pm • The New Movement Theater, 616 Lavaca St. • Pay what you wantTen comics performing 5-minute sets of new material, followed by 3 headliners.Tuesday, April 16Pizza/ Listening Party for Major Lazer1pm • Waterloo Records, 600 N. Lamar • FreeEat free pizza while listening to the new Major Lazer album.Meat Puppets In-Store Performance5pm • Waterloo Records, 600 N. Lamar • FreeFree beer from Shiner.Paper Cuts: Shakey Graves7–9pm • The Palm Door, 401 Sabine St. • Free; RSVP required for priority admission — sold out for nowFree food from Austin’s Pizza and free drinks from Pacifico and Dripping Springs Vodka. Music by Dikes of Holland. 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.Style & Wine 101 7–9pm • Estilo, 234 W. 2nd St. • Free; RSVP requiredWinemaker Federico Cerelli, of Castello di Gabbiano, will share some of his wines at an event showcasing men’s fashions styled by Estilo experts. To RSVP, email Stephanie@estiloaustin.com.Improv Zero: A Free Improv Comedy Class8pm • The New Movement Theater, 616 Lavaca St. • FreeFree improv workshop led by the pros at New Movement.theGlitoris Presents: TuezGayz Selena Tribute10pm–2am • Barbarella, 611 Red River St. • (Cover?)Celebrate Selena’s birthday with a night of musical tributes and costumes. $2 wells till 11.Wednesday, April 17The Wine Down, featuring Este Vato5–7pm • ACL Live at the W Hotel, 310 Willie Nelson Blvd. • FreeBites from Hickory Street, happy hour wine specials, and music by Sideshow Tragedy.Art Party @ Hyde Park Bar & Grill 5–7pm • Hyde Park Bar & Grill South, 4521 West Gate Blvd. • FreeComplimentary appetizer buffet at the debut of a new exhibit featuring works by Heather Meyer, Brian Imler and Karla Man.Fusebox Festival: Opening Night Parties6pm–Midnight • 912 Congress Ave. and other locations; see site for details • FreeCelebrate the kickoff of the 2013 Fusebox Festival (which runs April 17–28) with several free events. The Opening Night Happy Hour, featuring the Fusebox margarita, starts at 6pm, and the Opening Night Party gets going at 9pm. See the Fusebox website for the full schedule.Thursday, April 18Flaps & Taps @ The Buzz Mill5–8pm • The Buzz Mill, 1505 Town Creek Drive • FreeComplimentary draft beer tastings and $5 flapjack wraps.Tribeza Presents: The Lawn Party [POSTPONED until Wed. 4/24]6–9pm • French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos St. • $10 (includes food & drinks)Spring fashion event featuring lots of food and beverages, which are included in the cover price. Food includes sliders, cotton candy, macarons, ice cream, and other selections provided by Frank, Max’s Wine Dive, Cornucopia, Cloud 9 Cotton Candy and Macarons by Jane. Drinks include cocktails by Deep Eddy Vodka and wine from Spicewood Vineyards, as well as Corona, Corona Light, Negra Modelo, and Modelo Especial. The event also features a fashion show, lawn games, and music by Ava Arenella.Unplugged at The Grove: Suzanna Choffel8pm • Shady Grove, 1624 Barton Springs Rd. • FreeFree show, drink specials. Additional parking available at Bicycle Sports Shop down the street at 517 S. Lamar Blvd.Friday, April 19Hops and Grain Brewery Tastings2–6pm Friday; Noon–4pm Saturday • Hops and Grain, 507 Calles St. • FreeThe tap room is open on Friday and Saturday afternoons, and brewery tours are at 1pm and 3pm on Saturday.Red Bull Sound Select Presents: Bun B9pm–2am • The ND, East 5th @ Brushy Street • $3Just $3 to see Bun B, along with Max Frost, Bagheera, Digital Wild. Tickets on sale at the door only.Fly Society Presents: Zeale / Phranchyze / Flash Fellowz / LNS Crew9pm–2am • Holy Mountain, 617 East 7th St. • $5Great hip-hop lineup for five bucks.Freebie Friday: Adrienne Mack-Davis / The Holiday / The Wolf / Brut Force9:30pm–2am • Spider House, 2906 Fruth St. • FreeSaturday, April 20Spec’s Fest10am–7pm • Spec’s Arbor Walk, 10515 N. MoPac and Spec’s Brodie Lane, 4970 W. Hwy. 290 • FreeSample wines, beers, spirits and food, with special discounts, door prizes, and giveaways.5th Annual South First Street Art Walk10am • Multiple South Austin stores • FreeMusic, art and giveaways at several independent 78704 businesses. See the website for a list of participating stores.North Loop Spring Fling Sidewalk Sale-A-Bration11am–7pm • Multiple North Loop businesses • FreeFull day of food, specialty drinks, vintage shopping, giveaways and other festivities in North Loop’s local business district. See the website for a list of participating stores.Thirsty Planet Brewery Tours11am and 1:30pm • Thirsty Planet Brewery, 11160 Circle Drive • Free; RSVP requiredTour the brewery and sample some Thirsty Planet beers.Record Store DayCheck store hours • Multiple venues • FreeAustin’s independent record stores join a nationwide celebration, featuring special deals, about 400 exclusive releases, and record signings. Waterloo Records is hosting autograph sessions with Ian McLagan (3pm) and Roky Erikson (5pm). Other participants include End of an Ear, Encore Records, Antone’s Record Shop, Breakaway Records, and Musicmania. See the Record Store Day website for more info, and check with each store for hours.Pints for Pups Noon–3pm • Independence Brewing Co., 3913 Todd Lane #607 • $10 donationDonation gets you a commemorative pint glass that can be filled three times with various Independence brews. Music by The Warm Guns. Proceeds will benefit local dog shelters and advocacy groups.Free Show: Eagle Claw / Ink Blot / Lug / Brink of Disaster / Slurr8pm • Dirty Dog Bar, 505 E. 6th St. • FreeSphynx / Henry & the Invisibles / Chappo / Prom Date8:30pm–2am • Scoot Inn, East 4th St. at Navasota • $5Sphynx will debut their yet-to-be-released album, “Golden Garden.” Advance tix available online.Night Fever Volume XXXV: 420 Edition9pm–2am • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th St. • $5 before 11pm, $8 afterA “soul shakedown party” with music by Hail Marley (Bob Marley tribute band), El John Selector, and Aquaman Chill.A Smoker’s Delight: Variety Show9:30pm • Frank, 4th and Colorado • $5Featuring performances by Phranchyze, The Bandulus, and Holiday Mountain.East Cameron Folkcore / Not In The Face / Gilded Splinters10pm • White Horse, 500 Comal St. • (Cover?)](http://25.media.tumblr.com/86dfb5d3e73a36387f391a2b0c38ac6a/tumblr_mlbapeOIa41qzi2swo1_1280.jpg)


![CoolinAustin at SXSW: Tuesday, March 12Woohoo, it’s time for SXSW Music! Here are the party highlights for tonight — thanks for stoppin’ by! Keep watching our Twitter feed for updates.T-Mobile Austin House Party11am–Midnight, Monday–Wednesday • Papi Tino’s, 1306 E. 6th St. • Free; no RSVP requiredFree tacos, giveaways, video games, screen-printing, and bands. Today’s lineup features RDGLDGRN (4pm); Tyler Bryant & the Shakedown (5pm); American Authors (6pm); Nightmare & the Cat (7pm) and The Jane Doze (8pm).Spotify House Noon–6pm, Monday–Friday • Cenote, Cesar Chavez and Medina Street • RSVP requested; still open for nowFree drinks and food for Spotify Premium members. Today’s music lineup: Jamie N Commons, Twenty One Pilots, White Panda (DJ Set), Sam Spiegel (DJ Set), and Classixx (House DJ). Today’s food sponsor is Hat Creek Burgers.Pandora Discovery Den 1pm–1am (w/ a break from 6–8pm), Tuesday thru Friday • Antone’s, 213 W. 5th St. • RSVP required; list closedToday’s lineup: Breakbot (3:40); Anamanaguchi (4); Guards (4:40); The Hood Internet (5); Ghost Beach (5:40) — [break] — TOKiMONSTA (9pm); St. Lucia (10); Surfer Blood (11); The Gaslamp Killer (midnight). [Note – the night shows will probably be packed, so get there early.]Red Bull Sound Select Presents: 120 Hours in Austin Doors @ 4pm • Gatsby’s, 409 E. 6th St. • RSVP requested; still open for nowToday’s lineup includes Best Coast, Big Black Delta, Hands, and Beach Party.Weird Moments Party 2–9pm • Handle Bar, 5th and Brazos streets • RSVP requested; still open for nowFree drinks and music by The Eastern Sea and Archnemesis.East Side Collider2–9pm • Hotel Vegas / Volstead Lounge, 1500 E. 6th St. • No RSVP requiredFree drinks while they last, with music by Black & White Years (4:30), Featherface (5:30); Phranchyze (7:30); What Made Milwaukee Famous (8:30pm); and many others.Third Annual Frog Music Licensing Unofficial Showcase5pm–Midnight • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St. • RSVP requested (but possibly not required)Music by Quiet Company, T Bird and the Breaks, The Eastern Sea, Wild Child and others. Word on the street is that there may be free tacos (but that ain’t confirmed just yet).Planet Québec Opening Night Party 6:30pm¬–2am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River Street • RSVP required, still openFree drinks and finger food.Jansport Party @ Viceland8pm • Viceland, 401 E. Cesar Chavez • RSVP required; list closedFree drinks and music by Divine Fits, Japandroids, Wavves, Skaters and Team Spirit.](http://25.media.tumblr.com/6702f3fddf30fb8ebefc51bea9ef3e8e/tumblr_mjkdjeLOgF1qzi2swo1_1280.jpg)




