![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)
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.
Cool at SXSW: Wednesday, March 14
Here’s our list of the best free stuff going on today at SXSW. Note the RSVP status for each event, as some parties have closed their lists. (“Free with RSVP” usually means RSVP is not required, but do it if you can just in case.) As always, keep an eye on our Twitter feed for more party info as it comes in.
The Good Danny’s + Navigational Society Day Party
10am–6pm • Parish, 214 E. 6th • Free with RSVP
Free coffee, Sailor Jerry’s Rum and drink specials. Music by Shearwater, What Made Milwaukee Famous, and The Frontier Brothers.
Consequence of Sound’s COSIGNS
11:30am–6pm • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • Free with RSVP
Music by Cloud Nothings, Titus Andronicus, and others.
Spotify House
Noon–6pm • 1010 E. Cesar Chavez • RSVP required; still open
Free drinks and food + music. Watch the @SpotifySouth Twitter account for lineup updates.
Fader Fort
Noon–8pm • 1101 E. 5th St. • RSVP required; now closed
Free booze + music by Danny Brown, Santigold, Oberhofer, 2 Chainz, Friends, Young L and others. Badge pickup runs from noon–7pm.
France Rocks Austin 2012
Noon–5pm • Brush Square Park, 5th & Neches Streets • RSVP requested; still open
Free drinks, food, and French delicacies.
Hotel Vegan
Noon–6pm • Hotel Vegas, 1500 E. 6th St. • Free; no RSVP
Free beer, music by Frankie Rose, Japandroids, Bear in Heaven, and others.
Goodnight Records Day Party
Noon–5:30pm • Bar 96, 96 Rainey St. • RSVP requested; still open
Free beer + music by …Trail of Dead and others.
Paste Magazine Party
Noon–6pm • The Stage on 6th, 508 E. 6th St. • RSVP required; still open
Free beer, wine, and gin, plus music by Ben Kweller, Caveman, Tennis, and others.
IODA at SXSW Opening Day Bash 2012
Noon–6pm • Red Eyed Fly, 715 Red River St. • RSVP requested; still open
Free beer. Music by Oddisee, Thee Oh Sees, and The Wedding Present.
DC Does Texas SXSW 2012 Day Party
Noon–6pm • Lovejoy’s, 604 Neches St. • RSVP required; now closed
Free beer. Hume, Soccer Team, Deleted Scenes
The Portland Party
Noon–2am • The Grackle, 1700 E. 6th St. • RSVP requested; still open
Free beer from 6–7pm. Music all day.
State of Music Showcase
Noon–2am • Molotov, 719 W. 6th St. • Free with RSVP
Music by Vox & The Hound, Flashbulb Fires, Houndmouth, Little Brave and others.
Hype Hotel
1–7pm, 10pm–4am • 504 Trinity St. • RSVP required; now closed
Free Tito’s Vodka, Miller Lite, and Taco Bell. Day show features Blitzen Trapper, Big Deal, and Micah P. Hinson. Night party: Penguin Prison, Madeon, Miike Snow, Pond, and Friends. Pick up Hype Hotel badge from 1–9pm.
Party Ends Showcase
1–10pm • The Highball, 1120 S. Lamar • Free with RSVP
Featuring music by Astronautalis, Bleubird, Nervous Curtains, and Tiger Waves. Sponsored by Brooklyn Brewery.
Eventbrite Arcade Party
1:30–6pm • BandPage HQ; 604 E 7th St. • RSVP required; now closed
Free drinks, food, music and arcade games.
GigaCrate SXSW Party
8:30pm–2am • Beso Cantina, 307 W. 5th St. • RSVP required; still open
Music by Flosstradamus, Tittsworth, Eh Team and more.
PureVolume House
Midnight–4am • 2nd and Trinity Street • RSVP required; still open
Open bar + music by Cher Lloyd, Penguin Prison, and Wallpaper. Badge pickup runs from 2–10pm.
The Week in Cool: Feb. 29 – March 5
Wednesday, Feb. 29
CityBidz.com Happy Hour Mixer
6–8pm • Draft Pick, 1620 E. Riverside • Free; RSVP requested
CityBidz.com hosts a happy hour with food, beer and networking.
Macallan Whisky Tastings
Wed. 6:30–8pm / 8:30–10pm; Thu. 6:30–8pm • The Marchesa, 6406 N. IH-35, Ste. 3100 • Free; RSVP required
Private tastings of The Macallan Single Malt.
Top Chef: Texas Finale Viewing Party
9–11:30pm • Uchiko, 4200 N. Lamar Blvd., Suite 140 • Free
Watch Uchiko chef Paul Qui compete in the finale of “Top Chef: Texas,” with a special menu for the occasion. (Get there really early — like 7pm — to have any chance of getting seated).
Bleach Online Issue Launch
9pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • $3 before midnight, $5 after
Free popcorn from Cornucopia, drink specials, giveaways, and DJ sets by Grimes, Markus Diffee, and DJ Forever 21.
Thursday, March 1
Ultra8201 6th Anniversary Party
10pm–2am • Swan Dive, 615 Red River • $5
Performances by TV Torso, Politics and Young Girls, plus photos and DJ set by ULOVEI. Sign up here for a chance to win a pair of tickets.
Friday, March 2
Austin Monthly Music Issue Release Party
7:30pm–2am • Emo’s East, 2015 E. Riverside • $5 suggested donation; RSVP requested
Music by Wiretree, Dana Falconberry, Marmalakes, Not In The Face, Soul Track Mind, Graham Wilkinson, and Akina Adderley & The Vintage Playboys. Benefits Help Clifford Help Kids (American Youthworks).
Represent Austin’s Texas Independence Day Party
8pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • Free until 10pm; $5 after
$1 Lone Stars and music by Guns of Navarone, Este Vato, So Long Problems, Tiger Waves, and JD Clark.
Total Crush 2
8:30pm–2am • Cheer Up Charlie’s, 1104 E 6th St. • Free
Free show by The White White Lights, New Roman Times, Magnificent Snails, and Boy + Kite.
Less Volume — More Valium
9pm–2am • Dive Bar & Lounge, 1703 Guadalupe St. • Free
Free show with The Pons, DJ Czech One, and Bravo, Max!
Saturday, March 3
Thirsty Planet Brewery Tour
11am and 1:30pm • Thirsty Planet Brewing Co., 11160 Circle Drive • Free; RSVP required
Brewery tour and tasting.
Independence Brewing Company’s Texas Independence Day Party
1–3pm • Independence Brewery, 3913 Todd Lane • Free
Show up early to get a wristband good for three complimentary beer samples. Live music by Sam Sliva and BBQ from Smokin’ Rose of Texas.
Good Libations Brewing Co. Beer Tasting
3–5pm • Old Koenig Engraving & Gifts, 900 Old Koenig Lane #114 • Free
Several Good Libations beers available for sampling, including: Kolsch Style, Chocolate Porter, Honey Pale Ale, and IPA. Co-hosted by PubGlasses.com.
CoolinAustin Presents: All My Friends, Knifight, Media, and DJ Geoff Millions
9pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th St. • $5 if you Like us on Facebook; $7 if not
Celebrate the weekend before SXSW with an all-local lineup including Austin’s favorite LCD Soundsystem tribute band. Get there early to score some beverages sponsored by Cinco Vodka! Don’t forget to head over to our Facebook page and Like us to get the discounted cover.
Sunday, March 4
The Contest: The 3rd Annual Seinfeld Quiz
7pm • The Highball, 1142 S Lamar Blvd. • $5
Teams of up to six players vie to become master of the Seinfeld trivia domain. Winners take home cash prizes of up to $500.
Monday, March 5
Michael Ian Black at BookPeople
7pm • BookPeople, 6th and Lamar • Free
Make it your beeswax to attend this talk and book-signing. Black will speak and sign copies of his collection of essays, “You’re Not Doing It Right: Tales of Marriage, Sex, Death and Other Humiliations.”
**Make sure to check out our list of SXSW open bar RSVPs, and stay tuned to this site for even more leading up to the fest**
Also: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber Demure, Partay Peeps, Do512 Free, Austin Free Events
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 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
The Week Ahead: Nov. 14-20
This week we celebrate pizza, mustaches, and the birthdays of everyone’s favorite hipster hotspots.
Monday, Nov. 14
“Drink Local” with Treaty Oak Rum and Waterloo Gin
5–7pm • Four Seasons Hotel, 98 San Jacinto Blvd. • Free
Complimentary liquor tastings and appetizers, with music by DJ Mel.
Tuesday, Nov. 15
Grand Opening of Honeycomb Hair Boutique
5:30–8:30pm • Honeycomb Hair Boutique, E. 5th & Brushy Street • Free
Food provided by Molly’s Tamales, Love Balls, Bits & Druthers, Pueblo Viejo and Firefly Pies. Music by jazz trumpeter Ephraim Owens and DJs from Austin’s Dub Academy.
Uncorking Reception at The Tigress Pub
6:30–8:30pm • Tigress Pub, 100 W. North Loop • Free
The Tigress debuts its new barrel-aged cocktail, Widow’s Kiss. Hors d’oeuvres provided.
Bourbon Talk: Makers 46
7–9pm • Trifecta on 3rd, 360 Nueces #30 • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary tasting of Makers 46 bourbon. Become a member of the Meetup group and RSVP to reserve a seat.
Wednesday, Nov. 16
Langford & Friends Craft Fair
5-8pm • Langford Market, 249 W. 2nd Street • Free; RSVP required
Complimentary drinks and treats. To RSVP, call 512-482-8500.
Thursday, Nov. 17
Free Lunch from Google Punchd
Noon–5pm • University Co-op, 2246 Guadalupe Street • Free
Download Google’s Punchd app and get a gift card for free lunch at Biscuits and Groovy, Sugar Shack, Peached, or other Austin food trucks. Live music by Rich O’Toole.
Mustache Mania 2.0
5–9pm • The WonderCraft, 1601 E. Cesar Chavez #103 • Free
A benefit for Livestrong featuring mustache-themed crafts, a raffle, a photo booth, and other festivities.
Icenhauer’s Movember Happy Hour
5:30–8pm • Icenhauer’s, 83 Rainey St. • Free
Happy hour benefiting The Movember Foundation, sponsored by Jameson Irish Whiskey. Proceeds go to local Movember participants The Downtown Mo Bros (donate here).
Red Party at Twin Liquors
5:30-7:30pm • Twin Liquors at Hancock Center, 1000 E. 41st St. • Free
Complimentary Belvedere cocktails, Moet champagne, light bites, a DJ, and more.
The Rogue Pilgrimage Pub Run
6pm • Rogue Running, 500 San Marcos St. • Free
A 4.2-mile Thanksgiving-style pub run with stops at four downtown bars. Costumes are encouraged.
Shangri La Third Anniversary Party
7pm–2am • Shangri La, 1016 E. 6th Street • Free
Free booze, food, koozies, and a photo booth by Alison Narro. Free T-shirts to the first 100 people who donate to Austin Pets Alive. Music by DJ Pagame and DJ Digg.
Ultra8201 presents Politics + The Preservation
10pm • Hotel Vegas, 1500 East 6th Street • $5
Friday, Nov. 18
Language For All: A Concert to Benefit Texas School for the Deaf
7pm–2am • Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Cover?
Live music by Fresh Millions / The Dark Water Hymnal / Gold Beach / The Great Nostalgic / The Pons / The Sour Notes / One Hundred Flowers / Anam Milá
Saturday, Nov. 19
East Austin Studio Tour
Sat. and Sun. (hours vary) • See map for locations • Free
Hundreds of local artists open their doors and show off their works to the public. All of the studios celebrate E.A.S.T. in their own way, so you never really know what kind of interesting things you’ll find. Pick up a catalog at any Austin public library and plan your own route. In the mean time, check out the map and some recommendations from CultureMap Austin.
Artpost Austin
11am–6pm (Sat. and Sun.) • Artpost Austin, 4704 East Cesar Chavez • Free
Free Texas Pitmasters BBQ, Progress Coffee, and Sweet Leaf Tea. Works by more than 35 artists on display. Swing by Sunday afternoon for Coolhaus Ice Cream Sandwiches.
E.A.S.T.: Aron Taylor | Team Captain
11am–6pm • The Off Center, 2211-A Hidalgo St. • Free
Team Captain Studio at the Off Center presents the work of Aron Taylor. Art, booze, games, and good times.
Home Slice Carnival O’ Pizza ***Event of the Week**
Noon–10pm • Home Slice Pizza, 1415 S. Congress Ave. • Free
Hands down the craziest pizza-themed celebration of the year. Featuring: carnival games, magicians, a raffle, contests (pizza-eating, dough-tossing, box-folding, hands on an eggplant sub), and other good stuff. Live music by Crooks, Residual Kid, Flying Balalaika Brothers, Minor Mishap Marching Band, and others. Benefits Austin Bat Cave.
Twin Liquors November Open House
2–6pm • Twin Liquors at Hancock Center, 1000 E. 41st St. • Free
Free tastings of wines, spirits, and beers in celebration of the arrival of Fall.
“West of East” Cocktail Social Hour at Gallery Black Lagoon
6–8pm (Sat. and Sun.) • Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301-A Guadalupe St. • Free
“West of East” is a group art exhibition with works by 17 Austin artists on display for the next two weekends. The exhibition is open from 11am–8pm each day, including Cocktail Social Hours with free Deep Eddy cocktails from 6–8pm.
E.A.S.T. Victory Lap Art Exhibit
6–10pm (Sat. and Sun.) • The Historic Victory Grill, 1104 E 11th • Free
E.A.S.T. after-party with food, drinks, music, dancing, and art.
Fuzzy Popsycle Grand Opening Extravaganza
7:30–11pm • Fuzzy Popsycle, 1403 Chestnut Ave. • Free
Free NXNW beer; sno-cones from Baltimore Ballers; snacks by Karma Hummus and Three Little Pigs trailer. Music by Diesel N’ Dixie, Seth Sherman, and Emcee Eats.
Skellies Fall Freak Out
8pm–2am • Club De Ville • $5 cover, or $4 w/ donation of a food item
Music by Neiliyo, FMCAMPERS, DJ Digg, DJ Ramo, and Hume. Raffle with prizes from all sorts of good places (Opal Divine’s, P. Terry’s, Tiff’s Treats, Clown Dog Bikes, Epoch, East Side Pies, Thunderbird and others). If you want to join The Skellies for a leisurely 3-mile bike ride to Club de Ville, meet at The Grackle (1700 E 6th) at 8pm. Bonus: If you bike to the party, you get free beer from Uncle Billy’s.
101x Homegrown Live feat. Electric Touch
9pm–Midnight • Antone’s, 213 W 5th St. • $8
Performances by local artists Electric Touch, Zeale, and The Shears.
The New Day
9pm–2am • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Guest DJs NRich & Hobo D present a night of rare and classic soul music (on vinyl!)
Sunday, Nov. 20
Barbarella’s 2 Year Anniversary Party
10pm–2am • Barbarella, 611 Red River • Free
Celebrate the second birthday of everyone’s favorite dance floor / late-night make-out destination. Music by theGlitoris and DJ Harvey of New Noise; $1 Lone Stars and happy hour prices all night; free Barbarella anniversary T-shirts for the first 100 guests.
Plugs: Like us on the Facebook, Tweet at us on the Twitter
Shoutouts: Amber, Jeremiah, Do512 Free
The Week Ahead: Oct. 24-31
There are so many free drinks up for grabs this week that, much like fishing with dynamite, it’s not even fair. Local breweries are offering all kinds of samples as part of Austin Beer Week, which runs through Sunday, and of course, Halloween is right around the corner. So, go out and enjoy some free tastings, embrace the costumed chaos, and keep an eye out for zombies (word on the street is that they’ll be on the move this weekend).
Monday, Oct. 24
Rahr & Sons Keg Tapping, Meet the Brewer & Cheese Pairing
5–9pm • Draught House Pub & Brewery, 4112 Medical Pkwy. • Free
Draught House is tapping a limited edition keg of Rahr & Sons Angry Goat Weizen Doppelbock. Buy the beer, keep the pint glass. Free Antonelli’s cheese to pair with the beer.
Book Signing: “The Homesick Texan Cookbook” by Lisa Fain
7–10pm • BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar Blvd. • Free
Free St. Arnold’s beer and Texas food.
Tuesday, Oct. 25
Pearl-Snaps and Free Rum
11am–7pm • Frock On Vintage, 3016 Guadalupe St., Ste. A101 • Free
Free Pecan Street Rum and buy-one-get-one pearl-snap shirts.
In-Store Tasting: Real Ale Oktoberfest & Coffee Porter
3–5pm • Whole Foods Market (Gateway), 9607 Research Blvd. • Free
Whole Foods is serving free samples of Real Ale classics Oktoberfest and Coffee Porter.
Deer Tick at Waterloo Records
5–6pm • Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar • Free
Free in-store performance. Check out the website for other upcoming store events.
Austin Chronicle Presents Paper Cuts: Mike and the Moonpies
7-9pm • The Palm Door, 401-A Sabine Street • Free; RSVP requested
The Chronicle’s monthly free music series features complimentary Sapporo Beer, food from Curra’s Grill, and 42 Below Vodka. You need to RSVP to guarantee admission, but additional guests will be allowed in starting at 7:30 if the party isn’t at capacity.
Wednesday, Oct. 26
The Onion Society for Beer Enjoyment
6–8pm • Patsy’s Café, 5001 E. Ben White Blvd. • Free; RSVP Required
Free Austin Amber Ale for those who RSVP. Music by Sugar Creek.
Uncle Billy’s Barton Springs Brewery Tour + Tasting
6:30pm • Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que, 1530 Barton Springs Rd. • Free
Brewer Amos Lowe leads a tour that features samples of Uncle Billy’s hand-crafted brew.
Tapping: Saint Arnold Santo Kick-off
8pm-Close • Skinny’s Ballroom • Free
Get a free pint glass with the purchase of Saint Arnold Brewing’s newest beer, Santo. Music by The Soapbox Spellbinders.
Rooftop on 6th 1-Year Anniversary Party
9pm–2am • Rooftop on 6th • Free
Complimentary drinks (Deep Eddy Vodka and Corona), appetizers, and prizes until 11:30. Live music by Curtis Grimes and DJ Kid Slyce.
Thursday, Oct. 27
In-Store Tasting: Real Ale Lost Gold IPA, Oktoberfest, Coffee Porter
3–5pm • Central Market Westgate, 4477 S Lamar Blvd. • Free
Swing by Central Market for free samples of Real Ale favorites Lost Gold IPA, Oktoberfest and Coffee Porter.
Thirsty Planet Open House
4–7pm • Thirsty Planet Brewing Co., 11160 Circle Drive • Free
Thirsty Planet will have nine beers on tap and provide three free samples. Or, buy a pint glass for $7 and fill up three times — and keep the glass.
Do512 and Deep Eddy Vodka Present: “Shuck Fest” at Abel’s on the Lake
6–9pm • 3825 Lake Austin Blvd., Ste 201 • Free; RSVP Required
RSVP for complimentary oysters on the half-shell and Deep Eddy Vodka Hurricanes (and other cocktails) while they last. Featuring live New Orleans Funk by Jimmie Dreams.
The Rogue Raffler Team Presents: The Halloween Hunt
6:30–9:30pm • Rogue Running, 500 San Marcos St. • Free
Halloween-themed scavenger hunt through downtown, followed by a block party with free beer courtesy of Hops and Grain at 8:30. Teams should have 3-4 people and bring smart phones and/or cameras.
Black Star Co-op Brews & Local Cheeses
7–8pm • Black Star Co-op Pub & Brewery, North Lamar @ St. Johns Ave. • Free for member-owners, $7 for the public
Sample a flight of four Black Star beers paired with local cheeses with tasting notes from brewer Jeff Young and Kitchen Team gastronomists.
“Drinking Out of Cups” Party at Chupacabra
8–11pm • Chubacabra • (Cover?)
Free Boulevard IPA for everyone who wears a costume referencing the YouTube video “Drinking out of Cups.” Best Costume wins tickets to Norm MacDonald at Cap City Comedy.
Yelp’s Open Party 2011: The Thriller Throwdown
8:30–11pm • Elysium, 705 Red River • Free; RSVP Required
Free Lone Star, vodka, food, photo booth, door prizes, and other goodness. Click the link for RSVP instructions.
Friday, Oct. 28
Brewery Tour: Real Ale Brewing
2–5pm • Real Ale Brewing Co., 231 San Saba Ct., Blanco • Free
Join the crew from Real Ale out at the brewery in Blanco for a special day of tours and tastings.
Phantasmagorical Fascinator Friday
6–9pm • Studio Downtown, 608 East 3rd Street • $5 suggested donation
Free Cinco Vodka Bloody Marys + food from A Salubrious Sauces & Catering Co. and The Pie Society — the menu will include “witch finger” bread sticks, “mummy thumb” sausage bites, roasted red pepper sauce and pesto for dipping, & and roasted orange pepper hummus. Plus: a costume contest and live jazz music by the Judith Miller Band. Benefits Swan Songs.
The Monster Bash Halloween Party
7–10pm • Austin City Living, 1145 W. 5th Street • $15 donation
Open bar (Deep Eddy, Patron, Corona), free food, live music from Rattletree Marimba. The cover is a bit higher than we usually post here, but there’s tons of good free stuff, and donations benefit Citizen Generation and Austin Disaster Relief (Bastrop fire victims).
The Pons Album Release Party
10pm • The Highball • Free
Free show featuring The Pons, Stereo is a Lie, The Sour Notes, and DJ Czech One.
Saturday, Oct. 29
Live Oak Brewing Co. Tour & Tasting
Noon–2pm • Live Oak Brewing Co., 3301 E 5th St. • Free
Get an in-depth tour of the brewery, followed by a tasting led by one of the Live Oak’s brewers. All current beers — and possibly some surprises — will be poured.
Circle Brewing’s Haunted Open House
Noon–3pm • Circle Brewing Co., 2340 W Braker Lane • Free event (beer and food for sale)
Circle Brewing Co. will debut its new seasonal. Food for sale from Peached Tortilla, Chi’Lantro BBQ, Be More Pacific, The Evil Wiener and The Jalopy. Costumes strongly encouraged.
Uncle Billy’s Lake Travis Brewery Tour + Tasting
4–5pm • Uncle Billy’s Brew & Que, 6550 Comanche Trail • Free
Brewer Brian Peters leads a tour that features samples of Uncle Billy’s hand-crafted brew.
East Austin Zombie Pub Crawl
8pm–2am • Meet at Yellow Jacket Social Club, 1704 E 5th St. • Free
Lurch through eastside bars with your fellow zombies and have some cheap drinks along the way. Schedule: Yellow Jacket Social Club (8pm); The Eastern (9pm); Volstead (10pm); Brixton (11pm); Cheer Up Charlie’s (midnight); Zombie Prom @ Beauty Bar (1am). Drink specials TBA.
Sunday, Oct. 30
Sugar Mama’s Sweet & Scary Third Birthday Bash **Event of the Week**
10am–1pm • Sugar Mama’s Bakeshop, 1905 S. 1st St. • Free; RSVP Requested
Free cupcakes, mimosas, cakewalk, and other delicious stuff — plus a raffle with prizes from Toy Joy, Vulcan Video, and other cool places — AND, a costume contest to win a year’s worth of cupcakes. Benefits Bat Conservation.
The Onion Presents: Zombie Lurch and Halloween Party
5–11:30pm • Begins at Woolridge Park, 900 Guadalupe; ends at Club De Ville, 900 Red River St. • Free; RSVP Requested
Free beer From Live Oak Brewing Company. Live music by Oak is Keeping and Edgar Allen Slow. People who RSVP and participate in the Zombie Lurch get free admission to The Onion’s Halloween Party at Club De Ville — otherwise, there is a $5 cover.
CSS Afterparty at Beauty Bar
10pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th Street • $3 if in costume or w/ show wristband; $5 if not
Costume/dance party with music by DJ Konsept.
Monday, Oct. 31
Flamingo’s 20th Birthday Reggae Bash: Night of the Living Dread
9pm–2am • Flamingo Cantina, 515 E. 6th Street • $5
Mau Mau Chaplains and Don Chani help the Flamingo ring in its 20th birthday.
Wabi Sabi Presents: Wabi Zombi
9pm–2am • Beauty Bar, 617 E. 7th Street • Free
Free party with cheap beer, “live art,” and music by Calypso Band, Pirate Band, and Wabi Sabi DJs.
TheGlitoris Presents: The Second-Annual Swalloween
10pm–2am • Barbarella • No costume: $3; Costume: free before midnight, $3 after
DJ sets by theGlitoris and uLOVEi; photo booth; horror film projections; debauchery
For more Halloween stuff, check out Do512’s special list. Also, visit our free-stuff senseis: Amber & Jeremiah.
The Week Ahead: Sept. 28 - Oct. 2
Rawwr! I need a drink!
Wednesday, Sept. 28
The Liberty End of Summer Luau
8–11pm • The Liberty, 1618 1/2 E. 6th St. • Free
Free drinks from Sailor Jerry Rum from 9–10:30; roasted pork belly by East Side Kings for $2/plate; limbo and hula hoop contests.
Fantastic Fest Prom
10:30pm • The Highball • Free
Bowls of spiked punch; prom montage & music videos hosted by the Action Pack; music by Rick K. and The Allnighters; dance-off and costume contest; photobooth by Annie Ray
Thursday, Sept. 29
Grand Opening of Generous Art
5:30–8:30pm • The W Hotel, 212 Lavaca St. • Free
Complimentary wine by East End Wines, catering by Texas French Bread, and music by the Robert Kraft Jazz Trio
Flock Grand Opening
6–10pm • Flock, 2120 Oxford Avenue (near S. Lamar & Oltorf) • Free
Complimentary desserts and Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka
HubAustin Open House Launch Party
6pm–Midnight • HubAustin Coworking, 4930 S. Congress Ave, Ste. 307 • Free
Preview the new HubAustin space and enjoy some free beer and other refreshments.
Key Bar’s 5th Birthday Bash
7pm–2am • Key Bar, 617 W 6th St. • Free
Complimentary cupcakes & beer
Tabbed Out Party: Boom!
10pm–1am • Blind Pig Pub, 317 E. 6th St. • Free
Drink specials (maybe free?) if you have the TabbedOut app; DJ; photo booth
Friday, Sept. 30
Gypsy Caravan Trunk Show
6:30–9:30pm • Mana Culture, 2214 S. 1st St. • Free
Complimentary Cocktails, DJ kidGorillaz, and palm and tarot readings
Gagarazzi 2011
9pm–2am • The Highball, 1142 S. Lamar Blvd. • $5 with costume, $7 without
A Lady Gaga-themed burlesque and variety show benefiting Equality Texas — features a costume contest, raffle, Gaga dance party, and performances by Burlesque troupes, musicians, dancers, and comedians.
Exploded Drawing 9: 1 Year Anniversary Invitational
9pm–Midnight • Baby Blue Studios, 1522 E. 12th (close to 12th and Chicon) • $5 suggested donation
A night of original electronic music, including performances by soundfounder & Dakim. Free Dos Equis.
Saturday, Oct. 1
Imagine Austin Release Party
10am–2pm • Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 1165 Angelina Street • Free
Free T-shirts by Sanctuary PrintShop (if you get there early enough), as well as water bottles, sunglasses, and tote bags. Plus: live music and selections for sale from local food trucks.
First Saturday Tour Day at Independence Brewing Company
1pm • Independence Brewing Company, 3913 Todd Lane #607 • Free
Free beer samples and brewery tours. (They’re also throwing an anniversary party later in October, so stay tuned for more details on that.)
Fun Fun Fun Fest Scavenger Hunt (Event of the Week!)
3–7pm • Starts at Red Seven, 611 E. 7th Street • Free
Teams of 1-5 hunters compete to win passes to FFF Fest in November. Bring a camera; bonus points for wearing costumes and registering online. Free food at the finish line. Trust us – this has been crazy fun in years past.
The Action Pack 80s Dance Party
10:30pm–2am • The Highball • Free
You know the drill.
Sunday, Oct. 2
Rally for Real Food
Noon–3pm • South steps of the Capitol • Free
Free food samples.
The Mohawk’s 5th Anniversary Celebration
9pm • The Mohawk, 912 Red River St. • Free
The final day of Mohawk’s anniversary celebration features an all-local bill of Austin musicians. Word is that there will be food and thank-you gifts. Bonus!
Props to our fellow free-stuff aficionados Jeremiah and Amber (awesome new domain, btw).
Photo by Janelle (Flickr)
Cool This Weekend: December 3–5
The lowdown on the best free and cheap fun to be had this weekend.
FRIDAY
Austin Bleet-Up
7:30pm • $7 cover (RSVP)
Beer from Live Oak Brewery (while it lasts), sandwiches, coffee and other goodness. Music by Motel Aviv, Politics, The Lennings, et al.
Whole Foods rooftop terrace, 6th and Lamar
South Austin Gallery Opening: Benefit for Keep Austin Beautiful
7-10pm • Free
Free sandwiches from Grill Haven trailer and cocktails from Balcones Distillery. Music from DJ Aaron Montez. Photo booth.
507 W. Mary St.
101X Homegrown Live Free Show: The Lemurs and Royal Forest
Doors at 8, music at 9:30 • No cover
Local bands. A portion of the bar sales will go to The Ronald McDonald House.
Lucky Lounge
SATURDAY
Independence Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting
1-2pm • Free
Free tour and beer tastings. Bring cash to purchase food and brewery merchandise.
3913 Todd Lane #607
Pink House 4: The Pink House and Stem & Leaf 2010 Wrap-Up Party
2pm-midnight • Free; donations are encouraged
Keg beer sponsored by NXNW Brewery, plus BBQ and other grilled foods. Music from 11 bands.
The Pink House, 2402 E 9th St.
Scamps and Scoundrels: An Urban Dog Challenge – After Party
5-8pm • Free
Drinks sponsored by Tito’s Vodka, Sweet Leaf Tea, Republic Tequila and Uncle Billy’s. Also: Amy’s Ice Cream. The after party is open to the public as well as those who compete in the challenge, which benefits Austin Pets Alive.
Austin Pets Alive, 2807 Manchaca (at Lamar)
Supa Dupa Purple Haze: Official Knuckle Rumbler Big Boi After Party
9pm-2am • $5; $3 w/ RSVP or Big Boi show stub; free with afro (wig or real)
DJs Orion and Prince Klassen spin jams by Jimi Hendrix and Missy Elliot. Photo booth by Annie Ray.
Scoot Inn, 1308 E. 4th Street (at Navasota)
Speakeasy’s Repeal of Prohibition Celebration
9pm-2am • Free
Free drinks while they last, followed by Dewars specials all night. Dress up 1920s-style (think flappers and fedoras).
Speakeasy, 412 Congress Ave.
90s Music Video Dance Party at The Highball
11pm-2am • Free
The Highball brings back its 90s Dance Party series with a brand new mix of videos.
Highball, 1142 S. Lamar
SUNDAY
Donate & Date Auction
7-9pm • Free with donation of 2 canned goods for the Capital Area Food Bank
Free beer. Key Bar will auction off dates to benefit Heart House of Austin, which receives 100% of the proceeds.
Key Bar, 617 W. 6th Street
The Onion Re-Opening Party
8pm-2am • Free
Free pizza and music to celebrate the opening of The Onion pizzeria’s new location.
One-2-One Bar, 121 E. 5th Street
(Photo)
1-minute guide to Fun Fun Fun Fest: Saturday
Fun Fun Fun Fest is this weekend, and if you’ve yet to do your homework, consider this your CliffsNotes: Twitter-length mini-previews (and samples) of a few of our favorite acts, designed to take some of the guesswork out of the scheduling process.
Royal Forest @ 12:15 (Orange Stage)
Austin-based band (formerly known as Loxsly) banging out slightly psychedelic piano pop. Download their EP for free here: http://royalforest.bandcamp.com/
Woven Bones @ 12:50 (Orange Stage)
Austin band blasting echo-y surfer rock, fuzzy vocals and walls of grungy guitars. Recommended if you like (RIYL): Best Coast, Surfer Blood, Harlem
Jeff the Brotherhood @ 1:25 (Orange Stage)
Nashville drum-and-guitar garage rock duo of brothers of the the now defunct hyperactive, underage punk rockers Be Your Own Pet. RIYL: siblings, reverb, bar bands, Sonic Youth
Butcher Bear and Charlie @ 1:45 (Blue Stage)
ATX collective Attack Formation front dons bear suit, DJs and pairs w/ a former opera singer. RIYL: Big and bass-heavy bizarre beats, male & female vocals, weirdness
The Antlers @ 2:45 (Orange Stage)
Recently in the spotlight for an acclaimed concept album centered around the story of a terminally ill child. Cheery stuff? No, but damn good. RIYL: Local Natives, Bon Iver, depression
Devin the Dude @ 2:55 (Blue Stage)
Houston rap icon w/ smooth Southern swagger, R. Kelly approach to romance. Sample line: “You feel how hard this dick is? Let’s not let it go to waste.”
Wavves @ 3:30 (Orange Stage)
Mega-loud lo-fi noisemakers—perhaps most famous for an epic on-stage meltdown—have turned down the distortion a bit in favor of a sunnier, more pop-friendly sound. RIYL: Japandroids, potentially witnessing a breakdown on stage
Slick Rick @ 3:50 (Blue Stage)
Eye patch-sporting Brit is a rap icon guaranteed to deliver good times. Even if you never listened to ‘80s rap, you’re bound to recognize “Children’s Story.” RIYL: The theme to Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the sounds of vinyl scratching
Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti @ 4:15 (Orange Stage)
L.A. freak folk artist Ariel Pink makes lo-fi pop songs that sound like uncovered radio hits from ‘70s and ‘80s. RIYL: Of Montreal
Monotonix @ 4:30 (Yellow Stage)
Tel Aviv 3-piece rocking a crazy high-octane show. Trash can crowd surfing and in-crowd action: watch Monotonix at SXSW http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03FoiW3tmqY RIYL: getting injured by the crowd but avoiding the Black Stage.
Cap’n Jazz @ 6:00 (Orange Stage)
Recently reunited early emo influencers from the golden era of post-punk. RIYL: Dismemberment Plan, The Promise Ring
The Dwarves @ 6:25 (Black Stage)
Punk rockers in existence longer than most Fun Fest goers have been alive known for drawing from a wide palette of punk styles and controversial album covers. RIYL: Mohawks, moshing and naked dudes in wrestling masks.
Delorean @ 6:45 (Blue Stage)
Spanish import making warm, synth- and vocal sample-heavy dance tunes. RIYL: Phoenix, the warped vocal sample from Passion Pit’s “Sleepyhead”, MGMT, Beach House
Man Man @ 6:55 (Orange Stage)
The usually costumed Philly collective belt out honky tonk, soulful tunes that play like a barrel-chested drunken sailor sing-a-long. RIYL: Modest Mouse, Rhodes piano
Dirty Projectors @ 7:50 (Orange Stage)
Brooklyn band has played ATX countless times since the release of the beloved “Bitte Orca” in mid-2009. Still no new material to promote, but with sweet lady harmonies like that, it doesn’t matter. RIYL: R&B, Aaliyah meets Talking Heads
MGMT @ 8:45 (Orange Stage)
If all you know is “Kids,” save yourself the disappointment—pass on MGMT. Live show is mediocre; more vanilla psychedelia than the danceable pop.
RJD2 @ 8:45 (Blue Stage)
DJ (think more like Moby and mojitos, less like Paul Oakenfold and Jäger bombs) crafting chill tunes, most famous for being the dude who wrote the Mad Men theme.
