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The Amazing Acro-Cats: Keep It Weird in Austin!
The Acro-Cats tour supports Rock Cats Rescue, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Rock Cats Rescue is focused on saving cats "One Click at a Time" through cat welfare, rescue, and adoption. The Acro-Cats show promotes the importance of bonding and training cats with positive reinforcement, while also finding homes for rescued cats.Apr. 24-May 5Long Center for the Performing Arts -
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Earth Day Jubilee with The Trail Conservancy
Join The Trail Conservancy on the Butler Hike and Bike Trail for the 2nd Annual Earth Day Jubilee celebration! Enjoy live music by Mr. Will, Motenko, and Brother Thunder, eco-friendly activities, a market by Austin Flea, and fun for the whole family.Sat. Apr. 20, 10am-2pmButler Park
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Luminations at LBJ Wildflower Center
In a year that could use some sparkle, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is bringing back a beloved winter tradition. It's a strollable Hill Country experience where thousands of luminarias light the way. For the first time ever, Luminations will wind through the Texas Arboretum among glowing oaks and the light-splashed forts of Fortlandia, a collection of forts custom-designed and built by local architects, designers, and artists.Through Jan. 3. Members only on Mondays; closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan. 1 -
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Winter Wanderland
Snow close, yet snow far out! Austin Motel is decked out for the holidays with a neon rainbow, and they're serving up hot chocolate (with optional peppermint schnapps), a Sugar Plum cocktail, and La Colombe coffee. Snacks include Reindeer Chow and hot pretzels.Through Jan. 3. Free, but RSVP. -
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Austin Trail of Lights
Austin's 56th annual holiday tradition returns to Zilker Park as a drive-through event this year and runs two additional weeks. As you drive through the trail illuminated by more than 2 million lights, tune in via your car radio for holiday music, highlights, and history. This year guests can choose a ticket type based on their preferred date and time, with prices ranging from $25-35 per vehicle for GA or a $60 per vehicle "Dash Pass" which includes early entry and festive refreshments.Through Jan. 3 (except New Year's Day). GA, $25-35 per vehicle; Dash Pass, $60 per vehicle. -
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Blue Genie Art Bazaar
The beloved Austin holiday shopping experience returns for its 20th year with four shopping options to ensure safety in the time of COVID-19. For in-store shopping, reserve free tickets online for a "no wait" entry. Walk-ins are also welcome, but guests may have to wait outside if it's at capacity. Online shoppers can either pick up items in-store or have them shipped anywhere in the U.S. Personal shoppers and virtual shopping will also be available through the BGAB website. BGAB is a family-friendly experience where you can find one-of-a-kind, handcrafted jewelry, artwork, home goods, and gifts for everyone on your shopping list.Through Dec. 24, 10am-10pm daily (10am-6pm on Dec. 24) -
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Downtown Holiday Stroll
This year, the hallmark event is more than just one evening; it's a month of free activities and holiday happenings. Visit the 45-foot-tall holiday tree by the Capitol, catch a movie at Paramount or the new Blue Starlite, and download or pick up a holiday passport to guide your way and collect stamps as you experience all that Downtown Austin has to offer.Through Dec. 31Downtown Austin -
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Early Voting for Dec. 15 Run-Off
Vote early for the run-off elections in City Council districts 6 and 10 as well as the Austin ISD Board of Trustees District 5 and Place 8 seats. Get more info on the candidates, voting by mail, and early voting locations at austinchronicle.com/elections.Dec. 3-11Citywide -
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Mozart's 2020 COVID-Cautious Christmas Light Show
Sip a delicious hot bevvie and see the beautiful light show by the lake. Reservations required.Through Jan. 6, 6pm-12mid. $10 per table for one-hour show. -
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Winter Well-Being Toolkit
The stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic could make this winter and holiday season tougher than usual. Integral Care recently launched a Winter Well-Being Toolkit, a compilation of ideas to boost mental health, fight the winter blues, stay safely connected and celebrate the season in new ways. Topics include ideas to make gatherings special, tips for fighting Seasonal Affective Disorder, steps for improving happiness, ways to get moving and elevate your mood, and mindfulness activities. Plus, check out their YouTube channel for a winter mental health forum video.Ongoing
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#TsoGiving Holiday Initiative
Tso Chinese Delivery has partnered with seven local organizations with the goal to provide $100,000 in meals to Austinites in need. Make a direct donation online, or add a donation to any food order placed at Tso Chinese Delivery. For every $1 raised, #TsoGiving can donate $3 worth of meals.Through Dec. 31Remote -
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AAYHF Annual Toy Drive
African American Youth Harvest Foundation is seeking donations of toys for youth 3 months to 17 years of age. Gift cards are also welcome.Through Dec. 18 -
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APA! Holiday Store Now Open
When you're shopping for the animal lovers in your life, you'll find the perfect gift and support the nonprofit at the Austin Pets Alive! online store. They've got a people & pets cookbook, ornaments, toys, and the must-have outerwear for winter: the "I Like Big Mutts and I Cannot Lie" hoodie.Ongoing -
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Armadillo Art Concierge
Sadly, we can't visit the Armadillo Art Bazaar in person this year. The next best thing is Armadillo Art Concierge, an online, curated shopping guide pointing visitors to collections by content, process, medium, or artist location. Follow them on social media @armadillobazaar to see spotlighted art each day.Ongoing -
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Austin Creative Reuse
ACR is such a neat place, filled to the brim with donations of reusable items, but you don't even have to be there to take advantage of their Earth-friendly stock. Shop online for gifts, holiday wrapping, craft supplies and notions, and even fun mystery packs.OngoingOnline or in-store at 2005 Wheless -
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Civic Events
Austin ISD Virtual Middle School Fair
Current and future middle school students and their families can learn about AISD programming and hear from current students and faculty.Tue.-Fri., Dec. 8-11, 6:30-7pm. Free.Facebook Live -
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Austin Scavenger Hunt
Explore Downtown in search of storied buildings, green spaces, and famous concert venues, all while solving riddles, trivia questions, and completing photo challenges. Now available: "Roam From Home," with family and date night scavenger hunt activities you can do without leaving the house.Anytime. $12.99-24.99.Online and at home -
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Be a Santa to a Senior
Fulfilling a senior's Christmas wish couldn't be easier. Simply visit Home Instead Senior Care's virtual tree, choose a recipient, and purchase their wish list item from Amazon. It'll be safely delivered and will make someone's day. You can also visit one of Home Instead's three Austin-area locations to participate.Through Dec. 15Virtual -
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Blood Bazaar
Blood Over Texas' online holiday market is the spot to find all kinds of evil wares for fans of goth and horror. All the vendors are local, and include many of the sellers from past Horror for the Holidays events.Through Dec. 24 -
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BSC Reopening Business Safely Global Forum
Business is not as usual. This is a safe place to talk about business concerns, share ideas, and hear from weekly business expert guests.Thursdays, 12-1pm. Through Dec. 16. Free.Online -
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BSC's Rebuilding Business Nationwide Forum
Business Success Center offers a weekly opportunity to network with other business owners and learn from one another. It's an open forum so you can come and go as you please.Thursdays, 12-1pm. Through Dec. 17. Free.Online -
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Central Texas Food Bank Giving Opportunities
The holidays will be tougher for everyone this year. The food bank has put together a list of 10 ways to make a difference to someone in need, from an online matched donation to donating your change at participating stores. Check out the list online and help CTFB fight hunger.Ongoing -
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Chanukah With Young Jewish Professionals of Austin
Check out the schedule for all the special events, including nightly menorah lightings, a latke cookout, a dreidel game with a twist, and more. The grand lighting at the Capitol with Gov. Abbott takes place Dec. 17 and you can join on Zoom.Dec. 10-17Online and at various locations -
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Civic Events
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Community
Civic Events
City of Austin "How to Help" Portal
Looking for the right way to help your community during the pandemic? Or do you have a volunteer opportunity that you want to list? Visit the city's "How to Help" portal to make a match. The portal includes ways to help from home, donation drives, and active community engagement opportunities.OngoingOnline -
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Civic Events
Coats for Kids
The Junior League of Austin will distribute over 30,000 coats at the annual Coats for Kids Distribution Day event. To receive a coat, AISD students who qualify for free and reduced lunch services can register by filling out this form. If you've got a coat to donate, you can drop it off at any Jack Brown Dry Cleaners. Monetary donations can be made online at www.jlaustin.org. See website for volunteer registration.Request a coat deadline: Nov. 20; coat distribution: Dec. 1-12Citywide -
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Coming of Age Online Holiday Fundraiser
Double your holiday gifting by supporting a local nonprofit as you shop. Visit this unique online estate sale for electronics, collectibles, kitchenware, and lots more, and all proceeds benefit Travis County's Coming of Age program, which supports individuals age 50 and up. Shipping and local delivery are available.OngoingVirtual -
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December in the District
Help support local businesses by making 2nd Street District your one-stop-shop. Enjoy seasonal sips, holiday creations, and the 10th annual Holiday Window Walk. Plus, check out their new passport activation in partnership with the Downtown Austin Alliance, wherein you collect stamps and earn prizes as you explore.Dec. 1-30. Free.Second Street downtown -
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Donate Blood, Get Free Whataburger
All month long, when you donate with We Are Blood, get a free honey butter chicken biscuit from Whataburger. Donors between Dec. 24 and 31 also get a free sweatshirt. Appointments are mandatory; schedule online or call 512/206-1266.Through Dec. 31We Are Blood donor centers & mobile drives -
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Donate Platelets, Get a Free Baseball Tee
During its monthlong Platelet Step-Up campaign, We Are Blood is offering a branded baseball tee to donors who successfully donate platelets twice during December. Appointments are mandatory; schedule online or call 512/206-1266.Dec. 1-31We Are Blood donor centers & mobile drives -
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Civic Events
Downtown Circulator Study Survey
The Downtown Austin Alliance seeks community feedback on two conceptual circulator routes through Downtown. Conceptual Route A would run between the Market District to Rainey and would primarily operate along Fourth Street, while conceptual Route B would run between S. Congress to Plaza Saltillo along Congress and E. Sixth and Seventh streets. For more information on the Downtown Circulator Study, visit here.Through Dec. 11Online -
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Out of Town
Eagle Nest Webcam
The eagle cam is back after being dark for nearly two years, and the pair of eagles are building their nest in preparation of the eggs sometime in December or January. Watch their progress from home.Through early spring. Free.Online via JBS Wetland Center, Seagoville -
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Explore Downtown With New Smart Trips Bike Map
Looking for a fun, safe, and family-friendly activity to help you get outside? Smart Trips has just completed a new route to explore Downtown Austin. This bike map includes turn-by-turn directions and a digital map.: They even made a video while pedaling so you can get a glimpse of the interesting new attractions along the route. Don’t have a bike? Ride a MetroBike for free when you sign up for the Smart Trips Resource Guide at SmartTripsAustin.org/order.Ongoing. Free. -
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Civic Events
Foundation Communities Open Enrollment Assistance
The deadline to access coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace for a 2021 plan is Dec. 15. Complete Foundation Communities' intake form online, or call or email to schedule an intake appointment for help with enrollment.Deadline: Dec. 15. Free.Remote -
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Gibson Wonderland
Sip a festive holiday cocktail and snap a photo at the Gibson Sleigh, then tag #gibsonwonderland and @gibsonstreetbar for a chance at a prize.Through Dec. 31 -
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Half Marathon Race Seeks Volunteers
The Austin Runners Club is looking for volunteers for a classic Austin race, the Decker Challenge. Sign up online to help with packet pickup, race setup, and more duties.Race date: Sun., Dec. 20Race held at COTA; sign up online -
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Out of Town
History in Lights
The pathway of lights illuminates Mission Espiritu Santo in a way that is suggestive of the early days of the Spanish frontier outpost.Through Dec. 31, 6-10pm. $4.Goliad State Park -
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Holiday Lights in Georgetown’s Historic Town Square
Enjoy the lights and local flavor throughout the holiday season.Through Jan. 2. Free.Historic Town Square, East Seventh Street, Georgetown -
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Judaism UnBoxed
Brought to you by Chabad of Austin, Judaism UnBoxed is hands-on Jewish discovery and growth, Jewish culinary lessons, and quality family time all in one. Receive holiday baking kit boxes for the Jewish holidays and/or challah baking boxes every month.Ongoing -
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Keep Austin Rooted
Gifting a tree through Treefolks is a fun way to surprise a friend or family member with a present that could last a lifetime, while beautifying and benefiting the community. Donors can opt for preset donation tiers of $30 (10 trees), $75 (25 trees), $150 (50 trees), or an amount of their choice.OngoingOnline -
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Lend a Hand ATX
Lend a Hand ATX, created by Austin Tech Alliance, is a platform to help skilled tech volunteers and those in need make critical community connections during the COVID-19 crisis. Create an account, make an offer or request, and find a match!April 24-Dec. 15Online -
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Lost Pines Christmas
There are plenty of holiday happenings in Bastrop, just a hop, skip, and a jump from Austin: Take in the sights at the River of Lights, head downtown to shop the Holiday Sidewalk Stroll, take in Elf! The Musical at Bastrop Opera House, or visit Krampus at Scream Hollow's Twisted Christmas.Through Jan. 1Bastrop -
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Out of Town
Louisiana Holiday Trail of Lights
The holiday season kicks off with Christmas in the Park in Natchitoches and continues through the fireworks on New Year’s Eve around eastern Louisiana.Through Dec. 31Alexandria-Pineville, Minden, Monroe-West Monroe, Natchitoches & Shreveport-Bossier -
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Lunch & Learn: Virtual Spanish Travel-Themed Workshop
¿Hablas español? Would you like to? Take a virtual trip with Freestyle Language Center to practice or learn the basics for travel. All proceeds from registration go to partner nonprofit Austin Opera.Thu., Dec. 10, noon-1pm. $10.Online via Zoom -
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Sports
MADD Virtual Jingle Bell 5K
Run, walk, or jog where you are to benefit Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The first 250 registrants get a swag bag, so sign up ASAP! All participants get a participant medal.Through Jan. 6. $35, adults; $10, kids.Virtual -
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Out of Town
Marriott Marquis Houston's Texas Winter Lights
An interactive walk-through or float-under light experience at the hotel’s iconic Texas-shaped lazy river, which will be surrounded by a mile worth of sparkling lights, complete with stunning views of the downtown Houston skyline.Through Jan. 3, 5-10pm. $5-15; hotel packages starting at $143.Marriott Marquis, 1777 Walker St., Houston -
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Mobility Games
Use a bike, micro-mobility modes, or your own body to get around in December and win prizes. Register online and share trips on social media with #MobilityGames20 to be entered.Through Dec. 31 -
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Sports
Natural Fit Therapy Virtual Happy Hour
Dr. Ryan Seifert hosts biweekly lectures over Zoom with some of Austin's best health experts on how to remain healthy, active, and independent during and after the pandemic. This session features golf injury expert Dr. Paul Hendricks.Thu., July 9, 4pmOnline -
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Next Generation Virtual Conference and Career Forum
Austin-based NexGenT is on a mission to help 1 million people get tech jobs by 2030. Founded by Air Force veterans who have trained thousands of engineers for the military, NexGenT combines a military-style training philosophy of job readiness with decades of network engineering and cybersecurity experience into an immersive program to get people into cybersecurity or networking careers faster and more effectively.Thu.-Fri., Dec. 10-11 -
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Northern Lights Holiday Spectacular
Presented by Toyota of Cedar Park, this drive-through light show has a special bonus of a different holiday movie screening each night.Through Dec. 31. Light show opens at 5pm; films screen at 7 & 10pm -
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Kids
Peppermint Parkway
Join Pepper and Mint on their journey down COTA’s Tunnel Road with this drive-through holiday experience. They are on a mission: to deliver letters to Santa for gifts under the tree! On their way they will meet dancing elves and strolling entertainers as they are transported from Candy Cane Lane to an Enchanted Forest. Additional activities include COTA Karting, Peppermint Plaza with amusements and games, and COTA Zipline.Various dates through Jan. 3. $35-90. -
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Personalized Video Message From Santa
COVID has taken away our Santa Claus visits this year, but don't worry! The Volunteer Services Council has you covered with a personalized video message from Santa. Support mental health programs at Austin State Hospital with this unique fundraiser: For only $20, get a video your kids will love with a personal message including facts only Santa Claus would know. Order online or call 512/419-2323 for more details.Order by Dec. 13. $20.Virtual -
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Queer Creatives Holiday Market
Support underrepresented small business owners this holiday at this inclusive, intentionally intersectional, digital space that celebrates creative entrepreneurs and empowers the diverse creator community.Through Dec. 12Virtual -
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Civic Events
Request for Proposals: TEMPO 2021
Art in Public Places' TEMPO program seeks proposals from practicing visual artists or artist teams for short-term, outdoor art installations.Deadline: Tue., Jan. 26, 2021, 5pmOnline -
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Round Rock Chabad Chanukah
There's a lot to do this week for Chanukah with Chabad of Round Rock: Meet at Prete Plaza on Dec. 13 for menorah lighting and a take-home craft, attend a class with Rabbi Mendel on Dec. 14, or try latkes at Women's Night Out on Dec. 15. Get the full schedule online and message them to get menorahs or dreidels.Dec. 10-17Chabad of Round Rock -
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Santa's Sleigh Selfies
Visit anytime after dark to see the tree lit with thousands of twinkly lights and take photos with Santa's sleigh.Through Jan. 3 -
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Kids
Santa's Wonderland
Visit Santa in a colorful candy wonderland and get a photo taken near him (he's touchless this year). Appointments are recommended, and only one family will be inside at a time. Be sure to bring a letter for Santa's mailbox!Select dates through Dec. 24 -
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Scholz Jingle Jam and Toys for Tots
Scholz Garten will be giving guests a $5 gift card to the restaurant in exchange for new and unwrapped toys for their Toys for Tots bin, now through Dec. 12. And on Dec. 11, get dressed up in your ugliest holiday sweater, enjoy live music from the Jingleberries, sip warm drinks, and indulge in a turkey dinner at Jingle Jam, 5-8pm.Through Dec. 12. Free. -
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Civic Events
School Finance 101 Info Session
This event is the first in a series that will educate families about how their tax dollars work for students and provide the tools to engage through every step of the process – from your local school’s budget to the Texas Legislature.Thu., Dec. 10, 5:30-6:30pm. Free (registration required).Online -
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Soul Studio Holiday Pop-Up
Soul Studio, a natural dye house and sustainable fashion label specializing in plant-dyed silks, is making shopping easier this season by featuring local, handcrafted, and ethical gifts meant to inspire and delight. Shop fashion, accessories, art and home goods in this one-stop, experiential market where you'll find something for every femme on your list.Through Dec. 23. Tue.-Sun., noon-7pmSoul Studio, 2511-A E. Sixth -
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Civic Events
Suffrage Now: A 19th Amendment Centennial Exhibition
Contemporary Texas women photographers share photos commenting on the centennial of the ratification of the 19th Amendment.Aug. 6-Jan. 31Online -
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Out of Town
Texas Furniture Makers Show
Handcrafted furniture pieces become works of art at the annual showing of local and regional woodworkers.Tue.-Sat., 10am-4pm, through Dec. 18. Free.Kerrville -
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The Escape Game Remote Adventures
Play the Escape Game’s newest game, "Ruins: Forbidden Treasure," from anywhere in the world using Zoom. Control an avatar wearing a live feed camera, search 360° images of the room, and use items in your online dashboard to progress through the game. An expert game guide will be there to help along the way, just like the typical escape room. Assemble a team of friends, family, or co-workers, and see if you can escape within an hour!May 5-Dec. 20. $25/person.Online -
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Tomlinson's Pound 4 Pound Pet Food Drive Presented by KXAN
Every holiday season, Tomlinson’s Feed hosts Central Texas’ largest pet food drive in support of 30+ local animal rescues and shelters. When you gift a bag of food in-store or online, your donation will be doubled (pound for pound) by healthy pet food makers. In 2019, the drive raised 163,584 pounds of high-quality, donated pet food, and this year's goal is to raise 175,000.Through Dec. 24Online or at any Tomlinson's Feed location -
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Civic Events
Travis County Commissioners Court Special Voting Session
Interim Health Authority Dr. Mark Escott will provide his weekly update on the state of the COVID-19 pandemic in Austin-Travis County.Thu., Dec. 10, 1:30pmOnline -
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Virtual Candle Lighting With Shalom Austin
Join in every night of Hanukkah to light candles together, learn about the various organizations and populations that make up the Austin Jewish landscape, and see a different segment of the community showcased each night.Dec. 10-17 -
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Virtual Pup Crawl
Beer? Beer! And dogs! Spread howl-iday cheer and taste tons of local beers to benefit Austin Humane Society. Each ticket includes a tasting kit with cool swag for you and your pup and beer from some of Austin’s favorite breweries. Win prizes as you (virtually) navigate from brewery to brewery and participate in a scavenger hunt along the way, jam out with the live DJ spinning tunes, and see some precious pets strutting their stuff in the pet costume contest.Thu., Dec. 10, 5pm. $45. -
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Out of Town
Walkway of Lights
The 30-year tradition continues with thousands of lights and more than 350 sculptures illuminating Lakeside Park.Through Jan. 2, 6-10pm. free.Marble Falls -
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Out of Town
Wild Texas Film Tour
In ordinary times, filmmaker and conservationist Ben Masters would be traveling the state sharing wildlife, adventure, and conservation stories, but this year the film festival has gone online. The short and feature films showcase the Scottish Highlands, the Texas ocelot, Buffalo Bayou, paddlefish, swift fox, and several other topics that will appeal to a wide variety of audiences.Through Dec. 31. Free, but donations appreciated.Online via www.wildfilmtour.com -
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Events
Winter Holiday Mystic Market
An event that partners local, women-owned health and wellness shops with local cosmic practitioners, hosted by Rituals Rising and Joy Organics.Through Jan. 15. Mon.-Sat., 11am-6pm; Sun., noon-5pm -
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Civic Events
YMCA Early Learning Readiness Program
A free community program for qualifying low-income families that focuses on preparing children ages 2-4 for school, while providing their caregivers with the tools to facilitate their child’s development. Classes are offered twice a week in English and Spanish and last one hour.English: Mondays & Wednesdays, 9am; Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:30am. Spanish: Mondays & Wednesdays, 10:30am; Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9am.. Free.Online
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Sports
Austin FC Season Membership Deposits
Austin's Major League Soccer team, Austin FC, is officially taking deposits for 2021 season memberships. Your deposit will reserve your spot in line, which means the earlier you purchase your membership, the earlier you're eligible to select your seats for the season.Ongoing. $50.
