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Sponsored Listing
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 -
Sponsored Listing
BookSpring Fest: A Read Aloud Celebration
Join BookSpring for an enchanting celebration of reading at BookSpring Fest: A Read Aloud Celebration! Enjoy inspiring stories read aloud from pillars of the community, carnival games, a petting zoo, face painters, balloon makers, books, and refreshments (ALL FREE).Sat. May 4, 12pm-6pmBookSpring
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Heirloom Christmas
Celebrate the holidays 1800s-style to experience the sights and sounds of holidays past. Three historic homesteads and the 1899 village will be decorated and filled with Christmas spirit, with historical crafts, ornament making, live music, and a horse-drawn wagon ride.Dec. 17-20. Thu.-Sat., 1-5pm; Sun., 10am-7pm -
Community
Events
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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Events
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) -
Community
Out of Town
Christmas Celebration
It’s happening at the zoo decorated with thousands of lights, an ice skating rink, ice sculptures, a live: nativity scene, and three new giraffe calves.Fri.-Tue., Dec. 18-23, 4-10pm. $15.Abilene -
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Events
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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Events
Frida Friday ATX
The final Frida Friday of the year features 24 vendors offering jewelry, vintage goods, handmade artistry, homewares, unique artwork, and more. Grab shopping fuel of conchas y cafecitos or a complimentary bev by Bacardi and enjoy tunes by Chorizó Funk, Kay Cali, Zetroc, and KickIt. Bonus: Kind Clinic will be on hand offering free STD/HIV screenings.Sat.-Sun., Dec. 19-20, noon-4pm -
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Home for the "Howl"idays
If you're ready to make the commitment and have extra love to give this season, now's the perfect time to add a new furry friend to the family. For one week, Austin Humane Society is offering discounted adoption fees: only $20.Dec. 17-24 -
Community
Events
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. -
Community
Kids
Santa Visits Sprinkle Corner
With just a few days to go before Christmas, Old Saint Nick will make a special visit to the Sprinkle Corner village in 1800s splendor to hear children’s last-minute wish lists in a not-to-be-missed family event straight from the frontier days. Take-home photos available for an extra fee.Sun., Dec. 20, 10am-2pm -
Community
Sports
The Verde Van
Beep beep! The Verde Van, Austin FC's merch shop on wheels, is on the move. Schedule an appointment online to get hot new jerseys and more.Sat., Dec. 19, noon-6pm (Armadillo Den); Sun., Dec. 20, 10am-4pm (H-E-B)The Armadillo Den, 10106 Menchaca Rd.; Westlake H-E-B, 701 Capital of TX Hwy. N. -
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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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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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Events
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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Events
Austin Flea
The Austin Flea features all local handmade items and vintage wares from some of Austin's most amazing and talented vendors. Find one-of-a-kind gifts for any occasion including jewelry, bath and body products, vintage, original artwork, paper goods, textiles, and so much more.Third Sundays, 10am-4pm. Free. -
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Events
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 -
Community
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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 -
Community
Kids
Brunch With Santa & Bowl at the North Pole
Bowling, a brunch station, a Bloody Mary & mimosa bar for parents, a hot chocolate station for kiddos, and more make Santa's visit extra special. Email for details and info on package deals.Sun., Dec. 20, 11am-3pm. $15-300. -
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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 -
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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Events
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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Events
Days of Festivus
Paul Klemperer's ninth annual Festivus Celebration is adapting this year with livestream concerts. Sing along to your favorite Festivus carols and air your grievances. Getting through 2020 is a Festivus miracle, so it's time to celebrate!Dec. 13 & 20. Free.Online -
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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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Events
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 -
Community
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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 -
Community
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 -
Community
Events
Egg Helmet Ensemble: Inner-World Music
A one-time online performance of new music by guitarist/composer Mohadev, featuring his band Stop Motion Orchestra joined by members of Austin's creative music community, followed by a Q&A with Mohadev.Sun., Dec. 20, 7:45pm. Free. -
Community
Out of Town
Elf the Musical
Based on the holiday movie, Buddy journeys to New York City to find his birth father and discover his: true identity.Dec. 4-20. Fri.-Sat., 7:30pm; Sun., 2:30pm. Livestreaming Saturdays, 7:30pm. $15. -
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Events
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 -
Community
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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Holiday Parties With Urban Axes
Celebrate the holiday season at Urban Axes with add-ons like drink packages, catering from local partners, party decorations to make your celebration special, or an axe trophy for the tournament winner. You can even book the entire facility for your own private party.Ongoing -
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Events
Interference Fest: Women Making Noise
A virtual fest incorporating the works of visionary artists from a variety of interdisciplinary backgrounds, on the themes of race, gender, dealing with trauma, and reclaiming social space.Fri.-Sun., Dec. 18-20 -
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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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Letterpress PLAY Holiday Gifts
The local letterpress studio has a unique selection of paper toys, gifts, cheeky holiday cards, and more, with free shipping for online orders.Ongoing -
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Lone Star Holiday Market
Shop local vendors, find unique gifts, and even get them wrapped. There'll be live music and libations nightly.Through Dec. 20, Fri.-Sun., 2-8pm -
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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 -
Community
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 -
Community
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 -
Community
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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Sports
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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Events
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 -
Community
Sports
Nourishing Flow Yoga With Sarah
A gentle vinyasa class that explores foundational poses, breath work, and intuitive movement. This class is accessible to beginners, but all levels are welcome.Sundays, 1:30-2:30pm. Suggested $10 donation.Online via Zoom -
Community
Out of Town
Open Air Resorts Christmas Activities
Safe, fun and festive ways to celebrate the holidays with socially distant, family-friendly special events including an RV site decoration contest, s'mores and cookie decorating, and holiday movies on the lawn.Sun.-Sat., Dec. 20-2625928 Haynie Flat Rd., Spicewood -
Community
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. -
Community
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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Events
Reuse Gift Wrapping Challenge
According to Austin Creative Reuse, if every family chose reused materials to wrap three gifts, the paper saved would cover 45,000 football fields. So they're calling on the community to think outside the box and choose reuse this year. Submit photos of your wrapping ideas to the contest via email, and they'll be judged on creativity, workmanship, and use of reused materials. Get ideas and materials from ACR or use what you have on hand.Dec. 11-31 -
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Events
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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Events
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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Events
Sounds of the Season Featuring Tinsel
The festive and merry Tinsel singers will grace the magnificent porch of the Neill-Cochran House Museum to sing all your Holiday favorites.Sat., Dec. 12, 6pm; Sun., Dec. 20, 2:30pm. $10-25. -
Community
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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Events
Sun Radio's 12 Days of Christmas
Support the Sun Radio Foundation by donating or bidding on an item in their virtual auction, which includes exclusive, unique, and local items like signed guitars from Lyle Lovett and Jade Bird, staycation retreats, jewelry, and more.Through Dec. 22 -
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Events
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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Events
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 -
Community
Civic Events
TX for Georgia AAPI Community Day of Action
Asian American Democrats of Texas and other orgs are organizing to call Asian American Pacific Islander voters in Georgia to turn out for Democratic Senate candidates Jon Ossoff and Ralphael Warnock. Phonebank shifts at 2pm and 4pm.Sun., Dec. 20, 2-6pm. Free (registration required).Online -
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Sports
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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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Events
We Are Blood Mall Drives
Blood donations are especially needed right now, and it's easy to donate while you shop for the holidays. Look for the bus parked in the Cheesecake Factory parking lot at Barton Creek or the Macy's lot at Lakeline.Dec. 19-Jan. 3 (except Dec. 25 & Jan. 1)Barton Creek Square, 2901 Capital of TX Hwy. S; Lakeline Mall, 11200 Lakeline Mall Dr. -
Community
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 -
Community
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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Community
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.
