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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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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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Civic Events
#GivingTuesday
Today is a global day of giving that takes place every year the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. As the Central Texas #GivingTuesday Community Leader, I Live Here I Give Here encourages Austinites to take action for good: anything from hosting a food or clothing drive to fostering a pet to volunteering (virtually!). See website for ways to get involved.Tue., Dec. 1, all dayCitywide -
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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) -
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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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Final Call for RENT: Relief of Emergency Needs for Tenants
This program through the city of Austin provides full rent payment for income-eligible renters financially impacted by COVID-19. Get all the details on their FAQ and apply online.Applications due Tue., Dec. 8, noon -
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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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Succulent Native Holiday Specials
Support small biz and beautify your home with Succulent Native, now offering a Plant Love Club subscription box that brings a new pot, plant, and local goodie to your door each month. For Black Friday and Small Business Saturday (and Sunday), shop in-store for 20% off plants, cacti, and succulents, and get a free December Plant Love box when you spend $250 or free planting with $100 purchase. On Cyber Monday (and Tuesday) they're knocking 20% off online purchases. Their beautiful wares make excellent gifts for plant people, and they host virtual and in-person plant parties if you're looking for a fun, unique activity for the holidays.Nov. 27-Dec. 1Online and in-store at 5501 N. Lamar Ste. 101-A
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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 -
Film
Special Screenings
A Very Happy Holiday Blue Star Lite Show
Blue Starlite has created a winter wonderland in their space, with movie-themed decorative scenes and sparkling lights for perfect photo ops. Each night there'll be a surprise short film and holiday pre-show so you can get out to the drive-in for a short and sweet outing with the fam.Various dates Dec. 1-23 -
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Events
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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Civic Events
AISD Teacher and Staff Mental Health Support Groups
Austin ISD's school-based mental health partner, Vida Clinic, offers group conversations weekly. Email for more info.Dec. 1-22. Tuesdays, 5-6pmOnline -
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AJC General Body Meeting
Learn about what’s going on with Austin Justice Coalition and hear from other community organizations. They'll discuss current projects, how to get involved, what’s left for 2020, and what’s coming up in the new year, as well as ongoing matters.Tue., Dec. 1, 6:30pm -
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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 -
Community
Civic Events
ATXelerator 2021 Application
The ATXelerator aims to provide aspiring public officials with an experiential education on how Austin city government functions. This year's program will incorporate a hybrid learning model offering socially distanced, in-person activities as well as having all activities be available virtually.Deadline: Dec. 7. Application, free; tuition (if admitted), $195.Online -
Community
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Austin Angels Give-a-Thon
Austin Angels is a foster care nonprofit with a mission to reach and serve every child, youth, and family in the U.S. foster care system. With 22 chapters across the country, National Angels relies heavily on donations from the community to change children’s lives. Please consider making a donation during the Give-a-Thon to make a difference in the lives of children and youth in the foster care system.Tue.-Thu., Dec. 1-3 -
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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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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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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 -
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 -
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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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Civic Events
Circular Meet-Ups: Let's Close the Loop
Circular Meet-Ups is a virtual networking series with Austin's circular economy business community.Tue., Dec. 1, noon-1pm. Free (registration required).Online -
Community
Civic Events
City Council Work Session
Council will be briefed on COVID-19-related mattersTue., Dec. 1, 9amOnline -
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 -
Community
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 -
Community
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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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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 -
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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
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 -
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
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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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 Roofed
In honor of their 50th year in business and as a "thank you" for Austin's support, Ja-Mar Roofing is donating a free roofing system to at least one needy family. Nominate yourself, a neighbor, family, or friends by submitting a story and a photo of the roof in need of replacement. Get all the rules and submission details online.Deadline: Fri., Dec 4, 9pm; winner announced Dec. 5 -
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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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Events
LegalLine
On the first Tuesday of every month, obtaining good, simple legal advice is easy. Just call 512/472-8303 for LegalLine, the free legal advice hotline sponsored by Austin Lawyer Referral Service. Attorney volunteers can answer questions and give brief legal advice concerning many areas of law.First Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Free. -
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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 -
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 -
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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 -
Community
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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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 -
Community
Kids
PJ Storytime
Stories, songs, and rhymes are presented to children in Spanish to enrich the early literacy skills needed to be successful at school. To register or get more information, email comunidadesatn@sre.gob.mx or call 512/382-2833.Tue., Dec. 1, 6pm -
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Civic Events
Prekindergarten Partnerships Public Meeting
The Austin ISD Early Childhood Department invites those interested in prekindergarten partnerships to attend.Tue., Dec. 1, 6-7pm. Free.Online -
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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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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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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 -
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 -
Community
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 -
Community
Kids
Texas History Tuesdays: Texas History and the Civil War
A Bullock Museum educator will lead an exploration of artifacts and paintings, and a special guest from the past, Major General Granger, will tell his story about how his reading of the Emancipation Proclamation brought about the end of slavery in Texas.Tue., Dec. 1, 10am & 1pm. Free.Online via the Bullock Museum -
Community
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 -
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Civic Events
Travis County Commissioners Court Voting Session
Check here for agenda posting.Tue., Dec. 1, 9amOnline -
Community
Kids
Venardos Circus
A Broadway-style, animal-free circus production with aerialists, acrobats, juggling, balancing, comedy, magic, and music, viewed in socially distanced pods of up to four guests each. There are also two chances to livestream the event on Thanksgiving Day, at 11am and 6pm.Nov. 25-Dec. 6. $100+ per pod; livestream tickets start at $19.50. -
Community
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 -
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 -
Community
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 -
Community
Civic Events
[Re]Verse Pitch Competition: Material Supplier Applications
Businesses are invited to pitch their surplus material to competing innovators and entrepreneurs, who will then create a new product or business venture using the material.Deadline: Dec. 9, 5pmOnline
Ongoing
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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. -
Community
Civic Events
LegalLine
Call 512/472-8303 for free legal advice concerning family law, criminal matters, traffic problems, consumer issues, landlord/tenant issues, and employment law. Attorneys who are bilingual (English/Spanish) are also available.First Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30pm. Free.
