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for Sat., Nov. 21
  • 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-6pm  
    BookSpring
  • 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 5  
    Long Center for the Performing Arts
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  • Community

    Events

    A Christmas Affair 2020: Felicidad

    The Junior League of Austin's online event and marketplace offers a host of holiday-themed happenings and goods from small businesses around the country. Funds raised go to JLA's signature programs such as Coats for Kids, Food in Tummies, and Kids in Cool Shoes, along with more than 30 local nonprofits.
    Through Sun., Nov. 22. $15+.  
    Online
  • Community

    Events

    AHS Rags to Wags Gala

    Join Austin Humane Society as they "paws" to celebrate: the 15th anniversary of the Rags to Wags Gala. This unforgettable evening will be filled with endless surprises as the animals take over to bring you this one-of-a-kind online event. Visit the online auction to bid on unique items like a Kitten Kuddle Party or Puppy House Party, and upgrade to VIP to get a party-in-a-box kit and kick your virtual gala experience up a notch.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 6:30-8pm  
    Virtual
  • Community

    Events

    Austin Empty Bowl Project

    The need is greater than ever, and all proceeds from this event will benefit Central Texas Food Bank and Meals on Wheels Central Texas. Visit the online store for Sam Hurt's special COVID T-shirt or big beautiful tote bag, the AEBP cookbook, Nancy Elder quilt raffle tickets, online concert tickets, and the online silent auction link. The silent auction includes everything from bowls for you and your dog to restaurant gift certificates. You can also make a tax-deductible donation. For every $25 donated, an empty bowl will be added to food boxes distributed by the Central Texas Food Bank or Meals on Wheels Central Texas.
    Through Nov. 22. By donation and online auction.  
    Online
  • Community

    Events

    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

    Events

    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  
  • Community

    Events

    Love Where You Live Day

    In honor of Keep Austin Beautiful's 35th anniversary, you're invited to show some love right where you are, whether it’s on the street in front of your house or the pocket park around the corner. Pick up some litter, mow your yard, weed a garden bed, or rake some leaves; it’s up to you! Give 35 minutes to help celebrate 35 years. Use the hashtags #KeepAustinBeautiful and #LWYLKAB and tag KAB on social media @KeepAustinBeautiful (Facebook and Instagram) and @KAB_Austin (Twitter) or email your photos to communications@keepaustinbeautiful.org. Anyone who shares or tags KAB in photos will be entered in a drawing to win a free piece of Keep Austin Beautiful merchandise.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 9-11am  
    Citywide
  • Community

    Events

    Mission Possible Thanksgiving

    Lend a hand to those experiencing homelessness this year by donating to Mission Possible's Great Thanksgiving Banquet fund. Donations of $6 cover the cost of one meal, and $10 can provide a sleeping bag. The banquet is held on Sun., Nov. 22.
    Donate by Sat., Nov. 21. Select "I want to support Thanksgiving Banquet" on the donation page.  
  • 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

    Events

    O. Henry Pun-Off Punslingers Competition: Virtual Edition

    The 43-year Austin tradition is going worldwide with this virtual edition, wherein witty wordsmiths spontaneously sling puns in two rounds: The first begins at 11am, and qualifiers compete for the crown at 7pm. Brought to you by the city of Austin, Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD), Brush Square Museums Foundation, and partners at Austin’s own Fantastic Magic Camp and internationally renowned podcast Pun Intensive. Doughnations go to Brush Square Museums Foundation.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 11am, 7pm  
All Events
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    Civic Events

    A.B. Cantu/Pan American Recreation Center Thanksgiving Dinner

    300 meal boxes will be distributed through a no-contact drive-through (vehicles only, no walk-ups accepted). Vehicles may line up beginning at 9:30am at the corner of Fourth and Robert Martinez Jr. St.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 10am-2pm. Free.  
  • Community

    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  
  • Community

    Events

    Advanced Grower Master Class

    Learn all about hemp with Texas Hemp Growers. Tickets include four hours of educational content, a guidebook, a chance to win door prizes, a morning mixer with donuts, coffee, and networking, plus lunch and snacks.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 9am-3pm. $55.  
    Holiday Inn, 105 Bintu Dr., San Marcos
  • Community

    Events

    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  
  • Community

    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  
  • Community

    Events

    Artisan Mercado

    The Artisan Mercado has reopened at La Peña Gallery with social distancing and safety measures in place. The market features Latino products from different regions of Mexico, Honduras, Colombia, and the Southwest, including handcrafted jewelry and ceramics, ethnic clothing and handbags, as well as paintings and drawings. Parking is available at the Austin Convention Center.
    First and third Saturdays, 10am-4pm. Free.  
  • 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

    Events

    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.
    Ongoing  
    Online or in-store at 2005 Wheless
  • Community

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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

    Events

    Backyard Chickens: The ABCs

    A beak-to-tail workshop on our fine feathered friends, for those interested in raising their own flock at home.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 10am-noon  
  • Community

    Events

    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. 15  
    Virtual
  • Community

    Events

    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

    Civic Events

    CarverMuseumATX Planning Community Meeting

    The Austin Parks and Recreation Department seeks feedback on the draft facility expansion plan for the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center, which will be revealed in the meeting.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 1pm. Free.  
    Online
  • Community

    Events

    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.
    Ongoing  
    Online
  • Community

    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.
    Ongoing  
    Virtual
  • Community

    Sports

    Dance the Deck

    An outdoor cardio fitness class that's so much fun, you won’t even know you’re working out.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 11am-noon. $20.  
    Top of parking garage across from Ballet Austin, 501 W. Third
  • Food

    Food Events

    Dove Springs Recreation: Turkey Basket Distribution

    COVID-19 has put the kibosh on the annual in-person community Thanksgiving dinner here, sad to relate – but on this day you can drive through and pick up a free turkey and trimmings, courtesy of George Morales, Dove Springs Advisory Board, and those relentless philanthropists of H-E-B.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 9-11am  
  • 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

    Emancipet Veterans Day Discounted Exams

    Emancipet is offering military service members, active or veteran, discounted pet wellness exams for $5 with proof of military service for the entire month of November.
    Through Nov. 30. $5.  
    Austin-area Emancipet clinics
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Emergency Relief Food Distribution: Del Valle High School

    This event is primarily designed as a drive-through, but you're also able to receive groceries via walk-up if you don't have a vehicle.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 9am-noon. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Free PPE & Flu Shots

    The Austin Latino Coalition and Del Valle Community Coalition, in partnership with H-E-B, Central Health, and CommUnityCare, will be providing supplies like face masks and flu shots for ages 7 and up. Walk up or drive through.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 9am-noon  
  • Community

    Events

    FriendsGiving

    Mix and mingle while you learn about nonprofits and ways to benefit your health and wellness. Live music begins at 1pm.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 11:30am. $25.  
  • Community

    Events

    Gone to Texas

    A walking tour through Texas history from 1841 to 1899, with a costumed guide. Tours start at the General Store in the Sprinkle Corner entrance village.
    Saturdays & Sundays; times vary  
  • Community

    Events

    Hands for Hope

    El Buen is once again gearing up for its annual Hands for Hope meal distribution event, this year aiming to provide holiday meals to 1,750 families. Make a contribution online or sign up to volunteer on distribution day.
    Donate now; distribution day is Sat., Nov. 21  
  • Community

    Events

    Interpreting Local, State, and National Election Results

    Join Common Ground for Texans for an online panel discussion about the recent election and what its results mean. We'll have a new Texas House speaker; who might that be and what will be its significance? Two City Council districts will be in a runoff election on Dec. 15. What will the new Council look like and what will its agenda be? Panelists will discuss these questions and more.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 2-4pm. Free.  
    Online via Zoom
  • Community

    Out of Town

    John Fairey Gardens Open House

    Take a docent-led tour of the garden of more than 3,000 plants designed by a former Texas A&M: professor of architecture.
    Saturdays through Dec. 12, 9, 10 & 11am (closed Nov. 28). $15.  
    Hempstead
  • Community

    Events

    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.
    Ongoing  
    Online
  • Community

    Events

    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. 15  
    Online
  • 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. 31  
    Alexandria-Pineville, Minden, Monroe-West Monroe, Natchitoches & Shreveport-Bossier
  • 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
  • Community

    Events

    Operation Turkey

    For only $25, you can help Operation Turkey feed 10 people in need this Thanksgiving. The goal is to serve 75,000 this year.
    Ongoing  
  • Community

    Out of Town

    Orange Show & Beer Can House Tours

    Two of the Space City’s most eclectic folk art sites are open again for tours with advance-purchased tickets.
    Saturdays & Sundays  
    Houston
  • Community

    Events

    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

    Civic Events

    PPE Distribution Event

    Austin Public Health, CommUnityCare, and Central Health will be distributing hand sanitizer, masks, and educational materials.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 10am-2pm. Free.  
  • Community

    Events

    Puppy Petting Zoo

    DogEmbark says puppies needs to meet 100 different people and dogs before they reach 16 weeks of age to learn the social skills they need to be happy, positive members of the community. So they're offering a COVID-conscious space at Barton Creek Farmers Market for dogs seven-16 weeks old to socialize. If you've got a potential puppy participant, register online. If not, you could be one of those important 100, so go pet the puppers!
    Saturdays, 9am-1pm  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Rags to Wags Gala

    Austin Humane Society’s largest fundraiser of the year will include live and silent auctions, a virtual photo booth, an animal runway show, and much more.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 6:30pm. Sponsorships: $500+; individual registration, free (opens Oct. 15).  
    Online
  • 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. 31  
    Online
  • 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

    Out of Town

    Texas Renaissance Festival

    Wear your face covering to win prizes while watching the jousting, playing games, and buying food from Merry Olde England.
    Sat., Oct. 3-Sun., Nov. 29  
    Todd Mission
  • Community

    Sports

    Texas State Football

    Vs. Arkansas State.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 2pm  
  • Community

    Civic Events

    Thanksgiving Drive-Through Dinner

    The Dove Springs Recreation Advisory Board will distribute food baskets, including turkey, pie, and trimmings, while supplies last.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 9-11am. Free.  
  • 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
  • Community

    Sports

    The Verde Van

    Beep beep! The Verde Van, Austin FC's merch shop on wheels, is on the move. Spot it and get your hands on the new team's new kit, and enjoy food and drink specials with a backdrop of music from King Louie and Orion Garcia. See where else the van will be appearing on Austin FC's social media channels.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 4-10pm  
  • Community

    Kids

    Urban Air Adventure Park Grand Opening

    Did you know you can skydive indoors? Here's your chance: Urban Air's newest location is now open, providing full-service family entertainment with a variety of attractions for all ages and fitness levels, including the aforementioned indoor skydiving, a ropes course, climbing walls, and more. For safety, you must reserve spots in advance, follow social distancing and face covering guidelines, and temps will be taken at the door. Get all the details online to prep for family fun.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 10am-10pm  
    3944 RR 620 S., Bldg. 5
  • Community

    Events

    Virtual DIY: Make a Succulent Wreath

    A holiday tradition returns! The Articulture succulent wreath class is a favorite every year. Join from home to have a lot of fun while learning a new craft and techniques so you can repeat the process anytime (hint, hint: The holidays are right around the corner and these wreaths make a perfect gift). Materials provided via pickup or delivery.
    Sat., Nov. 21, 11am. $140+.  
    Virtual
  • Community

    Kids

    Virtual Hoppy Hour With Tiny Tails

    Virtually hang out with the adorable animals of Tiny Tails to You and one of their animal experts, livestreamed via Facebook Live or Instagram Live (@TinyTailsToYou). Donations accepted at www.tinytailstoyou.com/donate.
    Saturdays, 9am  
    Online
  • 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

    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, 5pm  
    Online
Ongoing
  • 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.  

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