• Boomerang’s Gourmet Veggie & Meat Pies (3110 Guadalupe, 380-0032, www.boomerangspies.com) opened for business on Australia Day three years ago, so the owners celebrate their anniversary with a big Australia Day party every year. Drop by the store for food and drink specials ($3 Aussie beers, $3 Independence Brewery beers, kids eat free with an adult), the Fastest to Eat a Pie Contest (4pm), a live auction benefiting Meals on Wheels and More ending at 6pm, and live musical entertainment from DJ Gmau all afternoon. Saturday, Jan. 24, noon-8pm.

• Cuatros (1004 W. 24th, 243-6361, www.cuatrosaustin.com) invites folks to bring leashed dogs to the first of its new monthly Doggie Happy Hour parties. Unlimited water and treats for canine guests and complimentary chips and hot sauce for humans. Each happy hour will conclude with a raffle to win a doggie goody bag from Lofty Dog and Dirty Dog for one lucky dog, plus a Cuatros gift card for his or her owner. Monday, Jan. 26, 5-7pm.

• Imperia (310 Colorado, 472-6770, www.imperia-austin.com) offers an elaborate celebration to commemorate the beginning of the Year of the Ox. Festivities will include passed hors d’oeuvres, drink specials, and unique entertainment such as traditional lion and dragon dances, an Asian drum performance, and special house music from DJ Komson. Monday, Jan. 26, doors at 4pm, entertainment at 7pm.

This article appears in January 23 • 2009.

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