Free Fun in Austin

Free Fun at Home: Valentine's Day Bird-Feeder Craft

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Do you have pipe cleaners, Cheerios, and string in your house right now? If so, you and your kids can easily make a fun Valentine's Day bird-feeder. (I don't suppose the birds in your backyard are really expecting much this February 14th, but I'll bet your kids will enjoy making it for them anyway!)

First, bend several pipe cleaners into a "V" shape and string with Cheerios. (Children as young as two-years-old really like doing this part.)

When it is as full of Cheerios as you would like it, curve the ends in to form a heart shape and twist in the middle to secure.

Use pieces of string to tie the hearts together in a chain. Hang from a tree, bush, hook- anywhere outside that you think your birds might like to eat. It may take a little while for the birds to find them, but they will be happy chirpers when they do!

Katey writes about simple and creative ideas for families at Having Fun at Home.

GIVEAWAY - Clifford The Big Red Dog - Live!

Friday, January 27, 2012

Clifford The Big Red Dog - Live! is coming to The Long Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, March 4, 2012 at 3 p.m. It only takes a little to BE BIG!™ In conjunction with the beloved BIG dog's 50th anniversary, celebrate the timeless values of Clifford's BIG Ideas - Share, Play Fair, Have Respect, Work Together, Be Responsible, Be Truthful, Be Kind, Believe In Yourself, Be A Good Friend and Help Others. These sentiments have never been more fun as Clifford and his friends from Birdwell Island - Emily Elizabeth, Cleo and T-Bone - embark on new adventures. With memorable songs and choreography - there will be even more of him to love in this ALL NEW musical - sure to delight the entire family!

For more information and to purchase tickets to this BIG Family Musical, visit The Long Center for the Performing Arts website. To enter for your chance to win a family 4-pack of tickets to see Clifford, The Big Red Dog - Live! simply fill out the form below. One entry per person, please. Entrants must be at least 18-years-old. The winner will be selected using random.org on Wednesday, February 15, 2012 and contacted via email. If you cannot see the form below, please visit the original post to enter.

You may also be interested in: GIVEAWAY - Elmo Makes Music at The Frank Erwin Center.

Weekend Top 10 FREE Events (Jan 27-29, 2012)

Tree Talk Winter Walk - Saturday, January 28, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. At this free event you can enjoy guided walks in the Wildflower Center and talks by local forestry experts. There will be family fun with a Kids Tree Climb and an educational tree scavenger hunt. TreeFolks will provide native tree saplings to those who complete the scavenger hunt. To see the schedule for this event, visit here. Admission to the Wildflower Center is free during the month of January. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Avenue, Austin.
AISD Feria Para Aprender - Saturday, January 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. AISD presents the 6th annual Feria Para Aprender, a free education fair designed to aid Spanish speaking parents and students who are navigating the US educational system from elementary school through college. Parents and students can browse booths from AISD departments, nonprofit organizations, as well as colleges and universities. Ask questions on topics ranging from early childhood education to scholarship applications. There will also be professionals in many in-demand careers on hand to speak about their experiences and the importance of education. New to the Feria this year will be special "Teen Zones" and "Anti Bullying Zones." North Austin Event Center, 10601 N. Lamar, Austin.
Austin Family Magazine Summer Camp Fair - Saturday, January 28, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The fair will host over 100 summer camps and programs for parents and kids to browse and learn more about. Visit the camp booths, then stick around for live performances and kids' activities. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin.
What's the Story Steve? - Saturday, January 28 at 10 a.m. Join Move Your Tale and Steve the improvising poodle in this audience led theatrical journey. Kids can engage in collaborative storytelling and help make the story happen, or they can sit back and enjoy the production. The production is free, but donations are appreciated. The show is appropriate for all ages. Arrive a little early to get a good seat! ColdTowne Theatre, 4803 Airport Blvd., Austin.
Alamo Kids' Club - Saturday, January 28 at 10:45 a.m. Alamo Drafthouse Kids Club is showing Bad News Bears (1976) at the South Lamar location. The film is rated PG, so be aware that there are some swear words. Children age 3 and over may attend. No infants however, and families with loud children will be asked to leave. Alamo South Lamar, 1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin.
Puppet Show at BookPeople - Saturday, January 28 at 11:30 a.m. Join BookPeople for another rousing performance by the absolutely almost perfect puppeteers as they perform a masterful rendition of the Tooth Fairy starring book, No Tooth, No Quarter – a cautionary tale of the tough job held by the wealthiest fairy of them all, the Tooth Fairy. It will be funny and loud and silly and crazy – so don’t miss it! Make sure to arrive early to get a seat. BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar, Austin.
Australia Day Party at Boomerang's - Saturday, January 28, from noon - 9 p.m. The free event features entertainment for all ages, including a bouncy castle for kids, music from DJ GMAU, a pie eating contest, and a silent auction. Kids 12 and under eat free with adult purchase. Donate to Meals on Wheels and more and get a free sausage roll! Boomerang's, 3110 Guadalupe, Austin.
The Que Pastas at Ruta Maya - Sunday, January 29 at 10:30 a.m. Free kids show with The Que Pastas. Ruta Maya, 3601 South Congress, Austin.
Chinese New Year Celebration - Sunday, January 29, from 10:45 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visit Chinatown Center in North Austin for the 2012 Chinese New Year celebration! The center will be featuring traditional Chinese firecrackers at the pagoda, followed by two different dragon and lion dance team troupes. The festivities start at 11 a.m. with opening ceremonies and performances, and are expected to last until about 5 p.m. at the various retail stores. The event is free and open to the public, and will feature face painting, martial arts, Chinese Calligraphy, and more! Chinatown Center, 10901 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin.
Really Really Free Market - Sunday, January 29, from 1 - 3 p.m. The last Sunday of every month, East Austin is overtaken by a festival of free happening at Chestnut Community Park. Instead of selling your stuff at a yard sale or trashing it, why not bring it down to the Really Really Free Market and meet people doing the same? The landfills are full enough already and you might find something you need, make a new friend or just have a good conversation. The market is a mixture of reuse, recycling, sharing and community building. Share skills, goods, ideas, smiles, friendship, excitement, plans and more. Chestnut Community Park, 2207 East 16th St. (at Chestnut St), Austin.

Want more? Check out the Free Fun Calendar! Have a wonderful weekend.

Celebration of Families in Round Rock

Round Rock ISD wants to celebrate you and your loved ones with their 6th Annual Parent Summit -- Celebration of Families, on Saturday, February 4, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is FREE and will take place at Stony Point High School.

Celebration of Families is designed to strengthen relationships with the community by providing resources, education and avenues to expand learning. Families, friends, educators and community members are welcome - there will be hands on, engaging activities for everyone.

The event will feature more than 30 workshops on topics ranging from wellness to college prep to how to handle bullying. Attendees will also enjoy a complimentary lunch and family activities.

Registration will take place on site the morning of the event. FREE childcare will be provided for 100 children on a first come, first served basis. Visit RRISD for more information, to view a list of workshops, or to register for childcare.

Stony Point High School
1801 Tiger Trail

Round Rock, TX 78664

Thanks, Macaroni Kid Round Rock!

Image credit: RRISD

Free Afterschool Club for Middle School Girls

Being an adolescent girl in today's world can be tough, and sometimes it seems like it's hard for young girls to be themselves and find positive role models they can relate to.

GENaustin, a girls empowerment network whose mission is to support and guide girls to make wise choices as they navigate the unique pressures of girlhood, offers clubGEN, a FREE, fun afterschool program for middle school girls where they will acquire the skills and awareness they need to navigate the pressures of the teen years. At clubGEN, club leaders, peers, and high school students act as positive role models and provide connection, inspiration, and guidance to young girls. Weekly interactive, fun sessions incorporate a research-based curriculum designed exclusively for clubGEN.

ClubGEN is FREE to all middle school girls who wish to participate. The program covers topics such as body image, bullying, career exploration, healthy relationships, substance abuse, team building, and more.

For more information, clubGEN locations, or to register for clubGEN, visit GENaustin.

Thanks, Nicole!

Image credit: GENaustin

Free iPad App - Biography Comics for Kids

Thank you to who? Comics for sponsoring this post and encouraging my child to read biographies in comic book form! Please click here to learn more about the app. And follow who? Comics on Twitter for updates!

I got an iPad for Christmas and the very first thing my husband said when I unwrapped it was, "Please don't let the kids play with it." And I didn't... for a whole month. But when it comes right down to it, there are just too many fun iPad apps for kids to be ignored! Especially when many of them are educational. This week I downloaded the who? Comics app, which is currently free on iTunes. It came with two free biography comics, one of which was the life story of Bill Gates. I asked my nine-year-old if he knew who Bill Gates was and he replied, "Um, was he in the Revolutionary War?" Oh boy. Clearly, some reading was in order!

As we opened the comic, I was a bit taken aback by how angry the characters looked when they got upset. But my son assured me that "it's always like that in comics" and begged me to let him read it. He devoured all 151 pages in the Bill Gates comic in one sitting. The app then offered to give us Warren Buffett's bio for free if I shared who? Comics on Facebook or Twitter, so I did. My son started reading and was delighted when he got to the part where Warren Buffett goes to a party hosted by Bill Gates. He was starting to feel like he knew these guys.

After Warren Buffett's story, my son started checking out the previews of all 29 comic books available for $4.99 each (cheaper if you buy them as collections). He was reading the first chapter of the Walt Disney comic when something occurred to him. "Mom! All of these guys got allowance! Warren Buffett got allowance and Walt Disney got allowance even though his family was POOR and they lived on a FARM!" In his nine-year-old mind, allowance must be the key to success in this world. I guess we've been holding him back. We'll have to think about that one.

One neat feature of the app is that there are several badges available. This makes reading a bit more like a game, where you can earn a badge for something as simple as reading early in the morning or after 8 p.m. at night. But honestly, the comics are enough to keep my son engaged. He came straight home from school today and when his younger brother asked if they could play Wii my nine-year-old said, "Mom, do I have to? I really just want to keep reading." He then sat down and read about Oprah, before moving on to the story of Stephen Hawking.

My only reservation with these comics is that the content of each story varies in its age appropriateness, so I felt the need to read each one before handing it over to my nine-year-old. But even that plan was not foolproof. When I thought my son was reading about Walt Disney, he had actually skipped over to the preview of the Ho Chi Minh comic. That story begins in 1890, when Vietnam was a French colony, so there are references to "French pigs" and several images of people being beaten by soldiers. I would have saved that one for when he is older. In the Oprah story too, some details were more than I would have shared with an elementary school student.

Overall, having my son read the life stories of prominent figures in our culture has lead to some great discussions. I showed him the cover story on Warren Buffett in the January 23, 2012 issue of TIME. We visited Bill Gates' blog to read his 2012 Annual Letter. In this letter, Bill Gates says, "In times of tight budgets, we have to pick our priorities. It’s clear that in this particular time, we’re in danger of deciding that aid to the poorest is not one of them. I am confident, however, that if people understand what their aid has already accomplished—and its potential to accomplish so much more—they’ll insist on doing more, not less. That is why I wrote my letter." He then encourages students to write their own annual letters. Reading these comics turned out to be a perfect segue to talking about the importance of giving back and helping the less fortunate. And, as a parent, those opportunities are always welcome.

Thank you again to who? Comics for sponsoring my post. Please click here to learn more about the app. Visit who? Comics for updates. I was selected for this opportunity by the Clever Girls Collective. All opinions expressed here are my own. #CleverWhoComics #spon

The Magikhana Show Tonight ~ $5

Thursday, January 26, 2012

The French Legation Museum is honored to welcome internationally renowned performers Arsene Dupin, Bertil Fredstron, Kelsey Strauch, Magical Mystical Michael, and Owl Morrison in The Magikhana Show on Friday, January 27, from 6 to 8 p.m. The dazzling performance will feature magic, acrobatic juggling, and mysterious slight of hand to entertain and delight guests of all ages.
Tickets for the show are only $5 and can be purchased at the door or by calling 512-472-8180. Visitors are invited to bring a picnic and enjoy the magic show on this special evening.

For more information, visit the event website.

French Legation Museum
802 San Marcos St
Austin, TX 78702

Image credit: French Legation Museum

Free Lettuce Wraps from P.F. Chang's

Register for P.F. Chang's Warrior Rewards and you will receive a reward of one order of free Lettuce Wraps! Information on how to redeem your reward will be sent to your email inbox. Your first reward will be available to use within 24 hours.

Please note, this may be a limited time offer.

Image credit: P.F. Chang's

Celebrate Australia Day at Central Market

Central Market North Lamar offers free live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Grab a bite to eat from Central Market Cafe, let the kids play on the neighboring playscape, and enjoy the performers on the patio. Tonight you can celebrate Australia Day with Karl Morgan, an Australian blues artist.

This week's live music line-up, from the Central Market website:

Australia Day Celebration With Karl Morgan - Thursday, January 26, 2012, from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. Karl Morgan is a soulful Australian blues artist based in Austin. His style is influenced by Eric Clapton, Donny Hathaway, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Stevie Wonder and other blues and soul greats.

Live Music: Black Red Black - Friday, January 27, 2012, from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. Black Red Black is an organ trio featuring Ephraim Owens on trumpet, Red Young on Hammond B3 organ and Brannen Temple on drums. They play straight-ahead soul and traditional jazz as well as their own compositions.

Live Music: The Flying Balalaika Brothers - Saturday, January 28, 2012, from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m. Russian folk meets Texas twang. This group plays beautiful Russian melodies on the balalaika instruments while weaving in Americana newgrass, creating an original, innovative music style. They draw upon years of touring and their virtuoso command of the alto, tenor and bass balalaikas. A Central Market favorite!

4001 N. Lamar Blvd.
Austin, TX 78756
(512) 206-1000

AISD Feria Para Aprender ~ Spanish Language Education Fair

On Saturday, January 28, 2012, AISD presents the 6th annual Feria Para Aprender, a free education fair meant to aid Spanish speaking parents and students who are navigating the US educational system from elementary school through college. The Feria will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the North Austin Event Center.

Parents and students can browse booths from AISD departments, nonprofit organizations, as well as colleges and universities. Ask questions on topics ranging from early childhood education to scholarship applications. There will also be professionals in many in-demand careers on hand to speak about their experiences and the importance of education. New to the Feria this year will be special "Teen Zones" and "Anti Bullying Zones."

For more information visit AISD.

North Austin Event Center
10601 N. Lamar
Austin, TX 78753

Image credit: AISD

$1 Off Blockbuster Express Rentals

Use the code LOVE2RENT at a Blockbuster Express kiosk to get $1 off any movie rental. The promo code is valid through January 27, 2012. You can also get $1 off two movie rentals with the code WINTERMOVIE, through January 29. 2012.

Movie rentals at Blockbuster Express now range from $1 to $3 for the first night and are $1 for each additional night. The promo codes now work on all movies. For example, if you rent a "$3 Hot Movie" with a promo code ($1 value), your movie rental will be $2 for the first night and then $1 for each additional night (plus tax). The only way to get a free movie is to select one of the "$1 Best Value" DVDs. The easiest way to select a $1 movie online is to sort by "Release Date" and then go to the last page (the movies released more than 90 days ago are considered "$1 Best Value" DVDs) and to work your way backwards.

$5 Anytime Admission to Safari Champ

LiveMom has a great printable coupon for $5 admission to Safari Champ in Round Rock. You can use one coupon per child and the coupon will not expire until December 31, 2012!

Safari Champ is an indoor playground for children. (It used to be Jungle Java.) For more information, visit the Safari Champ website.

1400 E. Old Settlers Blvd.
Ste. 200
Round Rock, TX 78665
512-828-0000

Free Events from Bump Club & Beyond

Austin's Bump Club and Beyond, a social community for Austin moms and moms-to-be, has unveiled their February schedule, including two FREE events for expectant and new moms.

Beyond the Belly Post Natal Fitness, Sunday, February 12, 2012, from 9:15 - 11 a.m.: Join other moms who have recently delivered for a complimentary post natal workout at lululemon athletica 6th Street, followed by fitness fashion tips and healthy snacks. This is not a baby/yoga event; however, the instructor will find a way to help you incorporate your baby into your workout should he/she need to attend with you. The event is free, but registration is required.

Beautiful Bellies Prenatal Fitness, Sunday, February 26, 2012, from 9:15 - 11 a.m.: This time lululemon athletica hosts the expectant ladies in a complimentary prenatal workout, followed by fitness fashion tips and healthy snacks. The event is free, but registration is required.

For more information on Bump Club & Beyond and their other events around town, visit their website.

lululemon athletica
1016 W 6th Street
Austin, TX 78703

Image credit: Bump Club & Beyond

Half Price Ice Skating at Chaparral Ice

365 Things to do in Austin, Texas has your half price ice skating today! If you'd like to give skating a whirl at Northcross Mall, you can get Ice Skating Admission and Skate Rental for Two for $10 (a $20 value). The vouchers are available for purchase through January 27, 2012 and will not expire until July 28, 2012.

Please note: Although the deal site says there are two locations, the Chaparral Ice in North Austin has recently closed. You will only be able to redeem your voucher at the Northcross Mall location on Anderson Lane. For public skating session times, visit the Chaparral Ice website.

This post contains an affiliate link, which means I may receive credit for sharing the deal. For more information, read my Disclosure Policy. Image credit: 365 Things to do in Austin, Texas

Half Price Chipotle for Super Bowl Sunday

Order Burritos by the Box from your local Chipotle to be picked up on Sunday, February 5, 2012 and get half your order free! Your order must be for 6 burritos or more to receive this discount. Your order will work out to about $4.10 per person, which will include a burrito, chips and salsa/guacamole. To order, go here and click on "Burritos by the Box." Select the Chipotle from which you would like to order and click on "Burritos by the Box" to download an order form. You will need to fax the order form or call your local Chipotle to order. Orders must be picked up on Sunday, February 5, 2012 to be eligible for this promotion.

For more information on this promotion, go here.

Food on the Table: Free Menu Planning & More

Menu planning can sometimes be the bane of my existence. I don't mind grocery shopping (much), but before I can shop, I need to have a list. And before I can make a list, I need to have a menu. But before I can plan a menu, I have to know what the heck to put on my menu! A family can only eat crock pot chicken tacos so many times before declaring it a little overdone, and I'm not talking about the cook time.

Austin company Food on the Table had these struggles in mind when they launched their site that now has over 15,000 Facebook likes. Food on the Table aims to help users save time and money by taking them through a step by step program to select ingredients, browse potential menu items, and create a grocery list tailored to that week's chosen meals. In addition, Food on the Table finds all the in-store sales at the most popular grocery stores in your area. Use those sales to plan your menu, and you're saving money!

The service is free for up to three meals a week. To plan more than 3 meals per week and for a larger recipe index, users can upgrade to the premium membership for a low introductory rate of $5 per month.

Curious about how it works? It's as easy as this:

Step one: Select your grocery store. Food on the Table wants to know where you shop so they can find the best deals around which you can plan your menu. You can add all of your favorite stores, and even compare sales at the various locations. I know sometimes I'm afraid that I can find something cheaper somewhere else, but Food on the Table lets me know!

Step two: Pick what you're in the mood to eat. Each week you can vary your main ingredients such as chicken, beef, fish, etc., based on what your family would like to eat and what's on sale at your local grocery store. If the sale items don't appeal to you, then you can select from the full priced items.

Step three: Build your meal plan. Based on your grocery store, your eating preferences, and the number of meals you would like to plan, Food on the Table will recommend meals you'll enjoy, containing the most in store sale items. You can also browse the recipe library or even enter your own recipes.

Step four: Get your grocery list. Food on the Table provides you with a printable itemized grocery list, categorized by department. How easy is that?

The fact is, successful menu planning takes a bit of preparation, and Food on the Table is ready to do a lot of that prep work for you. Don't you already feel like a little weight has been taken off your shoulders? Sign up for a free account at Food on the Table and start menu planning today!

Image credits: Food on the Table

Try Stubb's Free at South Austin Costco

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Just in time for Super Bowl weekend, Stubb’s Legendary Kitchen, makers of all-natural Stubb’s Bar-B-Q sauces, rubs and marinades, will introduce a new grocery line of ready-to-eat Stubb’s BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, roasted chicken, pulled pork and chopped beef. For one weekend only, locals can join the Stubb’s team at the South Austin Costco, located at 4301 W William Cannon Drive, from February 2 – 5, 2012, to get the first taste during these times:

Thursday, February 2 and Friday, February 3, from 10:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 4, from 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 5, from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Created with Texas-based J Bar B Foods, one of the nation’s leading makers of smoked meats for more than 45 years, new Stubb’s fully cooked meats are ready to heat and serve and have all the authentic, smoky flavor of real Texas barbecue.

The meats are available ONLY through February 5, 2012. Twin packs of Stubb’s new Signature Sauce, created just for Costco, will be continually available.

Super Bowl Sandwich Platter as low as $17.50

Plum District is offering a new promo code for local deals. Use the code austin25 now through January 31, 2012 and get 25% off any Austin deal (one use per account). Today you could use that code to get $7.50 off the deal for a Sandwich Party Platter Serving 3-5 from Dock and Roll Diner, giving you a $60 value for $22.50. If you are new to Plum District, sign up through this link and you will get $5 in Plum Dollars, which you can apply to this deal to get it for just $17.50. The Sandwich Party Platter deal is available only for delivery on the weekend of February 4, 2012 and orders must be placed by Close of Business on February 1, 2012.

The fine print:

Limited quantities available
Voucher must be used in 1 transaction
Cancellations require 24 hour notice
May not be combined with other offers
Voucher good for one meat or vegetarian signature sandwich platter
Delivery included for greater Austin metro area
Superbowl orders must be placed by Close of Business, Feb. 1, 2012
Superbowl deliveries will be made Saturday, Feb. 4 between noon and 5pm and Sunday, Feb. 5 between 9am and 2pm
Voucher good for Superbowl weekend only; if not used, voucher will be forfeited
Limit 1 voucher per transaction
Reservation required
Expires 02/05/12

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive credit or compensation for sharing the deal. For more information, visit my Disclosure Policy.

Free LEGO Mini Model Build: Hockey Player

On Tuesday, February 7, 2012, kids can visit the LEGO Store to build this exclusive LEGO Hockey Player model and take it home - for free! The LEGO Mini Model Build will begin at 5 p.m., but people often line up at the store an hour early. Each child can build one mini model, while supplies last. The event is open to children age 6 to 14 only.

LEGO Store
Barton Creek Square
2901 S Capital of Texas Highway
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 327-7100

2 Free Puppet Shows at Austin Public Library

Literature LIVE! will present two puppet shows at Austin Public Library branches through March, 2012. Both shows are recommended for children age 5 and up. Click on the links below for more information. Please confirm show times on the Austin Public Library website before heading out as all times are subject to change:

Wednesday, January 25 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Manchaca Road Branch
Thursday, January 26 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Yarborough Branch
Wednesday, February 01 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Ruiz Branch
Friday, February 03 at 10:15am Literature LIVE! Presents Echoes of Africa at Southeast Austin Community Branch
Sunday, February 05 at 1:00pm Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Faulk Central Library
Monday, February 06 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Echoes of Africa at Howson Branch (Double check the performance time before heading out - it is unlikely that two shows are at the same time at two different locations.)
Monday, February 06 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Spicewood Springs Branch (Double check the performance time before heading out - it is unlikely that two shows are at the same time at two different locations.)
Tuesday, February 07 at 10:15am Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Cepeda Branch
Tuesday, February 07 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Echoes of Africa at Ruiz Branch
Wednesday, February 08 at 10:15am Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at University Hills Branch
Thursday, February 09 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Echoes of Africa at Little Walnut Creek Branch
Wednesday, February 15 at 10:15am Literature LIVE! Presents Echoes of Africa at Terrazas Branch
Wednesday, February 15 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Milwood Branch
Friday, February 17 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at North Village Branch
Tuesday, February 21 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Echoes of Africa at Twin Oaks Branch
Wednesday, February 22 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Echoes of Africa at Milwood Branch
Thursday, February 23 at 3:30pm Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Pleasant Hill Branch
Tuesday, February 28 at 11:00am Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Windsor Park Branch
Wednesday, February 29 at 10:15am Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at St. John Branch
Thursday, March 08 at 10:15am Literature LIVE! Presents Tortuga del mar Puppet Show at Little Walnut Creek Branch

Austin Public Library Youth Book Clubs

To see the above information in a larger format, click here. For more information on Youth Book Clubs, visit the Austin Public Library Youth Calendar.

4th Annual San Marcos Education Fair

The San Marcos Education Fair will be held this Saturday, January 28, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the San Marcos Conference Center. Organized by SOAR, Seeking Opportunities, Achieving Results, the fair is designed to help families become more involved in their children's education and connect them to social service agencies that will ensure success. The event is free and open to the public.

Booths at the fair will provide information on early childhood development; elementary, middle, and high schools in the area; college admission information and adult and continuing education opportunities.

Visit a minimum of six booths for a chance to win door prizes such as gift cards, bikes, and even laptops!

For more information, visit their website.

San Marcos Conference Center
1001 E McCarty Ln
San Marcos, TX 78666
(adjacent to the Embassy Suites)

Image credit: San Marcos Educational Partners

Free Kindermusik Demo Classes This Week

The Rhythm Studio, a music and dance studio serving the Cedar Park/Leander area, is hosting FREE Kindermusik demonstration classes on Friday, January 27 and Saturday, January 28, 2012.

Kindermusik International is the world’s leading publisher of music and movement curricula and products for parents and their children ages newborn to seven years old. Kindermusik educators provide tips that parents can take home from each class to help make great parenting easier in their daily routine.

Ninety-nine percent (99%) of Kindermusik parents would recommend it to other parents according to a Harris Interactive Online Study in November 2005. Come see why at the free musical learning classes offered by Kindermusik by The Rhythm Studio:

4, 5, and 6 years—Friday, January 27, 2012 at 3:30 p.m. For more information and to register, click here.
18 months to 3 years—Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 2 p.m. For more information and to register, click here.
Newborn to 18 months—Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 3 p.m. For more information and to register, click here.
Family Time, newborn to 7 years—Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 4 p.m. For more information and to register, click here.

These classes will fill quickly and registration is required, so enroll soon! Go to www.ECbyTheRhythmStudio.com to get more information about all of The Rhythm Studio’s early childhood programs. The Rhythm Studio’s Spring session has a lot of exciting programs.

To get updates about classes and events, like www.Facebook.com/ECbyTheRhythmStudio.

The Rhythm Studio is located inside the Sassy Pea Market at 10820 East Crystal Falls Parkway.

If you need more information or have questions, email Tracy@TheRhythmStudio.com, or call 567-3008.

FREE Events for Pflugerville Reads

Welcome to Oz! For the upcoming month of February, Pflugerville Reads One Book One Month will bring the excitement of the Emerald City to kids of all ages with L. Frank Baum's The Wizard of Oz and lots of fun and free activities to get kids involved.

Kick off party & costume contest, January 28, 2012, 12 - 2 p.m.: To kick off this month's theme, join Pflugerville Reads on Saturday, January 28, 2012, for a party and costume contest at the Pflugerville Community Library. All costumes must be homemade, and all ages are welcome. Participants will even receive a certificate from the Great and Wonderful Oz! The contest begins at 1 p.m.

Pflugerville Community Library
102 Tenth Street
Pflugerville, TX 78660

Wizard of Oz Student Art Show: Draw your favorite character from the Wizard of Oz and turn it in to the Pflugerville Community Library by January 31, 2012 for display in the Council Chambers. Art should be between the sizes of 8.5 x 11 and 11 x 14 inches, and submissions must have name, age, and contact info on the back.

Games, puzzles, & stories, February 5, 2012, 1 - 4 p.m.: Join others for an afternoon of Wizard of Oz themed puzzles, games, and stories in Dorothy's house. The activities will be held at Heritage House, and all ages are welcome. There will be story time from 1 - 2 p.m.

Heritage House
901 Old Austin Hutto Rd
Pflugerville, TX 78660

Bedtime Storytime, February 7, 2012, 6:30 - 7 p.m.: Bedtime story time revolves around pets. Toto is an awesome dog and friend to Dorothy. Come learn about other great pets and animal friends at the Pflugerville community Library!

For more information and more Wizard of Oz activities, visit the Pflugerville Reads website.

Image credit: Pflugerville Reads

Claim Your Coupon for 50% Off Sweet Ritual

Scoutmob is currently offering a FREE coupon for 50% off desserts and coffee at Sweet Ritual. The coupon is free for the taking, and will be available through Sunday, January 29, 2012.

Sweet Ritual is Austin's first vegan ice cream parlor. Located in the heart of Hyde Park at 45th and Duval, the shop offers homemade, non-dairy creations like the Wasabi Peanut Chocolate Sundae or the Lavender Chocolate Shake. All of the ice creams and syrups are made in house, and they even offer gluten free cones.

The fine print:

Expires 2/22/2012
Max discount $5
One coupon per check
Cannot combine offers

Visit Scoutmob to claim your FREE coupon!

Sweet Ritual Desserts & Coffee
4500 Duval St
Austin, TX 78751

Australia Day at Boomerang's

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Saturday, January 28, 2012, Boomerang's Gourmet Veggie & Meat Pies invites Austinites to join them for their 6th annual Australia Day Party, a benefit for Meals on Wheels and more.

The free event features entertainment for all ages, including a bouncy castle for kids, music from DJ GMAU, a pie eating contest, and a silent auction. Kids 12 and under eat free with adult purchase. Donate to Meals on Wheels and more and get a FREE sausage roll!

The silent auction and a portion of the frozen pie sales for the entire week also benefit Meals on Wheels. Round up the family for a day of Aussie inspired food, fun, and festivities!

Saturday schedule of events:

12 p.m. - Jumpy castle for kids
4 p.m. - Live DJ GMAU
5 p.m. - Pie eating contest
6 p.m. - Meat tray raffle (benefiting Austin Crows)
9 p.m. - Silent auction ends (do not have to be present to win)
All Day - Great pies, cold beer

For more information, visit Boomerang's event page.

Boomerang's
3110 Guadalupe
(at the corner of 31 1/2 Street and Guadalupe)
Austin, TX 78705

Image credit: Boomerang's

1st Annual Pachanga Dance Party

On Friday, February 10, 2012, Austin’s music community, local businesses and Becker Elementary join forces to present the 1st Annual Pachanga Dance Party. Not many elementary school dances feature Grammy award winning musicians, but this is no ordinary school event!

Featuring Adrian Quesada of Grupo Fantasma on the turn tables, dance performances by Esquina Tango and Escuelita Dance, a photo booth provided by Fun Loving Photos and more, the Pachanga dance party is sure to be a fun filled evening for the whole family, celebrating Latino culture and future bilingual community leaders. There will be a craft area sponsored by LiveMom.com, face painting by Patricia Calabrese, and Latin-inspired cuisine provided by Thrice Café/Thai Fresh.

The best part? The party is FREE and open to everyone! The event lasts from 5:30 - 8 p.m.

For more information visit the Becker Elementary School website or contact Ayleen Perez of

Gente Communications at ayleenjperez@gmail.com.

Becker Elementary School
906 W Milton Street
Austin, TX 78704

Bastrop State Park - Charred but Not Closed

In September 2011, wildfire burned 96% of Bastrop State Park. This burn severity map shows the fire damage done to 33,284 acres in Bastrop County, with Bastrop State Park right in the middle of the "Heavily Burned" area.

Visitors are welcome to enter Bastrop State Park for $4 per person age 13 and older (children are free) and it is worth a visit, even with much of the Park blocked off to the public.

There is currently one hiking trail open to the public, which is highlighted in yellow below. AmeriCorps has recently begun work clearing and rerouting trails, so more will be open in the future.

We spent this past Sunday afternoon at Bastrop State Park. Much of the Park looks like this, with the trees closest to the road cut down. Trees farther back have been left to fall down on their own, in an effort to prevent erosion.

Many trees have been spray painted blue, which means that they are still alive and should be spared. If those trees die within the next month or so, they will be cut down at that time.

Although the landscape of Bastrop State Park is vastly changed, with many of the remaining loblolly pines blackened and devoid of pine needles, there is still beauty to be found in the woods. We saw a cardinal, the insides of rocks that had cracked from the heat, and new plants starting to grow.

The unique type of loblolly pines found in Bastrop State Park is currently being grown in nurseries and universities, to replace the trees that were lost. They should be ready for planting in early 2013. According to a State Park ranger, it will take 100 years for these new trees to reach the height of the trees that burned. When I spoke with her she sadly noted, "It won't be in my lifetime." To read about how the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is contributing to the "Hope for Lost Pines" effort, go here.

To read more about the Bastrop wildfire and to learn how you can help the park, visit the Bastrop State Park website. For general information about which sections of the park are open to visit, go here.

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