Free Fun in Austin

Madame Alexander Dolls at the LBJ Library

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Admission to the LBJ Presidential Library will be free on Monday, May 27, 2013 for Memorial Day. The Library will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Families (and doll collectors!) are invited to view a selection of dolls from the "First Ladies Collection" series by Madame Alexander, which will be on display in the Great Hall of the LBJ Library from May 21 through November 24, 2013. The dolls represent First Ladies and First Hostesses of the White House. The designers based the First Ladies' clothing on gowns worn by a First Lady for an inauguration, or other events during the Presidency. The "First Ladies Collection” consists of 38 dolls – from Martha Washington to Pat Nixon. Each doll is identified with a label and the dates she served as First Lady or First Hostess.

The entire "First Ladies Collection" can be viewed on the LBJ Presidential Library app for iPhone and iPad, available in the iTunes store for 99¢.

For more information, visit the LBJ Library website or call 512-721-0200.

LBJ Presidential Library
2313 Red River St.
Austin, TX 78705 [MAP]
(512) 721-0200

Rogue Moms Playground Run in Cedar Park

Join Rogue Moms at 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 23, 2013 at the playscape pavilion at Brushy Creek Lake Park for a park-to-park run! Participating moms will run/walk/jog up the trail to Champion Park, where they'll make a quick stop for snacks and water. The next stop will be Olsen Meadows Park for another treat for the kiddos and a little play time. Then, the group will head back to Brushy Creek Lake Park.

Stick around after the run to cool off in the splash pad or enjoy a picnic in the shade. All levels of runners and walkers are welcome. The total mileage covered will be 2 or 4 miles. Those wanting a shorter run can turn around at Champion Park, instead of continuing on to Olsen Meadows.

For more information, visit the Rogue Moms Summer Events Facebook page.

Brushy Creek Lake Park
Cedar Park, Texas 78613

Memorial Day in Austin: Events and Freebies

There are several ways to honor those who serve or have served in our United States Armed Forces this Memorial Day weekend, as well as special benefits to be enjoyed by military personnel and their families. Listed below are some offerings available in the greater Austin area.

Memorial Ceremony at Texas State Capitol - Saturday, May 25, 2013 at 10 a.m. Members of the Texas Legislature will hold a special Fallen Heroes Memorial Service for soldiers who lost their lives during the Global War on Terror. Visitor parking is available in the garage on San Jacinto Blvd. between 12th & 13th Streets.

Memorial Ceremony in San Marcos - Saturday, May 25, 2013 at 10 a.m. San Marcos City Cemetery, 1001 Ranch Road 12, San Marcos.

San Marcos Memorial Day Ceremony - Monday, May 27, 2013 at 10 a.m. The public is invited to pay tribute to those from Hays County who lost their lives in combat at a special Memorial Day ceremony at the Hays County Veterans Memorial, located on the corner of Hopkins Street and Riverside Drive in San Marcos.

Bastrop Memorial Day Ceremony - Monday, May 27 at 8 a.m. Fairview Cemetery, 1409 HWY 95 N, Bastrop.

Join A Cappella Texas for the 15th Annual Free Memorial Day Concert and Sing-Along on Monday, May 27, 2013, from noon - 1 p.m. in the Capitol Rotunda. The concert features the A Cappella Texas chorus and chapter quartets, singing songs of inspiration and patriotism, as well as other musical numbers, honoring the memory of America's war dead. The audience will be invited to join in on a few songs. Be sure to bring the children to this moving event. Capitol Rotunda, 11th & Congress Ave. Austin.

Head to Camp Mabry on Saturday, May 25 or Sunday, May 26, 2013 for Close Assault: 1944, a free World War II battle reenactment and living history program. Showtimes will be at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on both days. Admission is free and parking is free. You will need to bring along a photo ID to enter Camp Mabry. Enter via 35th Street. To see the event flyer, click here.

Blue Star Museums, a nationwide initiative thanking our community's military service through access to culture, offers free admission to all active duty military personnel and their families at more than 1,800 museums across America, from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Through the Blue Star Museums program, free admission is available to any bearer of a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), a DD Form 1173 ID card, or a DD Form 1173-1 ID card, which includes active duty U.S. military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps) and up to five family members. Free entry does not extend to ticketed programming or special events.

A complete list of institutions offering free admission through Blue Star Museums is available online.

Here are the participating museums in Austin:

Members of the military can register to get free tickets to visit SeaWorld San Antonio through the Here's To The Heroes program. Throughout 2013, any active duty, activated or drilling reservist, or National Guardsman is entitled to a free one time admission at either SeaWorld®, Busch Gardens®, Adventure Island®, Water Country USA®, or Sesame Place® for military personnel and as many as three direct dependents.

More Memorial Day Deals:

LBJ Presidential Library - Free admission for all on Monday, May 27, 2013 for Memorial Day.
Cedar Park Pools - Get free admission with military ID on Memorial Day.
Tanger Outlets - "Like" Tanger Outlets on Facebook to get a free coupon book, through May 31, 2013.
20% off at Taco Cabana - All Taco Cabana locations offer a 20% discount to anyone showing a valid military ID or wearing a military uniform, year-round. Plus, everyone can enjoy these printable coupons, which are valid through June 6, 2013.
National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass - Active duty military personnel and dependents can get a free annual pass to sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees for one full year from the month obtained.

Community Pools in Greater Austin - 2013

Water Playscape at Rock'N River in Round Rock

Planning on spending some time at the pool this Memorial Day weekend? We've already covered the free pools in Austin and splash pads too. Here's a rundown of municipal pools in Austin and beyond. Remember, municipal pools do charge a fee, but a lot of them have some great amenities. Most also have pool passes available, which provide savings on admission fees. Take note of opening dates, as some of the Austin pools are NOT open for Memorial Day weekend.

Austin Municipal Pools*

Barton Springs Pool (2131 William Barton Dr) -- Fed from underground springs, the pool remains a cool 68 degrees year round and is one of Austin's favorite swimming holes. The pool is currently open daily.

Deep Eddy Pool (401 Deep Eddy Ave) -- What started out as a swimming hole fed from the Colorado River is now known as the oldest swimming pool in Texas. The pool is currently open daily.

Ella Wooten Pool in Mueller (4015 Pinckney St) -- The pool opens Friday, May 26. Visit the open swim calendar for open swim pool hours. The hours of 5 a.m. - noon and 7:30 - 10 p.m. are reserved for residents. From 1 - 7 p.m. the pool is open to the public.

Northwest (Beverly S Sheffield) Municipal Pool (7000 Ardath St) -- Currently open evenings and weekends, the pool will be open from noon - 7 p.m. on Memorial Day, May 27. It will be open daily beginning June 6.

Walnut Creek Pool (12138 N Lamar Blvd) -- Opens June 10.

Mabel Davis Pool (3427 Parker Ln) -- Opens June 10.

Garrison Pool (6001 Manchaca Rd) -- Opens June 10.

*All Austin Municipal Pools have the same fee structure: seniors and children age 1-11 are $1, kids age 12-17 are $2, and adults are $3. Pool passes are also available.

Cedar Park

Buttercup Pool (411 Twin Oaks Trail) -- Features a diving board and small slide. Kids age 4-8 are $1, 9-17 are $2, and adults are $3. Open weekends beginning May 25 through June 2, daily starting June 8.

Elizabeth Milburn Pool (1901 Sun Chase Blvd) -- 120 ft slide and a water playscape! Kids age 4-8 are $1, 9-17 are $2, and adults are $3. Beginning June 10, kids 5 and under can enjoy having the pool to themselves (with a parent or someone 16 and older!) during Tot Time Monday - Friday from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Open weekends beginning May 25 - June 2, daily starting June 8.

Veterans Memorial Pool (2525 W New Hope Dr) -- Drop slide, jumping platform, water playground, family slide, cargo net log crossing, and water basketball. Wow! Kids age 4-8 are $2, 9-17 are $4, and adults are $5. Open weekends beginning May 25 - June 2, daily starting June 8.

Rock'N River Family Aquatic Center (3300 Palm Valley Blvd) -- Open May 25-27 from 12 - 6 p.m.; daily beginning June 1. Features a lazy river, crazy slides and a water playground with zero beach entry play area, located within Old Settlers Park. Admission is $4.50 for adults, $3.50 for ages 17 and under (non-residents pay an additional $1). Closed on Wednesdays.
Micki Krebsbach Pool (301 Deepwood Dr) -- Opens June 1. Features a cool pirate ship with slides and climbing structures! Admission is $2.50 for adults, $1.50 for 17 and under (non-residents pay an additional $1). Closed Tuesdays.
Lake Creek Pool (800 Deerfoot Dr) -- Opens June 1. Admission is $2 for adults, $1 for ages 17 and under (non-residents pay an additional $1 fee). Closed Mondays.

Pflugerville

Gilleland Creek Pool (700 Railroad Ave) -- Opens May 25. Kids up to age 18 pay $1, adults $2 (non residents pay an additional $1). Closed Mondays.

Scott Mentzer Pool (901 Old Austin Hutto Rd) -- Opens May 25. Features a large slide and a family slide, and a lazy river. Kids up to age 18 pay $1.50, adults pay $3 (non-residents pay an additional $1). Closed Wednesdays.

Windermere Pool (16804 Gower St) -- Opens May 25. Kids up to age 18 pay $1, adults pay $2 (non-residents pay an additional $1). Closed Tuesdays.

Leander

Pool at Robin Bledsoe Park (601 S Bagdad Rd) -- Closed Mondays, except Memorial and Labor Days. Admission is $2 per person. Memorial Day Weekend (May 25-27), June 1-2, June 8 - August 25, and Labor Day Weekend (August 31-Sept 2), noon - 7 p.m.

Splash Pad at Robin Bledsoe Park -- FREE! This area features a variety of water sprays and interactive elements from ground sprays to overhead buckets that randomly dump water. And as a bonus to us moms who are outnumbered, this playscape is completely enclosed, meaning no escapees!

Kyle

Pool at Gregg-Clarke Park -- Open May 25 and 26 (closed on Monday, May 27). Admission for Kyle residents: age 0-3 are free, 4-12 are $1, 13-17 are $2, adults are $3. Admission for non residents is $4 for ages 3 and up. Closed Mondays.

Rio Vista Pool (555 Cheatham St) -- Opens Friday, May 24 for Memorial Day weekend and again June 1 and 2. Opens daily beginning June 7. Kids 5 and under are free, children 6 and up are $5, and adults are $5. Closed most Mondays, except May 27, July 1, July 8, September 2.

Elgin

Municipal Pool at Morris Memorial Park -- Opens Memorial Day weekend, then conducts regular hours beginning June 8. Admission is free for kids 5 and under, all other individuals pay $2 (no mention of a non-resident fee).

Lakeway

Swim Center (3103 Lakeway Blvd) -- The Lakeway Swim Center is located on a 9.14 acre site off Lakeway Boulevard and The Hills Drive. The amenities include adult swimming pools, a children's wading pool, two water slides, a frog slide, a lily pad walk, a life-size chess and checker board, a concession area, restrooms, lockers, sand volleyball and mini basketball courts, picnic tables, benches and grills, rock climbing walls, etc. The lap pool is open year-round. The leisure pool is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Saturday, May 25: noon - 8 p.m. Sunday, May 26: noon - 6 p.m. Monday, May 27: noon - 8 p.m. Weekdays until June 7: 4 - 8 p.m. Summer hours begin June 7: Tuesday through Saturday noon through 8 p.m., Sunday noon through 6 p.m. Closed on Mondays. Admission is $5 for adult residents ($6 for non-residents) and $4 for children and seniors ($5 for non-residents).

Georgetown

The Summer 2013 pool season will begin Memorial Day weekend.

Saturday, May 25:

GRC Indoor Pool open 9:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
GRC Splash Pool open 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Other Outdoor Pools open 1:00 -7:00 p.m.

Sunday, May 26:

GRC Facility, Indoor Pool CLOSED

GRC Splash Pool CLOSED

Other Outdoor Pools open 1:00 -7:00 p.m.

Monday, May 27:

GRC Facility, Indoor Pool CLOSED

GRC Splash Pool open 1:00 -7:00 p.m. *Cash or Check ONLY*

Other Outdoor Pools open 1:00 -7:00 p.m.

The seasonal pools will be CLOSED May 28-31. All seasonal pools will then be permanently open for the Summer season beginning Saturday, June 1 and will continue through Labor Day (September 2).

GRC Splash Pool (1003 N. Austin Avenue)-- 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday (closed Sundays). Children 3 & under are Free; child (4-9) admission is $2.00; junior (10-17) admission is $2.00; adult (18 – 54) admission is $3.00; senior (55+) admission is $2.00.
River Ridge Pool (414 South Ridge Circle) -- 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (closed Tuesday). Fees: children 3 & under are free; child (4-9) $1.00; junior (10-17) $2.00; adult (18+) $3.00.
Williams Drive Pool (3201 Williams Drive) -- 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (closed Monday). Fees: children 3 & under are free; child (4-9) $1.00; junior (10-17) $2.00; adult (18+) $3.00.
Tennis Center Pool (400 Serenada Drive) -- 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (closed Monday). Fees: children 3 & under are free; child (4-9) $1.00; junior (10-17) $2.00; adult (18+) $3.00.
Village Pool (370 Village Commons Boulevard) -- 1:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (closed Tuesday). Fees: children 3 & under are free; child (4-9) $1.00; junior (10-17) $2.00; adult (18+) $3.00.

Don't forget the list of FREE Austin area neighborhood pools and FREE splash pads!

Giveaway: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

ONE Academy of Dance presents Alice's Adventures in Wonderland at Covington Middle School in South Austin on June 1, 2013. There will be performances at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online.

ONE Academy of Dance is a ballet based dance school which focuses on technical and artistic training in a Christian context. The play will be performed by Academy students.

Free Fun in Austin has three pairs of tickets to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland to give away! Would you like a pair? Simply fill out the form below for your chance to win. Three winners will be selected using random.org on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 and notified by email.

By submitting the form below, you are agreeing to the Sweepstakes Official Rules. Can't see the form? Click here to enter.

Covington Middle School

3700 Convict Hill Rd

Austin, TX 78749

Free Mandarin Made Easy Class for Kids

Want your tot to learn Mandarin? Local teacher, Daniella Gould, would like to help! Try a free Mandarin Made Easy demo class with your child, age 2.5 - 6, and learn Mandarin together through songs, games, and stories.

When: Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at 3 p.m.
Where: Galaxy Dance Studio on South Lamar
About the Teacher: Daniella studied Mandarin as an undergraduate and for her Master’s Degree in Asian Studies at Berkeley University. She has lived, worked, and traveled in China over a 15 year span. She has trained children and adults using participatory techniques for over 10 years. Currently, Daniella teaches children Mandarin at Allison Elementary school in Austin.

The demo is free, but prior registration is required. If interested, contact daniella_gould@hotmail.com.

Galaxy Dance Studio
1700 S Lamar Blvd #338
Austin, TX 78704

Mom's Nite Out at The Arboretum

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Mom's Nite Out at The Arboretum at Great Hills, originally scheduled for the week of Mother's Day, was rescheduled due to weather concerns. The free event will now take place on Thursday, May 23, 2013, from 5 - 7 p.m. Local mothers are invited to participate in an exciting evening filled with refreshments, entertainment, and fashion and beauty services.

Enjoy complimentary light bites and beverages, as well as make-overs, massages, and hair/make-up touch ups, compliments of AZIZ Salon & Day Spa. There will also be a DJ and an on-site photo booth. The first 100 ladies in attendance can pick up a fabulous swag bag. All attendees may enter hourly prize drawings.

For more information, visit the Facebook event page.

The Arboretum at Great Hills
10000 Research Boulevard

Austin, Texas 78759

Free Programs for Teachers at Bullock Museum

Educators are invited to get a sneak peek at the Bullock Museum's new curriculum materials and film offerings. The Museum's summer programs for teachers are free, but pre-registration is required. CPE hours, refreshments, and curriculum materials will be provided.

Summer Programs for Teachers & Educators:

Film Fest: Learning the Natural World

Friday, July 12, 2013, from 9 a.m. - noon

Just for science teachers! Enjoy the Museum's adventurous film Tornado Alley 3D and the beautiful Flight of the Butterflies in 3D, followed by a discussion on multi-disciplinary connections and teaching strategies. Learn more/register.

Meet Me at the Museum

Monday, July 22, 2013, from 9 a.m. - noon

Designed to help social studies teachers learn new strategies for teaching with objects and integrating primary sources into curricula. Also, get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at an artifact's journey from arrival to display. Learn more/register.

Giveaway: ZACH Theatre Summer Camps

Do you have plans for your kids this summer? ZACH Theatre offers camps and classes all summer long through their Performing Arts School. The camps teach life skills through theater skills with an emphasis on creating well-rounded people capable of artistic and self-expression through body, voice, and mind. Honestly, it sounds like loads of fun to me!

Camps and classes are offered in four categories. See the full schedule for dates, times, and tuition. Read about them all below, then keep reading for a fun giveaway courtesy of the ZACH Theatre!

Creative Drama - Ages 3.5 - 2nd grade

Story Drama - Ages 3.5-4.5. Students step into a different book from the best of children’s literature, where they will learn to work together, creatively problem solve and share ideas.

Artsplosion - Ages 4-7 (broken up into appropriate age groups). In this half-day program, students rotate through three different art forms (visual art, movement, and creative drama), focusing on common vocabulary and thematic elements.

Imagination Exploration - Ages 4-5 and ages 5-2nd grade. By learning theatre games and creating unique characters, students travel through their imagination to an original world that they create based on the theme of the week.

Act the Story - Ages 5-2nd grade. Using acting exercises, art projects and imagination, students will read a story and then create their own version as an ensemble.

Theater Skills - Grades 3-8

Create-A-Play - Grades 3-7. Each morning students will rotate through classes in voice, movement and playwrighting then put those skills to use in their afternoon rehearsal. With a focus on acting, story-telling and character creation, students will work as an ensemble to devise, rehearse and stage a workshop production of an original script.

Intro to Musical Theater - Grades 3 - 5. Students spend half a day with an acting teacher learning theater games, character creation, and story structure. The second half of the day is spent with a vocal coach and choreographer learning the basics of vocal and dance technique, working toward putting together a routine from a well-loved musical. Choose from: Mulan and High School Musical 3.

Theatre Academy - Grades 3-8. This camp is for students who are ready to explore the world of actor training. In this fun and focused camp, students are immersed in specialized training in improv, scene study, Shakespeare, voice, movement, and musical theatre each day.

Musical Theatre Bootcamp - Grades 5-7 & Grades 8-12. Each day, students spend 90 minutes with an acting coach, 90 minutes with a vocal coach and 3 hours with a choreographer learning what it takes to become a member of a musical theatre ensemble. This class culminates in a revue of several group numbers from great musicals. This summer’s revues are: Guys and Dolls and Hairspray.

Summer Pre-Professional Track - Grades 4 - 12

Acting Intensives - Grades 4-6, Grades 7-12, Grades 9-12. In each Acting Intensive students spend half a day with an acting coach learning the fundamentals of acting. The other part of the day is spent with a specialty teacher in MUSICAL THEATRE, IMPROV, AUDITION TECHNIQUE or SCENE STUDY. This class fulfills an Acting 1 prerequisite for upper level classes.

Performance Labs - Grades 4-7 & Grades 8-12. With a focus on acting skills, script analysis and storytelling, Performance Labs allow students to explore great scripts in a workshop setting. (Pre-requisite: 2 sessions of Acting 1 or an audition)

Production Classes - Grades 4-12. By audition only. Working with professional directors, designers and artisans, students will apply their classroom training to the stage. They will learn rehearsal etiquette, the rehearsal process, how to interact with designers and the discipline to perform over several weeks.

On to the giveaway! ZACH Theatre has been gracious enough to offer THREE camp spots to give away to Free Fun in Austin readers. We have two spots in Story Drama (ages 3.5 - 4.5) and one spot in Create-A-Play (grades 3-7). Please select the camp you would like to win on the form below. Three winners - one per camp - will be selected using random.org on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 and notified by email.

By submitting the form, you are agreeing to the Sweepstakes Official Rules. Can't see the form below? Click here to enter.

For another chance to win a spot in a ZACH Theatre camp, head on over to LiveMom!

FREE Hike: Old Spicewood Springs Road

Growing Up Austin - Austin Kids Hike - Bull Creek

This post is part of the FREE Hike of the Week series, brought to you by GrowingUpAustin.com. There are a thousand places to hike in Austin on any given day, most of which are always free, but here is a handy reminder about one favorite. Visit AustinKidsHike.com for more kid-friendly hikes and for tips on hiking with kids. A summer tip - early morning and after dinner are the best times to beat the heat!

This is a nearly hidden part of Bull Creek that is marked with educational signs, like maybe it was intended to be part of a more formal park, but it seems quiet and forgotten now. That can make for a sweet hike, with fewer people and lots of shade. This is on OLD Spicewood Springs Rd., south of the regular Spicewood Springs, just east of 360.

Stroller friendly: no

Restrooms: no

Water: yes, but not great for wading or swimming, better for just looking

5300 Old Spicewood Springs Road

Austin, TX 78759

Dittmar Movie in the Park: Finding Nemo

Dittmar Recreation Center is kicking off the summer season by showing a movie in the park! On Friday, May 24, 2013, head to Dittmar for a free screening of Finding Nemo. The movie will start at 8 p.m. Come early and pick a spot on the grass for your family and friends to join you. Dittmar will be selling tickets for cotton candy and the moon bounce, but the movie is FREE!

For more information, visit the City of Austin website.

1009 W Dittmar Rd

Austin, TX 78745
(512) 974-6090

New Central Library Groundbreaking Event

Monday, May 20, 2013

Join the City of Austin on Thursday, May 30, 2013 to celebrate the groundbreaking for the new Central Library and Lower Shoal Creek Area Project. Live Music begins at 10:30 a.m., with light refreshments provided. The ceremony will take place at 11 a.m.

For more information, visit the City of Austin website.

Project Site, East of Seaholm Redevelopment
710 West Cesar Chavez

Austin, Texas

Internet Safety Event with DadLabs Host

Join Famigo and Clay Nichols this Wednesday from 4:15 – 5:15 at the Yarborough Branch of Austin Public Library to learn about family internet safety from an expert in the field. Children who attend will be able to explore various fun and educational apps on multiple tablets and gaming devices.

Clay Nichols, creator and developer of DadLabs, will be partnering with Famigo to teach families about internet safety. He is currently in the process of partnering with LookOut Social, a curriculum and content-based site educating users about the digital life of today's families. Whether you want your child to understand safe ways to surf the web, or you want to learn how to restrict your child from getting into unsafe territory on the internet, Clay Nichols will teach everything you need to know!

Who: All parents and children of any age throughout the Austin area

When: Wednesday, May 22, 2013, from 4:15 until 5:15 p.m.

Where: Yarborough Branch of Austin Public Library, 2200 Hancock Dr. Austin, TX 78756

Be sure to check it out for some fun games and useful information. You may even go home with a free Famigo t-shirt!

Free KidFish Event in Pflugerville

Each June, the City of Pflugerville partners with the KidFish Foundation, Inc to offer a free, outdoor fishing opportunity for kids. Children age 16 and under are invited to attend this year's event on Saturday, June 1, 2013, from 9 a.m. - noon. Registration will be held onsite.

KidFish and Texas Parks and Wildlife have stocked additional fish in Lake Pflugerville to boost kids' fishing experience at the event. Head to the lake on June 1 to enjoy a morning of free fishing fun!

For more information, visit the City of Pflugerville website. Click here for a map.

Giveaway: $100 off CroTex Home Services

CroTex Home Services is a new, locally based company offering various home improvement services from painting to flooring, and even masonry. The company was founded in 2013 by Marko Misura. Misura, a Certified Engineering Technician, has been working in construction and home services for over 15 years and built his entire house in his home country of Croatia.

CroTex offers the following services:

Painting - $1 per square foot, with 10% discount if you schedule a consultation before May 31, 2013.
Laminate installation - $2 per square foot, with 10% discount if you schedule a consultation before May 31, 2013.
Tile installation - $3 per square foot, with 10% discount if you schedule a consultation before May 31, 2013.
Masonry projects such as balconies, outdoor fireplaces, walls, and more - call for estimate. 10% discount also available on masonry services if you schedule a consultation before May 31, 2013.

Contact them at 512.660.7460 or 214.909.8505 for an estimate, or fill out the contact form.

CroTex is offering a special JUST for Free Fun in Austin readers! Mention FREEFUN75 when you call, to get your bedroom, dining room, or living room painted for only $0.75 per square foot. (Please note that this does not include the cost of paint.) Don't forget to mention FREEFUN75!

In addition, we also have a $100 off coupon, good towards any service offered by CroTex Home Services, to give away. For your chance to win, simply fill out the form below. One winner will be selected using random.org on Monday, May 27, 2013 and notified by email. By submitting the form below, you are agreeing to the Sweepstakes Official Rules.

Can't see the form below? Click here to enter.

Disclosure: This giveaway was sponsored by CroTex Home Services.

Image credit: CroTex Home Services

Smudge Studios: Free Open Studio Days

Austin families are invited to check out the new Smudge Studios space and make some art! Here are two exciting events coming up - both are free and no RSVP is required:

Free Open Studio Day - Saturday, May 25, 2013, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Grand Opening Party - Saturday, June 1, 2013, from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy a D.J., a chainsaw artist, splatter painting, screen printing, spray painting, snacks and drinks, and a photo booth!

Smudge Studios Austin
500 West 38th Street

Austin, Texas 78705

Image credits: Smudge Studios

STAR Flight Open House with Helicopters

Travis County recently announced that their aircraft fleet now includes a UH-1H aircraft, called SF4, a helicopter that is specially equipped for fighting wildfires, a first for the program and for local and regional flight programs across Texas. Travis County is the first area in Texas to receive such an aircraft.

The public is invited to STAR Flight’s Open House on Wednesday, May 22, 2013, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at their hangar at 7800 Old Manor Road. STAR Flight will conduct water drops and patient rescue demos, and the public can view and get into the helicopters, including SF4. The open house is free and open to the public.

The S4 will be used for response to regional disasters, as a part of homeland security and in support of Travis County Parks’ projects, such as controlled burns in greenbelts and preserves. If it is not carrying a full load of water, SF4 can also transport additional firefighters, increasing access to wildfires or disasters in remote or difficult terrain.

For more information, visit the STAR Flight website.

STAR Flight Hangar

7800 Old Manor Rd

Austin, TX 78724

Image credit: STAR Flight

Free Alamo Kid's Club Movie: Forbidden Planet

Ain’t It Cool, Austin Chronicle, and Toy Joy present an absolutely free 35mm screening of the classic film Forbidden Planet (1956) at Alamo Drafthouse The Ritz on Saturday, May 25, 2013 at 11 a.m. Seating is first come, first served, so be sure to arrive early!

Children 3 and up will be allowed only with a parent or guardian. No children under the age of 3 will be allowed and families with loud children will be asked to leave.

For more information, visit the Alamo Drafthouse website.

Alamo Drafthouse The Ritz
320 E 6th Street
Austin, TX 78701
(512) 476-1320

Image credit: Alamo Drafthouse

Be an Extra in Transformers 4

Third Coast Extras is taking submissions for extras to work on the upcoming Transformers film sequel, directed by Michael Bay, shooting in the Austin area June 3-20, 2013.

Interested in being an extra? Third Coast Extras needs adults ages 18-80s of all ethnicities and all types, including great character faces. They also need kids ages 9-12 of all ethnicities.

-READ CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU SUBMIT-

You'll need a flexible schedule with the ability to clear your schedule for both all day/night shoots if necessary and have reliable transportation to get to the set either in Austin or outside of town on location. You must have good follow-through and be able to commit to dates since the wardrobe department will need to have pre-fit clothing so you'll need to be able to attend a wardrobe fitting the week before shooting during the last week of May.

Minimum pay guarantee for extras is $58 for any shoot up to 8 hours. If past 8 hours, time and a half overtime pay kicks in (example: a 12 hour shoot day would be $101.52)

To submit, email thirdcoastextras@gmail.com with the subject heading "Transformers Extras" and follow the directions below exactly:

Men: include name, age, phone #, height/weight, jacket size, collar size/sleeve length, pants size (waist/inseam), and shoe size. Attach clear, current photos in high resolution - including a close photo (no professional headshots however) and a full length photo also. Please only casual photos not professionally taken.This Director wants to see your current everyday appearance.

Women: include name, age, phone #, height/weight, dress size, bust-waist-hips measurements, and shoe size. Attach clear, current photos in high resolution - including a close photo (no professional headshots however) and a full length photo also. Please only casual photos not professionally taken.This Director wants to see your current everyday appearance.

IMPORTANT: Must be Texas resident with valid Texas ID who lives in (or at least nearby) Austin, TX since shoot days can change at the last minute. Please don't submit if you're not local to the area or nearby.

For more information, visit the Beth Sepko Casting and Third Coast Extras Facebook page.

Image credit: Third Coast Extras via Facebook

Weekend Top 10 FREE Events (May 17-19, 2013)

Friday, May 17, 2013

Shakespeare in the Park:

The Winter's Tale - Friday, May 17, Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19 at 8 p.m. Austin Shakespeare presents The Winter's Tale, a dark tale of romance fueled by the contrast of jealousy and joy. Head to the park early for a Samba demo on Saturday and a Tango demo Sunday Night, staring at 7:30 p.m. The production runs Thursdays through Sundays, through May 26, and is free to the public. Check the website for weather updates. Zilker Hillside Theater, 2201 Barton Springs Rd, Austin.
Two Gentlemen of Verona - Friday, May 17 and Saturday, May 18 at 8 p.m. Join Something for Nothing Theater for a free evening of Shakespeare under the stars. All shows are free and open to the public. Bring a blanket and enjoy the play. Check the Something for Nothing Facebook page for weather updates. Ramsey Park, 4301 N. Rosedale Ave., Austin.

Kids Culinary Workshop - Saturday, May 18, from 10-11 a.m. Join In.gredients for an hour long workshop that will teach your little ones about food, gardening and the joys of cooking. The folks from New Day Community Garden will host an outdoor cooking class for kids ages 6-12, teaching them how to make a simple dip/dressing using in.gredients found in the In.gredients garden and store. After their culinary experience, guests will share, eat and play! In.gredients, 2610 Manor Road, Austin.
Renegade Craft Fair - Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19, from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Enjoy a curated, modern craft fair that appeals to all ages and features hundreds of contemporary makers, creators, movers, and shakers. Renegade Craft Fair is free to attend. Download the vendor map here. Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd., Austin.
O. Henry Pun-Off World Championships - Saturday, May 18 from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Enjoy this annual competition of the best and worst puns with two core events: “Punslingers” and “Punniest of Show.” The 36th Annual Championship featuring music by the Greatest American Heroes and food trucks from the Peached Tortilla and Mmmpanadas. See the schedule here. In the backyard of the O. Henry Museum also known as Brush Square Park, 409 E. 5th Street, Austin.
YMCA Community Splash Day - Saturday, May 18, times vary by location. Join the Y for a free, fun, family day at the YMCA of Austin! Enjoy free swimming, swim lesson evaluations, water safety information, water sports and games, giveaways and more! Check the website for locations and times.
May Fest and Village Mini Fair - Saturday, May 18 at 2 p.m. Come make a Peep (a 3″ tall doll) and take it for a whirl on the miniature Ferris wheel. Or, if your Peep is feeling very adventurous, take off on the Bubble Blaster – always a wild ride and a hoot! Or go the Peep Disco Dance Hall, or the zip line race course, or the Whirling Fan of Doom (sure to big a hit with the hard core thrill seekers!) – or, well, the list just goes on and on…. Perhaps your Peep is a little more low key, more of a shopper than a thrill seeker – well then, take it on the tour of Peep Homes or to the Village Market and see what simply cannot be lived without! Peep hats, shawls and shoes, pets and exotic animals from far and wide, dishes, tools, furnishings and more. In addition to the Village Mini Fair, there will be live youth music groups, food, various “green” info stalls, and a fun activities for the kids. Austin EcoSchool, 4105 Manchaca Road, Austin.
Art Museum Day - Saturday, May 18. AMOA-Arthouse will celebrate Art Museum Day with free admission and programming at Laguna Gloria and the Jones Center. Visitors are invited to participate in family-friendly, interactive activities throughout the day, enjoy docent led tours from 1-3 p.m. at both sites, and attend Küçük Sinemalar! Experimental Cinema from Turkey, a special film screening in the Jones Center Community Room at 7 p.m. AMOA- Arthouse, The Jones Center at 700 Congress Ave. and Laguna Gloria at 3809 West 35th Street, Austin.
Viva Streets - Sunday, May 19, from noon- 5 p.m. Join the energetic fun at VIVA STREETS! – a free festival that invites you to bicycle, play, get fit, people watch, and celebrate good health. On Sunday, May 19, over two miles of Sixth Street will become a car-free and tobacco-free playground for thousands of Austinites. Sixth Street from Brazos to Robert Martinez Street, Austin.
Esperanza De La Herencia - Sunday, May 19 from 2 - 4 p.m. Each year, PRFDance brings the rich heritage of Puerto Rico to life with “Esperanza de la Herencia,” a performance event dedicated to inspiring Youth. This live music and dance recital showcases cultural arts students and the PRFDance & Jr Company. Free and open to the public. The Emma S. Barrientos Mexica American Cultural Center, 600 River Street, Austin.
Austin Federation of Musician Music Series - Sunday, May 19, from 6 - 8:30 p.m. The Museum is once again bringing live music to the Lone Star Plaza. In collaboration with the Austin Federation of Musicians, this free spring concert series will feature some of Austin’s finest musical acts. This week’s performers are Bob Meyer’s Concept Quartet and Larisa Montanaro. Doors at 5:30 p.m. Bring chairs and picnics, but no alcohol. Bullock Museum, 1800 N. Congress, Austin.

Bonus Free Celebrations:

SFC Farmers’ Market 10th Anniversary - Saturday, May 18, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the SFC Farmers’ Market Downtown at the historic Republic Square Park! Enjoy some giveaways and a back-to-back trio of chefs demos, along with customer appreciation drawings, children’s activities, and more. SFC Farmers’ Market downtown at 400 Guadalupe Street, Austin.
Whole Food’s Block Party - Saturday, May 18, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Join the downtown store for a block party! There will be free activities and the store is going to be grilling up a storm! Enjoy live music, free fun for the whole family, local beers, and grilled grub from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. in our front parking lot. (You could also head next door to BookPeople for storytime at 11:30 a.m.) Whole Foods, 525 N. Lamar Blvd.
Texas Capitol Quasquicentennial Celebration - Saturday, May 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. The Texas Capitol was formally dedicated on May 16, 1888, and 125 years later, it still stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the people of Texas. This year marks the building's Quasquicentennial, and the State Preservation Board invites the public to help celebrate the Lone Star spirit during a free ice cream social on the south Capitol grounds Saturday, May 18 from 1 to 3 p.m. On Saturday, visitors will enjoy music at the Capitol's south steps provided by the Lost and Nameless Orchestra and four flavors of ice cream generously provided by Blue Bell Creameries. Texas State Capitol, 112 E 11th St, Austin.

Bonus Events in the 'Burbs:

Movies in the Park or Pool:

Kyle Movies in the Park - Friday, May 17, 30 minutes after sunset. Bring along a lawn chair, blanket, and snacks and enjoy Puss in Boots. Gregg-Clarke Park, 1100 W Center St, Kyle.
Leander Movies in the Park - Friday, May 17 at dusk. Often described as a combination of state-of-the-art technology and the nostalgia of the 1950s drive-in, the Movies in the Park series provides families the opportunity to spend time together under the stars while enjoying first run movies… all for free. On Friday, catch a free screening of Wreck-It Ralph. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner. Concessions are also available. Glass containers are prohibited. Friendly pets on a leash are welcome. Robin Bledsoe Park, 601 S. Bagdad Road, Leander.
Dive In Movie: Brave - Friday, May 17 at 8:30 p.m. This free screening is in conjunction with Night Out at Cat Hollow. Cat Hollow Pool, 8600 O'Connor Dr, Round Rock.

Deutschen Pfest Children's Parade - Saturday, May 18 at 10:45 a.m. Everybody loves a parade...and Pflugerville has two of them on Deutschen Pfest weekend! The parade is held complete with marching bands, community organizations, and community dignitaries. The children’s parade is held just prior to the main parade on Saturday morning. Children dress up in costumes, decorate their bicycles and/or wagons and walk down Main Street. Ribbons are given to with awards for the following categories: best German theme, most decorative wagon/bicycle, most creative entry, funniest entry and youngest participant. The parade starts at the corner of Main Street and Railroad (judging at 10:30 a.m. at Wordyisms). Later in the afternoon, head over to Pfree Splash Day at Gilleland Creek Pool!
Unity Park Community Garden Open House - Saturday, May 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy hands-on gardening demonstrations starting at 11 a.m., learn sustainable gardening tips from seasoned members, take a tour of the gardens and learn how you can be a part of a vibrant community garden experience. Children can make their own eco-friendly paper flowerpot and take home a plant start. Fun for the family and all are welcome. Unity Park Community Garden, 2746 Gattis School Rd., Round Rock.
Dirt Dauber Festival - Saturday, May 18 and Sunday, May 19. Join Eye of the Dog Art Center for two days of clay celebration! Demonstrations on two stages, live music, free hot dogs, and 30 fantastic clay artists. Fun for everyone with a clay play area for the youngsters. Free admission. Music lineup includes Ike Ike Eichenberg, Gorman, Merlin Scott, and the Alex Dormant Texas Swing Band. Eye of the Dog Art Center is located 5 miles from San Marcos at 405 Valley View West Rd.
Hill Country Galleria Events:

Whole Foods 1 Year Anniverary Grill Out - Saturday, May 18, from noon - 7 p.m. Celebrate Whole Foods' 1 Year Aniversary with a fun grill out event! Live music by team member bands, kids activities will include face painters, hula hoops, & bubbles! They will also have a special anniversary cake/cake cutting and champagne sampling toast. Whole Foods, 12601 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave.
Saturday Night Concert Series - Saturday, May 18, from 7 - 9 p.m. Listen to live music by Karen Goh. Hill Country Galleria, 12700 Hill Country Blvd., Bee Cave.

Want more? Check out the Free Fun Calendar!

$3.99 GattiLand Buffet on Saturday

Gatti-Land Round Rock will offer $3.99 buffets on Saturday, May 18, 2013, from 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. This does not include the cost of a drink, which will be an additional 49¢ for kids and 89¢ for adults.

For more information, visit the Gatti-Land Facebook page.

Gatti-Land Round Rock
1112 N. I-35
Round Rock, Texas 78681
512-255-6699

Culinary Workshop for Kids at In.gredients

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Want to teach your little ones about food, gardening, and the joys of cooking? Head to In.gredients for a free, hour-long workshop on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 10 a.m.

The folks from New Day Community Garden will host an outdoor cooking class for kids ages 6-12, teaching them how to make a simple dip/dressing using in.gredients found in the In.gredients garden and store.

For more information, visit the Facebook event page.

In.gredients
2610 Manor Road

Austin, Texas 78722

Image credit: In.gredients via Facebook

Play in the Street at Viva! Streets Austin

On Sunday, May 19, 2013, from noon - 5 p.m., head down to Sixth Street for some good old fashioned daytime fun. Two miles of the street, from Brazos to Robert Martinez Street will be closed to traffic for Viva! Streets Austin, a fun new festival where a car free and tobacco free street becomes a playground for all.

Everyone is invited to bike, play, jog, skate, dance, or even just people watch and celebrate good health. There will also be yoga, Zumba, live music and dancing, rock wall climbing, healthy food demonstrations, soccer, ultimate frisbee, hula hoops, dodgeball, street chess, bike skills rodeo, spinning classes, and more. Pets on a leash are welcome.

Viva Streets Austin is free and open to the public. For parking information, visit this parking map (some parking fees may apply). For more information, visit the Viva! Streets Austin website.

Image credit: Viva Streets Austin

101x Summer Cinema at Central Market

Beginning June 12, 2013, 101x brings back its Summer Cinema, thanks to the Alamo Drafthouse Rolling Roadshow. The summer movie series features five free movies at Central Market North Lamar, starting at sundown. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs.

2013 Summer Cinema schedule:

June 12 - Can't Hardly Wait
June 26 - The Karate Kid (1984)
July 10 - The 5th Element
July 24 - TBD
August 2 - TBD

Movie lovers are encouraged to vote for the movies they want to see featured. The last two titles are to be determined, and voting is currently open for which 90s era movie will be shown. Vote on the 101x website.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the Central Market Cafe, including $2.50 Blue Moons. For more information, visit the 101x website.

Central Market North Lamar

4001 North Lamar Blvd

Austin, TX 78756

Image credit: 101x

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)

Blog template by simplyfabulousbloggertemplates.com

Back to TOP