Free Fun in Austin

Weekend Top 10 FREE Events (June 1-3, 2012)

2012-06-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

Alamo Kids' Camp - Saturday, June 2 - Sunday, June 3. Free movies for kids ages 3 and up at area Alamo Drafthouse locations. Double check show times before heading out, as they frequently change:

Alamo Lake Creek -- How to Train Your Dragon, 11 a.m. (13729 Research Blvd)
Alamo Village -- Tim Burton's The Corpse Bride at 11 a.m. (2700 W Anderson Ln)
Alamo South Lamar -- Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs at 11 a.m. (1120 S Lamar Blvd)

Austin Bike Zoo's Midsummer in Motion - Friday, June 1 at 7:30 p.m. in Brush Square Park (409 E 5th St); Saturday, June 2 and Sunday, June 3 at 7:30 p.m. in Republic Square Park (422 Guadalupe St). Join the Austin Bike Zoo as they put their fantastical wheeled creations together for a whimsical presentation in Midsummer in Motion: a Pedal Powered Shakespearean Fantasy. Directed by Rudy Ramirez and featuring music from The Inheritance and performers from Sky Candy, this unique adaptation of A Midsummer Night's Dream is sure to wow and delight audiences.
Ballet Under the Stars - Friday, June 1 and Saturday, June 2 at 8:30 p.m. Austin Metamorphosis Dance Ensemble presents Ballet Under the Stars at the Zilker Hillside Theater. This year's performance is entitled "The Best of AMDE". The audience will be treated to many of the favorite dances that have shaped the company and its artists over the past 20 years. The performance is free to the public. Zilker Hillside Theater, 2301 Barton Springs Road, Austin.
Jurassic Park - Friday, June 1 at 8:30 p.m. Austin Parks Foundation presents this free movie in the park. Dogs, picnics, and lawn chairs are welcome. Alcoholic beverages, glass and styrofoam are not permitted in the park. Republic Square, 422 Guadalupe St., Austin.
Toy Story 3 - Friday, June 1 at 8:45 p.m. Come early to get the best seat (bring your lawn chairs), and don't forget about the FREE Hotdogs. Bond's Television, 1010 West Lynn Street, Austin.
The Little Mermaid - Friday, June 1 at dusk. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to Metz Park for Friday night movies under the stars! This week you can enjoy The Little Mermaid, with free popcorn and drinks! The splash pad is also on, if you want to dress the kids in bathing suits. 2407 Canterbury St., Austin.
Home Depot Kids' Project - Saturday, June 2, from 9 a.m. - noon. Stop by your local Home Depot on Saturday for a free workshop where kids can make their own organizer. The organizer can be used to store toys or as a gift for Father's Day.
ATX Television Festival - Saturday, June 2. Two free screenings - one for little people and one for big:

Cartoon Event with Free Pancakes - Saturday, from 9 - 10:30 a.m. Come dressed in your favorite pajamas and bring you appetite for pancakes for a special screening of Transformers Prime, My Little Pony, and more. Bring your pillows and sleeping bags. Special guest, free giveaways for all attendees, and spin the hub wheel! Stephen F. Austin, 701 Congress Avenue, Austin.
Friday Night Lights Screening - Saturday, from 6:30 - 10:30 p.m. ATX Television Festival will present a FREE outdoor Alamo Rolling Roadshow at Hotel San Jose. This event will include Friday Night Lights actors-turned-musicians playing live music, a screening of Explosions in the Sky's new video, and a screening of the pilot and finale of Friday Night Lights. Hotel San Jose, 1316 South Congress Avenue, Austin.

The Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum - Saturday, June 2.

Free admission - Saturday, from 2 - 6 p.m. The Museum offers FREE admission to the exhibits from 2 - 6 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month with First Saturdays. Visitors can also take advantage of the monthly thematic TEXplorations Family Story Time from 2 - 4 p.m. on First Saturdays. 1800 Congress Avenue, Austin
Free movie - Saturday at 3 p.m. Join the Austin Film Festival for a FREE screening of the classic film The Black Stallion, to kick off the annual Made in Texas Family Film Series, which offers a free family screening on the First Saturday of every month at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Texas Spirit Theater, 1800 Congress Avenue, Austin.

Hartman Concert in the Park - Sunday, June 3 at 7:30 p.m. In its tenth summer season, these FREE ensemble concerts take place in the Hartman Concert Park in front of the Long Center City Terrace and run on Sunday evenings through August 26th at 7:30 p.m. Each Sunday a different ensemble of the Austin Symphony will be featured. This Sunday, it will be the Strings. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and blanket and make it a group outing. Free Parking is available at One Texas Center located on Barton Springs Rd. at S. 1st St. The Long Center, 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin.

Bonus Fun in the 'Burbs:

Puss in Boots - Friday, June 1 at dark. Pre-movie entertainment starts at 7:30 p.m. Lakeview Pavilion at Old Settlers Park, 3300 Palm Valley Boulevard (off of Harrell Park Way, behind the Dell Diamond), Round Rock.
Kid Fish in Pflugerville - Saturday, June 2, from 9 a.m. - noon. FREE. Register on site. Held each year, on the first Saturday of June, Kid Fish hopes to teach children a deep appreciation for the sport of fishing as well as awareness and respect for the conservation of the environment and its natural resources. Lake Pflugerville, 18216 Weiss Lane, Pflugerville.

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

50 Free Anytime Adventures in Austin, Texas

2012-05-31T13:00:00.000-05:00

Explore the quirky wonderland that is the Cathedral of Junk.
Run around Ghost Town in Manor*.
Take your bike on a bumpy ride at the BMX park on 9th Street.
Dig for dino bones at the Austin Nature and Science Center.
Check out the impressive taxidermy displays and aquarium at Cabela’s in Buda.
Ride the saucer swings at Mueller Lake Park.
See the bats emerge from under Congress Avenue Bridge.
Climb the wooden forts in Georgetown's Creative Playscape.
Catch some free music on the Central Market patio, while kids burn off steam on the playground.
Head to a free Sunday morning kids’ show at Ruta Maya Coffee House.
Play your heart out at the brand new Play for All Abilities Park in Round Rock.
Explore the Asian Supermarket.
Take your skateboard to the downtown Austin Skate and BMX park.
Go for a romp at Children’s Playground in San Marcos.
Ride your bike around the Veloway.
Load up on fruits and veggies at a Farmer’s Market.
Take a docent-led tour at Laguna Gloria (suggested donation).
Climb Mount Bonnell.
Go on a self-led tour of the Texas Capitol.
Commune with the peacocks at Mayfield Park.
Enjoy the air-conditioned Texas Memorial Museum.
Visit the turtle pond on the UT campus.
Feed ducks at Mills Pond in Wells Branch.
Pet the cow statues in The Arboretum.
Visit the Austin Children’s Museum for free on Sundays, from 4 – 5 p.m.
Practice amateur Paleontology in Brushy Creek.
Take a hike in Wild Basin Preserve (suggested donation).
Touch a tank at the Texas Military Forces Museum at Camp Mabry.
Peruse modern art exhibits at AMOA-Arthouse at The Jones Center (suggested donation).
Pose for a family portrait in front of the "Greetings from Austin" mural.
Embark on a Historic Walking Tour.
Picnic in Zilker Park.
Head out on a creek expedition along the Barton Greenbelt.
Explore the Mexic-Arte Museum for free on Sundays.
Take the Family Nature Quest at McKinney Roughs Nature Park.
Dine at a local food trailer.
Navigate the incredible maze of costumes at Lucy in Disguise on South Congress.
Attend a Star Party on the UT campus.
Go on a scavenger hunt in The Blanton Museum of Art (free on Thursdays).
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the old-fashioned Big Top Candy Shop.
Wade in Bull Creek.
Give geocaching a try.
Attend storytime at BookPeople.
Buy lunch fixins at Whole Foods and eat by the playground on the rooftop plaza.
Tour a steam train.
B.Y.O.Kayak or swim in Lake Pflugerville.
Learn about famous Texans, like Stephen F. Austin, who were laid to rest at Texas State Cemetery.
Pile the kids into a red wagon at The Natural Gardener.
Take a dip in Barton Creek.
Visit the chickens at East Side Café.

*Yes, I know Manor is not within Austin city limits. Technically the title should be "50 Free Anytime Adventures in the Greater Austin Area," but that's not nearly as catchy.

Image credit: R We There Yet Mom?

School's Out Scavenger Hunt

2012-05-31T12:00:00.000-05:00

Is everyone out of school yet? Are you ready to kick off your summer? Spike and the Round Rock Express want to help you start your summer off right with a School's Out Scavenger Hunt Saturday, June 2, 2012.

Head on over to the Dell Diamond at 11 a.m. to pick up your stamp card and start the hunt. Then follow the clues to solve the mystery. The Express Street Team will be passing out small giveaways at each stop and all participants who complete the scavenger hunt will be entered into a drawing for the Grand Prize! The mystery must be solved by 2 p.m., so hurry!

For more information, follow the Round Rock Express on Facebook and Twitter.

Image credit: Round Rock Express via Facebook

Summer Kick Off Party at Lake Travis Library

2012-05-31T11:00:00.000-05:00

Come kick off the Lake Travis Library's summer reading program on Saturday, June 2, 2012, from 10:30 a.m. - noon on the library lawn. There will be face painting, bubbles, balloon animals, and a baby animal petting zoo courtesy of Tiny Tails to You! Stop by the library for refreshments, to sign up for the reading program, and to pick up enough reading logs to last you the whole summer!

Sign up for the Summer Reading Program and your name will be placed on the chart, then for each 10 books or 10 blocks of time you record on your time log or title log, a star will be placed by your name. Reach the goal of 5 stars and you will receive a Reading Certificate signed by the Governor of Texas as well as other prizes.

The library has a ton of fun stuff planned as a part of their summer program. Here are only a few highlights:

Thursday, June 7, 10:30 a.m. -- Flying Theatre Machine, special improv group for kids, at the Lakeway Activity Center.
Friday, June 8, 10:30 a.m. -- Clown Bonzo Crunch, Ringling Bros Circus Ambassador of Laughter, visits the library.
Thursday, June 14, 10:30 a.m. -- Tiny Tails to You! at the Briarcliff Community Center for a special interactive story time.
Saturday, June 16, 1 - 3 p.m. -- Stop by and make a special card for Father's day.
Wednesday, June 27, 3 p.m. -- Circus Chickendog comes to TexARTS.
Thursday, July 12 -- Mr. Johnny's interactive family music show at Briarcliff Community Center at 10:30 a.m. and TexARTS at 1:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 19 -- Wild Things Zoofari at Briarcliff Community Center at 10:30 a.m. and Lakeway Activity Center at 1:30 p.m.
Friday, July 27, 2 p.m. -- Summer Reading Program Finale with Magician Black Bert, prizes, and certificates for those who completed the reading program.

For the full calendar of summer activities at the Lake Travis Library, go here.

To see a roundup of 2012 Summer Reading Programs, go here. Happy reading!

Image credit: Lake Travis Community Library

2ND Street Soundcheck Music Festival

2012-05-31T10:00:00.000-05:00

This Saturday, June 2, 2012, marks the first 2ND Street Soundcheck, Austin's first ever philanthropic music festival. Presented by the 2ND Street District, Whole Planet Foundation, and Comfort the Children International (CTC), the 2ND Street Soundcheck will be a free, fun-loving downtown Austin celebration of social responsibility, philanthropy and live music, with hopes of inspiring local to global change and make a lasting impact on our communities.

From 1 - 7 p.m. in the 2nd Street District, Austinites can enjoy global cuisine and products from over 40 food vendors, restaurants, and brands, all raising awareness and funds for CTC’s community development work and Whole Planet Foundation’s poverty alleviation efforts.

You can even tune in to the event's Spotify playlist to get yourself pumped up for the day's performances! Here's the lineup:

1 p.m. -- Cowboy & Indian

2 p.m. -- Seryn

3 p.m. -- Ponderosa

4 p.m. -- Alpha Rev

5 p.m. -- Polica

6 p.m. -- Rogue Wave

In addition to enjoying the festival, those interested can sign up for fireside chats in the So Good Lounge, and dig deeper on issues surrounding microcredit, goal driven learning and community development.

The Amli Downtown garage (Lavaca between 2nd and 3rd) will have $5 parking during this event. The City Hall parking garage is usually free until 5 p.m., and $5 is you leave after that, but be aware they may have special event rates in place. Valet will be available for $7 at Lavaca and Cesar Chavez (III Forks), 3rd and San Antonio, and Colorado between 2nd and 3rd. For more parking info, go here.

For more information on the festival, visit the event page. To learn more about Comfort the Children, visit CTC International.

Image credit: 2nd Street Soundcheck

Lucas Miller at First Friday Family Fun Night

2012-05-31T09:18:00.000-05:00

Kaleidoscope Toys in Round Rock will host their 8th Annual Friday Family Fun Nights (FFFN) series this summer, kicking off June 1, 2012. Admission to these evenings of entertainment is one non-perishable food item per person for the Round Rock Area Food Bank.

Summer 2012 Schedule:

Friday, June 1 at 6:30 p.m. - Lucas Miller "The Singing Zoologist"
Friday, June 8 at 6:30 p.m. - J D Stewart Magic Dude
Friday, June 15 at 6:30 p.m. - Schave & Reilly Vaudeville comedians
Friday, June 22 at 6:30 p.m. - Mr. Puppet
Friday, June 29 at 6:30 p.m. - Circus Chickendog
Friday, July 6 at 6:30 p.m. - The Incredible Bubble Show
Friday, July 13 at 6:30 p.m. - Michael Hicks Zoo Show
Friday, July 20 at 6:30 p.m. - Bonzo Crunch Fool at Large
Friday, July 27 at 6:30 p.m. - Sarah Dinan and the Band
Friday, August 3 at 6:30 p.m. - Mr. Johnny and Sharon

You may also be interested in Kaleidoscope Toy's Summer Bridge Program. To participate, purchase the grade appropriate Summer Bridge book at Kaleidoscope Toys for your child. After your child completes the book, they may pick any toy (up to a $50 value) to purchase for 50% off.

Kaleidoscope Toys
1601 S IH35 Ste 325
Round Rock, TX 78664
(512) 388-5048

Trinity Street Players Present Blood Brothers

2012-05-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

Beginning June 1, 2012, the Trinity Street Players present the Austin premiere of Willy Russell's Blood Brothers. This acclaimed musical is the story of twin brothers separated at birth, whose paths cross one another years later. The show examines the nature vs. nurture debate as the twins’ different backgrounds take them to opposite ends of the social spectrum. When both twins fall in love with the same girl, the results are intense and deeply moving. The show has been running in London for over 25 years to packed houses and cheering crowds. See it for the first time in Austin, Texas at Trinity Street Players in the heart of downtown Austin!

The show is free and runs Fridays - Sundays, June 1 - 24. Show times can be viewed and reservations made through Eventbrite. Although walk-ins are welcome, the shows fill up fast, so it's best to reserve your ticket ahead of time. There will even be free childcare provided by the First Baptist Church of Austin on June 3, 9, and 16, but reservations are required. To schedule childcare, please call 512-476-2625.

For more information, visit the Trinity Street Players. You can also visit the event on Facebook and sign up for their mailing list so you can stay up to date on their productions.

Trinity Street Players
901 Trinity
Austin, TX 78701

Image credit: Trinity Street Players

Interactive Free Fun Map of Austin

2012-05-30T13:36:00.000-05:00

View Free Fun in Austin in a larger map

Austin is a happening town, with free fun hiding around virtually every corner. But, if you're not familiar with all the corners, it may be confusing trying to track that fun down. What you need is a map!

Jeanne and I have been hard at work cooking up an interactive map, to help you discover new adventures in your neck of the woods, and maybe a few that are worth the drive. Hopefully this handy tool will help you to discover some new spots to explore this summer.

The Free Fun in Austin map includes:

Playgrounds
Pools
Splash Pads
Museums
Farmer's Markets
Tourist Spots
Ponds and Lakes

Click on any icon to see photos of the location, as well as hyperlinks to more information. If you visit the full map in Google Maps, you will be able to see all of the attractions listed on the left, by category.

Almost everything on the map is free, but I couldn't resist sneaking in a few extra budget options. These, as well as museums which are only free at certain times, are denoted with a dollar sign in the title.

This map is by no means comprehensive. There are simply too many playgrounds in the greater Austin area to list every single one. But it's a start. We will continue to add to the map as we explore new neighborhoods!

Can't see the map above? Check it out in Google Maps.

Free Fun in Nearby Texas Towns

2012-05-30T11:00:00.000-05:00

Planning an in-state getaway this summer, or just looking for a little day-trip inspiration? Here are a few Texas blogs I follow to discover all that's happening in nearby cities. Check them out to learn about discounted and free local fun in other towns, as well as handy tips like where to feed the kids for free while on vacation.

Bastrop County

365 Things to do in Bastrop, Texas

Dallas/Fort Worth

Houston

Houston on the Cheap

New Braunfels

Mom Spot (on Facebook)
New Braunfels Macaroni Kid

San Antonio

Now it's your turn! I'd love to hear your recommendations. Which blogs should I be reading?

Spike's Whataburger Summer Tour (+ coupon)

2012-05-30T10:36:00.000-05:00

Come meet the Round Rock Express mascot, Spike, at participating Whataburger restaurants this summer. You will have a chance to win Round Rock Express game tickets and prizes from the Express and Whataburger.

Spike's Whataburger Summer Tour 2012:

Wednesday, May 30, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - 4640 Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock, TX
Wednesday, June 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - 8300 N. FM 620, Austin, TX 78726
Tuesday, June 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - 3706 DB Wood Drive, Georgetown, TX 78628
Wednesday, July 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - 14310-A IH-35, Austin, TX 78728
Tuesday, July 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - 6301 West Parmer Lane, Austin, TX 78729

Head over here to get a coupon for a free Whataburger with the purchase of a medium fries and a medium drink. The coupon expires June 15, 2012.

Teens Can Volunteer With Positive Footprint

2012-05-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

In those last couple of years of high school, most students need to complete a certain number of volunteer hours for college applications, but sometimes those opportunities can be hard to come by. Local organization Positive Footprint provides engaging, mentor facilitated volunteer events for high school students that benefit those in need in the Austin area.

Consistent volunteer work helps with everything from scholarship and college entrance applications, to high school student resumes, to creating healthier and happier people.

With Positive Footprint, student volunteers meet once a month to work alongside a local nonprofit. After the event they talk about what they learned, and even blog about it. In one year alone, students can earn anywhere from 60-100 hours of community service in this structured and consistent environment. With this experience, students enjoy working in their community alongside their peers; support nonprofits working to fight hunger, homelessness, educational disparities, and disease; and receive those valuable volunteer hours that colleges want to see.

To learn more about Positive Footprint, visit their website. Download their program overview (pdf) for more info on how to get involved, and have your high schooler fill out an application ASAP. Spots in the new groups fill up fast!

Image credit: Positive Footprint

National Trails Day 2012

2012-05-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

Austin is chock full of awesome trails, but sometimes they need a little maintaining! The American Hiking Society's National Trails Day, Saturday, June 2, 2012, increases awareness about trails and celebrates the hard work and support of many people and partners – including volunteers, land agencies, and outdoor minded businesses.

On Saturday, the Austin Parks Foundation, the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department, Hill Country Conservancy, and American Youthworks E-Corps, will host our 4th annual American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day volunteer workday on Barton Creek Greenbelt and trails throughout Central Austin. Volunteers will work hard on trails all morning, then be able to enjoy a Free Swim and Appreciation party at Barton Springs Pool, with lunch provided by the Hill Country Conservancy.

To register to volunteer at National Parks Day, visit the Austin Parks Foundation. Volunteers should be age 16 and up. Projects range from trail repair to erosion control, and there will even be a kiddie crew working to pick up trash near Barton Springs Pool (limited to 10 kids and 10 adults -- 1 child per adult). For all projects, volunteers should plan on wearing long pants and sturdy shoes. Projects begin from 8 - 9 a.m. and usually end around noon so volunteers can enjoy the appreciation party.

For more information, visit the Austin Parks Foundation.

Image credit: Austin Parks Foundation

Free Orange Chicken from Panda Express

2012-05-30T08:30:00.002-05:00

Visit Panda Express on Friday, June 1, 2012 after 9 p.m. to celebrate their summer hours. Print this coupon to take along and you can get a free single serving of Orange Chicken. No purchase necessary. You could always save your entrée for lunch on Saturday, if you're not a fan of eating late.

Another coupon currently being offered by Panda Express is this one, which gets you a free entrée item, with the purchase of a two-entrée plate and a drink. This coupon expires May 31, 2012.

Free Doughnuts on Friday, June 1, 2012

2012-05-30T08:20:00.002-05:00

Friday, June 1, 2012 is National Doughnut (Donut) Day. Celebrate with a free doughnut of any variety from Krispy Kreme or a free donut, with any drink purchase, from Dunkin' Donuts.

For more information on the Krispy Kreme promotion, click here. To see the Dunkin' Donuts deal, click here. Both deals list "at participating locations" in the fine print, so give your local store a call before heading over there.

SavingWithShellie.com Coupon Workshops

2012-05-29T12:00:00.000-05:00

You may not realize this, but the nationally renowned couponista Shellie Deringer, author of SavingWithShellie.com, lives right here in the Austin area. Her site was one of the very first of the deal blogs that got me hooked on couponing four years ago and she was the first person I contacted when I wanted to start a site of my own. She's a frugal rock star, y'all.

If you'd like to meet Shellie, and learn her deal hunting secrets, she's offering 2-hour Grocery Coupon Workshops around town this summer, starting Thursday, May 31, 2012. The workshops are $12, but Shellie has offered Free Fun in Austin readers a coupon! Enter the code FREEFUN12 when you sign up for one of the workshops and you will get $1 off.

So, what's great about these workshops, besides meeting Shellie? There will be door prizes! Plus, if you come early, you can participate in a coupon swap. Bring some coupons along so you can trade with other attendees. At the workshop, you will receive a workbook to take notes on how to shop effectively with coupons.

Topics discussed in the workshop include:

Strategic Grocery Shopping - Learn how to avoid common marketing traps at the grocery store, and shop smarter!
Realistic Couponing - See exactly how coupons work, how you can use them to save at least 50% on your groceries, understand your stores' policies, and keep all those awesome coupons organized!
Meal Planning Made Simple - Get practical help with how to plan out your menu to save the most money while providing healthy meals for your family!

In other words, you'll learn how to become a "real" couponer, as opposed to the extreme variety. Plus you'll get to meet Shellie. Have I said that too many times?

Head over here to see the schedule of Coupon Workshops. And don't forget to use your coupon code FREEFUN12 at checkout with Eventbrite to save $1.

This post contains an affiliate link, which means I may receive compensation for sharing the deal. For more information, check out the Free Fun in Austin Disclosure Policy.

3rd Annual Cash on the Green

2012-05-29T11:00:00.000-05:00

Red River Church is happy to be hosting the 3rd Annual Cash on the Green, a fun, Johnny Cash themed event that benefits the Shipe Park Pool Fund. Shipe Park Pool, in the heart of Hyde Park, is a hub of summer activity for the surrounding neighborhoods. The event will be held outdoors from 1 - 4 p.m. on June 3, 2012, at the corner of 45th and Red River, and is free and open to the public.

Live music will be provided by Paul Finley and the Band in Black, with refreshments from Gonzo Juice and Cielo Water. There will be an inflatable water slide to help the kiddos cool off, and lots of exhibitors from neighborhood organizations.

Cash donations benefit the Shipe Park Pool Fund/Friends of Shipe Park. Guests can also bring gently used books for donation to the Inside Books Project, an organization that strives to provide quality, relevant reading materials to Texas prisoners, free of charge.

Bring the family, a blanket, lawn chairs, and even your dog to the 3rd Annual Cash on the Green. Everyone is welcome!

For more information, visit Cash on the Green on Facebook or the Red River Church website.

Image credit: Cash on the Green via Facebook

Music for Kids 2012 Summer Concert Series

2012-05-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

One of the best things about living in Austin is the abundance of free live music, especially in the summer months. This summer the City of Austin Music Division and Austin Public Library have partnered to present Music for Kids, a six-week summer concert series that brings kid and family friendly performances by Austin musicians to area library locations. All shows are free and open to the public.

Music for Kids kicks off June 13, 2012, with Lucas Miller at the Manchaca Rd Branch, from 4 - 4:30 p.m (5500 Manchaca Rd). Miller has been performing for kids for over 20 years with his smart and silly tunes. Other performers include Courtney Sanchez, Neal Kassanoff, Gina Chavez, and even a few special performances by Marcia Ball, Sara Hickman, and Guy Forsyth.

Visit the Music for Kids schedule to see the whole lineup of performers, times, and locations.

Image credit: AustinTexas.gov

Free Organizer Kids Craft at Home Depot

2012-05-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

Stop by your local Home Depot on Saturday, June 2, 2012, for a free workshop where kids can make their own organizer. The organizer can be used to store toys or as a gift for Father's Day.

The Home Depot Kids Workshop is offered the first Saturday of every month at all Home Depot stores between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Designed for kids ages 5-12, the workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills, tool safety and instill a sense of pride and accomplishment. All kids get to keep their craft and receive a FREE Kids Workshop Apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement.

For more information, visit the Home Depot Kids Workshop website.

Phoenix Arising Aviation Academy Camps

2012-05-29T08:07:00.000-05:00

Phoenix Arising Aviation Academy is a non-profit organization that uses aviation to teach science, technology, engineering and math in a hands-on way that is exciting, engaging, relevant and fun! In preparation for the Academy's upcoming aviation summer camps, they are offering the chance for selected participants, ages 6-17, to attend a one week, half-day camp for free!

Do you know a child who would benefit from attending a summer aviation camp taught by licensed pilots and instructors (a $175 value) for FREE? If you would like to nominate a child to receive a free week of camp, send an essay detailing why the child would enjoy aviation camp, along with your contact information and selected camp, to info@phoenixaviation.org. Phoenix Arising Aviation Academy will compile the stories and choose the children that they feel will most benefit from their program. Camps run weekly from June 4 through August 10, 2012.

Phoenix Arising Aviation Academy now also offers birthday parties. IMAGINE.... you and your friends taking a tour all the way in New York City to see the Statue of Liberty, OR soar over the depths of the Grand Canyon, or even see the Golden Gate Bridge on the Pacific Coast. The choice is yours!

If you book your party with Phoenix Arising Aviation Academy, the Birthday Guest of Honor will receive a gift certificate for one FREE 30 minute private instruction session in the own RedBird full motion flight simulator with real certified pilot. This certificate can be used at any time after the reserved party date.

For more information on these programs, visit the Phoenix Arising Aviation Academy Facebook page or website. You may also contact the Academy by email at info@phoenixaviation.org or give them a call at (512) 588 -2359.

Brown Bag Lunch with Les Misérables Cast

2012-05-29T07:47:00.000-05:00

Les Misérables opens tonight at Bass Concert Hall and runs through Sunday, June 3, 2012. For a chance to visit with cast members of the show, join them for a Brown Bag Lunch at Austin History Center on Thursday, May 31, 2012 at noon. Bring your own lunch.

Austin History Center

810 Guadalupe St.

Austin, TX 78701

(512) 974-7480

Free ScottyRoo & Christini Kids Shows

2012-05-28T15:34:00.002-05:00

Children's performers ScottyRoo and Christini have two free shows coming up this week:

Saturday, June 2, 2012 at 10 a.m. - Bastrop 1832 Farmer's Market (1302 Chesnut Street, Bastrop)
Sunday, June 3, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. - Ruta Maya (3601 S Congress Avenue, Austin)

For more information, visit ScottyRoo on Facebook or at ScottyRoo.com.

Kids Eat Free at Chili's May 29 & 30, 2012

2012-05-28T15:25:00.000-05:00

Kids 12 and under can enjoy a free Kid's Meal from Chili's, with the purchase of an adult entrée, Tuesday, May 29 and Wednesday, May 30, 2012. Go here to print your coupon. You can get up to two free Kid's Meals per adult entrée ordered. Multiple redemptions per table are allowed.

To see where else kids eat free, check out the Free Food Calendar!

Texas Nature Challenge 2012

2012-05-28T12:00:00.000-05:00

If you're looking for fun, hands on activities to keep the kids busy this summer, take a look at the Texas Nature Challenge and give them a chance to explore the unique natural areas around Central Texas. The challenge just went live on Saturday, so get registered and get exploring!

The Texas Nature Challenge is a two month long game and competition for teams of families and friends to play by visiting and interacting with nature in Central Texas. You can register your team online (it's free) and find a listing of great state parks, nature centers, gardens, museums and environmental centers that your team can visit to experience the great outdoors. Challenge locations include Pedernales Falls State Park, Zilker Botanical Garden, Umlauf Sculpture Garden, McKinney Falls State Park and more. Free locations in Austin include Texas Memorial Museum, Austin Nature and Science Center, REI, Elisabet Ney Museum, and Sheffield Education Center. Check out the full challenge list here.

Teams must consist of at least 2 family members, one of which must be at least 18 and one under 18. The contest will feature challenges at the designated parks, forests, and recreation areas. At each site, participants complete activities designed for family fun and nature exploration. Participation prizes will be awarded at the closing ceremonies for the most sites visited, best scrapbook, best photo and more.

For more information and to register for the challenge, visit the Texas Nature Challenge. And don't forget to visit the official rules. All challenges must be completed and scrapbooks turned in by Saturday, July 28 at 5:00 p.m. Now get out and explore!

Image credit: Texas Nature Challenge

Deep Eddy 2012 Summer Splash Movie Series

2012-05-28T11:00:00.000-05:00

Beat the Heat at the “Summer Splash Movie Series” at Deep Eddy Pool

Cheap summer fun for Austin families

Austin TX, May 2012: Swimmers and sunbathers alike can rejoice in the fact that the Deep Eddy pool has reopened after undergoing extensive renovation. The construction team was careful to maintain the historic pool’s original design integrity while updating the facilities for today’s visitors. Among the updates were new wells for improved water circulation, a new concrete floor slab to fix cracks and leaking, and the addition of a gradual zero-depth entry for waders.

The reopening has come just in time for the Deep Eddy family-friendly summer tradition, the Summer Splash Movie Series hosted by the Austin Parks and Recreation Department and Blue Moon Cinemas. Since its inception in 2005, the series has brought a unique movie experience to families at a fraction of the cost of attending a traditional theatre. After a long day of being cooped up inside with the air conditioning blaring, the Summer Splash Series is a perfect way to relax and truly enjoy the Texas summer.

Movies at Deep Eddy are a long standing tradition dating back to the 1940’s. Today’s series has been gaining popularity since its inception in 2005. Fortunately, Blue Moon Cinemas partnership with the City of Austin has helped enhance the event further with their state-of-the-art outdoor cinema system delivering incredible sound and a crisp image on a giant 20’ x 11’ inflatable screen.

The city is excited to announce that they have expanded the series from 5 to 9 shows this summer. June 2nd kicks off the first show with Ghostbusters, staring Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd. The series will continue every Saturday from June 2nd-July 29th 2012 beginning at dusk. Pool-goers are encouraged to enjoy the show from the grassy slope, concrete steps, or bring their inner tube to float in the refreshing 70F water.

Admission fees cover both the movie and pool entry for the day.

FREE Infant Under 12 months
$1.00 Child 1 to 11 years
$2.00 Junior 12 to 17 years
$3.00 Adult 18 to 61 years
$1.00 Senior 62 years +

Movie Schedule

June 2 - Ghostbusters (PG)
June 9 - Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (G)
June 16 - Goonies (TV-14)
June 23 - Captain America (PG-13)
June 30 - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1(PG-13)
July 7 - The Adventures of Tintin (PG)
July 14 - Puss in Boots (PG)
July 21 - Kung Fu Panda (PG)
July 28 - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 (PG-13)

About Blue Moon Cinemas

Blue Moon Cinemas is a local, family-owned company that specializes in professional turn-key outdoor movie and event productions. The husband and wife duo founded the company in 2004 and were the leaders in bringing family-friendly outdoor cinema to Central Texas.

Blue Moon Cinemas has created a name for themselves by fostering relationships with companies and municipalities both large and small and providing unparalleled customer service. They invest in only the highest-quality professional sound and projection equipment. Blue Moon Cinemas has over 1,000 flawless events under their belt and has the expertise and equipment to run an event of any size.

To learn more please visit: www.bmcinemas.com or http://www.facebook.com/BlueMoonCinemas.

You may also be interested in:

Alamo Drafthouse Summer Kids Camp

Regal Summer Movie Express

Cinemark Movie Clubhouse

Summer Cinema at Hyatt

Summer Fun 2012

Hula Halau Kaepa Hawaiian Dance Company

2012-05-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

May is Asian Pacific Heritage Month, a celebration of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. In honor of this special month, the Austin Public Library and Tropical Productions invite the public to attend a dance performance by Hula Halau Kaepa Hawaiian Dance Company at 7 p.m. on May 30, 2012, at the Willie Mae Kirk Branch.

While there, you can also visit the Asian Pacific art, which will be on display at the the Willie Mae Kirk Branch through May 31, 2012. The exhibit features items on loan from the Keito Academy of Ethno Cultural Performing Arts, including sculptures, masks and other art from Hawaii, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, New Zealand, Easter Island, Australia, Japan, Philippines, China and other Pacific Islands.

The Hawaiian dance performance and Asian Pacific art exhibit are free and open to the public.

For more information please call 512-974-9920 or visit library.austintexas.gov.

Willie Mae Kirk Branch
3101 Oak Springs Dr.
Austin, TX

Image credit: APL