Austin, TX

Residents should use the following guidelines when recycling their trees:

* All trees six feet or taller should be cut in half
* Remove all ornaments, decorations, and tree stand
* Do not place tree in a “tree bag” before setting on the curb
* Only real Christmas trees may be recycled

For the 173,000+ Pay-As-You-Throw customers served by Solid Waste Services, recycling a Christmas tree is as easy as setting it on the curb. Solid Waste Services will pick up all trees with yard trimmings on regularly scheduled collection days. They are then recycled along with yard trimmings to make Dillo Dirt™. If the tree is taller than six feet, it should be cut in half.

For more information, call 3-1-1 or visit www.austinrecycles.com.

Pay-As-You Throw Customers - Curbside Collection
Convenient curbside collection of Christmas trees for recycling is available for Austin’s Pay-As-You-Throw customers. Beginning on December 26th, trees will be collected with yard trimmings. Please set your tree at the curb by 6:30am on your yard trimmings collection day. Be sure to remove all decorations and the stand. Trees 6ft. tall or taller must be cut in half.

City residents who do not have City of Austin garbage service can recycle their trees by dropping them off in Zilker Park at the designated times. The City will accept trees at Zilker Park on the following dates:

Zilker Park Christmas Tree Recycling Drop Off
City of Austin, Zilker Park: Drop off Christmas trees by the Polo Fields, (just follow the signs). from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, December 28th, 2008 and Saturday/Sunday, January 3rd and 4th 2009 and Saturday, January 10th. No businesses.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28, 2008 (10 a.m. — 4 p.m.)
SATURDAY, JANUARY 3, 2009 (10 a.m. — 4 p.m.)
SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2009 (10 a.m. — 4 p.m.)
SATURDAY, JANUARY 10, 2009 (10 a.m. — 4 p.m.)

Map of Zilker Christmas Tree Drop-off Area:

→ ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS TREE DROP OFF SITES:

Other Travis County drop-off locations open from Dec. 28, 2006 – Jan. 6, 2009

• Del Valle Softball Complex, behind the Southwest Rural Center
• Manchaca Fire Hall, 1310 FM 1626
• RM 620 Low Water Crossing, Low Water Crossing Road
• TDS-Eco Depot, RM 620, east of Texas 71. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Closed Sundays
• Travis County Satellite Yard No. 1, Johnny Morris Road, one-half mile south of U.S. 290 East

Waste Management Landfill
9900 Giles Road, off of Highway
290 East

Dec. 26, 2008 – Jan. 6, 2009,
Mon. through Sat. with the exception of New Year’s Day.
Open 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays

→ Mulch will be available from January 17, 2009 on a first come, first serve basis.

For those of you outside of Austin (Pflugerville, Georgetown, Leander…) click here.

If you’re just getting around to taking the kids to see Santa and get pictures, you’re in luck, you still have just a couple of more opportunities:

Santa at Barton Creek Square
When: Daily 11/7/08 - 12/24/08
Where: Barton Creek Square, 2901 South Capital of Texas Highway
$$$: Free

Santa at Lakeline Mall
When: Daily 11/8/08 - 12/24/08
Where: Lakeline Mall, 11200 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park
$$$: Free

Santa at Highland Mall
When: Daily 11/22/08 - 12/24/08
Where: Highland Mall, 6001 Airport Boulevard, Austin
$$$: Free

Kids can visit with Santa in his village on the lower level near Men’s Dillard’s. Photo packages available for sale.

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Cowboy Christmas at Enchanted Springs Ranch
When: 20 - 21 Dec 2008
Where: Enchanted Springs Ranch, 242 Hwy 46 W, Boerne, TX. 830-249-8222
$$$: $12 adults, $6 kids (ages 3-12), Kids under 3 are free

An active western town and movie set Shows, hayrides, caroling, petting zoo and a Cowboy Santa highlight this fun event!

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Christmas Tidings at the French Legion
When: December 20, 2008, 10am-1pm
Where: The French Legation Museum, 802 San Marcos Street, Austin, TX
$$$: Free

The day will kick off with a visit from Pere Noel himself! Children of all ages are invited to visit from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Professional pictures from SMB Photography (www.smbphotography.biz) will be available for purchase on site. Time with Pere Noel will be FREE of charge.

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Free Photos with Santa
When: Dec. 20-21, Saturday 12-6p& Sunday 12-5p
Where: Mitchie Gallery, Lincoln Village Shopping Center, IH 35 N @ 290 Hwy W
$$$: FREE

Story Time for Kids, Refreshments & FREE Gift, Saturday, 1-2p. Mitchie’s Gallery specializes in
African & African American Fine Arts, Books, Cards, Calendars, Collectibles & Custom Framing

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>>>>>Page 3 - Stuff for Big Kids (Adults) to do. Yeah, that means you…

Last weekend before Christmas. I am almost done with my shopping. Finally! If you still have shopping to do you might want to know that there are still a few holiday bazaars going on:

8th Annual Blue Genie Art Bazaar
When: December 3rd through December 24th, 2008
Open at 10:00am Daily
• Sunday through Thursday 10am to 10pm
• Friday through Saturday 10am to Midnight
• Sunday December 24th 10am to 6pm
Where: Monarch Events Center, 6406 North IH–35, Suite 3100
$$$: Free

Featuring over 80 artists and artisans, and running for 22 consecutive days, this year’s Art Bazaar will offer Holiday shoppers the opportunity to purchase unique, one-of-a-kind gifts in time for Christmas.

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Armadillo Christmas Bazaar –
When: Dec. 12-24, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
Where: Austin Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 2, 500 E. César Chávez St. Enter on Trinity near 2nd Street. 512-447-1605
$$$: $3 weekdays before 7 p.m., $6 evenings and weekends

The 33rd annual Armadillo Christmas Bazaar will once again be at the Austin Convention Center. It remains the same truly Austin honky-tonk bar shopping experience that has made the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar one of the region’s most beloved holiday traditions - just a bigger venue.

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Keep Austin Bizarre
When: Dec. 12-23, 11am-11pm
Where: Palmer Event Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd.
$$$: Adults $5, 12 Day pass $25, Children under 12 Free

With an atmosphere true to Austin, the holiday shopping event will feature over 100 local artists and small businesses selling unique gifts and fine, hand crafted items at affordable prices. In addition, there will be tribal, improvisational and yogic dance performances, capoeira, circus acts, and resident musicians who play while patrons shop. This year more of the community has joined hands with Keep Austin Bizarre and will include performances by groups such as the JCC (Jewish Community Center), Girls School of Austin Orchestra, Mexican American Cultural Center, Amala Foundation, Lululemon Athletica, Crossfit Central Kids, and the Zilker Elementary School kid’s choir. In addition, the bazaar is supporting the non-profit Africa Bound Corporation. Food and drink, including a full bar, will be available.

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Etsy Holiday Bazaar
When: Fri.-Sun., Dec. 19-21
Where: Broken Neck, 4701 Red Bluff Ste. B.
$$$: $5 ($3, children)

Local bands all weekend, a skate demo on Saturday, and handmade items perfect for gifting as far as the eye can see. Everyone likes something handmade under the tree, especially when your hands were spared the work.

These are all great craft shows and bazaars that you won’t want to miss.

>>>>>Page 2 - Last chances to see Santa in 2008
>>>>>Page 3 - Stuff for Big Kids (Adults) to do. Yeah, that means you…

This is the last weekend for:

Pioneer Farm’s Candlelight Christmas Tours
When: December 5, 6, 12, and 13 6pm-10pm
Where: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Drive, Austin, Texas
$$$: Tickets $10 (over the age of 2)

Time travel to the 19th century. Hayrides will transport visitors to each of the historic home sites for an evening of entertainment, crafts, and games. At the German Immigrant’s cabin you’ll hear stories around the fire, sing carols around the pump organ in the Homestead parlor and string popcorn around the kitchen table, by the warmth of the wood stove, and enjoy the ambiance and hospitality of the Commercial Cotton Farm as the ladies welcome visitors to play parlor games as was the custom during holidays in the 1880’s.

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Luminations: A Winter Celebration
When: Sat.-Sun., Dec. 13-14
Where: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse
$$$: Bring two canned goods for the Capital Area Food Bank or a gift for Blue Santa

Enjoy gardens lighted with more than 3,000 luminarias, 5,000 twinkle lights and hammered copper torches and to listen to music of the season from local bands, quarters and choirs. Admission is free with two canned food items for the Capital Area Food Bank or a gift for Blue Santa.

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TCA Gingerbread House Competition
When: Saturday, December 13, 2008, Noon – 3:00 p.m.
Where:Texas Culinary Academy, 11400 Burnet Road, Ste. 2100
$$$: Free

TCA will host its seventh annual Gingerbread House Competition and Open House on Saturday, December 13. Everyone, from children to seasoned chefs, is encouraged to participate in both the Open House and the competition.

Judging will be based on overall appearance, creativity, difficulty, execution and consistency of theme. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place as well as “Favorite in Show.” Winners of the Gingerbread House Contest will be announced during the Open House. Winning entries will be on display through December 19 at TCA.

The Open House will include caroling, holiday cookie decorating for kids, holiday dessert demonstrations, a life size Gingerbread Santa House where visitors can have their photo taken with “Chef Santa,” and much more.

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Want something worthwhile to do this weekend? Here ya go:

Stuff Stockings with Elgin’s Angels
When: Sunday, Dec. 14th, 2-5pm.
Where: Elgin Public Library, 404 N. Main, Elgin, Tx

Volunteer to help fill stockings for abandoned, neglected, or abused children. Stocking stuff will be supplied, all they need are some holiday helping hands.

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Wassail Event
When: Sunday, December 14th, 6pm
Where: Sri Atmananda Memorial School, 4100 Red River, Austin, 78751
$$$: Donation: $10. Children 12 and under, free

Enjoy a magic evening of stories, carols, magic, mummers and morris dancing. Wassail 2008 1.pdf. Performers: Pratts Bottom Mummers, Thom the World Poet, magician John Maverick, Chuck Freeman, Rita Ricardo, Jenifer Thyssen, Jim Carpetas, Occasional Terpsichore Morris Dancers, Bucolics Anonymous Christmastyme Band, Jacobs IV and Aimee Zivin.

There is so much going on this weekend I barely no where to start. First off a couple of big holiday markets kick off this weekend. One of my faves:

Armadillo Christmas Bazaar –
When: Dec. 12-24, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
Where: Austin Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 2, 500 E. César Chávez St. Enter on Trinity near 2nd Street. 512-447-1605
$$$: $3 weekdays before 7 p.m., $6 evenings and weekends

The 33rd annual Armadillo Christmas Bazaar will once again be at the Austin Convention Center. It remains the same truly Austin honky-tonk bar shopping experience that has made the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar one of the region’s most beloved holiday traditions - just a bigger venue.

Keep Austin Bizarre
When: Dec. 12-23, 11am-11pm
Where: Palmer Event Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd.
$$$: Adults $5, 12 Day pass $25, Children under 12 Free

With an atmosphere true to Austin, the holiday shopping event will feature over 100 local artists and small businesses selling unique gifts and fine, hand crafted items at affordable prices. In addition, there will be tribal, improvisational and yogic dance performances, capoeira, circus acts, and resident musicians who play while patrons shop. This year more of the community has joined hands with Keep Austin Bizarre and will include performances by groups such as the JCC (Jewish Community Center), Girls School of Austin Orchestra, Mexican American Cultural Center, Amala Foundation, Lululemon Athletica, Crossfit Central Kids, and the Zilker Elementary School kid’s choir. In addition, the bazaar is supporting the non-profit Africa Bound Corporation. Food and drink, including a full bar, will be available.

Cherrywood Art Fair
When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 13, noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 14;
Where: Maplewood Elementary School, 3808 Maplewood Ave. (at East 38th Street)
$$$: Free

This totally groovy, totally cool holiday art event gathers some of the best local artisans, jewelry- and handbag-makers, ceramists and artists. All-day live music, children’s activities, food and nonstop fun. Free.

>>>>>>>Page 2: Even more things to do!

Looking for places offering breakfast with Santa? Here are a few I’ve found:

The Driskill
604 Brazos
Austin, TX 78701
When: Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008, 9-11 am
Where: Victorian Room
$$$: $16 Children; parents accompanying a child, $8
Reservations Required: 512-391-7121

Children, and their parents, enjoy an exciting buffet breakfast with Santa himself! (Santa will arrive aboard a vintage fire truck). Storytelling and games will be provided, as well as decorating a gingerbread house. (Service will be provided by the Banquets Department.) Menu includes:

Fresh fruit display

Blueberry French toast

Ham, mac & cheese breakfast casserole

Christmas breakfast sausage & potato casserole

Glazed ham

Sweet Treats from 1886 Bakery & Cafe

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Georgetown Breakfast with Santa
When: Saturday, December 13 2008, 8:00am - 11:00am
Where: New Central Fire Station 1, 301 Industrial Ave., Georgetown, TX
$$$: $6 (Free for disadvantaged families)
Contact: 930-3473

Enjoy a pancake and sausage breakfast prepared and served by Firefighters and Rotarians. Children explore fire trucks, visit with firefighters, and have their pictures taken with Santa. This event benefits the disadvantaged children in our community.

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Lakeway Resort & Spa, Brunch with Santa
When: Sunday, December 7th, 2008 from10:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Where: Travis Restaurant, 101 Lakeway Dr, Lakeway, TX 78734
$$$: $29 per person (adults), $14 per person (kids 6-11), Kids under 6 free
Reservations: 512.261.7323

A bit pricier than the others but the menu looks fabulous.

Live Music, Welcome Mimosas, Make your own Gingerbread House, and kids entertainment

fresh fruit and berries, assorted yogurts
granolas and assorted cereals
smoked salmon display with cream cheese
breakfast breads, bagels and pastries with flavored jams and preserves
oatmeal with condiments of brown sugar, cinnamon and raisins
plain scrambled eggs and scrambled eggs with sausage and potatoes
hickory bacon, sausage and breakfast potatoes
silver dollar pancakes and syrup

Carving Station

roasted prime rib with natural jus and creamy horseradish

Omelet Station

fresh eggs made to order
Condiments to Include:
diced ham, apple smoked bacon, chorizo sausage, sliced mushrooms, red and green peppers, baby spinach, shrimp,
diced tomatoes, diced jalapeños, diced sweet yellow onions, cheddar cheese, pepperjack cheese, freshly made salsa

Fried French Toast and Donut Bar

fried french toast stuffed with peanut butter and jelly with banana
chocolate and vanilla donut bar
Condiments to Include:
powder sugar, mixed berry compote, cinnamon sugar, sugar glaze, vanilla custard, little sprinkles

In Austin, Santa seems to come in a variety of colors. Blue, Brown and Orange, at least! If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities this Christmas you might just lend Santa a hand. Here are two ways you can help:

Orange Santa

Orange Santa began in 1994 as a program designed to foster a more caring university environment by providing help for members of the university community who have special needs during the holiday season. In December 2007 Orange Santa served 485 families, including 1,750 children.

We’re a bit too late to get involved with Orange Santa this year but please do keep them in mind for next year!

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Operation Blue Santa
4101 S. Industrial Blvd, Suite 260
Phone: 220-BLUE (220-2583)

Established in 1972 by the Austin Police Department, Blue Santa started small, helping about 20 people and distributing gifts from the trunk of a patrol car. That program now serves thousands and has grown to include the Texas National Guard, the Austin Fire Department, the Austin Parks and Recreation and Austin Energy.

Of course an operation of that scale needs plenty of elves!

All deliveries for 2008 will be made on December 20th. Starting at 8am volunteers from the Austin Police Dept, the Austin Fire Dept, Austin Parks & Recreation Dept, the Texas National Guard and the local community transform into elves and deliver to the families.

Click here for locations to drop off toys.

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Brown Santa
15400 Long Vista Drive, Suite 101
Phone: 247-2682

Like it’s predecessor, Blue Santa, Brown Santa started small with 25 families back in 1981. This year the operation hopes to serve 1200 families.

Brown Santa will need help wrapping presents, sorting food, making food boxes and loading our trucks for delivery. Loading of the trucks will be on Thursday December 18 from 2pm until done, and also loading on Friday December 19, after 5pm until done, we need adults for this task.

Brown Santa will be open thru December 20th, 2008.

Mon-Thurs 10am-8pm
Fri- Sat 9am-6pm
Sundays 12pm-6pm

If you would like to volunteer you will need to call to see what dates/times through the week are still available.

For more information visit their website.

It’s at this time of year when we stop to give thanks for all we have and how very lucky we are to be warm and safe and have a roof over our heads that feel the need to give a little something back to those less fortunate.

There are many ways in which we can do just that but I personally think there are few quite as rewarding as reaching out directly to another family in your own backyard.

The Christmas Bureau works as intermediaries to hook you up with families who need your help. Here is how you can sponsor a family in need:

SPONSOR A FAMILY: Sponsoring a family means providing a suitable uncooked holiday meal and toys for the children. We ask for you to contact the family within 24-48 hours and share with them the date and time you plan on delivering during the week before Christmas. You can sponsor a family three ways:

1. Visit our office at 7301 Burnet Road #105 (Burnet Rd/Greenlawn Pkwy. Tuesday Morning is the anchor tenant) and select a family;
2. Call our office at 453-3950 and a volunteer will select a family for you; or
3. Register as a sponsor online! Any individual or group interested in sponsoring a family will be able to register themselves as a sponsor, and search through the families still needing sponsors by zip code, family size, language spoken, or a combination of the three. (Note: you won’t see the list of families in need until you’ve registered.)

Once you have decided on a family or families to sponsor, call them at 453-3950 with the family number(s), and they will immediately assign you as the sponsor for those families. At that time, you can click on “Families I’m Sponsoring” to see the detailed contact information in order to arrange for delivery of the food and gifts.

A few more ways you can help out The Christmas Bureau:

ANSWER TELEPHONE CALLS: The Bureau will receive many calls from people wanting to sponsor a family. You can assist in answering their basic questions and match them with a family in need.

FILE APPLICATIONS: You can assist in filing the application numerically and alphabetically at our office.

>>>>>Page 2, click here for more volunteer opportunities for 2008

Salado Christmas Tree Farm
Address: 10211 Sam Neil Road, Salado, TX 76571
Phone: (254) 947-4477
Email: info@saladochristmastreefarm.com
Opens: Thanksgiving Friday through December 23
Hours: 10 AM - 8 PM

DIRECTIONS:
IH35 to FM2484 in Salado (exit #286). West on FM 2484 two miles to Sam-Neil Lane. Turn right and follow signs one-half mile to the farm.

TYPES OF TREES:
Afghan Pines (Elderica Pine) a long-needled with a natural Christmas tree shape. It is especially suited to our high pH soils and drought conditions. Leyland Cypress, a new introduction to the Christmas tree industry. It has a non-traditional but luxurious appearance, with soft foliage instead of the needles of the pine tree. Leylands are reproduced by cuttings, so there is none of the pollen that may cause problems for allergic individuals. For lovers of short-needled trees, they offer hand-selected FRASER FIRS from North Carolina. These beautiful mountain-grown trees offer traditionalists both the farm experience and a very familiar tree.

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The Silo Christmas Tree Farm
Address: 7617 Mcgregor Park Road, Temple, TX 76502
Phone: 254.986.7988
Email: mrgarber@embarqmail.com
Opens: Christmas Tree Sales Open the Saturday before Thanksgiving, November 22, 2008
Hours: Week Days - Noon until 5:30 PM, Week Ends - 10 AM until 5:30 PM

DIRECTIONS:


TYPES OF TREES:
Bring the family to “Choose and Cut” a 6ft-10ft Afghan pine for a traditional Christmas Tree.

All field trees are tagged with the prices starting at $36.00 and up according to the height of the trees. We furnish hand saws for you to cut the tree, or we can do it for you. Then we shake, bale and help you load the tree in to your vehicle. We also sell Christmas tree stands in several sizes.

You can also select a living Afghan pine tree that is potted in one or five gallon containers, and ready to plant in the yard after the holidays. Larger living trees are available sometimes; just call and ask.

>>> Return to Page 1

Now that Thanksgiving is over many of you will begin preparing for Christmas. Big on the list of “things to do” is finding the perfect Christmas tree. As you know, I’m all about “real” Christmas trees. Don’t give me any of those plastic, ugly trees missing the fresh smell of pine. If you want to be earth-friendly, buy a potted tree and re-plant it after Christmas.

Here is a list of Christmas Tree farms in the area:

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EVERGREEN FARMS CHRISTMAS TREES
Address: 242 Monkey Road, Elgin, Texas
Phone: 512-281-4833
Email: evergreen@evergreen-farms.com

Opens: Friday after Thanksgiving through December 24 at 3pm
Hours: Saturday & Sunday from 9 a.m. until dark
Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. until dark

TYPES OF TREES:
Virginia pine and Leyland Cypress are grown in the fields. Pre- cut Fraser fir trees from North Carolina are available near the gift shoppe. Check prices here.

DAILY: Evergreen Farms furnishes all the tools for cutting and harvesting the perfect tree. Poles for measuring the tree and saws for cutting are all furnished free of charge as well as cleaning and shaking the tree and finally the netting and rope for ease in transporting the tree.
After cutting the tree there are many games to entertain, including tetherball, hopscotch, bean bag toss and horseshoes. There is also a nature trail, farm animals and the gift shop.

WEEKENDS: Families can enjoy several more activities. Evergreen Farms keeps a campfire burning with free marshmallows, cider and coffee. After you pick your Christmas tree, enjoy pine cone painting and food from the concession stand, including the famous Elgin sausage.

DIRECTIONS:

From Austin:

East on 290—8 miles past Manor (before you get into Elgin), turn right on County Line Road. There is a Valero Gas Station and Sac n Pac at the corner. Go 2 miles and turn left on Monkey Road. The farm will be 2 miles down Monkey Road

From Bastrop:

95N—Turn left on 290; The first stop light by the Antique Mall, McDonalds turn right on Loop 109. After two blocks the road splits, take a right onto 1704. After two miles turn right onto Monkey Road and the farm will be about 1 miles down Monkey Road.

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ELGIN CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
Address: 120 Nature’s Way, off Roy Davis Rd., Elgin, TX
Phone: 512-281-5016
Open: Day after Thanksgiving through December 22nd
Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sunday: noon - 5:30 pm
Email: elginchristmas@sbcglobal.net

TYPES OF TREES:
Virginia pines, Loblolly pines, and Leyland Cypress. Pre-cut Frasier firs and potted Leyland Cypress Trees.

Organically grown trees. They claim to have the largest supply of Christmas trees in central Texas. They provide all the tools you’ll need to cut down your tree and they shake, clean and wrap it up to go. The selection of 9-12′ trees is limited so go early if you need a very tall tree. Christmas trees are half price for churches. They have a gift store.

DIRECTIONS:

From Austin

Take HWY 290 East from Austin - Through Elgin - Go approximately 1 mile past HWY 95 (Bastrop HWY) - Turn left on Roy Davis Rd. - Follow Signs

From Round Rock

Take HWY 79 East from Round Rock to HWY 95 South - Take 290 East through Elgin - Go approximately 1 mile past HWY 95 (Bastrop HWY) - Turn left on Roy Davis Rd. - Follow Signs

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LOMA ALTA CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
Address: 214 Loma Alta Drive, Smithville, Texas, 78957
Phone: (512) 360-2005
Email: lomaalta@flash.net
Opens: Thanksgiving Day afternoon until a couple of days before Christmas

DIRECTIONS:
About 6 miles east of Bastrop, your first landmark will be Duke’s Country store (a Mobile station) on the right side of the highway. Approximately a block and a half past Dukes on your left, you will see their sign on the corner of the Hwy 71 and Alum Creek Road.

TYPES OF TREES:
Virginia pine and Loblolly pine. Potted Virginia pine and Leyland Cypress.

Located in the beautiful Lost Pines region in Bastrop County, this farm is approximately 35 to 40 miles SE of Austin just off highway 71. Turn left on Alum Creek Road, and proceed 1 mile to the Loma Alta gate on your left. There are ducks and geese to feed, pine cones to collect, a picnic area to enjoy and you can even purchase wreaths made fresh daily. Trees are $4.75 per foot up to 12 feet. The cost above 12 feet is $5 per each additional foot. Trees are shaken, cleaned and for $1 baled.

>>> Proceed to Next Page

If the thought of Thanksgiving brings you visions of a filled with dirty dishes and leaves you exhausted for days then you might consider eating out this year. Many of Austin’s best restaurants are happy to do the work for you, leaving you free to enjoy your holiday. Here are some suggestions:

Hoover’s Cooking
2002 Manor Rd # C
Austin, TX 78722
(512) 479-5006

13376 Research Blvd #400 Austin, TX
(@ Anderson Mill Rd)
512 335 0300
Hours: 11am - 7pm
$$$: 15.49

If you’ve never been to Hoover’s, you’re in for a treat. Hoover’s serves up delicious and satisfying home cookin’. Their Thanksgiving day menu is very reasonably priced and has everything you could ask for plus a little more. Roast turkey, Cajun roast pork, Jamaican Jerk Chicken, Smoked Filet of Sirloin, Smoked Portabella Medley (Vegetarian Jambalaya & Gumbo) plus a tempting array of side dishes and desserts. This is a great place to go if you have a crowd and a tight budget.

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Bakehouse Restaurant & Bar
5404 Manchaca Blvd
Austin, Tx
Reservations: (512) 443-5167
Hours: 10am - midnight
$$$: Adults $12.95, Kids 6-12 $6.95

Unlimited servings, table service, no lines. Reservations recommended. Turkey, Ham, all the usual sides plus Strawberry Shortcake and Pumpkin Pie. Take out dinners available for $9.95.

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The Driskill
604 Brazos St.
Austin, Texas
Reservations: 512-391-7121 or Online
$$$: Not listed on their website

The Driskill Hotel’s Famous Grand Holiday Brunch offering on the Mezzanine floor. Enjoy a lavish holiday brunch or six course prix-fixe dinner with wine pairings. Or diners can head to the hotel’s 1886 Café and Bakery for lunch or a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

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III Forks
111 Lavaca Street
Austin, TX 78701
Reservations: (512) 474-1776
$$$: Adults 42.95, Children under 12 soup or salad, entrée, and dessert 14.95
Includes tea and coffee. Excludes tax and gratuity.

Open Thanksgiving Day 11 am - 5 pm. Special four course menu will be served. Slow Roasted Carved Turkey or Chateaubriand with Bordelaise Sauce. All the fixings, plus dessert.

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Dona Emilia’s
101 San Jacinto Blvd
Austin, TX 78701
Reservations: (512) 478-2520
$$$: $22.95 Adults - $10.95 Children 12 and under
Hours: 10:30 - 4pm

Thanksgiving Buffet featuring garden/fruit/pasta salads, appetizers of ceviche and empanadas, entrees of turkey, salmon, top sirloin, paella, and spinach enchiladas. Dessert selection including flan and tres leche.

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Four Seasons Hotel
98 San Jacinto Boulevard,
Austin, Texas
Reservations: (512) 685-8300
Seating from 11:00 am - 8:30 pm in TRIO
$75 for adults; $20 for children ages 6-11
Seating from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm in the Ballroom
$68 for adults; $20 for children ages 6-11

Thanksgiving Day Buffet. Appetizers & Salads, Seafood Station, Carving Station & Dessert Station. Entrees include: Hill Country-Style Braised Beef Rouladen, Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi Vera Cruz & Smoked Lamb Tenderloin Cassoulet.

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Austin Hyatt
208 Barton Springs Rd
Austin, TX 78704
Hours: 11:30am ~ 5:00 pm (last seating)
Includes Complimentary Champagne & Mimosa
Reservations Required: 512.480.2035
$$$: $52.00 for Adults, $27 5-12 years old, Complimentary 4 & Under
No Discounts or Coupons

Thanksgiving Buffet. Their menu looks fabulous and includes an Antipasto selection, Salad buffet, Seafood buffet, Hot entrees, a Carving station and a Dessert Station. This is just the carving station:

Carving Station
Roasted Prime Rib with Horseradish Crust & Wild Mushroom, Pancetta Ragout,
Assorted Mustards & Au Jus
Maple Glazed Ham, Java Red Eye Gravy & Biscuits
Roasted Turkey with Gravy & Corn-bread Stuffing

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Katz Deli
618 W 6th Street
Austin, TX 78701
Phone (512) 472-2037
Always Open!
$$$: $15.95 Adults, $6.95 Kids
No reservations needed or taken.

Turkey with all the fixings plus a few items on offer from their menu.

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McCormick & Schmick’s
401 Congress Avenue
Austin, Texas
Reservations recommended: (512) 236-9600 or (888) 344-6861
$$$: Turkey dinner $19.95 per person, ham dinner $18.95. Dessert is extra.
Hours: Serving from 11am - 9 pm.

Offering both their regular menu and Thanksgiving traditional dinners.

I am freezing today. I stepped out this evening to go bowling with friends and it actually smelled like winter outside. I put on socks and shoes today, leaving my sandals behind. I’ve got the urge to bake, too, which is also a sure sign of winter for me. I’ve heard this from several of my female friends. That’s not something you generally hear from men. Is this something we inherit from our mothers or is this some sort of internal clock?

The countdown toward Christmas is on, too. Thanksgiving is so late this year. I bet the retailers are chomping at the bit for the arrival of Black Friday. I spent Thursday working at the Junior League of Austin’s “Christmas Affair”, which I have to say, is spectacular this year. This holiday market is being held at the Palmer Event Center and is jam packed with every kind of vendor you could imagine. There is jewelry, art, food, novelty gifts, toys and more. In the center is a huge Christmas tree in the shape of the Eiffel Tower. I’d highly encourage you to pack up the family or grab a friend and go enjoy the shopping!

JLA’s Christmas Affair
When: November 19 - 23, 2008
Where: Palmer Event Center
$$$: $10 plus parking ($7) or shuttle from Barton Creek Mall for $3

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It’s hard to beat a headline like, “All You Can Eat Improv Comedy & Waffles”. The 7th annual Waffle Fest is a three-day improv comedy festival featuring the best of the Austin Improv scene. Each show includes ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT WAFFLES! Waffle Fest has been a huge success with happy comedy watchers downing over 6000 fresh baked waffles and 50 hours of improv comedy over the last six years. Come get syruped up and bask in the warm glow of Austin improv!!

7th Annual Waffle Fest
When: Nov. 20-22nd
Where: Hideout Theater
$$$: $10

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There are a couple of tree lighting ceremonies taking place this weekend:

TREE-LIGHTING CONCERT
When: Saturday, Nov. 22nd, 6pm
Where: The Domain, 11410 Century Oaks Terrace, 795-4230.

Dan Dyer, the Austin Girls Choir, and American Idol winner Jordin Sparks. 6pm.

TRIANGLE TREE-LIGHTING
When: Saturday, Nov. 22nd, 5-8:30pm.
Where: The Triangle, 4700 Guadalupe.

This family-friendly evening features performances, crafts, and a big jolly guy in a red suit. All this leading up to a tree-lighting. Proceeds go to Operation Blue Santa.

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On Sunday you won’t want to miss a great opportunity to help end hunger while filling your belly with warm soup served in beautiful bowls. Potters from all over Texas donate hand made bowls of every size, shape and color. Restaurants and bakeries all over town donate soup and bread. Musicians donate their time and talent. Your part is to show up, pick yourself a gorgeous bowl for which you’ll pay a mere $15. Your bowl will then be filled with a delectable soup. You’ll grab yourself some bread to go with it and kick back and enjoy the entertainment. The Empty Bowl Project is part of a nation-wide effort to raise money, awareness and to end hunger. Proceeds for this project go to the Capital Area Food Bank’s Kids Cafe Program. The Austin Empty Bowl Project will be held at the Mexican American Culture Center at 600 River Street in Austin, just off the hike and bike trail on Lake Ladybird, November 23, 2008. Get there early to pick out the coolest bowls!

The Empty Bowl Project
Sunday, November 23rd, 2008
Mexican American Culture Center
600 River Street, Austin, Tx
11:00 - 3:00pm

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A few Santa sightings for tomorrow:

Santa at Barton Creek Square
When: Daily 11/7/08 - 12/24/08
Where: Barton Creek Square, 2901 South Capital of Texas Highway
$$$: Free

Santa at Lakeline Mall
When: Daily 11/8/08 - 12/24/08
Where: Lakeline Mall, 11200 Lakeline Mall Drive, Cedar Park
$$$: Free

Santa at Highland Mall
When: Daily 11/22/08 - 12/24/08
Where: Highland Mall, 6001 Airport Boulevard, Austin
$$$: Free
Kids can visit with Santa in his village on the lower level near Men’s Dillard’s. Photo packages available for sale.

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The seventh annual E.A.S.T. event celebrates the visual arts in east Austin. This year, 250 artists will be opening their studios throughout the east side for a free two-day event. E.A.S.T. began in November 2003 as an artist-run initiative designed to highlight studios and galleries located in east Austin. It has grown by leaps and bounds but retains its original mission—to encourage creative dialogue among artists and their peers, as well as between artists and their city. E.A.S.T. is a self-guided tour. Maps to all the studios will be provided, and visitors can use the E.A.S.T. website and catalog to select which studios they would like to see. There are Capitol Metro bus routes throughout east Austin as well. Visit capmetro.org for routes and times The E.A.S.T. Tour Guide—a full-color book showing the work of every artist—will be available for free throughout Austin during the weeks leading up to the tour. This Guide will include a map, and will help you plot your course through East Austin, and let you preview the work you’ll see at each stop.

East Austin Studio Tour
When: November 22-November 23, 2008, 10am-5pm
Where: Multiple Locations
$$$: Free

Get out and vote tomorrow and you could be sitting back sipping a latte and munching on your super cool star spangled Krispie Kreme donuts for your efforts. Mmm… donuts!

I have a favorite saying, “If it’s for free, it’s for me!”

It’s true, Starbucks is offering you a free coffee just for voting.

So is Ben & Jerry’s. Mmm…a free scoop of ice cream for voting! 5-8pm on November 4th. Limit one per customer.

The fine folks at Krispie Kreme want your vote, too! Actually, the company doesn’t care who you vote for as long as you vote. On November 4, locations around the country will be handing out free star-shaped donuts with red, white and blue sprinkles to anyone with an “I Voted” sticker (we’re guessing other proof may be allowed, in case your polling place is out of stickers). The effort is non-partisan, so don’t worry about one of the candidates forking over a wad of leftover campaign money in some kind of weird get-out-the-vote effort. This is just about Krispy Kreme trying to get some foot traffic of its own.

Watch out, things are going to get a little hairy this weekend. That’s because this weekend is the Round Rock Hairy Man Festival. Now in it’s 14th year, the Hairy Man Festival is a benefit event that raises $20-35k a year in non-perishable food and cash for local charities. The festival includes an arts and crafts area with numerous artisans participating. Local civic groups, school clubs, homeowner associations, and charitable organizations raise funds through dozens of food and games booths. There are special performances and live music by local groups and organizations on the Festival Stage. Judged by local community leaders, the festival closes out with the legendary ‘Hairiest Man’ contest. Not to mention a $500 prize for the hairiest man!

The Hairy Man Festival
When: Saturday, October 4th from noon to 7pm
Where: Cat Hollow Park in Round Rock
$$$: 2 non-perishable food items or $2 per person to go to local food banks

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If you’re a beer lover this is your weekend. There are two fun events. The first is Independent Brewery’s 4th Anniversary Party. With live music, and the choicest Independence beers on tap, this is their way of saying thank you for making them a success. Free beer samples and a commemorative mug for only $10! There are no ATM’s there so remember to bring cash for merchandise, food, and to tip the bands.

Independence Brewery’s 4th Anniversary Party
When: Saturday, October 4th, 5-9 pm
Where: Independence Brewery, 3913 Todd Lane #607, Austin, TX 78744
$$$: Samples are free. Commemorative mugs are $10

Also up this weekend is the Flying Saucer’s Fall Brew Fest. With 5 beer tents and 20 excellent beers on draft, this is a beer lovers dream come true. There is no cover and they’ll be serving beer brats and pretzels, too!

The Flying Saucer’s Fall Brew Fest
When: Saturday, October 4th, noon-10 pm
Where: Flying Saucer, 814 W. 47th, Austin
$$$: No cover. 10 Punch Tasting Card for $15. You get to keep the glass!

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If you’re a food snob like me, or just like to cook then you may want to take advantage of Herb Fest. Learn your herb basics. No, not that kind of herb! Learn what herbs to grow best in Texas, ancient herbal remedies, and how to tell a good bug from a bad one.

Herb Fest
When: Saturday, October 4th, 9am-1pm.
Where: Sunset Valley Farmers Market, Toney Burger Center, 3200 Jones Rd
$$$: Free.

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Want an outdoor experience where visitors fish, shoot, kayak, rock climb, mountain bike, see and touch wildlife, learn about recreation in the Great Outdoors and see and buy the latest in outdoor gear and services. Well, you’re in luck! The Texas Parks & Wildlife Expo celebrates its seventeenth anniversary this Saturday and Sunday by celebrating the diversity of the outdoor experience in Texas. From camping and outdoor skills to shooting sports and fishing, from bird watching to paddle sports, Expo visitors have an opportunity to try their hands at two full days of fun in the outdoors.

The Texas Parks & Wildlife Expo
When: October 4th & 5th, 2008, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily
Where: Texas Parks and Wildlife Headquarters, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin
$$$: Free

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One of my favorite events is happening this weekend. It starts on Friday and that’s a great day to go because there are less people in attendance. If you love jewelry and all things sparkly, don’t miss this event. You’ll be absolutely amazed at how inexpensive gems are when you buy them unstrung. You’ll find aisles and aisles and more aisles of every imaginable gem and many you’ve never even heard of before. From loose gems to mounted gems, they’ve got it all going on! With exhibitors from around the world, this is the largest selection of jewelry you can find under one roof.

International Gem & Jewelry Show
When: 3, 4 & 5 October, 2008
Hours: Friday 12pm-6pm Saturday 10am-6pm Sunday 11am-5pm
Where: Palmer Event Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX
$$$: $7 ($6 with the special offer)

Click here to receive $1 off your entry price. Note: No strollers. No photography.

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Music lovers, have I got your event for this weekend! The music and related memorabilia available here, at one time, is larger than anywhere else in the US. Ranging from the 78’s of the 1930s to the latest compact discs of today, over one million 78s, 45s, LPs, CDs, cassettes, posters and collectibles (probably even a few 8-track tapes!) are in the auditorium. Over 300 different dealers from all over the USA and Europe are spread out over 50,000 square feet of floor space. The show is so big that to see everything takes most of the weekend, so if you’re in a hurry we have search announcements at 12, 2, and 4 o’clock from the concession area to help in locating specific items. Again, go Friday if you can, for the least amount of foot traffic.

The Austin Record Convention
When: 3, 4 & 5 October, 2008
Where: Crockett Event Center, 10601 N Lamar
$$$: Regular Admission $5
(Good for 2 days - Saturday October 4th and Sunday October 5th from 10am-6pm)

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If you’re up for a bit of a drive you might consider heading to Fredricksburg for their annual Oktoberfest. Three stages of continuous music, a hearty menu of delicious German and Mexican-American foods. Over a dozen vendors will be sizzling up fajitas, tacos, burgers, as well as a variety of sausage on a stick and plates with kraut, Cajun goodies, strudel, plus other scrumptious surprises. Adventurous tasters can sample over 30 varieties of domestic and imported beers. Oktoberfest is great fun for the youngsters as well. Kids can play to their heart’s content on the Rock Climbing Wall, Super Slide, Jumping Castle, and other fun games and activities right on the grounds. Over 45 juried artisans from across the state fill two big tents, offering their best arts and collectibles. In yet another tent, a select group of hill country artists will be selling their fine art to the public in a rare showing.

Fredricksburg Oktoberfest
When: Oct 03 - Oct 05, 2008, 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Where: Marktplatz, 100 West Main Street, Fredericksburg, Texas
$$$: $6.00 $1.00 for children 6-12, and under 6 free. 2 day pass $10.00. 3 day pass $15.00

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Here is one for the kids. Parents can learn about great local family friendly businesses while the kids enjoy great kids entertainment, kids workshops by Home Depot, and more that are available right here in the local area. In addition, The River will be on hand to keep the tunes rolling. You can think about planning your next kid’s party or maybe your next fundraiser or just enjoy some shopping with the kids. In addition, you can benefit local charities. It’s all good. Join us for a great day where we can all celebrate everything kid!!

Kidz Fall Fun Fest
When: Saturday, October 4th
Where: Arbor Walk, 10515 No Mopac Expressway
$$$: Free but donations are encouraged. Bring a can of non-perishable food or new/gently used clothing.

There are so many great events going on this weekend that I just can’t list them all. For music listings check out:

• Now Playing In Austin
• The Austin Showlist
• Austin Sound
• Do512

For more listings of things to do:

• Austin Chronicle
• Yelp
• ParentWise
• Texas Festivals & Events

Whatever you do, have a great weekend!

With just 48 hours to go until the opening of the 2009 ACL Fest, I’m sure the crowds have already begun arriving. Last year I wrote a fairly comprehensive Survival Guide but here is some useful information.

Wristbands:

As of today, the Zilker box office is OPEN. You can beat the crowds and redeem your 3-day passes for a wristband between now and Thursday between 3pm-8pm. Wristbands must be worn for entry into the park. Children 10 and under are free when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. Having your wristbands means you can slip into the wristband-only lines and cut down significantly on your wait. If you are unable to get your wristband early then you can redeem your tickets for a wristband at either entrance.

Zilker Box Office
2201 Barton Springs Rd
Austin, TX 78746

On Barton Springs Road, across from the Festival entrance.
Week-of Hours: Mon. 9/22 - Thurs, 9/25, 3pm-8pm
Show Days: Fri, 9/26 - Sun, 9/28, 10am-10pm

Transportation & Parking

I must stress to you that there is NO on-site parking. There are lots of bike racks so biking in is a great option. Otherwise you’ll definitely want to use the Shuttle. The Shuttle is FREE and you can catch it at Republic Park. Republic Park is located at 5th and Guadalupe. That, of course, means you need to find somewhere downtown to park your car. I had a great deal of luck parking across the street from Republic Park last year at the State Garage. Another Fri-Sat city office parking garage that works great is the one at South First & Barton Springs Rd. Park there and you can just walk to the festival. Those won’t work too well for Friday as people who work will be parked there but on Saturday and Sunday it’s open and ran me $5 a day. Extremely reasonable. Cap Metro will be picking up at various locations around town and you can visit their website for information on their routes. Here is a list of Downtown Austin parking garages. Parking will generally run you $5-10 a day. You also have the option of taking a cab or if you have a relative or friend who has pity on you then you might beg them to just drop you off. Click here to see the Cap Metro bus schedule.

Things you CAN take into the Fest:

You may bring in the following items:

• Blankets
• Umbrellas (small hand-held style)
• Soft-sided coolers
• Baby Strollers
• Portable/collapsible chair (individual units only; no “double-wide” connecting chairs)
• Regular-size/unframed backpacks
• Two factory sealed water bottles up to 1 liter each
• Empty Camelbak or other empty plastic container (ie, Nalgene bottle)
• Ice in soft-sided cooler or Camelbak. No large bags allowed.
• Binoculars
• Personal camera equipment (i.e. small digital cameras or point-and-click 35mm cameras). Cameras with any type of detachable lenses are prohibited.

Things you may NOT take into the Fest:

• Weapons of any kind
• Illegal substances (including narcotics) or drug paraphernalia (Um, yeah…)
• Framed or large backpacks
• Alcohol (alcohol will be sold at the Festival)
• Glass containers
• Food or beverages, except for factory-sealed water bottles
• Skateboards, scooters, or personal motorized vehicles
• Bicycles inside Festival grounds (bike racks are available near each entrance)
• Carts
• Large chains or spiked jewelry
• Fireworks
• Explosives
• Large umbrellas
• Non-collapsible chairs
• Hard-sided coolers
• Tents
• Pets (except service dogs)
• Video equipment: No video recording will be allowed.
• Professional still camera equipment (no detachable lenses, no tripods, big zooms, or commercial use rigs)
• Audio recording equipment
• No illegal vending is permitted. No unauthorized/unlicensed vendors allowed.
• Unauthorized solicitations, handbills, sampling, give-aways, etc
• Metal aerosol containers, including sunscreen

For some more in-depth information check out my previous guides:

Part 1 - What to Wear
Part 2 - What to Take
Part 3 - Getting There
Part 4 - A Quick Summary

Here is a look ahead at the weather: