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.

Sugar cookies can be a little fussy. They can get dry and crumbly. You generally have to refrigerate them for 2-3 hours before using and often the more you roll it out, the more useless the dough becomes. That is why I love this recipe. You can roll and re-roll this dough and every cookie will be be great. I rolled it out until all I had left was a pea size bit of dough. I ate it. What? You know you’d have eaten it, too!

This recipe comes from local cookie diva, Penny McConnell. Because of it’s versatility, it’s a great recipe to use with children and it requires no refrigeration! Needless to say, these would make great holiday gifts or hostess gifts for parties and everyone loved them at my cookie exchange!

Penny’s Butter Cookie Dough

Yield: 3-4 dozen cookies
Temperature: 325 degrees F

2 Cups butter, salted
2 Cups sugar, granulated
2 large eggs
4 Tablespoons pure vanilla
4 Tablespoons Almond (or other flavour) extract
6 Cups flour, all purpose
1 Tablespoon baking powder

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Prepare cookie sheets with kitchen parchment.
2. In mixer bowl, mix butter with sugar until smooth. Remember to just incorporate these ingredients, do not cream until light.
3. Add all liquid ingredients to bowl. This mixture will probably curdle but the finished dough will be just fine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix flour with baking powder.
5. Add the dry ingredients all at once to the mixer bowl and process until heavy dough forms.

This is quite a soft dough so don’t be afraid to use plenty of flour rolling it out, or roll it out on parchment paper and tear away the excess dough. Then just place the parchment on your cookie sheet and pop it straight in the oven. This makes for easy clean-up!

Penny mentioned that if your cookies come out inconsistent then you’re probably not thoroughly mixing your dough. She said your cookies should look almost uncooked with the bottoms being a slightly darker blond. I rolled mine out approximately 1/4 thick and cooked them for 12 minutes a pan.

>>>>>Page 2 - Penny’s Royal Icing
>>>>>Page 3 - Tips & Techniques for Icing your Cookies (Flood Filling)
>>>>>Page 4 - More Tips & Techniques (Dipping method)

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.

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

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

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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18th Annual Wild Ideas Holiday Event
When: Friday-Sunday: Dec 5, 6, 7
Friday and Saturday: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Sunday: Noon to 5 pm
Where: LBJ Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Avenue, Austin, texas
$$$: Free

The LBJ Wildflower Center offers eco-friendly shopping opportunities, along with a brush with some of the area’s premier artists at their Holiday Shopping Event. Enjoy free admission and special discounts on paintings, jewelry, apparel, wood products, and more.

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Peace In The Hood’ Outdoor Holiday Market
When: Saturday, December 6, 2008, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Where: South of Wm. Cannon and Westgate, 2831 Gettysburg Drive
$$$: Free Admission

Have a Relaxing Shopping Experience to great 60’s and 70’s peace music and enjoy a complimentary cup of kindness (hot wassail) to get you in the ”Peace on Earth’ mood!

See Made in the U.S.A. Artisan-made gifts : Peace jewelry, peace windchimes and garden stakes, stained glass peace signs, guitar hero player longsleeve tiedye guitar t-shirts in youth sizes, peace bracelets, peace suncatchers, peace bumper stickers, auto emblems, peace pins, peace buttons, embossed peace totes and t-shirts, dogs for peace and cats for peace t-shirts and MORE!

2831 Gettysburg Drive in South Austin-Directions below:

Just a few minutes south on Westgate from Wm.Cannon-Turn Left at 4-Way stop sign at Cameron Loop. Take your first left immediately after the speed hump at top of hill onto Gettysburg Drive. Go down Gettysburg 1.5 blocks and See Peace In The Hood Market on right at 2831 Gettysburg DR. 9am to 3pm - Y’all Come and help create some peace on earth!

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Weihnachtsmarkt in Austin
When: Saturday, December 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: German Free School, 507 East Tenth Street
$$$:

Invite your friends and join with GTHS members for our annual Weihnachtsmarkt at the German Free School, 507 East Tenth Street, in Austin. We will be selling a large selection of handcrafted wooden items imported from the Erzgebirge region of Germany – pyramids, nutcrackers, smokers etc. – and blown-glass ornaments, embroidered linens and much, much more, not to mention baked goods. Enjoy live performances of traditional German Christmas music and songs throughout the day and a special visit by Sankt Nikolaus. All sales on December 6 are tax-free! Extra Market Days will be Dec. 9, 10 & 11 from noon to 4 pm.and sales tax will be charged on these days.

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29th Annual Budafest
When: Saturday, Dec. 6th, 2008, 6pm
Where: Greenbelt and City Park, Buda, Tx
$$$: Free

Parade, Santa Claus, booths, entertainment, children’s rides and more. Parage at 9am; tree lighting at 6pm. Parking is plentiful in the lot behind the park pavilion, just follow the signs and pay a small fee to Project Graduation. For more information call (512) 295-1559.

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18th Annual St. Thomas Moore Christmas Bazaar
When: December 6th from 10:00am to 5:00 pm and Sunday, December 7th from 8:30 am – 2:00 PM
Where: St. Thomas Moore Parish Activity Center
$$$: Free

The show features a wide variety of arts and crafts by local artists. A silent auction is also featured. Bazaar proceeds are donated to Eagle’s Wings Retreat Center. For more information or if you are interested in participating as a vendor, please contact Beth Albee at beth@albees.com or (512)218-4587.

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Wheatsville Arts Festival
When: December 6-7, 10am-5:30pm
Where: Adams Park, 300 W. 30th Street
$$$: Free

The Wheatsville Arts Festival includes 75 artists and craftsmen with original work on display. Pick up a one-of-a-kind gift, or enjoy the live music and incredible food at this holiday event destination. Great fun and entertainment for the whole family!

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Acknowledge Me - DIY Crafts Market
When: Saturday, December 6, 8 to late
Where: Mohawk
$$$: $5 w/ Donation, $6 Without

A fest of people and things that deserve your attention, appreciation and…ahem…acknowledgment. Acknowledge Me is a D.I.Y Fest that brings together Austin’s Indie Crafters, Artists, Makers, Community Organizations, Social Justice Groups, and up-and-coming Local Bands.

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Holiday By The Tracks
When: Saturday, December 6, 10am-5:00pm
Where: 114 Central Ave, Elgin, Tx

An afternoon of art and artisans, shopping, music and photos with Santa, followed by a lighted Christmas parade at dusk.

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7th Annual Yule Fest Arts & Crafts Fair
When: December 6, 10:00 am-4:00 pm
December 7, 12:00 pm-3:00 pm
Where: Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church, 3315 El Salido Parkway, Cedar Park
$$$: FREE

This eclectic holiday event includes artwork, jewelry, knitwear, pottery and more. There will also be a Silent Auction, Bake Sale, and Concessions. Proceeds benefit Hope Alliance and childcare for the Women of LOUU Church.

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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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Laguna Gloria Holiday Art Festival
When: Saturday & Sunday, Dec. 12-13th, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Austin Museum of Art-Laguna Gloria, 3806 W. 35th St.
$$$: $7. 495-9224

More than 60 regional artists set up booths around the grounds in front of the historic 1916 Driscoll Villa and sell ceramics, wood, paintings, fiber, sculpture, photography, jewelry and glass, including the Driscoll Villa Christmas Ornament. Food, music and refreshments.

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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.

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.

Greetings Cakesters,

I don’t know about you guys but October was sure a busy month around here. We had Lorraine McKay’s workshops, the Texas ICES DOS in San Antonio and of course, Cake Show planning and more Cake Show planning! With the holidays now swiftly approaching, I don’t think things are going to slow down any time soon!

That Takes the Cake! Show News The mini-class schedule and mini-class instructor registration are both now online. We are feverishly working to bring the competition registration online next. Vendor registration has been online for a while now. If you know of an instructor or vendor who would be a good match for the cake show, please send them to our website. Registration is also open for our Celebrity Classes. If you sign up before the 26th you can still break your payments up over 4 months. Each month you’ll have one less month to make payments so sign up early for the lowest monthly payments. Debbie Brown’s class pictures are now online. For one class the members of Capital Confectioners voted for Debbie’s Indian Wedding Cake, a marvel of stacked pillow cakes atop a golden base and topped with the Indian elephant god, Ganesh. For the other class we chose the fabulous Persian Palace Cake pictured to the left. Choosing between these classes is sooo hard! Sign up early for low monthly payments!

Lorraine McKay Workshops Lorraine’s workshops were a huge success. Everyone left with fabulous pieces and and feeling like they’d been on a vacation. We kept Lorraine’s husband, Andy, busy running back and forth to Round Rock Donuts. We had two pregnant ladies and wouldn’t you just know it, those babies were calling out for our famous RR Donuts. No one else was complaining much either, for that matter. In fact, everyone had so much fun that we’ve convinced Lorraine to return next year for our DOS. We’ve set the date for Sunday, August 16th, 2009 and we’re working out the classes now. Lorraine will be teaching her Bride & Groom class again, only this time the Groom will be sporting top hat and tails instead of a kilt. We’ll let you know when registration opens.

Members of Capital Confectioners traveled to San Antonio to the ICES “Christmas Wedding” DOS last month to support our fellow cake friends. The DOS was organized by Texas ICES representatives, Jacque Benson, Yvette Humbert and Irene Hackbarth. Many excellent techniques were demonstrated including some Halloween favorites like a witch and easy marzipan pumpkins! Carol Fouts stayed on to teach her wonderful Sugar Shoes class, the next day. If you haven’t taken one of Carol’s classes, I’d highly recommend one. They make the most adorable baby shower cakes and her high heels make great ladies cakes as well as bachelorette cakes. A special thank you to Carol Ann Hughes for her invaluable assistance and to everyone who made an effort to attend. Visit Carol’s Website

Tip of the Month: Cleaning your cake dummies Is removing the old fondant from your cake dummy making you crazy? Here is a tip from our own Miss Janette Pfertner, Master Decorator and Sugar Artist. To clean a cake dummy, remove all the flowers and decorations and then stick it in the dishwasher. The dishwasher will remove all the fondant and leave you with a clean and sterile cake dummy for your next project!

Upcoming Events November 23rd Bronwen Weber Stand-up Santa Class at Cake Carousel December 6th: Cake Craft Shoppe’s 2nd Annual Gingerbread House Competition December 8th Bronwen Weber Sculpted Reindeer Class at Cake Craft Shoppe December 9th Bronwen Weber Sculpted Reindeer Class at Cake Craft Shoppe February 1: Texas ICES DOS in Dallas/Ft Worth February 28-1 March: Capital Confectioners That Takes the Cake! Sugar Art & Cake Competition March 2nd-5th: Capital Confectioners That Takes the Cake! Celebrity Classes April 19th: Southeast Texas Cake Club DOS w/ Rebecca Sutterby April 25-26th Sugar Wonders’ 5th Annual Cake and Sugar Art Show June 28: Frosting Creators 2009 DOS August 16th Capital Confectioners 2009 DOS October 3-4th Oklahoma State Sugar Art Show

Capital Confectioners Club Meetings A big Thank You to Jennifer Bartos of All in One Bake Shop for our October demonstration! Jennifer showed us a very cool technique for making fall leaves using of rice paper, leaf cookie cutters and Wilton Color Mist Sprays. They were beautiful and looked so real. Thank you also to Crystal Hamburg-Smith for our delicious treats. November’s Capital Confectioners meeting was held on November 11th. Crystal demonstrated her technique for making Christmas trees, just in time for the holidays. Carol brought peanut butter and jelly cupcakes and the best pumpkin cheesecake I’ve ever had. Yum! Thanks, Crystal and Carol! There will be no meeting for the month of December but we hope to see you all at our club Holiday Party on December 14th. Our next club meeting will be on January 13th, 2009 at: La Madeleine 3418 N. Lamar Austin, TX 78705 512-302-1486 Join Meetup.com to receive regular meeting notices.

If your least favorite part of Thanksgiving is cooking the bird then why not buy it cooked this year? There are several stores and restaurants that will do all or part of your holiday cooking for you. It’s easy, convenient and a lot less messy!

To gobble, gobble, gobble and not cook, cook, cook this holiday season. Here are some places you can obtain pre-cooked turkeys and all the fixins.

• Louisiana Longhorn Cafe
  Order by Phone: 512-248-2900 or Online
  200B E. Main Street
  Round Rock, TX
  
  This little gem of a cafe is located in Round Rock. They offer smoked or Cajun fried and either way it’s going to be finger-lickin good. They’ll even be open on Thanksgiving day from 11am-3pm. Don’t forget to order your pies, too!
• Greenberg Turkey Inc.
  221 McMurrey Dr.,
  Tyler, TX 75702
  (903) 595-0725
  
  I have yet to try a Greenberg Turkey but people who have just rave about them. They are apparently fantastic. They have been taking orders since 1940 and they’re still going strong. Order early.
• Popeyes, I’ve had their cajun fried turkeys and they are very good!
• Threadgill’s
  For just $129.95 you can feed a family of 8 from one of Austin’s favorite restaurants. Your Holiday Feast includes roast turkey or spiral cut ham, cornbread dressing, mashed taters, candied yams, green bean casserole, gravy, cranberry sauce, rolls and your choice of pumpkin or pecan pie. Can you say YUM?
• Luby’s, you can order an entire meal, complete with dressing, gravy, cranberry sauce and pies for a very reasonable price $58.99 to serve 4-6 or a feast to feed 10-12 for under $100. This would be a great choice for the budget conscious, you can barely buy all that food for that price, it even includes 2 pies.
• Barton Creek Spa & Resort
  8212 Barton Club Drive
  Austin, Texas
  1.866.572.7369
  
  Dinner for Six - $275+tax
  10-12 lb. traditional roast turkey
  cranberry relish w/ dried cherries
  cornbread sage dressing
  garlic whipped potatoes
  wild mushroom green bean casserole
  pecan candied yams
  house-made dinner rolls
  double apple Waldorf salad
  choice of one: Granny Smith apple, southern pecan or traditional pumpkin pie

  Feast for Ten also available for $395+tax

  
  
• HEB, turkeys or ham, just heat and serve. They have all the side dishes, too.
• Central Market, heck, you can order the whole meal! Not only that but you’re not limited to turkey. You can get duck, capon, turducken, yes…turducken, cornish game hen and even pheasant! Or, if you’d rather have seafood, you can get lobster, crab, shrimp and more. If you’re just looking for your basic, traditional Thanksgiving meal from the bird to the gravy, to the green beans to the cranberry sauce you can pick that up for right around $140 to feed 6-8 people. Not too bad really.
• Whole Foods, whether you want dinner for 2 or a dozen, Whole Foods can hook you up with the entire meal. They also have an option for Vegetarians! A complete traditional meal for 6-8 people will run you about $80, $120 to make your turkey organic.
• Bill Miller Bar-B-Q, ham or turkey with all the fixins and fresh baked pies, too.
  Small Party Pack - Complete Meal for 10
  (Broad-breasted turkey hen, hot and carved, 2 quarts cornbread dressing, 1 quart giblet gravy, 2 quarts green beans, 1 dozen dinner rolls, 1 9″ fresh baked pie, 1 gallon iced tea, plates, cups and set ups for 10)
  (Only $6.90 per person + tax) . . .$69.00
  
  Large Party Pack - Complete meal for 20
  (Broad-breasted turkey tom OR 1/2 Honey-glazed spiral cut ham, hot and carved, 4 quarts cornbread dressing, 2 quarts giblet gravy, 4 quarts green beans, 2 dozen dinner rolls, 2 9″ fresh baked pies, 2 gallons iced tea, plates, cups and set ups for 20)
  (Only $5.90 per person + tax) . . .$118.00
• Target Superstores
  All Locations?
  
  A full Turkey dinner (or choose Ham) with all the trimmings for $70. Includes your choice from 4 pie selections, Apple, Apple Berry Rhubarb, Bourbon Pecan or Pumpkin Pie. Feeds 8-10 people.
  
  Appetizers:
  
  * Stone Ground Wheat Crackers
  * Pumpkin Cheese Spread
  
  Main Course:
  
  * Fully Cooked Butter-Basted Turkey
  
  Side Dishes:
  
  * Homestyle Stuffing
  * Traditional Mashed Potatoes
  * Turkey Gravy
  * Americana Vegetable Blend
  * Green Bean Casserole
  * Cranberry Orange Walnut Relish
  * Ciabatta Rolls
  
  Bonus:
  
  * Signature Coffee
• More Great BBQ Places to get your bird:
  The Pit Barbeque
  Rudy’s BBQ, try their cream corn, it’s out of this world good.
  The Salt Lick, now with locations South and North. Seriously good BBQ!
• HoneyBaked Ham, they may be a chain but they make a mighty fine ham and I hear their turkey is also excellent.
• 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 your turkey, fried, roasted or smoked. 14-16lbs worth for $54.99. Take home just the turkey or order up some side dishes and pie or two to go along with it!

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!

If you’ve missed the old Excalibur Faire in Smithville, a new Faire is opening this weekend on the same grounds. I know I’ve missed Excalibur! If you make it out there please let us know how it compares.

Serendipity Haven Fantasy Festival

When: September 6-7th and 13-14th

10am till 7pm

Kids 5 and under: FREE

6 -12: $5.00

13 - 55: $10.00

56 and up: $8.00

First Responders Free with proper I.D.

$1.00 off if you come in FULL COSTUME (shoes included)

Pirate Weekend

September 20-21st

10am till ???

(18 and up ONLY!)

1st Weekend

“Dress like your favorite Fantasy/Fiction Character”.

There will be a costume contest with prizes Saturday and Sunday!!

1st place: $50.00 and 2 Season Passes

2nd place: @25.00 and 2 Season Passes

3rd place: 2 Season Pass

2nd Weekend

Musketeer Days!

The Kings Musketeers are journeying from far away to spend a weekend of relaxation

at the Haven!

The 3rd Weekend they are going to try something a little different and have an

18 and up only Pirate Invasion!!

So come hoist your Colors, and a Bottle as well, as we

stick it to the Landlubbers!

BYOB!!

Also, Serendipity Haven needs volunteers for all weekends. Come prepared to work and have a great time. For details, please contact Brandi.

Season Passes:

Adult Season Pass for 2008 - $45.00

Child Season Pass for 2008 - $30.00

Senior Season Pass for 208 - $35.00

Group Rates:

Buy Five (5) day passes get One (1) Free!

Serendipity Haven is located at the “OLD” Excalibur Site on the Rocky Hill Ranch in Smithville TX 45 miles from Austin on HWY 71. Take HWY 71 East to Smithville and turn north (left) on FM 153 and it is on the left. There is a link below to a Google map.

I’ve already mentioned Asia Fest and the Arts Run but if those don’t light your fire, how about a Folk Art Shop and Swap? If you love kitchy, nostalgic fun stuff or if you just love to look at other people’s stuff then this is your event. You’ll find jewelry, home decor, clothing, and more.

Folk Art Shop and Swap
When: 9am-1pm, Saturday, September 6th
Where: 502 W. Live Oak
$$$: Free.

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If you love to shop for bargains then you might want to continue on the the Palmer Event Center for Le Garage Sale. There you’ll find an array of Austin’s chicest boutiques offering their best deals in men, women and children’s clothing as well as new looks for your home.

Le Garage Sale
When: Sat.-Sun., Sept. 6-7, 11am-5pm
Where: Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Rd
$$$: $10 ($15, two-day pass).

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All that shopping is bound to work up an appetite so why not follow it up with some chili, BBQ and a little music? Lucky for you the Del Valle Independent School District is having a cook-off!

Outlaws and Ladies Cook-off
When: 10am-10pm, Saturday, 6 September
Where: The Waterhole Saloon, 5244 Hwy. 71 E., Del Valle.
$$$: Free ($100 to enter all events)

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Have a bit of fun, learn a bit of history and have a lovely walk this weekend at the Zilker Botanical Gardens with their Dinoland Exhibit. This weekend there will be a hatching! This is a kid friendly event and will even have storytelling by those awesome folk at BookPeople.

Dinoland
When: Saturday, Sept. 6 & Sunday, Sept. 7, 10 am - 5 pm
Where: Zilker Botanical Garden, 2100 Barton Springs Road
$$$: $5 Adults/$3 Kids

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For my geeky friends, this weekend brings a celebration for one of Austin’s favorite game stores, Dragon’s Lair. Help them celebrate 22 years of epic gaming, tournaments, competitions and fun, fun, fun! Bill Williams will be there to sign copies of his work.

Dragon Lair 22nd Anniversary Celebration
When: Fri.-Sun., Sept. 5-7
Where: Dragon’s Lair Comics & Fantasy, 6111 Burnet Rd, 454-2399
$$$: Free

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If you’re up for a bit of charity work, like to act and look rather scary then Scare for a Cure is looking for volunteers. This year’s Scare for a Cure haunted house will give its proceeds to college scholarships for students whose lives are affected by cancer. If you think you’re scary enough, then audition, and prove it. All would-be ghosts, goblins, and demons are invited.

Scare for a Cure Auditions
When: 2-5pm, Sunday, Sept. 7th
Where: Elks Lodge, 700 Dawson

If you’re looking for music events, check out the Austin Showlist, Do512 or Austin Sound!

When: September 6-7, 2008
Where: Texas Culinary Academy, 11400 Burnet Road
$$$:See Website

I attended this event last year and it was just a blast. As with last year, the event will kick off on Friday night with an amazing dinner. This year’s dinner will be a 6-course Pacific Sake Dinner and will be held at the Satay Restaurant. The Satay, if you’ve not been, is a one of my favorite restaurants in Austin. Owned and operated by Dr. Foo, the Satay is a gem. They have some of the best Thai curries in Austin and consistently good service, if sometimes a bit slow. However, we tend to rush our meals in this country and I find I always have time for a good conversation with my dinner guests.

Friday, September 5th:
Pacific Sake Dinner
Location: Ventana, 11400 Burnet Rd., Austin, TX 78758
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
$$$: $75 per person
Note: Tickets must be purchased in advance

Saturday’s activities will be held at the Texas Culinary Academy and will include a series of cooking classes for all ages.

$15 per class adults
$10 per class-child classes
$50 for all adult classes
$25 for all child classes

Sunday is a super fun day with the Iron Chef competition and will also be held at the Texas Culinary Academy. I really enjoyed this portion last year. In addition, there will be an Asian Market & Food Extravaganza. If it’s anything like last year there will be a wonderful assortment of food to try. If you’re a wine enthusiast you’ll be pleased to know that there will even be wine pairings.

$35 per adult (includes food)
$10 per child (6-12)

Saturday, September 6 @ 8:30 am
With Free Concert to Follow

+ Adults $27 | Children $20
Online registration closes September 5 at 10 pm.

The Race: The Arts Run begins and ends at the Paramount Theatre on Congress Avenue and consists of two races - a Kids K and an Adult 5K Fun Run/Walk. [More Info]

RACE DAY SCHEDULE
7:00 am - Packet and Chip Timer pick up begins
8:30 am - Kids K begins
8:45 am - 5K Run begins
8:50 am - 5K Fun Run/Walk begins
10:30 am - Free concert for Arts Run participants by White Ghost Shivers at the Paramount

Prizes: All registered participants will receive an Arts Run packet - includes a t-shirt and other fun goodies. Top runners will compete for prizes with the help of chip timing and every participant in the Kids K will receive a special prize. Plus, anyone can win with over fifteen fantastic door prizes given away following the run.

Music: Live music will be provided by Austin’s own Brooklyn Lane on Congress Avenue. Following the run, all participants will be treated to a free concert by the White Ghost Shivers inside the beautiful Paramount Theatre.

Costume Contest: Runners, walkers, sponsors and volunteers are strongly encouraged to participate dressed as their favorite stage or film star. Prizes will be awarded for the best costumes. Rumor has it that Audrey Hepburn, Elvis, Marilyn Monroe and Jane Fonda are set to make an appearance.

Food: After you’ve worked up a thirst and an appetite, Gatti’s Pizza will serve fresh pizza to everyone and Steaz will provide the beverages! Plus, plenty of Crystal Gyser bottled water will be available to keep you hydrated.

Cause: The Paramount Theatre brings more than 10,000 area youths to the Theatre each year as part of our youth outreach program. Many of those children gain admission for free and would otherwise be unable to attend the Theatre. Your registration helps us provide this and other services to our community.