Local cocktail impresario Dave Alan knows a thing or two about alcohol any time of year, but come winter, he takes a walk on the wild side. more ›

Not to point out the obvious Austinites, but did you know that the holidays are here? Of course you did. That's why you've traded your morning breakfast for gingerbread lattes! Your ironic Christmas sweaters are ready to be donned. Your television repeatedly offers goofy Chevy Chase and/or Tim Allen flicks. There's just one thing missing, and I think you know what it is: your holiday spirit(s). more ›

The Cherrywood Art Fair returns this weekend with work from more than 80 artists. As always, the Cherrywood fair is hosted by Maplewood Elementary (38 1/2 St. at Maplewood) and admission is free! Proceeds from Cherrywood's always impressive silent auction benefit the school and arts and landscaping programs in central East Austin. Stop by on Saturday between 10am and 6pm or on Sunday from noon to 6pm to enjoy art activities, workshops from the WonderCraft, artist demos, live music, and more. Look over the complete list of participating artists and make sure to read about the inspiring Little Artist/Big Artist program with work for sale at the fair. more ›

Yesterday we profiled some organizations that are providing services to our community's most needy who are looking for donations this holiday season. Today we're highlighting groups with volunteer opportunities that are just as helpful as cash donations. Although we might not have extra funds this year, many of us find ourselves underemployed with time to spare. We can't think of a better way to use up some of our free time, give back, feel useful, and gain some valuable experience. more ›

As we enter yet another recession-era holiday season, even more members of our community are looking for assistance and generosity. And, as we sit down to our computers on Monday to being our work week by reading our favorite local news and culture website, we're reminded of just how lucky we are. We can't claim to have endless bounty, but we do take great comfort from contributing charitably to great causes. Though out the week, the altruists at Austinist will be bringing you information about local organizations looking for donations, volunteers, and assistance this holiday season. We'll start things off by profiling a few groups that are providing services to some of the neediest members of our community. more ›

Each year there seem to be more craft fairs and art bazaars offering their locally, handmade goodness as an alternative to the mall shopping scene. We're certainly not complaining - it's hard for us to find holiday joy in line at Wal-Mart on X-mas Eve. We'll be bringing you more details about upcoming holiday art fairs in the coming weeks - until then, check out our rundown of the crafty happenings taking place this weekend. more ›