7 THINGS WE LOVE IN JUNE JULY&

Austin African American Book Festival

June 24, times TBA

Enjoy the good vibes at the Austin African American Book Festival, an interactive community gathering and cultural celebration of African American writers and their work. Through literary-based programming that includes author talks, book discussions, pop culture conversations, children’s activities, and more, the festival aims to promote creativity, activism, and positive change. 1161 Angelina St. | aaabookfest.org

Purple Party Casino Night

June 17, 6-10pm

Celebrate 21 years of excellence with the Latinitas crew and help raise money for the nonprofit, while enjoying food, drinks, auctions, casino play, and live music. The funds go directly to Camp Latinitas, a series of week-long day camps empowering girls and nonbinary students ages 9-14. Tickets are $75 for individuals and $125 for a pair.

2201 Aldrich St. | betterunite.com/latinitaspurplepartycasinonight

Juneteenth Celebration

June 17, 9:30am-9pm

Celebrate Juneteenth, which became a long-awaited city of Austin holiday in July 2020, by enjoying the annual parade and festival. The parade begins at 9:30 and goes until noon, leading guests to the additional festivities taking place at Rosewood and Boggy Creek parks. The event is free to attend.

2300 Rosewood Ave. | juneteenthcentraltexas.com

Noises Off

June 14-July 9, times vary

Plan a trip to ZACH Theatre for Noises Off, a comedy about a theatrical troupe performing their own comedy. Recommended for ages 10 and up, this show is sure to have everyone laughing as the cast shows a behind-the-scenes look at their own production. While showings will be available through July 9, special performances will take place on June 15 for Pride Night, June 17 for a Champagne Opening, and July 8 for an ASL/open-caption performance. 202 S Lamar Blvd. | zachtheatre.org

Movies in the Park

June 29, 7-10pm

Gather the family, and head to Govalle Neighborhood Park for Austin Parks Foundation’s Movies in the Park. Find a spot on the lawn with your favorite movie snacks, and enjoy the special showing of The Sandlot. The showing is free, and dogs, picnics, and lawn chairs are welcome. 5200 Bolm Rd. | austinparks.org

Big Bang Celebration

July 1, 8am-9pm

Celebrate the 4th of July a little early at Bastrop’s Big Bang Celebration. The day consists of a 5K and a kid’s one-mile race, followed by a party including a cornhole tournament, pet parade, a variety of prizes, and a market with sidewalk vendors selling handmade items. Festivities will conclude at dusk with a fireworks show. The event is free for all to enjoy.

1200 Willow St. | cityofbastrop. org/page/city.bigbang

Holistic Wellness Program

July 12, 6-7:30pm

Discover how to use meditation techniques to reduce stress during the free Holistic Wellness Program in partnership with the Emma S. Barrientos - Mexican American Cultural Center at the Carver Branch. From breath awareness exercises to guided relaxation, meditation can help clear away the information overload that builds up and contributes to stress. 1161 Angelina St. | library.austintx.gov

East Austin Art District’s Third Thursday

July 20, 6-9pm

Check out art close to home during East Austin Art District’s monthly self-guided tour. With 25+ visual arts and gallery venues on the map, the free event is a perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy art as well as explore the Eastside.

1152 San Bernard St. | artsparktx.org