Thanks to the Red Bull Music Academy for hosting several DJs and bands tonight. The event was fun, and Empire Control Room is a venue that reminds me of old Austin. No frills, outdoor stages, and a super relaxed atmosphere that just allows the party to flow as it needs to.
My second stop in search of Christmas cheer tonight was at the Four Seasons Hotel, where they have a gingerbread village on display. It has the theme of a western town, everything is edible, and it raises money for a local charity. The gingerbread man above is a little scruffy because he has just emerged from the town Saloon.
I was downtown for an event this evening, and I decided to wander off for a bit in search of Christmas cheer. The Christmas tree at the Driskill Hotel was beautiful as always.
I am excited to be joining the crowds tonight. Just got a last minute ticket!
The Austin Aquarium is always a fun place to visit. My favorites today were the Clownfish and the Rainbow Lorikeets. I could watch the Clownfish play around the Sea Anemone for hours as they swim in and out of the tentacles. The Lorikeets are also very playful, but in a much different way. They will fly over to greet you, perch on your hand for a while, and pose for a photo or two. When it becomes feeding time, they gather around the bowl and all partake of dinner in a mostly orderly fashion. These creatures and the others at the Aquarium make for a great day.
Well, at least there was Jennifer Lawrence. Oh, and the theater had a groovy Christmas Tree.
As the sun began its early descent, I embarked down the hill below the North San Gabriel Dam. This is a nice, paved trail that takes you to the base of the Dam where the rushing water outlet allows the San Gabriel River to continue on its path through Georgetown. When the days are longer, I will return to explore more of this area.
This one is called the Dirt Doughnut – “Raised yeast doughnut with vanilla frosting and Oreos!” So many flavors to try…
Some pretty yummy chicken can be found at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. One of the most casual joints in downtown Austin. My dinner consisted of chicken tenders, baked beans, mac & cheese, sweet tea, chocolate chess pie, and vanilla Blue Bell ice cream. A perfect Southern meal.
earthrobert 