Join a ranger at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area on October 11, 2024, from 7 PM to 8:30 PM for an “Intro to Astro” session in the Dark Sky Park. This free event, included with a Day Pass or overnight camping reservation, offers a kid-friendly introduction to astronomy. Participants are encouraged to bring their own telescopes, binoculars, and lawn chairs for optimal viewing of celestial objects. The program will take place in Parking Lot 1. In case of severe weather or if no guests arrive within 10 minutes of the start time, the event may be canceled.

Join us for the Horns of Hope Gala, sponsored by Rhinory and held at the National Museum of the Pacific War’s Nimitz Gallery on October 11, 2024, starting at 5:30 p.m. This elegant event supports Rhinory’s legacy breeding barn and expansion project and features a food and wine pairing, an auction, and opportunities to network with wildlife enthusiasts. Ticket prices range from $185 to $1400; details are available on the website. Your attendance will significantly impact the future of rhinos.

Experience the art of glassblowing with the “Make Your Own Ornament” sessions at Enchanted Fredericksburg Glassblowing, hosted by Purple Shack Makers Gallery. Running weekly on Fridays from October 11, 2024, to December 27, 2024, from Noon to 6 PM, this $85 per person experience allows you to create a unique hand-blown glass ornament under the guidance of resident glassblower Paul. Choose colors, shape your ornament, and enjoy a personalized session. Minimum age is 8 years old. Book a 10-15 minute private session or a group package for up to 6 people.

The 31st Texas Mesquite Arts Festival takes place from October 11 to October 13, 2024, at Marktplatz, 100 block of W. Main, Fredericksburg, TX 78624. The festival, running daily with hours from Noon to 6 PM on Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM on Saturday, and 10 AM to 4 PM on Sunday, is free to attend. It features the world’s top mesquite wood artisans showcasing handcrafted items, including furniture, lamps, ornaments, and vases.

Rockbox Theater hosts Texas’s Best Songsmiths, a free monthly live music event featuring Songwriter TX with hosts Brent Ryan and Boone Holding. The show takes place on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7 PM at 109 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg, TX 78624, and is broadcast live on 99.1 The BUCK.

Rockbox Theater presents Texas’s Best Songsmiths, a free live music event hosted by Brent Ryan and Boone Holding, broadcasted on JAM Broadcasting’s 99.1 The BUCK. This show takes place monthly on the 2nd Wednesday at 7 PM. Enjoy local songwriters at 109 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg, TX 78624.

Join Fischer & Wieser Culinary Adventure Cooking School for a hands-on French Cuisine Cooking Class on October 9, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Learn to create classic French dishes like Coq au Vin and Couscous, and discover cooking tips to bring the flavors of France into your kitchen. The class includes dinner and is led by professional chef instructors in a fun, interactive setting. Price: $100 per person.

Join Fischer & Wieser Culinary Adventure Cooking School for a hands-on “Italian Brunch Cooking Class” on October 8, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Enjoy a 2.5 to 3-hour interactive experience where you’ll explore the “Flavors of Italy,” savor a delicious dinner paired with wines, and receive a recipe booklet to recreate the dishes at home. Price is $110 per person.

Join the free 8-week “Writes Workshop” at Pioneer Memorial Library, offering writing workshops and author events for young adults and adults. Sessions are held from 3 PM to 4 PM on select dates from October 7 to December 16, 2024. Drop-ins are welcome.

Join the “Wing Walks” at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for an introductory birdwatching experience on select Sundays from September 15, 2024, to January 26, 2025, from 9 AM to 10 AM. Enjoy a relaxing 0.5-mile walk along the shaded Loop Trail with a ranger or volunteer. Don’t forget to bring binoculars, water, sun protection, and bird guides. The event is $8 for adults, free for kids 12 and under, or included with a Texas State Parks Pass. Meet at the Loop Trailhead in parking lot 1.