One of Austin's most influential and omnipresent nonprofits, KLRU, celebrates its landmark 50th anniversary this week. As Austin's PBS station, KLRU serves the community with programming fit for the whole family, as well as universally lauded contemporary shows that bring in the likes of Radiohead, Bon Iver and Arcade Fire.
"When public television started in Austin fifty years ago the goal was to inform, educate and enlighten," KLRU CEO and GM Bill Stotesbery tells CultureMap.
"We are proud that KLRU continues to enrich the community by providing programs such as Sesame Street that educate our children and Arts in Context that celebrate our creative community. Whether we are producing the nationally renowned Austin City Limits or convening a Civic Summit about creating a community of respect, KLRU strives to reflect Austin's spirit while inspiring people to learn."
To nurture that spirit, KLRU is hosting a wide variety of community events (many free!) this week, and all are invited for a block-wide party Sunday afternoon to help the organization blow out the birthday candles in its home of the Second Street District.
Monday, 7 p.m.
America Revealed screened; RSVP required
Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.
Spark Speaker Series: Miles Ludwig of Sesame Street; Buy tickets
Wednesday, 9 p.m.
Austin City Limits taping with Bon Iver; Sign up for tickets
Thursday, 7 p.m.
UT Blackademics; RSVP required
Friday, 4 p.m. + 7 p.m.
VOCES Oral History Project; Free, no RSVP
Materpiece Mystery!; RSVP required
Saturday, 10:30 a.m. + 1:30 p.m.
Dia de los Ninos/Dia de los Libros; Free, no RSVP
PBS Kids Go! Writing Contest; Free, no RSVP
Sunday, 12 p.m.
KLRU Birthday Party; Free, no RSVP
