Batfest
Austin, Texas

When: late August

Where: Activities take place along the Ann Richards Bridge (formerly the Congress Avenue Bridge) in Austin.

Each twilight from mid-March through November a trail of up to 1.5 million winged wonders leave their roost beneath the Congress Avenue bridge and streak across the capital city skyline in a show that's become a hit with Austin audiences. Forty thousand festival attendees swoop down on the city annuallyfor a weekend-long salute to Texas' temporary residents.

Entertainment: "The children of the night. What music they make!" Before the nocturnal guests of honor make an appearance, go batty over the bands that walk up to the mics on two stages. Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, and in past years such regional favorites as Ray Wylie Hubbard and Seth Walker have performed for the bat benefit.

Contests: From comic book caped crusaders and Bela Lugosi imitators to the best bat look-alikes around, contestants vamp on stage in an attempt to win first prize in a costume competition, while local restaurants and watering holes try to concoct the best "Batini," the festival's version of a martini.

Shopping: Search for a souvenir of your stay in Austin among the over 150 vendor booths brimming with bat-themed bargain. During your shopping spree, you can also

Children's Activities: Educational displays featuring trivia about Texas' night flyers will fascinate little ones, as will the cuddly day-dwelling critters at the petting zoo. Equine enthusiasts can saddle up for a pony ride, and little ones will love to hop aboard the hobbit-sized happy train for a short trip. A variety of amusement rides and bouncy houses help to give the festival a fun house feel.

For more information:
• visit www.roadwayevents.com