Grab the kids and text your friends: Falls Fest 2012 is Oct. 13 from 10-4 at McKinney Falls State Park. Activities were announced this week for the annual festival which is free after park admission and open to the public. 

This year’s archeology theme will feature flint knapping, archery, rock climbing, atlatl throwing, fishing, leather-working crafts, musket ball and shot making demonstrations, the Buffalo Soldiers, Dutch oven cooking, wilderness survival hikes, bird walks, a star gazing party, a raffle, contest prizes and more.

“Fall is a great time to be outdoors, and Falls Fest will offer something for everyone, from outdoor learning to hands on activities,” said park superintendent David Shirley. “Bring the whole family.”

Activity booths and areas will be open from 10-4 with food, drinks and live music throughout the day. Survival hikes will leave the Smith Visitor’s Center at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on a .8 mile loop lasting around half an hour each. Bird walks start at 7 a.m. and will continue throughout the day. The star party will begin after dusk on the Smith Visitor’s Center scenic overlook with telescopes and star charts provided.

Children 12 years of age and younger are admitted without charge. McKinney Falls is located in Austin’s backyard just off 183. The park is completely within the city limits of Austin and features two natural water falls, miles of hiking and biking trails, campgrounds and the newly-named City of Austin’s 2012 Tree of the Year “Old Baldy”.

Proceeds from the event go to the Friends of McKinney Falls State Park, a non-profit organization which works with the park on improvements and educational programs.

For more information on this event, or to register a group of 10 or more and for special raffle entry please contact amber.conrad@tpwd.state.tx.us or visit the event’s facebook page at www.facebook.com/FallsFestMcKinneyFallsSP.  To learn more about McKinney Falls visit www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/mckinney-falls.