The weekend may not kick off as the most exciting time this Friday night in Austin. That’s because everybody will be in Lyle. Despite it being Friday the 13th, the only bad luck going around will be in the pocketbooks. Here’s why:

1. Lyle Area Cancer Auction

The Lyle Area Cancer Auction is set for its 33rd round against cancer 6 p.m. Friday in little Lyle. And with a jar of pickles selling for $600 in the past, there will likely be no shortage of absurd purchases. But those purchases don’t seem so absurd at the end of the night. Last year, the event at the Lyle American Legion raised $138,000 to fight cancer. Perhaps someone will offer more pickles this time.

2. Christmas tree dropoff

It’s time to take down those Christmas trees for those who haven’t done so. And there’s no better time to do that than on Saturday — for people who have real trees, that is. Simply put trees on the curb in Austin and Pacelli students will dispose of them for free. They are accepting free-will offerings, however. So don’t retire that giving spirit for the season just yet.

3. Hy-Vee youngsters

Once again, Hy-Vee is going to show the youngsters how to buy the right foods and prepare them properly. The store is hosting its Eat Bright class from 4 to 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, which focuses on colorful foods. Kids from 4 to 6 years old are welcome to attend for $8. Wednesday’s discussion will focus on white and brown foods. White and dark chocolate are probably not on the list.

4. Southgate family night

Okay, so not everybody goes to Southgate Elementary, but for those who do, Thursday is their night. The school is hosting its family fun night from 6 to 7 p.m. for kids and parents alike. Who said kids are the only ones who can have fun at school anymore?

Other events

Be sure to watch the school calendars, parents, as kids have plenty of more exciting events to come, including another spelling bee (this time at Sumner), a field trip to the Hormel Institute, and who can forget the tried-and-true, colorful, non-stop Jump Rope for Heart?

Look to Reporter Matt Peterson’s column every Friday for more about upcoming events in Austin. For even more, check out the calendar on Page 4 every day in the print edition.