A great theme song can get you into a film right from the beginning. Some soundtracks have even transcended the movies they came from and become cultural icons in their own right. In this article, we’ll share five examples of catchy movie theme songs:

"The Pink Panther"
This legendary smooth jazz theme by Henry Mancini written for the 1963 crime caper won three Grammy awards and hit the Billboard Top 10, and for good reason – it’s ridiculously catchy and you’ll have a hard time getting it out of your head.

"As Time Goes By"
Written by Herman Hupfield in 1931, this classic became famous in 1942 when Sam, played by Dooley Wilson in the film Casablanca, made it the film’s lyrical motif. An interesting bit of trivia is that “You must remember this / A kiss is just a kiss” isn’t the song’s opening – the film cut an entire verse before the chorus.

"My Heart Will Go On"
Celine Dion’s worldwide hit was originally composed as an instrumental by James Horner, but director James Cameron did not want vocals to be added to it. Writer Will Jennings composed lyrics anyways, and when Dion was convinced to do a demo tryout (a rarity for a singer of her stature), one of the most memorable movie songs ever.

"Mrs. Robinson"
Composed by Paul Simon for The Graduate, this was a rare occurrence of a pop star putting together a new song directly influenced by the plotline of a movie. Director Mike Nichols was a huge Simon & Garfunkel fan, paying big bucks for Simon to write three new songs for the movie. He only delivered one, but it was a classic.

"Theme From Shaft"
Isaac Hayes’s soundtrack to 70s classic Shaft is probably more famous than the film itself, replete with shimmering strings, funky drums, and one of the most famous call and response vocal parts of all time. 

The City of Austin has decided to bring back the Trail of lights, no matter how old you are this is always a fun time and is great with friends, family, and loved ones alike. Here are the dates for the trail of lights:
Theme Nights

Saturday, December 15th, 6:30 pm
Trail of Lights 5k Race Presented by Humana

The Trail of Lights 5k Presented by Humana will take participants past the Zilker Tree, through the Austin Nature and Science Center, and into the Trail of Lights the night before it opens to the public. Register with your family and friends today and celebrate the return of the Trail of Lights to the Austin community! Register Here

Sunday December 16th
GRAND OPENING Night

“Light It Up!” Special Opening Ceremony Activities at the Trial Head starting at 6:00 pm, doors open at 6:30pm
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers
Monday December 17th
Military Appreciation Night
Come out to support our service men and women tonight.
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers

Tuesday December 18th
Uniquely Austin Night
Who knows what you’ll see on the Trail tonight? One thing is certain, it’s sure to be unique!
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers
Wednesday December 19th
Heritage Night
Celebrating the many different heritages found in our diverse city.
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
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Thursday December 20th
School Spirit Night
Wear your school colors and show your school spirit at the Trail tonight!
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers
Friday December 21st
Caroling Night
presented by Samsung Austin Semiconductor

Come join us as we attempt to break the world record for the most carolers singing together!
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers

Saturday December 22nd
Santa/Elf Night
Show your holiday spirit! Don your favorite set of elf ears, Santa Hat, or reindeer antlers for a stroll down the Trail.
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers
Sunday December 23rd
GRAND FINALE Night
Last chance to see the lights- pack up the family and come on down for one last look!
Hours: 6:30 – 10:00 pm
See Performers

Text ATXLIGHT to 20222 to donate $10 to the Trail of Lights Giving Fund

Giving Fund
Make a donation to the Trail of Lights Giving Fund to support the 23 Trail of Lights nonprofit partners. Each $25 donation receives the Trail of Lights official wristband, giving wearers free shuttle rides and 10% off merchandise at the Trail of Lights.

Zoos are started for a variety of reasons—usually the animals come first, and a zoo is built to house them and educate the public about their lives. The Austin Zoo, however, was founded for a very different purpose. In 1990, a former goat ranch was purchased and renamed the Good Day Ranch, dedicated to taking in injured or abandoned animals in need of rehabilitation. Over the years, the ranch’s collection of animals has expanded exponentially. Starting out with mainly domestic animals, more and more exotic creatures were added until it was officially renamed the Austin Zoo in 1994. Now it is home to over 300 animals from 100 species, all rescued from or abandoned by their former owners. One of the biggest draws is the pair of Barbary lions, believed to be extinct in the wild, who are being used as a successful breeding family and have sired two cubs.

Austin Zoo
10807 Rawhide Trail
Austin, TX 78736
(512) 288-1490