I thought it would be fun. You know bingo is a game. But this event space isn't for fun it's for winning cash. My bad for misunderstanding. Really it's an outlet for gambling. Seriously hush tones so people can play their 30 plus cards. Crazy money to be won if you're looking to gamble. read more

No major problems, but the small problems are plentiful: (1) The cashier (where you buy your cards) is in the smoking section. (2) There's no menu at the cashier for card prices. (3) The website lists prices for the computer tablets (which hold 66 cards), but not for paper cards. (When I went, it was $2 for of paper, which had 12 cards for each of the five games in the session.) (4) If you win, they deduct 5% for taxes. That would be fine, except it's not explained anywhere, not on the website, not on the instruction sheets at the tables, not on signage anywhere. (5) There is no vibe. It's certainly not a festive atmosphere, It's pretty dead. read more

Went for my birthday, it was fun. Older building but employees were helpful and pleasant. I would definitely come back! Ooh and my friend won from the pull tabs!!! read more

We didn't win but we had a blast! So happy that the non-smoking room really doesn't smell like smoke! We played just one session, it was only $6 ! $6!! Even buying Dabbers and snacks we only spent 20 bucks! Plenty of parking and very friendly employees happy to introduce you to the game of bingo! Cash only, so be prepared. There is an all on site, over by the snack bar. read more

Big Star Bingo - Bingo Halls Near Me - Austin, Texas

The food was nasty how do give Nachos with the meat not seasoned and the food in general sucks. I've been to other bingo places and the food be delicious. Get new people that want to make money. You make good food they will sell out. read more

Had fun. Workers are very friendly and so where other players. Food was good. Price was good. Highly recommended this place

I do NOT understanding how the same people can win everytime and some people never win. I can buy $150 in computers and not win a dime, but others day after day win and win and win. They win on the Computer, horse race and pull tabs. Is there a club you have to be in to win? Please explain, not understanding. read more

I do NOT like or understand BINGO. It actually really stresses me out. But I still want to give this place a 5 star rating because they are just so darn nice. All the employees were super welcoming, helpful, and did their best to make it fun. I'm just really bad at the game. LOL read more

Big Star Bingo - Bingo! - Bingo Halls Near Me - Austin, Texas

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My bf and I decided to randomly go here one day as a date night idea. Turned out to be a pretty fun place! They have a smoking and non smoking area, so that was really nice. We sat in the non smoking rooms and it was exactly that; no smell of smoke at all We didn't really know the rules going into this but the guy at the register was super friendly and helpful in helping us pick which game to play. There are also little rule books and instructions for each game on the tables so that was nice. The prices were pretty reasonable in my opinion. We paid $24 between the two of us and we each got 5 giant bingo pages. Each page has 12 individual bingo cards on them so in total we both got 120 bingo cards to play during the 5 games of bingo. Although we didn't win anything it was still a lot of fun! The games can go on for a while which is a great way to spend a few hours. There's also a snack bar so you can refuel with drinks or a burger or even some ice cream! It's defiantly worth going to if you've never played bingo. Would make a great date night or even somewhere to take your grandma :) And they even let you keep your daubers! Oh and I heard they let you play a game for 1¢ on your bday! read more

Big Star Bingo - $12 for 5 of these! Pretty good deal if you ask me - Bingo Halls Near Me - Austin, Texas

10601 N. Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753 I recently moved here in aUstin a few months ago and I seen a request for works at the location above I was hired on the spot feeling like I had accomplished something first day I starTed was amazing only problem was that I wasnt trained fully I didn't even know bingo halls allowed kids to be inside so I'm walking around selling tabs and one of them was called cowgirl Betty now I'm from New Orleans so I'm good with words and my accent don't make it no better so as I'm going around I'm yelliN Cow GIRL BETTY SHE HOT AND READY..or COW GIRL BETTY SHE AH MAKE YA BALLS SWEATY MIND U THEY NEVER TOLD ME A pacific way to call the told or trained on how to sell the mini tabs. read more

This is not the bingo of your childhood. This is hard-core with lots of fast talking, questionable fashion, intense focus (and silence!) from the regulars, and sensory overload. After we purchased our bingo sheets and daubers, we settled at a table, nervously laughing and trying to figure out what the hell was going on. Thankfully, a sweet angel of a woman plopped down next to us and took pity on our newbie souls. She explained the rules, the free numbers, the horse races, and the pull tabs. Oh, and invited us to join her at an after-hours gambling room...a kind gesture, but one that we declined! A few pointers: 1) There is a non-smoking entrance on the south side of the building. 2) They seem very loose about bringing in outside food and drink, so BYO-all the things. 3) Don't expect a rollicking party atmosphere - these folks come to play. 4) Just go with the flow...the cultural experience is nearly as entertaining as the actual bingo games. read more

Really nice place to play. Equipment was up to date and modern. Staff was awesome. Games were great. First time there and won !!! read more

Big Star Bingo - Picture of the modern board and monitor. Really nice place. - Bingo Halls Near Me - Austin, Texas

Never played bingo at this type of level before so was a little unsure what to expect going in to this. If you are concerned about all the different games and rules just go to the desk and say so and the super nice person will tell you all the rules. It's obvious they've done it a thousand times before so don't feel like you're the weird one out. There's also rule papers on each table. If you were concerned how it may smell it being a smoke friendly place the non-smoking door/area is blocked off by glass/walls so i had no idea there was even a smoking section in the building. $6 for about an hour session. Great deal. They only take cash. read more

Finally got the chance to give this bingo thing a shot after driving past this location plenty of times on the 183. We had never played bingo before at an official location and were unsure of what to expect and how hard it would be to get started. The front desk was extremely helpful and explained that you can either purchase physical sheets or digital computers. The buy-in was only $6 for a whole session which consists of a five consecutive games. The physical sheets even came with our own bingo marker. There is a smoking and non-smoking section and I'm so glad that they actually keep the non-smoking section separately ventilated. For each of the games you play, numbers are called and your objective is to find the pattern that the specific game is calling for. We had no idea how intense some people take this and a lot of the people here had bought multiple computers and physical sheets to increase their chances of winning. The payouts are between $250, $500, and $750 depending on the game. Not bad for a $6 buy-in. The atmosphere is pretty quiet, but that doesn't take away from the good old fashion fun you can have here. The full session of five games took about 45 minutes so you don't have to spend multiple hours here if you don't want to. The food is very basic. Would recommend giving this place a try for a fun new activity if you've never tried bingo at an official location before! read more

Big Star Bingo - Bingo Halls Near Me - Austin, Texas

What a hidden (not so hidden) gem! Came here on a Friday night for the 8:30 session and it was PACKED. When you walk in, you are quickly caught off guard by the crazy amount of cigarette smoke. Luckily, they have the place cut in the middle with the back half being non-smoking. We were very overwhelmed by everything going on, with number being called left and right, people throwing up money, and others yelling out different cards for sale. Luckily, every one that works there, is incredibly nice. We asked a ton of questions and they answered every single one. For only $6, you can easily get an hour and a half of solid (extremely stressful) fun. If you go with some friends, its even cheaper! I highly reccommened going with some friends and stay for 2 sessions. You will not regret it! read more

Too much grease smell in no smoking area. I have to immediately go home and get grease smell and second hand SMOKE off. Albeit I feel they try. The snack bar is in non smoking..but grease is smell is overwhelming. The workers are beyond helpful and kind. read more

Motha Effin Bingo this ain't. I knew that going in as I had done my Yelpsearch, but Bff has been wanting us to check this out for awhile, and knowing that we always have fun together on our adventures, I finally acquiesced. Big Star almost defeated us. ALMOST. They say Florida is Death's Waiting Room. Well this is Fun's Waiting Room. It could be a blast. All the ingredients are there for a good time, but instead it's purgatorial (yep, I made that up). Let's do a side by side comparison: MEB is held in a bar (usually Park at the Domain). A bar encourages you to drink. Drinking encourages you to eat. Drinking and eating encourages you to have fun. BSB is in what looks like a VFW hall. Drinking is discouraged. You can only drink if you bring your own in discreetly and don't get rowdy. It is further discouraged by the position of two sheriffs at the front door, causing me to break into the cold sweaties. They actually didn't bat an eye at the brown paper bags we came in and left with. They were more concerned with my car sticking an inch into the aisle. Your tax dollars at work, folks. I guess you could say eating is not encouraged but is possible as they do have a snack bar and the whole nonsmokers cubicle smelled like old corn dog grease. But, I'm not really that thrilled to eat at something called The Pink Monkey Cafe. Isn't that the name of a strip club out by the airport?? At MEB, the ball jockey is loud and funny and usually pretty dirty. He's constantly throwing swag like free shirts out into the crowd and there's free shots all around when O 69 is called. At BSB, the ball jockey is a monotone, calling each square out in the same pitch, same pauses ( B23....B...pause.....23....two....three....) and is almost unnecessary what with the lighted grid on the wall and the camera on the balls. If he calls O69 (O...pause....69....six....nine....) here you get nothing. Good DAY sir! At MEB, when someone yells BINGO! they get pelted with paper and insults. At BSB, when someone mumbles bingo, there's a sad sigh. At MEB, there's games and singing and general rowdiness between games. At BSB, there's volunteers walking the aisles mumbling "Queen Divas, Lucky Betties here...." I wasn't sure if I was in a bordello or a rave. I wanted to ask if they had any Blue Mollys. (btw, we still have no idea what REALLY happens at BSB. They speak a whole nother language. And the help is just not, uh, enthusiastic). At MEB, you'll find all ages from douchey frat boys to the 50 yr old cougars on the hunt for them, all acting like teenagers. At BSB, you'll find all ages as well, but everyone acts like they're Methuselah. The only thing in BSB's favor is that they give nice prizes away to the winners, usually $250-500 per round. Course we didn't win. At MEB, they give gift cards to the restaurant away and hubby won a plastic light saber one round. But everyone leaves with something, whether a free shirt, or pens, or koozies, etc., especially if you have long arms and can snag it out of the air as it flies by your head. So look at the comparison and decide what kind of bingoer you are. Do you take having fun seriously or are you seriously no fun? I think you all know what side of the line I fall on. read more

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I started to come here in Late 2016. At first I was only going once every 2-4 weeks. Depending on the day of the week or event going this place can get packed. But if you go Monday thru Thursday you can find great seats with no problem. I am not saying you wont find a seat on Friday, Sat or Sunday its just you wont get to be choosy. OK the staff - In my book have been wonderful! They are communicative, friendly and go out of their way to learn your name and make sure to acknowledge you. If you close your eyes and you hear one staff member talk you would think Matthew McConaughey was in the building... ( I got him to once say ALRIGHT ARIGHT ALRIGHT! ) Ok anyways... Lots of Pull tab games. Plenty of chance for someone to win. I won on the Anniversary Special 1 month of Free Bingo I was able to get about 12 days in but as my luck would have it I go sick and missed out on the last 18 days... Oh well I at least got to use it while I was healthy and got to try week day sessions. The people that go are so nice and I was able to meet some wonderful ladies and gentlemen. In the entire 7 months I been here I only seen one time where I felt nervous or scared about the someone who was in the building they staff asked him to leave and the police were called and so all ended well,. I can't wait to go back again read more

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Broken into two sections. One massive smoking section and one smaller non smoking. Huge banquet tables, folding chairs, and screens every where to be able to see the numbers. Super cheap fun. $6 a session for 12 cards per round. On your birthday you play for a penny all night plus a free computer for playing on. It's not a place to be loud or rowdy. People will give you dirty looks if you so much as even more than whisper. There are so many different types of people here, young and old alike. There is a room with electronic slots and other games where you can "win" prizes instead of money. This is all legal because most of the money goes to charities. Also you can pay with a check. It's pretty cool, they'll even give you cash back on a check if you pay over what you need. There's a snack bar with concessions like you'd find at a bowling alley or a football game. It's BYOB, have taken small coolers. If you want to drink, you have to pour it into a cup or make it not obvious. It's a fun way to start out an evening -- usually starts around 7ish and ends around 9pm. I have never won. My friend won once but it wasn't a lot. However, the pay outs are between $250-$750. You have to split them if other people win on the same round. Also - don't yell Bingo unless your sure. Made that mistake my first time because I didn't know the rules! Good times :) read more

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First time bingo player, not gonna be the last! For a fist time bingo player it was THE most fun I've had. It was easy once I got the hang of it and the people there were the nicest when I asked for help. I was very surprised at how organized and we'll run it is. It was like a well oiled machine. There are two main rooms, one for smoking and one non smoking. I would recommend getting their early because the seats get taken fast. They have mini games in between each main bingo set. I didn't really bother with them though. You buy your sheets or computer (or both) and they sell daubers if you don't have one. I personally didn't win anything but the experience was what was the best part. I would very much recommend checking this place out if you have the time. read more

Big Star Bingo - The tablet or computer they have is awesome. - Bingo Halls Near Me - Austin, Texas

This place is right up the street from me and it's a great way to spend a low key Friday night! The regulars helped explain the process to us, and my friend even won in the last game with the biggest payout, so we really have no complaints. It's no-frills, inexpensive (cost us $12 a session for one book and one computer), and if someone next to you wins you get some free spins in the game room (kind of a sad adult arcade?). Some of the regulars can get irritated if you talk loudly or interrupt their flow, so if you're a young thing looking for a rowdy BYOB time you're going to get looks. Know the clientele and adjust accordingly. DEFINITELY come in through the non-smoking section, because otherwise you're going to smell like cigs until your next shower. It only loses a star for the snack bar. The food is extremely mediocre, but what kind of gets my goat is the stinginess of it all--it costs $1 for tap water, even if you bring your own cup! They seem to be rationing their napkins too, you get two napkins with your meal and they are not out to take more. Jalapenos cost a quarter if you want to add them to your nachos. Refills on drinks are 50 cents. It just seemed really weird to me and like they're trying to squeeze a dime out of everyone. The sign outside says no outside food or drink, but we were told it's still BYOB, so it's easy enough to avoid the snack bar. It's kind of like park rules--keep your drink in a cup and you'll be fine. We brought in food and drinks and had no problem. Overall, I'm quickly becoming a regular here. It's a fun time! read more

We love playing Bingo at Big Star everytime we go to Austin. It is good & inexpensive fun! And you have the chance of winning $250, $500 and $750 games. We can rent a tablet that automatically plays the games for you and comes with one paper booklet. Or you can just buy the paper booklets. They also sell dobbers, ie markers, if you forget to bring your own. There is a back room that is smoke free and has a snack bar. Make sure you check the signs on the tables so you know what kind of bingo game you are playing. They also sell things called pull tabs, they are fast mini games in between sessions. Ask anyone who works there how to play them because there are many different kind of pull tabs games. It can be confusing if it is your first time. Oh and turn your phone on silent the regulars will give you a hard time. They always have an armed security guard in the front main parking lot. And all the employees there are very nice. read more

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You should not make decisions with your dick if you work here. (And probably not if you game here either.) It's a big deal when it's your first time coming here, to get a free dauber - like, that's the word on the street! Like, it's part of why I came here. And several of my co-workers, too. Then - we get there and we're told they only do that on certain nights and so we were charged. Whatever, seriously, whatever at this point. Until, our 20-something co-worker comes in later and get's her fucking dauber for free. So anyway, this place is not as crusty as I thought it would be. I'll be back - with my $1 dauber god damn it. read more

Went here for the 1st time for my birthday, and they gave me a game pack for 1 penny. Also they gave me and my group a free dobber for each of us! Great service. As for the serious bingo'rs! Man y'all love your bingo. My friends and I were just enjoying the moment and laughing and I can't tell you how many mean stares I got just for laughing haha! Don't worry, it didn't rain on my parade. We'll be back for more bingo next time!!! lol one less star because when the smoking section door was opened, the smell really was gross creeping in the non smoking section.... read more

This is a case of mistaken identity. It was a friend's birthday, she says "Let's go to BINGO!" I've been to mother effin bingo and I start to get all psyyyyched about wearing crazy accessories and screaming bingo and BYOBing and acting like a loon. So she gets there first. I arrive 10 later and without consulting her, I bust in with a gigantic sombrero and a suitcase full of hats and beer as is my standard operating procedure. Then reality hits me like a steel door in the face. This IS NOT super inflatable fun time bingo. This is serious get-multiple-sheets, daubing-frenzy, don't even THINK about having a conversation with the person across the way bingo. 80 year olds are shooting me glares inflammatory enough to burst open an oxygen tank, if I'd had one. And hell, if you spend more than 1 minute in the smokers lounge, you'll have to. I made the terrible mistake of thinking i could brave the almost solid wall of smoke to get a dauber. Not so. I emerged like a survivor from LOST, hacking, surrounded by fog, happy to get a breath of air... Even if it IS scented like they've just fried their 12,000th mozzarella stick. It's no longer BYO, they don't accept cash and it's quiet as a tomb. If you're there for the bingo, this place is probably a 5. But as an adventure or something to do on any night when you have - literally - anything else to do, it's more like a 1. IMHO. read more

This place has some of the best people-watching in Austin. I had no idea what to expect the first time I came, and it was almost like culture shock when I stepped through the doorway. The place is packed every night with hardcore bingo fanatics who play with tons of cards and tons of daubers -- some of whom even have special bingo bags with specific dauber pockets. I've been here about a dozen times now, and I've never gotten to sit in the coveted non-smoking room. (Not only do you get to breathe clean air in there, but there's easier access to the bathrooms, and sometimes it seems like you're more likely to win if you're sittin' pretty in non-smoking.) But, don't fret if you can't come three hours early to jockey for a position in NS. The giant smoking area is still fun. It's just a little harder to see your cards through the haze. Some tips: 1. Come on your birthday. As other reviewers have noted, on your birthday you pay just 1 cent (and sometimes they don't even collect on that), and you get a computer, which holds a million cards, plus 2 paper sheets. And, as if that weren't enough, they'll announce your name to everyone, and everyone will clap for you, and for a few brief moments, you'll feel like you're the King of Bingo World. 2. You actually can win. I know it seems daunting when you come week after week, only to watch others go home with the spoils, but I've witnessed one of my friends win before, and it was totally worth it. He had to split the pot and ended up with about $150, plus some tokens for the game room. And, of course, he was the envy of every die-hard bingoer in the place. 3. Pay attention. Bingo itself isn't too difficult for most of us, but with a place like Big Star that allows you to BYOB, keeping your head in the game can prove to be somewhat of a challenge. Spend too many seconds staring at that weird lady across the way who seems to be simultaneously chain smoking, chatting, sipping Mountain Dew, and playing 300 cards, and you'll find yourself two numbers behind. 4. If you do win, tip. It seems kinda odd, and if you don't play too often, you may never have to deal with it, but you are supposed to tip the guy who hands you your money. They pool their tips, so tipping anybody will work, and although it's unclear exactly how much of your winnings you're supposed to fork over, I think somewhere in the ballpark of $5-10 is standard. 5. Keep your voice down. For those of us who are merely sightseeing in the fast-paced world of bingo, it may seem silly to be quiet when the numbers are being flashed on TV screens all over the joint. But think of it as venturing to a foreign country on vacation. You wouldn't ignore Rick Steves' advice on the local customs just because it seems strange, now would you? 6. Bring plastic cups. Depending on who's working that night, someone may ask you to pour your beer into plastic cups, or they may be totally all right with the bottles/cans. I've seen it go both ways, but I figure it's better to play it safe. 7. Go with friends you trust. Be forewarned, there ain't no time for bathroom breaks when winning bingo is on the line. If you've got to make an unscheduled run to the potty in the middle of a round, it's best to have a trustworthy buddy who can daub your cards for you while you're gone. And, most importantly, don't yell out you-know-what unless it's the real deal. This is not a drill, people. This is Big Star Bingo. read more

Every once in a while, I stumble upon something in Austin that makes me feel like there's a huge piece of my city that I had no clue about. Big Star Bingo invokes just such a feeling. We arrived ten minutes before the first "set" on a Sunday night to find this bingo hall jam packed with people. Some of these people had the entire table around them covered in bingo cards, and some even had specially-made bags that were designed to hold a variety of daubers (big markers that make a round, circular imprint perfect for marking your bingo card). Whoa. Once I saw the dauber bags, I knew we were totally outclassed. I wandered up to the counter and plead ignorance ("Uh, I've never been here before,") and the lady at the counter very kindly explained the process to me. There are usually two "sets" an evening. They start at designated times each night, so call first and check on the times so you don't arrive mid-set. Each "set" has five games. You can buy a sheet of 60 bingo cards (12 for each game in one set) for $6, plus a dauber for $1, and you're good to go for about an hour. Plus, they have cash prizes for each game, so you have a chance to make some moola while you're at it! Nice! This isn't just plain old, "get one line across and you have bingo" bingo. Each game has a certain configuration that you need to achieve before you win: four corners, two lines, "T" shape, etc. It's a little confusing at first, but you'll get the hang of it quickly. Also, be sure to listen closely at the beginning of each game, because some of them have "wild" free numbers - e.g., "every number ending in a 2." You get to go daub crazy when that happens. They have a large no-smoking room, so you don't have to choke on somebody's secondhand smoke while you bingo your heart out. Also, there's a snack bar here that serves a variety of crappy food. You can BYOB, but no coolers and they ask you to buy a cup at the snack bar to pour your beer/wine into (25 cents). We had a blast, more so because we got buzzed enough that we weren't too concerned about being the only ones in the room talking. This is a great activity to add to the mix of campy-fun things to do when you're tired of the bar scene. So grab your dauber, a six-pack, and some friends, and head on down to Big Star Bingo! read more

This place is for real. Seriously, nothin but hardcore bingo players here. Some of the best people watching. The clientele = verrrry interesting. I can't say we really fit in when we arrived in his 6 Series BMW. I didn't even know they made a 6th series, GAG! Not that it matters, people are here to WIN no matter how rich or poor! Step 1: Don't be surprised by the 2 Rangers sitting outside being bored Step 2: Buy 1 session for $6 and buy a dauber for $1 to see if you can hang in there with the pros (lasts around an hr for the 5 games) Step 3: Decide if you want the smoking or non-smoking section Step 4: Be totally confused + drink more from the flask you brought in Step 5: O yea, its BYOB...but be unshowy about it. Step 6: Try and win yourself $500! *This is serious bingo, people were probably giving me dirty looks, well our whole table really. BUT my back was turned to them. I knew there was no way I'd be able to be quiet, so we reserved our table in the back. Tips: -Beware of the scantily dressed ladies who don't have the bod for it -Don't yell bingo unless you really have it -Laugh at guy wearing a yellow shirt and yellow SCRUNCHY in his hair -Ask questions, proclaim your virginity -People watch, people...this is the real and true, down & dirty ATX baybay! Unfortunately I am no richer or poorer (yay!) than I was before I went to bingo. But I definitely had a blast with my group of friends. We Pville folk know how to stick together and lose some damn dinero. Step 7: Ride off into the night & head over to Black Star Co-op for a late night snack & some damn good beers! read more

Last Friday night I was frantically "dabbing" all of my I-26 squares on one of the strangest adventures I've had in Austin...... I was playing BINGO with a definitely different crowd then my usual Austin hangouts. At least 5 times a week I pass this giant BINGO hall off of 183. Every time I pass it, I think how funny it would be to actually go play BINGO. The giant sign outside of the building says you can win 500 dollars! How hard could that be? One line across.... BINGO..... hand me my 500 dollars! Well, last Friday we were sitting around our tiny apartment itching to leave. There was nothing playing at the movies, there was nothing happening downtown, and all of our friends were busy. Suddenly I remembered the funny looking BINGO hall off the side of the highway........ and we were off. We arrived for the first "set" of the night. We were honest with the people working there, and told them we had never been. They were very helpful, and explained the rules. Here is how it works: Each night there are 4 sets, each set consists of 5 games. This isn't elementary school BINGO, one line across isn't going to give you anything. Each game is completely different, you might have four corners and a line, three lines, an L shape, etc. For each game you get 12 bingo cards.... so for the set that we attended we played 60 BINGO cards in total. We played LOTS of BINGO, and for a whopping 6 dollars each, it was well worth the money. Also, in order to be an effective BINGO player you have to buy a special BINGO "dabber", which kind of like a giant marker with a large circular tip. This helps you mark the BINGO boxes efficiently. Lets just say, there is a whole population of people who LOVE to play BINGO. I've never seen anything like it. Once the BINGO game starts the place is quieter than a library. There is a whole list of rules and the only one in bold is "TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONES". The numbers are called one at a time off of little balls that come out of some machine. There are some extreme BINGO players who play multiple boards at one time (that's 24+ BINGO cards!), some have special BINGO bags to hold all of their multi-colored dabbers, some have special BINGO dabbers..... these people are dedicated. Each game I thought I was going to win, every time someone called BINGO I was only one or two squares away. I was reminded by the women across from me that EVERYONE was one or two squares away. Of course! If people weren't so close to winning, why would they keep coming back? We had SO MUCH FUN! I know it sounds strange, but we had the best time. We partied with the Austin elderly! And I gotta say.... those people know how to have a good time! We didn't win the BINGO game.... but it didn't matter, because we had such a good time. Also..... bring your own DRINKS! Sweet! read more

3 areas. One smoking downstairs upstairs one non smoking and one area closed off in other room by snack bar also Non smoking .. good specials. read more

You know in the movies when you watch old people getting together on a Friday night chain smoking and yelling BINGO when they win? Well... Big Star Bingo is literally a scene out of the movie. It's filled with old people ready to win cash money... double fisting their daubers. I really like coming here and playing Bingo. I don't know if it's the sweet aroma of stale cigarette smoke (kidding), or the old cranky people waving their dollars in the air to get pull tabs, but I keep coming back. The buy in depends on how many boards you want to play at one time. Typically it's $6 for a board of 12 and like $12 for a board of 24? All of the proceeds go to charity and there's cash prizes every night. Will I ever win? I don't know... However, I do know that everyone here is hardcore and it's not a place where you would want to yell BINGO out for the lols. You'll probably get glared at and maybe even get something thrown at you There's a smoking and nonsmoking section so you don't have to die from the excessive amount of smoke floating around in the air. Also, the guy who usually calls out the numbers looks like Jesus, haha. It's the hair read more

Rolling in on a Wednesday night, the parking lot was PACKED. Me and friends in car, giggling with the anticipation of a full house of devoted Bingo players vs. us (clueless first timers) "Look there's a cop! trafficking the parking lot!" "Oh wait, never mind, its just a hick." (No really, it ended up being a park ranger..probably there to monitor any suspicious cash prize stealing activity?) If you don't smoke, you're in luck. There's a non smoking room, but unlucky for you because you have to go through the smog fog room first to get there. When arriving at the counter to get our playing cards, at first the counter attendant seemed a bit standoffish, explaining the lay of the land to us. However, once we mentioned we were there to celebrate a friend's birthday his demeanor took a complete 180. "Birthday?!" "Well, you get to play for 1 cent!" For birthday celebrators, you get to play, yes, for one measly penny. When was the last time you got an hour plus entertainment for one penny? Our lucky birthday girl was showered with 2 playing cards (that's 24 bingo tables per game), a dauber, and a nifty computer (also containing additional bingo tables, with automated playing regularly $17). What a steal! The games themselves at first are a bit confusing. Each game you play for a different type of win. It's not just straight up one bingo. It's crazy L's, double bingo, triple bingo and the like, but don't worry there are plenty of monitors and signs to help you along the way and they give you plenty of time for the wildcard numbers, which let's you go dauber crazy. I was forewarned to obeying to bingo etiquette (being quiet, not taking up people's space, etc..), but in actuality the other bingo players were really nice. Yes, there was some shushing, but very minimal. The lady sitting across from me, was pointing out squares I had missed and needed to daub. How she could keep up with her 24 tables, additional bingo computer, AND my measly 12 tables, I'll never know. Nevertheless, the bingo players were quite cordial and even helped me throughout the night. No wins for us that night, but it was definitely a different kind of fun. I'm already considering going back sometime and maybe taking on some more sheets. Also, just to note, don't bother even getting slightly dressed up. Not necessary. I'm going in sweat pants, t-shirt, and maybe a purse full of daubers, next time. That way I'll look like a REAL pro. read more

Went for a birthday party, where they set you up with a ton of cards for a penny if it's your birthday. So it's full of smoking, beer-swigging, people that remind you of "Old Las Vegas", where there's security outside a bingo parlor on a weekday, but darnit, it has charm. $20 will get you a full night of card-dabbing-whispering so you don't annoy the group-intense bingo action. Go, have fun and Good Luck! read more

Big Star Bingo is exactly what I'd imagined a bingo hall would look like in Texas. Large room with lots of seats and absolutely packed with older people. It's a little overwhelming at first figuring out where you're supposed to go and how exactly the bingo works. For a few bucks (and $1 for the dauber) you can get a solid hour of entertainment and possibly even win some money (seriously how is this not gambling?). If you want to avoid the smoking room, don't go through the main entrance. The side entrance bypasses the carcinogens. Also, if you're in a larger group, be sure to show up early to ensure you can all sit together. And don't be surprised if you earn some unhappy glares or comments if you're too loud. read more

The other reviews are pretty right on. The staff were friendly. The food bad. Byob. For me the issue was that we went as a group. 14 mid 20s-mid30s women. With booze. And what you need to know is that we are not good at quiet. And this place is dead silent. We got glared at. We got shushed. I honestly thought we might get kicked out. So go. It's fun and a bit challenging. Just know you must not speak, so probably not a birthday party or group event kind of place. read more

Disclaimer: My review is based off of a one-time bingo experience. Yesterday was my birthday, and I remember seeing a big neon sign flashing "play for a penny on your birthday," so I figured I would give bingo a shot! It turned out to be a lot of fun. Unfortunately they don't have a website so I had to call and ask what time to show up. They explained that the first session (which lasts about an hour, 5 games in a session) started at 7:10 but as first timers, we should show up at least 20 mins early so they could explain how the game works. My boyfriend and I arrived to a crowded parking lot. Apparently, bingo is a popular thing on a Saturday night! We walked in to a room filled with smoky haze and the strong odor of salty french fries. This place reminds me of an old bowling alley from the early 90s. We went up to the counter and the person behind the counter was VERY friendly. He collected my penny and my boyfriend's $6 for one session as well as $2 for a dabber for each of us, gave us our bingo sheets and a paper that explains each formation needed to win bingo. You get a computer if it's your birthday but I opted out since it would be too much for a first timer. We managed to find room in the non-smoking section. The smell of the snackbar was so overwhelming, I felt like I was inhaling salt. But mmm it smelled good! Once the game started, the room was very quiet! These are serious, professional bingo players. But the people across from us were very nice and friendly! It was a very diverse group. Not just all elderly people, but folks of all different ages and backgrounds. You can feel the tension building as there were about 200 people hoping and praying to win. When someone yelled "bingo," everyone in the hall let out loud groans and whines. It was quite comical! They get 4 stars because I could really do without the huge room of chain smokers, and it was difficult to find a seat. All in all, it's a big place. A cheap night out. A way to be with other people. A fun game. A chance to win money. Oh, and it's BYOB so you it's also an opportunity to drink for cheap. :-) read more

So much fun! & you can bring your own beer?? Definitely will be coming back. The workers were very nice & helpful as well.

I'll admit it. I've become hooked on Bingo. Had dinner with some friends way north of the river and they wanted to take us to Big Star. It's much more open than B-12. B-12 is great, but it also seems a bit depressing in some ways. (Don't worry, I'll still frequent it). The TV monitors were in good locations and there was more than one (B-12's are harder to see). There were fewer start times, so we only got in on the last few games of the last set. That was a bit disappointing, but at a $1 a page, it was no problem. i have no idea of the food or dauber-purchasing, so I can't comment on that yet. The smoke room is huge. All you Smokey Smokersons should have a grand time. We couldn't figure out the BYOB-ness. We saw a few beer bottles on the tables, but no signs of bringing your own beverages or not. You can buy add ons, which is not as many cards as a full sheet, but does give you extra chances. Speak in hushed tones, stay off the cell phone, you should be fine. Many around are helpful, so if you have questions, ask! There is a whole lot more to this Bingo culture than meets the eye! read more

I had so much fun!!!! BYOB--woo hoo--off the yoga, back on the booze! The staff was really friendly, but the other bingo players are so serious about their game (they obviously needed some alcohol or an enema). Three of us played like 42 games for like $8.01. If it's your birthday--you play for a penny and get a really neato computer to play bingo on. I truly believe that is so you can still play bingo, but concentrate on getting your drink on. And, we got to keep the ink thingies! Yay. read more

So, a couple days ago, one of my friends asks me to go play bingo with her. My response "....really?" I eventually agreed and met her at Big Star. She's pushy like that. Now I'm hooked. Seriously though, just the novelty of being able to smoke inside makes me happy. By the time I turned 18 the smoking ban was in full swing. With it being hot as balls outside I'm super happy to find a place where you can smoke in the a/c that's not your house or car. And boy, do the people at Big Star take advantage of that! If you can't handle the smell of smoke, stay far, far away! Another word to the wise for the non-smokers, the bathrooms are in the smoking section, meaning the non-smoking area is still pretty flooded with smoke from the doors opening and closing. If it's your first time playing, the staff is really helpful. They even have several rows of dabbers (is that what they're called?) that you can buy if you don't have your own. I almost went crazy and bought, like, 5 before my friend pulled me away and said I could use hers. I tend to impulse buy when I get excited. They also have a cigarette dispenser, which I'd never seen before. Cool! But then, it happened....I found out they have food! Candy and fries and cake! Oh my! So, it wasn't the best food ever. Very ball-parkish, but it was still good. And there was smoking. So I got to smoke and eat, and yuk it up with old ladies between games. I know this all sounds really lame, and it probably it, but this place is actually a lot of fun to go to. It is deathly silent while a game is going on, but between games it's social hour, with food, and smoking, and a/c. The only problem is...I hate to gamble. read more