We're no stranger to calendars jam-packed with fun events, but this weekend is something special. It's full of some of the best seasonal events and a few new activities that we hope will become annual occurrences in Austin. So, take a look at our top picks and plan your weekend accordingly (there's a lot of gelato, music and culture to soak up).
Gelato World Tour: Friday, May 9 – Sunday, May 11
Buzz has been building since it was announced in April that Austin would be the only North American city to host the Gelato World Tour. For just $10, you can sample unique gelato flavors and vote on which chefs get to travel to Italy in September to compete for the title of “World’s Best Gelato.” The true winner this weekend will be your sweet tooth.
HAAM’s Seventh Annual Corporate Battle of the Bands: Friday, May 9
The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians knows how to put on a good show. Friday, the organization will raise money to provide access to healthcare to Austin’s musicians with the annual Corporate Battle of the Bands. Participating businesses include HomeAway, Do512, Cirrus Logic, H-E-B. They will go toe-to-toe to see who’s the best corporate band, while also helping out fellow local musicians.
Leadership Austin’s Best Party Ever: Friday, May 9
Leadership Austin's biggest networking event of the year is the Best Party Ever, an event that certainly lives up to its name. The party not only serves as a chance to meet new people and let loose, it also honors three local leaders of the community for their tireless work to make Austin the best city in the world. This year's event honors Bobbie Barker, Carol Thompson and James Nortey.
District Days at Historic Downs Field: Friday, May 9 – Sunday, May 11
Located in East Austin, Downs Field served as the home of the old Negro Baseball League’s Austin Black Senators, fostering talent that would go on to play in the major leagues while also impacting the cultural fabric of the east side. Downs will play host to fundraising events for repairs and upgrades to the historic baseball field. The weekend of events features the newest collaboration of Allison Orr and Forklift Danceworks, “Play Ball,” which features members of the Huston-Tillotson Rams baseball team performing a choreographed dance derived and inspired from the movements of baseball.
West Austin Studio Tour: Saturday, May 10 – Sunday, May 11
What kind of weekend would it be if you didn’t have a chance to experience the talented community of artists that call Austin home? The West Austin Studio Tour returns this weekend, as well as next weekend. You're invited to take self-guided studio tours to not only discover new artists and their works, but to gain a hands-on experience of the tools and inspirations that create breathtaking works of art.
Pachanga Latino Music Festival: Saturday, May 10
If you need another music fix this weekend, look no further than Pachanga to provide not only a comprehensive selection of Latin music, but also some mouth-watering food. While listening and dancing along to a mix of indie, hip-hop and cumbia music, enjoy tasty tacos and a salsa bar with the “Very Important Taco” pass.
The day has finally come. The Gelato World Tour rolls through Austin this weekend.
