Comedy, concerts, and festivals make the cut for the best things to do in Austin this weekend. Embrace the outdoors at Utopiafest, or experience an orchestral tribute to the iconic David Bowie. For a full list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, November 1
Utopiafest
Austin most far-out music festival celebrates a decade of music, community, and nature at Reveille Peak Ranch. Utopiafest is a three-day experience featuring live music, outdoor activities, workshops, and more. This year’s music lineup includes Patty Griffin, Grandmaster Flash, STS9, and Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, among others. For camping passes and a full list of events, visit the festival website.
Friday, November 2
Texas Performing Arts presents Blackstar: An Orchestral Tribute to David Bowie
The life and legacy of David Bowie is celebrated through the cello music of Maya Beiser at Bass Concert Hall. For one intimate evening, Beiser joins composer/conductor Evan Ziporyn and a 28-piece orchestra to perform an arrangement of Bowie’s iconic final album, Blackstar. Select tickets are still available.
Simple Minds in concert
Scottish rock band Simple Minds return to the U.S. as part of their North American tour. After rising to fame in the ‘80s, the group has racked up an impressive back catalogue of hits including “Alive and Kicking” and “Don’t You.” Simple Minds comes to ACL Live in support of their new album, Walk Between Worlds.
Kevin Hart in concert
Kevin Hart is bringing his hilarious stand-up comedy to the Frank Erwin Center. The comedian returns to Austin as part of his “The Kevin Hart Irresponsible Tour.” Known for his side-splitting roles in feature films and his comedy specials on Comedy Central and Netflix, Hart is certain to bring freshly funny material to the 512.
Mystery Science Theatre 3000 30th Anniversary Tour
Relive the magic of Mystery Science Theatre 3000 with fellow fans 30 years after its premiere. The anniversary tour features hits the Paramount Theatre with original host and creator Joel Hodgson as Joel Robinson. (Hodgson reprises his role for the first time in 25 years.) Guests can enjoy new riffs and sketches, and catch exclusive screenings of The Brain and Deathstalker. To purchase your screening tickets, visit the tour website.
Funnyman Kevin Hart brings his stand-up skills to the Frank Erwin Center this Friday.
Happy holidays, Austin!
Photo courtesy of Licarione Photography