Making plans for the days ahead just got a lot easier. From live music to celebrity comedic encounters, locals and visitors alike are sure to be entertained. Head to the races at COTA for GT World Challenge America or feast on the many flavors found at The Arboretum. Check out the top seven things to do in Austin this weekend. For a full list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, May 18
Amplify LIVE presents "I Live Here I Give Here"
Historic Scoot Inn hosts a benefit concert in support of the philanthropic I Live Here I Give Here organization in Central Texas. Highlights include a performance by headliner and local star, Jackie Venson, plus sets by Tameca Jones and Mélat. Laurie Gallardo of KUTX 98.9FM will emcee. Go to ilivehereigivehere.org for ticket and donation information.
Friday, May 19
Kyle Fair: A Tex-travaganza
Kyles from all over the Lone Star State are invited to converge for a day of celebrating their namesake, Kyle, TX. Participating Kyles will receive a free fair T-shirt while supplies last. (Non-Kyles are more than welcome to attend, too.) The free festival includes live music, fireworks, carnival rides, a margarita contest, and a rib cook-off over the course of three days. All Kyles are encouraged to stick around on Sunday for the world’s largest same-name gathering, in another attempt to break the Guinness World Record. Go to kylefair.com for more information.
SRO Motorsports presents GT World Challenge America
Gear up for a weekend of high-octane, sports car action at the Circuit of the Americas. According to the website, Fanatec GT World Challenge America weekend highlights include a barrage of on-track racing, autograph sessions, an exclusive race grid walk, a car corral, and more. Visit showpass.com for more information and to get tickets.
The Austin Symphony presents "Eastern Winds"
Enjoy an evening of live music at The Long Center for the Performing Arts as part of the ongoing Masterworks Series. This concert features Jiebing Chen playing erhu with conductor Peter Bay, and serves as a showcase of the Far East’s musical artistry. Song selections for the program include Yasushi Akutagawa's Music for Symphony Orchestra, Chen Gang & He Zhanhao's The Butterfly Lovers Concerto, and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's Scheherazade, Op. 35. Tickets can be purchased at my.austinsymphony.org.
Texas Performing Arts presents "Steve Martin and Martin Short: You Won't Believe What They Look Like Today!"
Movie stars, friends, and longtime funnymen Steve Martin and Martin Short bring their show to the Bass Concert Hall for two nights only. Audiences can expect an intimate and uniquely informal evening of storytelling, conversations, stand-up material, and musical numbers all compiled into an evening with two of the most beloved figures in show business. They’ll be joined on stage by special guests Jeff Babko and The Steep Canyon Rangers. Visit texasperformingarts.org for more information.
Saturday, May 20
A Taste of The Arboretum
Explore the many flavors that fuse together to create an iconic neighborhood and retail plaza, The Arboretum. This family-friendly foodie event will highlight a mix of specials and exclusive menu items at participating eateries. Featured specials include free Amys Ice Cream samples, complimentary peanuts for dine-in orders at Five Guys Burgers & Fries, complimentary food and wine samples from Con Olio Oils & Vinegars, and more. See a list of vendors at thearboretum.com. Admission is free and open to the public.
Women & Their Work presents "Paradise Bloom" opening reception
A selection of local women artists explore the meaning and definition of “paradise” through their work at this new Women & Their Work exhibition. The exhibition features paintings, installations, neon lighting, and photography to portray the concept of paradise from each artist’s unique perspective. Following the opening reception, the exhibit will be on display until July 6. Reception admission to the reception is free.
CitySquare presents A Night to Remember featuring Steve Martin and Martin Short at Bass Concert Hall on May 19.
