Gear up for several days of nonstop action and high-speed entertainment thanks to this roundup of can’t-miss happenings. Enjoy the competition and entertainment of Formula 1 Weekend, or catch a comedy show starring Eric Andre or Jonathan Van Ness. Check out the top seven things to do in Austin this weekend. For a complete list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, October 19
Bolm Arts presents Nature And Nurture Opening Party
Local mixed-media artists Marta Shirt and Sydney Dettmar debut their latest work for Austin art aficionados at Bolm Arts. Highlights of the exhibition opening party include a solo music performance from Redbud and a live DJ set from DJ BABY JAKE. Following the opening, “Nature And Nurture” will be on display until November 3. Admission is free and open to the public.
The Eric Andre Explosion Tour
Comedian and actor Eric Andre brings his explosive brand of humor and late night entertainment to The Far Out Lounge & Stage. He’s best known for his hit series on Adult Swim, The Eric Andre Show, and is an expert panelist on the ABC show, The Prank Panel, alongside Johnny Knoxville and Gabourey Sidibe. Get ticket details at thefaroutaustin.com.
Friday, October 20
Formula 1 Lenovo United States Grand Prix Weekend
World-class racing rolls into the spotlight at Circuit of the Americas with the return of the Formula 1 Lenovo United States Grand Prix weekend. This year’s top moments include races featuring the fastest drivers in the world, music performances by headliners such as The Killers and Queen + Adam Lambert, amusement rides, and more. All ticket purchases include access to the Germania Insurance Super Stage Festival Lawn shows scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Get more information at circuitoftheamericas.com. Find out what else to do leading up to the race in our event roundup.
Texas Performing Arts presents Lila Downs: Día de los Muertos
Latin music singer-songwriter Lila Downs pay homage to the rich Texan and Mexican traditions during of Day of the Dead through song on the Bass Concert Hall stage. This special evening will feature a selection of Downs’ original music and her own renditions of classic rancheras that evoke a deeply personal significance. Members of the audience are encouraged to don their best Día de los Muertos-inspired costumes and make-up and are invited to bring tokens of their late loved ones for the evening’s celebration of love, loss, and reconnection. For tickets, visit texasperformingarts.evenue.net.
Saturday, October 21
Puptopia Festival
Bring your four-legged friend to a unique amusement park for dogs at the opening of Puptopia Festival, happening at Pease Park Treehouse. This highly curated and sensory experience is designed to provide dogs with their biggest fantasies in the comfort of their owners and fellow canines. Highlights of the all-day festival include an obstacle-packed Pupformance Zone, food and beverage from the K9 Lounge, photo opportunities, self-care services at the Spaw, a stunt dog show featuring the Canine Stars, and more. For tickets and more information, check out puptopiafestival.com.
MAXIM Austin Race Weekend Party with Diplo
World-famous DJ Diplo performs a live set in honor of Formula 1 Weekend. The man behind top songs like “Lean On” and “Genius” also hosts the party in collaboration with MAXIM at Superstition. Additional party highlights include a star-studded guest list and opening sets by local DJs. Go to vipnightlife.com for more information.
Sunday, October 22
Moontower Comedy presents Jonathan Van Ness: Fun & Slutty
Jonathan Van Ness performs in his current hometown for two back-to-back live performances at The Paramount Theatre. In addition to his starring role on Netflix’s reboot series, Queer Eye, he’s known as a New York Times best-selling author and as a self-care advocate. This event is suitable for ages 18 and older. Go to austintheatre.org for more information.
Formula 1 is zooming back into town this weekend at Circuit of the Americas.
DIIV's set was moody, but propulsive thanks to strong bass lines.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Zachary Cole Smith can always be counted on for a nostalgic 'fit.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Starcleaner Reunion singer Jo Roman keeps the beat.Photo by Brianna Caleri
From the looks of it, no one had a better time onstage than Wayne Coyne, frontman of the Flaming Lips.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The tinsel whip was one of many props.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Flaming Lips are known for touring with huge inflatables.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A joyful crowd reacts to being blasted with confetti during the Flaming Lips' set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Ty Segall was king of the guitar jams.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Segall's painted jeans were probably the most unique fashion statement all weekend.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Psych Fest uniform: Earthy shorts and calf tattoos.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Thomas Attar Bellier of Al-Qasar plays a beautifully adorned electric saz.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The more mics, the better for Al-Qasar.Photo by Brianna Caleri
A closer look at the saz.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Lyrics in Arabic brought extra gravitas to the set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
How's that for a desert hallucination?Photo by Brianna Caleri
New Candys guitarist Emanuele Zanardo puts a physical flourish in his playing.Photo by Brianna Caleri
The Black Angels interrupted the technicolor parade for a largely black-and-white set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Black Angels bassist Misti Hamrick-French basks in the cold glow of a strobe light.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Dumbo Gets Mad reminds us that Italians just get fashion.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Guitarist Luca Bergomi gets in on bassist Ivan Torelli's shot.Photo by Brianna Caleri
LA LOM bassist Jake Faulkner captures the sun.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Guitarist Zac Sokolow danced for the whole set, which happened to be on his birthday.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Faulkner's grandstanding added flavor to the show, which ultimately didn't need psychedelic visuals.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Faulkner's howls cut through the air, hardly amplified.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Trish Toledo paid homage to mothers and couples in her romantic set.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Not a practical shoe for a rainy weekend. We salute her sacrifice for fashion.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Thee Sacred Souls closed out the festival with a brass section.Photo by Brianna Caleri
This backup singer was exquisitely styled in blue.Photo by Brianna Caleri
Singer Josh Lane snapped a photo of an adoring audience. See you next time, Josh.Photo by Brianna Caleri