Austinites are spoiled when it comes to fun, cool, inexpensive weekend events. There’s so many, it can be overwhelming.
That’s why we’ve narrowed down the field to a handful of what we believe are your best bets for this weekend. We’ve got something for everyone, from history buffs to music freaks to film snobs and sports fiends. The next few days offer a variety of cultural experiences for every palate.
So, let’s make some plans!
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Music: GOBI’s “Born to Dance” Party at Stubbs
Photo: Courtesy, Juice Consulting, LLC.
This Friday, renowned EDM band GOBI (which stands for Gold on Black Ice) will celebrate the release of their single, “Born to Dance.”
These artists have performed at some of the biggest festivals in the country, from Pachanga to Fun Fun Fun Fest. More than just an Electronic Dance Band, GOBI is truly unique in their use of rap, metal, and smart cultural references in their music. Their live performances are absolutely electrifying.
The band will also feature the top three contestants from their facebook dance-off contest, and invite them to perform on stage. This event is one of the hottest in town, but tickets are still available. The event is $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Show starts at 9 p.m.
Music: The Ginger Leigh Band Performs “LOVE” at The Oasis
Photo: Courtesy, Ethan Ham Photography.
This Sunday at 4 p.m., The Ginger Leigh Band will perform a late-afternoon show out at the Oasis, Texas courtyard on the shores of Lake Travis.
Ginger is a beloved singer, performer and the producer of the LOVE series. Fans can bring their own lawn chairs, buy wine at the Lakeview Winery shop, sample beer from the Oasis, Texas Brewing Co. and shop for uniquely Austin art and furniture at the nearby Design Lab.
Tickets are $10 per person at the door, and children are welcome to attend.
History: “1968” at the Bob Bullock Texas History Museum
Photo: Flickr user Matthew Rutledge, creative commons licensed.
For the next few months, Austinites can experience one of the most extraordinary years in American history, 1968, in one of the most exciting exhibits to come to our city in years.
From Jimi Hendrix’s iconic jacket purple jacket to Mr. Rogers’ sweater, visitors can immerse themselves in the memorabilia, photos, and sounds of this unforgettable time. The 1968 exhibit is an interactive, multimedia experience where visitors can cast a vote in the ’68 presidential election, test their knowledge of music and TV shows, and design their own ’60s album covers.
Austinites can catch the exhibit until September 1st. And really, what better way is there to escape the Texas heat than to find yourself back in the summer of love? Tickets range from $10-12 each.
Movies: “Parenthood” and “Field of Dreams” double feature at The Paramount
The Paramount Theatre’s classic film series continues this weekend, featuring two films adults and kids can enjoy: Kevin Costner’s “Field of Dreams” and Ron Howard’s “Parenthood.”
Nominated for “Best Picture of the Year” in 1989, “Field of Dreams” follows the journey of one man’s determination to fulfill his vision. Ron Howard’s “Parenthood,” chronicling the joy and pain of raising kids, is still hilarious after all these years.
The Paramount’s film series is an Austin summer staple and well worth the price of admission. Tickets to the double feature are just $10, available online or at the box office.
Sports: Austin Aztex vs. SW Florida Adrenaline
Photo: Courtesy, Bob Ward.
The 2014 FIFA World Cup brought soccer fever to our city, with Austin being one of the most futbol-enthusiastic cities in the United States.
The city’s own team, the Austin Aztex, will host the United Soccer League’s PDL (Premier Development League) Southern Conference Championships at House Park this weekend. Come watch as the Aztex take on the SW Florida Adrenaline. The winner of the games will advance to the league championships, taking place from August 1-3.
Adult tickets are $10, available online, and children under 10 get in free. Games start on Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 7:30.
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Featured photo: Flickr user Davidlohr Bueso, creative commons licensed.
