Austinites, get ready for an exciting weekend as the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix comes to Circuit of the Americas October 23-25. Besides the thrills at the racetrack, you can also check out a variety of events off the track — join in the fun at a post-race concert by legendary Elton John, check out free Fan Fest concerts on Rainey Street featuring bands such as Trombone Shorty and Ozomotli, or check out Pop Austin, an International art show featuring an impressive collection of illuminated contemporary art.
–> F1 Races: Tickets for Formula 1 Grand Prix are still available for purchase at circuitoftheamericas.com. Elton John will be headlining the Sunday races, and tickets for that day are available for purchase starting at $99. Wondering about getting tickets for children? The COTA website notes that children under the age of 2 have free general admission, but any grandstand entrance area requires a purchased ticket for the child. On the day of the event, children under the age of 16 or students with a valid student ID will receive 20% off admission.
–> POP AUSTIN Art Show: POP AUSTIN is an exciting contemporary art event. The art show, titled “Illumination,” will feature a number of light-based works by several celebrated artists such as Carlo Bernardini, Hans Kotter, Jeongmoon Choi, Nonotak and Adela Andea, among others from around the world. Works will be shipped in from Europe, Asia, New York and Los Angeles, and the show will also highlight select local Austin artists. This will take place at Fair Market from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23 – Sunday, Oct. 25. Tickets start at $40 and can be purchased online here. Kids get in free.
–> Fan Fest: This year, Fan Fest is moving to Rainey Street with a big Bud Light Stage featuring free shows. Check out this lineup:
Thursday, Oct. 22:
- 7 p.m. – Fan Forum with current F1 stars including Alexander Rossi
- 8:20 p.m. – Elle King
- 9:45 p.m. – Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Friday, Oct. 23:
- 7 p.m. – Money Chicha
- 8:30 p.m. – Ozomatli
- 10:30 p.m. – Mayer Hawthorne
Saturday, Oct. 24:
- 7 p.m. – Holiday Mountain
- 8:30 p.m. – A-Trak
- 10:30 p.m. – Public Enemy
It doesn’t sound like Fan Fest has kid activities like in year’s past, but it could surely could be a fun, free night out with friends or a date night. In addition to the free events on Rainey Street, there are also concerts at venues all over Austin. Click here to check the schedule and lineup.
To learn more about all of the F1 events, you can visit the Circuit of the Americas website.
