The sound of engines revving, cars speeding, the smell of burning rubber, fresh barbecue and the sun kissing upon your face…my friends, we have arrived at Formula 1 in Austin, Texas! The main event consists of 3 days of fast cars and 2 days of spectacular entertainment. The 2016 headliners were pop superstar Taylor Swift and musical powerhouse Usher and The Roots. We were lucky enough to be at Taylor Swift’s only concert of the year and what a show it was! She even opened up to the audience about what a journey it’s been for her so far through her career. Both events blew our minds and swooned our hearts. It didn’t matter what age you are, there was something for everyone in the family to enjoy including a fireworks display to close out the event.
Austin, Texas has some of the best music culture in the country and is a top entertainment destination. With so many enjoyable events going on like Austin City Limits Music Festival, SXSW, Formula 1, Euphoria, Levitation, Sound on Sound, Reggae Fest and many, many more, it’s no wonder they call it the Live Music Capital of the World. So many great performers bless us with their talents and I feel lucky to call Austin home. People from all over the world come to experience the culture Austin has to offer. Let’s not forget to mention the mouthwatering food you can find at restaurants, food trailers around town and even at these events. Many have been listed on the Travel channel as top food destinations or are world renowned because of their rich and delicious flavors.
The nightlife as well can take you for a spin around town. There’s West Sixth for your more garnished drinks and discotheque vibes. Rainey Street is known for the cocktail lounges and outdoor patios. Dirty Sixth is home to loud music, cheap drinks and bad decisions, making it a hit with the tourists and college kids. East Sixth is more for your neighborhood pubs, taprooms, and beer gardens. Congress Avenue has the legendary Continental Club and many other great rock, country, jazz & blues nightclubs to get your juices flowing. These all offer great live music every day of the week.
Here are some top tips from a seasoned veteran.
- Ride-share: Parking at any venue can be brutal, and ride-sharing not only saves money but means everyone can have a good time.
- Sunscreen: Texas is hotter than the Devil’s backside!
- Camera: To capture those awesome moments.
- Phone charger: We’ve all experienced having a dead phone when you need it the most.
- Plastic Water bottle: Quench your thirst
- Napkins: In case Porta Potties are paperless
- Koozie: Keeps your drinks cold.
Don’t forget your tickets or wristbands! Make sure to get a map of any event venue you attend so you know your way around. If you don’t want it to be jam-packed when leaving, I suggest delaying your exit a bit or leaving somewhat earlier. The main thing is to have fun and enjoy yourself! Good times, good music, and good memories.
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FestPop Staff Writer Daniela Marchand