Best Bets: A weekend of art and music

Published 10:18 am Thursday, October 20, 2016

With the leaves falling and autumn taking hold, it’s a great weekend to get creative. With the return of the Caravan du Nord, the return of an annual country show and a few artistic events, there’s no shortage of expressive, fun things to enjoy this weekend.

1. Fall Break Kids’ Event: “Drive In Movie”

2 p.m. Friday at the Austin Public Library

With kids off on a long weekend from school, they can stop at the library to decorate a cardboard box to look like the car of their dreams before watching a short film. For more information, call 507-433-2391.

2. Austin ArtWorks Open Jam Session

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7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Austin ArtWorks Center 

All are welcome for another jam session at the ArtWorks Center. This event features a hosting house band, but guest players, singers and performers are invited to participate. The event is free, but donations will be accepted at the door. For more information, call 507-434-0934.

3. Exploring Abstract Art with Watercolor and Acrylics

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Austin ArtWorks Center

This class with James Wegner is open for people age 18 and up; cost: $150 (supplies included). For more information, call 507-434-0934.

4. 2016 Austin Police Officers Association Fall Country Western Spectacular

7 p.m. Saturday in Austin High School’s Knowlton Auditorium  

This concert featuring James Otto and guest artist Thom Bresh will support a host of youth and community programs in Mower County. Tickets are $25 in advance and $35 at the door. Advance tickets will be available at the Austin Law Enforcement Center. For more information, call 507-437-9407.

5. 2016 Caravan Du Nord

7:30 p.m. at the Historic Paramount Theatre

The Caravan Du Nord tour is returning to Austin again, and with it comes Minneapolis indie rock band Bad Bad Hats. Local band Severe Logic, a pop, rock and country group, will open the show and Americana act Erik Koskinen will also play. This year’s stop will feature two workshops from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. One session will focus on grant writing opportunities. Tickets are $10 and are available at the Austin ArtWorks Center or online at www.austinareaarts.org. For more information, call 507-434-0934. Read a full story on the tour at www.austindailyherald.com/2016/09/talking-music-caravan-du-nord-rolls-back-into-austin/