By Audra Stamp
July is gone and August is here so it’s time to get the rest of your summer events planned. Time is running out so the Blitz Weekender has some great things for you and your friends and family to do to enjoy this 2013 summer. One month left, so let’s live it up!
Thursday August 1
Rangers vs. D-Backs: Making up their May 29th game with the Arizona D-backs in Arlington, the Rangers are ready to grab one more win. The Rangers have been looking strong recently, grabbing a three walk-off wins in a row. The Diamondbacks have been struggling in their past games, coming up short at times against the Padres and the Rays. Darvish is expected to take the mound. Being one of the team’s prominent and consistent pitchers, he and the rest of the team hopes he can have a strong arm once again.
Quakecon: Gamers, it’s time to gather again for Quakecon 2013 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas. This event starts on Thursday and the best part, it’s free to the public. Since 1996 Quakecon has been offering gamers a chance to get out of the house and play with some new competition. There will be lots of game presentations, exhibits, events and the Keynote speaker John Carmack will have plenty to say. It seems there is no better place to be if you’re a gamer, so grab some friends and your laptop and get down there quick. www.quakecon.org
Lil B: The Prophet down in Deep Ellum is already a hopping place to hang out, but when Lil B steps in the house, the place becomes a party. Doors for the show will open at 8 p.m. and is open to all ages. OG Ron C and the Chopstars will warm up the stage for Lil B. This show will mark the California-based rappers first performance in Dallas. Now in his solo career, The BasedGod as some know him as, will bring in the crowds and keep the club dancing and singing all night. If you’re a fan of hip hop and rap music, then this one-of-a-kind artist will sure impress. www.thedoordallas.com
Friday August 2
Ringling Brothers: It’s back and it always seems to be getting better and better. It really is the greatest show on Earth as they bring their new show, Dragons!, to the American Airlines Center. Tigers, elephants and lots of high flying acrobats are sure to “wow” you while the clowns keep everyone laughing. And to add to the already spectacular show, Dragon tribes from all across the earth have come together to showcase their outstanding circus talents. Each tribe will have to display different virtues and if so then the dragons will be aroused and displayed right in front of your eyes. So get your tickets fast because this is “The Greatest Show on Earth!” www.ringling.com
112: MEDUSA is one of Dallas’ newest and hottest dance and entertainment venues. The R&B quartet that started over 20 years ago has made its way close to home and there’s no better place to catch the action. Quinnes, “Q” Parker, Daron Jones, Marvin “Slim” Scandrick and Michael Keith will keep you singing along all night. Cupid, one of their most famous songs made it to platinum just a few months after it was released. They are good looking, easy to listen to and a great way to have a good time with that loved one or the ladies. www.medusadallas.com
Warped Tour: It’s that time of year again, where all those music lovers get ready for some long, tired yet, amazing music filled days of the Vans Warped Tour. Having rock, pop, alternative and metal, there seems to be music for everyone. This is a great way for everyone, from the gym class athlete, the lead guitarist in a garage band or the nerd to get together and appreciate something they all love, good music. The tour is America’s longest running festival concert tour and displays so many great acts. From No Doubt, Papa Roach, Eminem and so many more, it seems everyone has been a part of the Warped Tour. Some of this year’s performance include Motion City Soundtrack, Hawthorne Heights, Bring Me the Horizon and 71 one other great bands and artists, so lather on the sunscreen and get down to Gexa Energy Pavilion! www.last.fm
Saturday August 3
Wine, Chocolate and Cheese: These three words always seem to go great together, and the combination of flavors as they all envelop your taste buds in one of great satisfaction. Starting at 5:30 p.m. this Saturday Dallas By Chocolate presents a wonderful tasting experience at The Art of Wine in Dallas. It is a great place for a date or a ladies night. The night will begin with a generous wine, cheese, charcuterie and chocolate dinner tasting and pairing. But the fun is just getting started as you will leave the venue and travel to others such as Rush Patisserie, Dude, Sweet Chocolate and CocoAndre. For a great price you will get transportation, many food and drink samples and a few new options to take home to crack open at a later date. www.visitdallas.com
Train: So many have known who they are for years now and they continue to pump out chart toppers that every generation can appreciate. Train is back in Dallas after having hung low for the past few years. Pat Monahan’s soft and relaxing voice is pleasant to the ear and the rest of the band adds the extra quality that makes this band so likable. This tour is related to their latest record, 2012’s California 37. Warming up the stage for Train is the band The Script and handsomely suave Gavin Degraw. Doesn’t seem like there could be a better line up or better looking people showing off their talents for all to hear. www.3dmagazine.com
Sunday August 4
Rockstar Energy Mayhem: As if there wasn’t enough going on at Gexa this weekend, we have even more to offer those looking for a good time. Dallas is the last stop for the Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival. It’s made its away across the country but it’s saved the best for last. Always bringing in huge crowds and some addicted fans, this festival seems to bring everyone out to celebrate some awesome music. Rob Zombie and Five Finger Death Punch are just a few of the bands on the list. There’s sure to be a lot of sweaty, head banging action and even some crowd surfers too.
Jack’s Anniversary Party: Although it’s an interesting anniversary to be celebrating, all those who attend will get the benefit. Jack Mac’s Swill and Grill in Dallas is celebrating their 13th month of being open. With plenty of different foods to offer, Jack’s is a great place to take anyone on any day. But on this fabulous Sunday, you really benefit from his many months of business. As he celebrates, he has brought in all the DFW breweries will be present for an awesome brewer meet and greet. On top of that fun experience, they will also be offering special brews, whiskey flights, food specials live music and much more. www.jackmacsswillandgrill.com
To have your event considered for the Blitz Weekender send your email to: blitzweekender@blitzweekly.com
