Summer Isn’t Over Yet: August Cultural Activities in 5 Cities

Hooray! Summer isn’t officially over yet, thank goodness. But as the season begins to draw to a close, that means the end of summer parties and activities are heating up in cities across the country. Take a look below to see some of the final events going on in a city near you.

1. Austin, Texas: Austin Ice Cream Festival

What it’s all about: While the name says it all, the Austin Ice Cream Festival is good for more than just the cold confections being served. Live entertainment, as well as games, is at the center of this event in Waterloo Park in downtown Austin. To make matters even more fun, participate in an Ice Cream Eating Contest or Popsicle Stick Sculpture Contest. If you would rather duel against other ice cream chefs and you think you are up for the challenge of making it yourself, consider a spot in the Homemade Ice Cream Making Contest as well.

Date: August 14

Who should go: If you love ice cream, this one is a winner!

How much it costs: Admission is $5 for adults, and free for kids 12 and under, with the purchase of an adult ticket.

For more information: http://austineventsandfestivals.com/

2. New Orleans, Louisiana: Red Dress Run

What it’s all about: The Red Dress Run is a road race with a distance of about three or four miles where all of the participants are wearing red dresses. With an event slogan that says “you never know who you’ll meet at the New Orleans Red Dress Run,” you are certainly guaranteed pictures with some interesting folks.

Date: August 14: Beer will be served starting at 9:00 a.m., with the race starting at 12:30 p.m.

Who should go: The event is for 21+, but other that, if you like to run, or even if you just want to drink the day away, this event might be just the ticket.

How much it costs: $60.00 entry fee through August 8

For more information: http://nolareddress.tumblr.com/

3. Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota: Fringe Festival of Performing Arts

What it’s all about: The Fringe Festival means ten days of clowning, comedy, dance, improv, musical theater, and spoken word performances.

Date: The festival runs August 5-15.

Who should go: If you want to see rare mime performances, this one is for you. But if you are afraid of clowns, it’s probably best to avoid the clown shows.

How much it costs: $4 for admission button (required for entrance) and single tickets range from $5-$12.

For more information: http://www.fringefestival.org/2010/

4. Salt Lake City, Utah: Salt Lake City Film Festival

What it’s all about: Movies, movies, movies. The three day festival has films about goats and killer tractors—that’s how extreme it gets.

Date: August 12-15

Who should go: If you like endless movie marathons on Saturday nights, head to Salt Lake City to fulfill your movie madness dreams. To see a list of the movies playing, head to: http://www.saltlakecityfilmfestival.com/films.php.

How much it costs: Varies, but is usually around $10 per film.

For more information: http://www.saltlakecityfilmfestival.com/

5. Newton, Massachusetts: New England Dance Festival

What it’s all about: Once again, the name says it all. A few days of dancing, workshops, and even a special early Dance Party on the first night! So put on your dancing shoes, a sassy dress and get out on the floor with your girlfriends.

Date: August 12-15

Who should go: Do you like Dancing with the Stars? If so, this festival is your chance to see what it would be like for real!

How much it costs: Cost depends on what events and dances you’ll be attending.

See http://www.nedancefestival.com/registration.html for a price break down.

For more information: http://www.nedancefestival.com/