The Austin-based Fabulous Thunderbirds are scheduled to headline the Buda Fan Jam on Nov. 15. The Fan Jam is a kick-off event for the first Formula 1 race in Austin. (Photo by mwvisual.com)
by VERONICA GORDON
“Buda Fan Jam” is the tentative name for a proposed free concert set for November at City Park.
The concert is part of the city’s tourism plans surrounding the upcoming Circuit of the America’s Formula 1 race in Austin.
Buda Director of Tourism Alisha Burrow presented the city council with details of the concert last week, seeking approval for the event.
“There will be several events during the Formula 1 race week,” Burrow said. “Some spectators will be in the Austin area two to three days prior to the race.”
The proposed event is scheduled for 6-11 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 15, and will feature two to three bands, including headliners The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Activities and food and alcohol vendors will be set up at the event, the tourism director said.
Burrow told council members the city could expect a large crowd for the concert. They in turn unanimously approved the event, telling Burrow she had their support.
Buda resident Rose Marie Shelton voiced her opposition to the concert.
“All I can say is, this is the most ridiculous thing that I’ve ever heard Buda planning to do,” Shelton said. “The concert shouldn’t go until 11 o’clock. The Thunderbirds are loud. I live probably a half-mile from (City Park). It’s horrible. I just hate the thought of all these people and the alcohol. I just think it’s totally ridiculous.”
The advertising budget for the concert is $20,000.
“We may not use all of it, but we don’t know what other opportunities will arise in terms of advertising,” Burrow said. “We hope to completely saturate various media outlets to advertise the concert.”
The concert is expected to cost $43,830, including the advertising.
In addition to the concert, the tourism department is planning group tours for race fans. Tuesday, Nov. 13, from 2-8 p.m. will feature “The Spirit of Texas” tour, which includes a sampling of Texas food and spirits. The “Ranch Life” tour on Wednesday, Nov. 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. focuses on Buda’s agricultural heritage, with a visit to the Dear Run Land & Cattle Company.
“We will also be providing shuttle service to the race track, and this has been a big hit,” Burrow said. “So far we’re the most affordable shuttle service in the area.”
Shuttle rides cost $25 per person and will pick up riders at Stagecoach House and Visitor’s Center at 6:15 a.m., then make the rounds to various hotels in Buda.
