My first impressions of Austin as an incoming freshman back in 200_ were forever scorched in my mind with the introduction of the Austin Chronicle “Hot Sauce Festival”. Free admission with upwards of 15,000 spectators and more than 350 entries every year, this iconic end-of-summer festival is a must for locals and or any newbies to Austin looking to expand demolish their prepubescent taste buds.

Some Recommendations:

• You vs. the heat – H2O. The stuff is solid.
• You vs. parking – not a big deal. parking garages and bike lots galore.
• You vs. the hot sauce – Bearable all around. Oh, try the one in the skull bottle if you like tasting Death on this particular August weekend. Bread and prayers help.
• You vs. the music – music wins. be prepared to move those hips.

I would usually recommend heading out early to avoid that Texas UV blast and get a good nights rest for the following work day – this is not one of those times. T Bird and the Breaks headlines the music scene at 4:00 pm to distract you from the near suicidal ingestion of habeneros, chilis, and the under-preparation of both. Their mixed fusion of funk, jazz, and sexy are a perfect combination for a Sunday afternoon groove in Austin city limits.

Join the fun, music and hot sauce from 11am to 5:30pm at Waterloo Park, 12th and Red River. Cheers!

More info after the jump >>