THOUSANDS FLOCK TO DOWNTOWN AUSTIN FOR COTA FAN FEST DURING 2014 F1 USGP WEEKEND

Motors and music, families and fans filled the streets of downtown Austin last weekend for COTA Fan Fest, a turbo-charged celebration that coincided with the 2014 United States Grand Prix.

The third-annual event was geared toward families, music lovers and car enthusiasts alike, with displays by several Formula One teams, performances by Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominee Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, rappers De La Soul, local favorite Texas Tornados, DeVotchKa and much more.

Throughout the weekend, festival-goers could try their hand at a mechanical bull, race their friends in giant hamster balls, get a photo with the Ghostbusters’ Ecto-1 car and get involved in countless other activities.

Friday’s entertainment took on a Halloween flair as Minor Mishap Marching Band paraded through the festival, guests partook in a Costume Skate Jam with multiple X Games medalist Bucky Lasek and kids played in a pumpkin patch. 

On Saturday, Formula One fans were treated to an appearance by Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton, who won Sunday’s U.S. Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas, and an at-capacity show by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.

Sunday saw a much more laid-back atmosphere, with fun activities for all ages in the park, topped off with an afternoon show by Texas Tornados.