This weekend, Austin welcomes thousands of racing fans from around the world for the Formula 1 U.S. Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Though the race itself takes place on Sunday, the global event features some of the most exclusive parties and luxury opportunities in the city, beginning today.

Just minutes away from The Austonian luxury condos is Austin Fan Fest, a street festival featuring music, food trucks, vendors, and more. The city has closed a section of Fourth Street and surrounding downtown streets for the weekend to make room for three stages, a market of vendor booths, and special F1 and Halloween themed events and activities for both kids and adults. Overall Austin Fan Fest is free, but VIP tickets are available for access to exclusive amenities, including a lounge and special viewing area, as well as complimentary food and drinks from local restaurants.

Just down the street from The Austonian, the W Austin is hosting an F1 Pre-Party tonight from 6-9 p.m. as a luxury complement to the action at Fan Fest and on the track. Blu at the W will feature cocktails and light bites from Austin chefs, as well as the Full Tilt Fashion Show showcasing local and international and local designers. Tickets to Blue at the W are still available online.

When the time comes to head to the track on Sunday, shuttle busses will run from downtown to the Circuit of the Americas track, or for those that would prefer to arrive in style, a VIP helicopter shuttle can be chartered throughout the weekend.

Events like F1 bring out of town visitors to downtown Austin- and while many choose to stay in hotels, The Austonian downtown luxury condominiums provide an alternative to those who plan to frequent Austin after the event. As a private residential building with world-class concierge service and amenities, The Austonian could be, and for many is, an ideal second home.

Photos courtesy Circuit of the Americas