England: Whether you’re interested in go-karting or Formula 1 racing, organizers of the trade show Autosport International: The Racing Car Show at Birmingham’s NEC say you’ll enjoy the gathering of cars, stars and motorsport personalities this weekend.
Get close to Formula 1 cars on the F1 Racing Grid and rally cars on the Rally Display; watch live-action motor racing and record-breaking stunts in the Live Action Arena; join in a go-kart race or feel what it’s like to race in the Mobil 1 Grand Prix simulator; and take a spin with a professional driver on a specially made indoor course in a Caterham racing car. Current Formula 1 World Championship leader Jenson Button is among the stars confirmed to appear.
The show is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. See www.autosport-international.com for prices and more details.
Scotland: Glasgow celebrates the Celtic influence on international music this Thursday through Jan. 31 during the annual Celtic Connections festival.
An international list of performers including favorites such as Buffy Sainte-Marie, Ry Cooder and The Chieftains. Tom Paxton and Bobby McFerrin will join well-known groups, such as the Scottish Capercaillie and the American Cherish the Ladies, and a long list of other performers. Check out some of the new Celtic sounds with Salsa Celtica and The National Jazz Trio of Scotland. Workshops let you try your skills on fiddles, mandolins, spoons and bodhrans. A musical ceilidh, late-night music sessions, talks and art exhibitions also are on the program.
See www.celticconnections.com for more details.
Spain: If you want a good night’s sleep, don’t book a hotel room in the Old Town of San Sebastián on Tuesday or Wednesday. At midnight Tuesday, the pounding of drums and the beating of barrels will begin, keeping even the soundest of sleepers awake as the city celebrates the annual Tambarrado festival. The event honors its patron saint, Donostia of San Sebastián. Corps of uniformed drummers and cooks representing the city’s gastronomy societies and beating barrels with spoons, will take off from the Plaza de la Constitution. They will file into the city streets, continuing through the Old Town and celebrating for 24 hours — so forget any naps as well.
Find out more about San Sebastian and the festival at www.whatsansebastian.com/la-tamborrada.html.
