Weekendist: October 9-11

Sorry we're a bit late, there's just SO MUCH to do in Houston this weekend. We've been busy planning Houstonist's second juried photography show, opening tonight at Xnihilo Gallery,. It features photos of Houston by Houstonians, and obviously, it's the place to be. But there's much more to do and see. Check out our picks below:

ALL WEEKEND

• Turkishfest, the 19th annual festival celebrating all things Ottoman, including dance, music, food and culture. Did you know that Istanbul was once Constantinople? All day Saturday and Sunday at Jones Plaza. Tickets $5 for adults and $3 for children.
• Bayou City Art Festival, downtown's fall version of the massively popular juried art event. Featuring almost 300 artists from all over the globe. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $10 for adults, free for kids.


• 20th Annual Conroe Catfish Festival, three days of fried food and Cajun music. Yum! Friday through Sunday in downtown Conroe. Tickets are $10 for adults, free for kids. Bring extra money and your fat pants.

FRIDAY

• 7 p.m. — 600 sq. mi photo show opening. Sponsored by your very own Houstonist, juried photography showing the hidden side of our favorite city. Featuring drinks by St. Arnold's and food by Strip House. The art is for sale. Free, at Xnihilo Gallery, 2115 Taft Street.
• 7 p.m. — Gulf Coast Reading Series featuring the poetic and prosical stylings of Ryler Dustin, Eric Howerton, and Analicia Sotelo. At Brazos Bookstore. Free, and not to be missed.
• 8 p.m. — Houston Ballet performance of Swan Lake at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands. Tickets for the orchestra section are $15 but mezzanine and lawn admission is free.

SATURDAY

• 3-11 p.m. — Lonnie Allsbrooks, owner of Beer Island in the Heights, is having a meet and greet between to discuss his campaign for a seat on City Council. Free beer, live bands, food and artwork. 2631 White Oak Drive.

Photo: Flickr user kinjotx