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5 Things You Cannot Miss at Abu Dhabi F1 (Beyond the Races)

“Creator of the New Culture” (diptych), 2017, Pokras Lampos

The Abu Dhabi Formula One weekend is finally upon us (November 24-26). While most of us can’t wait to watch Lewis Hamilton and co. speed across the race track, there are plenty of other things to look forward to during the eventful three-day racing extravaganza. From after-race concerts to art galleries, below, we note five strong reasons to head to the most prestigious circuit in automobile racing— that aren’t the races.

Abu Dhabi Race Weekend Opera Gallery Pop Up
Dubai’s Opera Gallery will host its first ever pop-up from November 24-26 during the Formula 1 weekend for Arts enthusiasts seeking a break from the race track. The exclusive event will feature carefully-curated pieces (including 10 artworks and three sculptures) from two of the internationally-renowned gallery’s artists, Pokras Lampas and SEEN. Additionally, Lampas, a contemporary calligraphy artist, will be doing a live art activation starting on November 25th and finishing up on November 26th, ahead of the last race. Opera Gallery Dubai’s Pop-up Exhibition will be running from Thursday November 23rd – Sunday, November 26th at the Yas Marina from 3 pm to midnight.

Courtesy of Yas Beach

El Chiringuito Pop-Up
El Chiringuito, a restaurant meet beach club transplanted from Ibiza, will be doing a pop-up on Yas Beach during all three days of the Formula 1 weekend. Those looking to let their guard down and enjoy live music by the pool after a massive race brunch will benefit from a line-up of international DJ’s, including “the father of techno” Sven Vath, set to perform as part of “Nomad night” on Friday. Meanwhile, on Saturday, the pop-up will bring its famed La Familia Brunch to Yas Island, which includes a mouth-watering menu of tuna tartare, quinoa salad, or seafood paella. El Chiringuito will set up home on YAS Beach on November 24-26 from noon onwards.

The After Race Concerts
This year’s after race concerts include live performances by the likes of Pink, Calvin Harris, Mumford & Sons, and J.Cole at the Du arena. But those aren’t the only big names to look forward to seeing live, as the Emirates capital is going to be buzzing with other international artists. Moroccan-born rapper French Montana will perform at the 1OAK pop-up on Sunday, meanwhile, Busta Rhymes, Craig David, and Rick Ross will all be performing at the Palm Garden nightclub at Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi on three consecutive nights starting from Friday. Other international artists to take the stage during the Formula 1 Grand Prix include Iggy Azealia (Friday), Neyo (Saturday), and Wiz Khalifa (Sunday) at Mad on Yas Island.

Lucky Voice Pop-Up
Popular London-based karaoke joint Lucky Voice will be transplanted from Dubai during the Formula 1 weekend to host a luxurious track-side yacht party for those who don’t want to miss out on watching Lewis Hamilton and co. speed across the track. The exclusive event will include canapés, live entertainment, and 360 trackside views.

Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE Race Takeover
On Sunday— the most anticipated race day— Blue Marlin Ibiza is taking over the Diablito Rooftop overlooking the tracks from 1pm to 10pm. A lineup of Dj’s including DJ’s Frederick Stone, Michka, Sam Starks, and Mario Bazouri are set to provide the evening’s tunes. For booking and reservation inquiries, call +97156113400.

Related Read: Vogue‘s November culture guide

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