Formula One festivals merge to reduce footprint

Circuit of The Americas, which organized Austin Fan Fest, confirmed that both festivals will take place in Austin Fan Fest's footprint—along Colorado Street, North Congress Avenue, East Third Street and East Fourth Street.

Leah Fillion, spokeswoman for the Austin Transportation Department, added that the festivals will share Austin Fan Fest's operating times: 6 p.m.–2 a.m. Nov. 16 and 10 a.m.–2 a.m. Nov. 17 and 18.

Organized by RunTex, Experience Austin was originally slated to take place from Seventh to 11th streets between Brazos and Colorado streets. 

RunTex CEO Paul Carrozza said the decision to merge the festivals came after a couple of weeks of discussion.

"Where we were duplicating efforts was in the beer gardens, music and entertainment," he said. "Where we were cooperative is in that we were bringing Experience Austin and they were bringing the F1 experience."

He said that in addition to what local vendors will offer, F1 sponsors are likely to have engaging displays for visitors to see.

"A local Austinite can expect a really fun environment for families and to be introduced to F1 if they are not already a fan," he said. "If you are coming in from around the world, you'll get an idea of what Austin has to offer [such as the] local music."