While the Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival is the big deal this weekend, there are some other options. Really! Would I lie to you? Never … at least not intentionally .. well, maybe if you ask “do I look fat in this?”

Did you hear the news that the Alabama State Fair moved from the Fairgrounds to Pelham and the former Oak Mountain Amphitheatre*? Afraid you already missed all the rides and cotton candy and pig races? Not to fear, the fair is open until Sunday. Now it’s not cheap — tickets are $8, wristbands for the rides are $20 (but hey, every day is wristband day) and then add on another $5 for parking. But the fair only comes once a year and where else are you going to buy overpriced caramel apples? Go ahead and buy two, I’m not judging. And you look great in those jeans. Pass me the funnel cake.

If you want to get out and enjoy our beautiful weather, there are two art shows this weekend. The Hoover/Shelby Art Association will hold its Art in the Park fall show and sale Saturday from 10 to 5 at Heardmont Park, 5458 Cahaba Valley Road off Highway 119. The second show is down the road a bit but it gets points for being on a lake. Look for Artscape at Lakeside Park beside the Pell City Civic Center. Same hours, sponsored by the Council of the Arts.

We love trains in my household so there will be the mandated stop at the annual Whistle Stop Festival Saturday. Food, fun, stuff for everyone and I bet you’ll see a train. Irondale already has the signs up pointing the way. Hours are 9 to 4 and admission is free.

Last stop on this train of thought is to mention Vulcan AfterTunes on Sunday. The fall music series is back for its fourth year. Yea. Bring your chairs and blankets, buy an adult beverage and kick back for some relaxing music. It’s a great event to bring the kids. Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for kids 5-12 and under 4 free. Free for members too. Time is 3 p.m. This weekend’s musical act is Amy LaVere and the featured brews are from Terrapin. October 12 and 26 are the other dates for the series — same time, same place.

* I really don’t like the new name.