Best of the weekend

Best ballet bite-back

They want to suck your blood - gracefully. Tonight is the Royal New Zealand Ballet's second-to-last performance in Auckland of Dracula, based on Bram Stoker's 1897 novel. The show features eerie lighting effects, a powerful score, impressive costume design, and some of the best dancers in New Zealand. This version of Dracula merges ballet with literature in a bloodthirsty ride evoking 19th-century Transylvania. Be sure to pack your crucifix and garlic.

Dracula - Tonight and tomorrow night, Civic Theatre, Auckland, book at ticketek.co.nz or call (09) 307 5000

Best Aussie larrikin

Any Man who can incorporate a swearword in his name is bound to have a love-hate relationship with the public. Love him or hate him, Aussie singer-comedian Kevin Bloody Wilson brings his hilarious and offensive show to Auckland tonight. It's been 20 years since the former electrician made the switch to comedy and he's never looked back. With hit songs such as Living Next Door to Alan, you can be sure of a laugh with Kev.

Kevin Bloody Wilson: The Australis Yobbus Vulgaris Tour, Sky City Theatre, tonight, 8pm, tickets from ticketek.co.nz

Best boogie

Two radio stations combine to present the George and Base FM Winter Warm Up. About 100 DJs from both stations take over The Studio and Galatos tonight for an evening of mid-winter frivolity. Special events include a live performance by Substax, a manmade snowfield in Galatos St, and many of Auckland's best will be behind the turntables.

The Winter Warm Up: Galatos and Studio, 9pm, tickets can be won on George and Base FM

Best birthday bash

Joe Strummer's band The Clash is said to have influenced everyone from Nirvana and Green Day to Public Enemy. Strummer, who died in 2002, clearly struck a chord with New Zealanders as well. Strummer Day celebrates the guitarist's birthday with an afternoon of live music, videos, and general reminiscing at the King's Arms. Jordan Luck performs, along with DJ Stinky Jim, Michael Scorey and Jono Lonie, Roof Dog, Graham Brazier, and Benevolent Evelyns.

Strummer Day: King's Arms, Newton, Sunday, 3pm-10pm

Best escape

With Spring in sight it's time to take advantage of all our country has to offer before that snow melts away. The Fallout Festival, based in Ohakune, starts today and runs for three weeks. This year it's all action night and day, with multiple parties, film festivals, and comedy nights, as well as plenty of chances to get up the mountain before the season ends. Dust off the old ski boots, screw on the roof racks, and head south.

Fallout Festival: Mt Ruapehu District, Aug 20-Sep 10. More information at www.fallout.co.nz