I don’t know about you, but I’m on a budget! These are tough economic times and cutbacks have become the norm. For example: I had to get rid of my Cheesecake of the Month membership. Yes, it’s that bad! So while I clip coupons and take oversize handbags to smuggle excess General Tso’s chicken out of my local Chinese buffet, I always keep an eye out for free (but massively entertaining) events. This weekend is teeming with free. From drag superstars to garbage-turned-art, you’ll have plenty to keep your mind off your overdue light bill.

Safe in moderation

Friday

• Come see drag superstar Jackie Beat at Guava Lamp. Known for hosting some of the most popular and outrageous drag queens (like Jackie and Lady Bunny), Guava never charges a cover. You can have your car parked by the free valet, too! Jackie comes all the way out from California to deliver her special brand of trash-talk and smack to Houston. Check out some of her videos here. Guava Lamp – 570 Waugh – 10pm – No Cover.

Saturday

• See trash turned art in Hasta La Basura Se Separa - an exhibition curated by the Austin-based group Los Outsiders: Salvador Castillo, Michael Anthony García and Hector Hernandez. Originally presented at the Galleria del Espacio Cultural de la Antigua Aduana in the border town of Nuevo Laredo, Hasta La Basura Se Separa features the work of 13 contemporary artists from Texas, New York & Utah. With an emphasis on found objects, the artists reveal their personal experiences in a way that highlights their greater cultural histories. Box13 Artspace – 6700 Harrisburg – 7pm – Free.

Sunday

• See Billy Stritch at the Miller Outdoor Theater on Sunday evening. An award-winning composer, arranger, vocalist, and jazz pianist of extraordinary range and sophistication, Billy Stritch breathes new life into the Great American Songbook, all the while bringing an easy sense of humor and showmanship to his performances. Accompanied by the University of Houston Jazz Orchestra, he’s guaranteed to heat up a cool fall evening. Here’s a video of Billy and the U of H Orchestra rehearsing for Sunday’s performance. Hermann Park – 100 Concert Dr. – 7:30pm – Free.

Got a Houston event you’d like featured on TNG? Tell me about it: josh@thenewgay.net