Can't Miss It: Weekend Edition Sept 18-20

CATEGORY BLEAK GENUINE HOPE : Dirty Three play depressing but somehow uplifting songs. The group instrumental music takes elements from jazz, folk, chamber music, and traditional rock. They’re led by Nick Cave’s favorite violinist--fans of Cave’s brand of Australian literary post-punk rock will enjoy this. With Chris Brokaw.

8:00 p.m. Fri. // The Crocodile, 2200 Second Ave // Tickets: $15, 21+

GET SOUSED AT THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE : The Fremont Oktoberfest runs today through Sunday. Adults can enjoy two beer gardens, live entertainment, and a chainsaw pumpkin-carving contest. There’s a kids play area if you want to bring the family. A portion of the proceeds goes towards funding local schools, art groups, and community events. USA Today voted Fremont one of the top places to enjoy Oktoberfest.

5:00 p.m. Fri.-Sun. // Phinney & 35th // Tickets: $25-$30

ELLIOTT AT ELLIOTT BAY: Stephen Elliott reads at the Elliott Bay Book Company tonight. His new book, The Adderall Diaries, is a forthright confessional on his various addictions and unhappy history. Elliott mixes crime, murder, drugs, and S&M with questions of truth and the self.

7:30 p.m. Fri. // Elliott Bay Book Company, 101 S. Main St // Tickets: FREE