Get ready to hustle for those coveted court-side seats as the NBA makes its return to Abu Dhabi from October 3 to October 6. The 2024 NBA champion Boston Celtics and the 2023 NBA champion Denver Nuggets will be battling it out this weekend. But the excitement doesn’t stop on the court; you’ll also have the chance to meet basketball legends, enjoy musical performances, and even catch surprise appearances from your favorite stars. Tickets start from Dh55 at Manarat Al Saadiyat Terrace. Secure your spot at etihadarena.ae.

Achtung baby! Octoberfest is back, and you can experience it without leaving Dubai. Head to Horse & Hound, the British-style gastropub at Al Habtoor Polo Resort, for an authentic Octoberfest experience. Enjoy a special menu featuring knuckle dish, apple strudel, pretzel chicken tenders, and a variety of beverages. The festivities run until Sunday, October 6. For reservations, call +971 54 559 6693.

If laughter is your idea of a good time, then Prana House in Motor City is the place to be this weekend. They’re teaming up with yoga instructor Pranalli Dhamankar for a laughter yoga session that’s sure to lift your spirits. Best of all, it’s free! Seats are limited, so register early at https://wa.me/971585782537. The session takes place on Saturday, October 5, at 4pm.

Calling all mini master chefs! Enroll your young ones in a Mini Chef – Hocus Pocus class at the Mamalu Kitchen in Nakheel Mall on Friday, October 4, from 3pm-4.30pm. They’ll learn how to create pumpkin-shaped stuffed pizza bombs, mummified hot dogs, RIP pepperoni and cheese calzones, and black velvet cookies. The class costs Dh200 per person.

If you think you’ve got what it takes to hold a note, then Lucky Voice Got Talents is calling you. This sixth edition offers the chance to win up to Dh15,000 in cash and a recording session with Le Dome Records. Auditions are held every Sunday until October 20, 2024, with the grand finals on November 30.

It’s Breast Cancer Month, and you can contribute by participating in the IGNITE Pink is Punk Swim:Run in Dubai on October 5. Choose between an open Swim and Run (600m swim / 3km beach and pavement run) or the Fun Run (3km beach and pavement run). There are also junior categories for kids aged 6-11 and 12-16. Teams of two can also register. All proceeds go to Breast Friends to fund research and support patients and their families. The event is part of a three-activity series, including Pink Paddle on October 12 and IGNITE Pink is Punk Moonlight Yoga on October 14. Entry costs Dh157.50 per person or Dh315 per team. The event starts at 6am at Anantara the Palm Resort and Spa, with parking available onsite.

Start your weekend with a big breakfast at Sfumato’s Saturday bottomless breakfast buffet. Enjoy a variety of sweet and savory options, from artisanal bread to shrimp ceviche and smoked salmon choux buns. Upgrade to a two-hour free-flowing beverage option if you wish. While you indulge, the kids can join a cooking masterclass. Themes change weekly, so early reservations are recommended. The buffet costs Dh290 with beverages and runs from 9am-3pm at Opus Tower by Zaha Hadid Dubai. For reservations, call +971 58 101 5649.

Gain insight into the life and legacy of Dame Joanna Lumley with her new show, Me and My Travels, where she discusses her nearly 50 years in showbiz. The show takes place on Sunday, October 6, at Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai. Tickets start from Dh195 and can be booked at dubaiopera.com.

If you’re a fan of the classics, don’t miss Cinderella on Ice at Zabeel Theatre, Palm Jumeirah. Watch as Cinders navigates her wicked stepmother and sisters and meets Prince Charming, all while gliding on skates. The show runs from Friday, October 4, to Sunday, October 6. Tickets start from Dh200 and can be booked at platinumlist.ae.

For a story that’s sure to make you laugh, check out the Hindi play Ek Main Aur Ekk Two in Dubai. The production by Paritosh Painter runs at Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, HIS, on Friday, October 4. The play follows Monika Duggal, a clever divorcee in Colaba, as she juggles two boyfriends, Percy Karkaria and Bobby Dhillon. Add in a drunk husband, a sprained ankle, and unexpected visitors, and you’ve got a recipe for chaotic comedy. Doors open at 7.45pm. Tickets start at Dh75 and are available at https://dubai.platinumlist.net.