The countdown for Austin City Limits Music Festival 2026 has officially begun. Set against the sprawling backdrop of Zilker Park in Austin, Texas, this year’s 25th anniversary edition is shaping up to be another electric weekend of pop, alternative, indie, and a healthy dose of electronic music.
Leading the charge are a stacked collection of headliners, including Charli XCX, Rufus Du Sol, Twenty One Pilots, Lorde, and The xx, each bringing their own distinct sound to one of Texas’ biggest music weekends. top the bill for the 25th anniversary edition. What better way to kick off the LONG day (with walking more than you can imagine) than by stopping by the FLRT pop-up! The all-new zero-sugar energy drink with added functional benefits, including collagen production and immune support, is making its way to Austin City Limits to bring its delicious, fruit-forward flavors to concert-goers, rhinestone cowgirls, and Texas locals alike all weekend long. Located at 1631 Barton Springs Road from 11am-4pm, consumers can swing by FLRT's pop-up on their way to the fairgrounds to stock up on FLRT Energy, take a load off and kick back or play some tailgate games, capture photo-worthy moments, and score exclusive giveaways, accessories, and surprises!
The festival will once again unfold across two weekends, with Weekend One running October 2-4 and Weekend Two taking place October 9-11. While both weekends feature an impressive mix of established names and emerging talent, there are a few key differences worth noting. Skrillex will take the headlining spot during Weekend One, while Kings of Leon will close out Weekend Two. Be sure to scan the line up thoroughly as there are additional acts that will only play on specific weekends.
With so many acts to see, bites to try, and places to shop over the weekend, it can be hard to plan it all - here are our tips for making the most out of your ACL experience.
The BMI Stage Returns:
Additionally the BMI stage will return to Zilker Park for its 23rd year at the Austin City Limits Music Festival, with an electrifying lineup. Renowned as a launchpad for rising songwriters and fresh new sounds, the BMI Stage will continue its vibrant tradition of championing multi-genre innovation and musical discovery.
This year’s lineup will showcase 22 must-see BMI affiliates, including Aaron Rowe, Chelsea Jordan, Chloe Qisha, Coleman Jennings, Common People, Dámaris Bójor, Elle Coves, Emma Ogier, Fai Laci, Fancy Hagood, FIGHTMASTER, Girlfriend, and more. In many ways, the BMI Stage embodies what makes ACL Fest special: the chance to catch tomorrow’s headliners before they become household names. With another crop of rising artists taking the stage this year, BMI is once again bringing a showcase of musical discovery to the heart of Texas.
Get To the Festival Early:
As with any major music festival, one of the best strategies is also the simplest: get there early. While the headliners may draw the biggest crowds, some of the most rewarding ACL Fest moments can happen well before the main stages fill up.
Take a chance on an artist you’ve never heard of, wander over to a stage you weren’t planning to visit, and keep an open mind. If ACL Fest’s history is any indication, there’s a good chance you’ll be hearing some of those “lesser-known” acts on the radio long after the festival wraps.
Go Beyond The Music:
Over the years, ACL has become a staple for delivering outstanding shows. The festival creators continuously offer a diverse musical lineup including local artists, art installations, and experiences that are beyond the music. Of course, they also bring a variety of delicious food and beverage options from Austin. With the stunning backdrop of Zilker Park, this festival truly embodies the vibrant Austin spirit.
Twenty-five years of Austin City Limits is a huge celebration - and to honor the occasion, the festival is taking a walk down memory lane.
Last year festival-goers had many places to cool off and retreat from the heat such as the Coca-Cola Refresh Lounge. Other vendors at the festival include American Express, Josh Wines, HEB, Lyft, DoorDash, BMI, Tito’s Vodka are just a few that will be providing unique experiences and activations for attendees. New this year, VIP attendees will receive complimentary drinks as well as new perks including an air-conditioned lounge and dedicated VIP entrance.
After making its ACL debut last year, Hacienda PATRÓN is back for year two – and it’s going out with a bang as PATRÓN Tequila’s final Live Nation festival activation of the year. The two-story Hacienda will once again bring the spirit of Jalisco, Mexico to Austin’s biggest music weekend, giving ACL attendees a destination to experience PATRÓN between sets through cocktails, music and culture, and daily happy hours featuring tacos from Cuantos Tacos – the first 100 people to get a Headliner Margarita during happy hour will get 1 free taco. Also, PATRÓN is putting a frozen twist on its Headliner Margarita this year, marking the first-ever frozen margarita from the brand. It’s available in GA and is definitely the way to beat the heat! There will also be a nightly surprise at the Hacienda that festival goers can expect from 7-10 pm on both weekends as well as local DJs!
Eat Your Heart Out:
If anything remains true, it’s that everything is bigger in Texas - and that definitely applies to the food and beverage scene. At ACL, you’ll find a feast of Texas staples alongside plenty of festival-worthy favorites, from sweet treats to savory bites to legendary BBQ and a good ol’ fashion slice of pizza. Consider your taste buds officially on overload: here,the food scene is every bit as big as the music. My advice? Scope out your must-try bites before you hit the festival grounds, because some favorites can sell out before the weekend wraps. And remember: sharing is caring. Divide and conquer with your crew so you can sample a little bit of everything without missing a beat. Some eats I’m most looking forward to:
KG BBQ — last year they had a brisket rice bowl, and I’m hoping for more BBQ goodness
Cuantos Tacos - because yes, please!
Shawarma Point: - I’ll never say ‘no’ to Mediterranean food
CM Smokehouse - I heard they are known for their Crunch Wrap - so I knew I had to swing by and give this a try!
JAB’s - Can never go wrong with a good ol’ smash burger - they were voted best burger in Austin for 2026 and ranked #31 In the International World’s 101 Best Burger places!
Shopping:
Community Focus:
Truthfully, ACL is in a league of its own. Not only does it deliver a stellar multi-genre lineup but its a community-forward experience that continues to give back.. Click HERE to learn more about its community impact over the years.
One thing is for sure, no matter where you roam while in Zilker Park - you’re going to find good music, good eats, and good company. Lucky for you there are tickets still available, click HERE to snag yours ahead of the festivities.
