2026 Austin City Limits Music Festival Guide

Austin City Limits Music Festival 2026 Guide

It's fall in Austin, which is arguably the best time of year to experience the vibrant culture and exciting events this city has to offer. From cooler weather to tailgating for UT football, F1's United States Grand Prix, Wurstfest, and of course, the renowned Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL Fest), there's something for everyone. While SXSW may be a contender, ACL Fest is truly Austin's premier music festival.

In this guide, we'll provide everything you need to know to make the most of your ACL experience in 2026. From the festival's rich history to this year's lineup and essential tips for festival-goers, you'll be well prepared for an unforgettable time. Plus, don't forget to check out local dining hotspots like Hopdoddy and Plaza Saltillo nearby!

Kicking things off early? Join us Thursday, October 1st at our South Congress location for our ACL kickoff with free drinks, complete with a chance to win free tickets.

What is The Austin City Limits Music Festival?

The Austin City Limits Music Festival, held annually in October, is a two-weekend extravaganza that features a diverse lineup of over 100 acts performing across nine stages. Each year, ACL takes over Zilker Park in Austin, Texas, drawing massive crowds. Since its inception, the festival has grown tremendously, showcasing the music and culture that makes Austin special

History of ACL

Founded in 2002, the Austin City Limits Music Festival was inspired by the KLRU/PBS channel's long-running music series of the same name. The inaugural event was a two-day affair featuring 67 bands on five stages, welcoming about 25,000 attendees. Over the years, ACL Fest has evolved to become one of the most significant music festivals in the country, often compared to Coachella and Outside Lands.

Notable headliners throughout ACL's history include:

• Ryan Adams (2002)
• Amy Winehouse (2007)
• The Strokes (2010)
• Outkast (2014)
• Florence and the Machine (2015)
• Kendrick Lamar (2016)
• Paul McCartney (2018)
• Billie Eilish (2025)

2026 ACL Schedule

This year, ACL Fest will take place over two weekends:

• Weekend 1 (W1): Friday, October 2nd to Sunday, October 4th
• Weekend 2 (W2): Friday, October 9th to Sunday, October 11th

2026 ACL Lineup

Here's the lineup for each weekend:

Weekend 1 (Oct 2-4)

Friday, Oct 2nd

• Asleep at the Wheel: 1:00-1:45 PM
• Night Traveler: 2:00-2:45 PM (Austin-Based Band)
• Brandon Flowers: 5:15-6:15 PM
• Labrinth: 6:30-7:30 PM
• The Chainsmokers: 7:30-8:30 PM
• Charli XCX: 8:35 PM (Headliner)

Other acts that day include Skrillex. Steve Aoki, Silent Disco, Leon Thomas, and more!

Saturday, Oct 3rd

• Coleman Jennings: 3:30-4:15 PM (Austin-Based)
• Suki Waterhouse: 4:15-5:15 PM
• Lola Young: 6:30-7:30 PM
• Lorde: 8:15 PM (Headliner) 
• Rüfüs Du Sol: 8:30 PM (Headliner) 

Additional Saturday acts include It's Murph, DJ Cassandra, Snow Strippers, and more!

Sunday, Oct 4th

• Saint Motel: 5:20-6:20 PM 
• Twenty One Pilots: 8:30 PM (Headliner)
• The XX: 8:35 PM (Headliner) 

Other Sunday acts include Geese, Lauren Sanderson, The War on Drugs, Flight by Nothing, and more!

Weekend 2 (Oct 9-11)

Friday, Oct 9th

• Natasha Bedingfield: 4:30-5:15 PM 
• Leon Thomas: 7:15-8:15 PM 
• Kings of Leon: 8:15 PM (Headliner) 
• Charli XCX: 8:35 PM (Headliner)

Additional Friday acts include Turnstile, Labrinth, Bunt., Leon Knight, Steve Aoki, and more!

Saturday, Oct 11

• Lored & Rüfüs Du Sol: Headliners again
• Lola Youngwill also perform thsi day

Other acts: Bleachers, Levity, Silent Disco, Young Miko, Ryan Beatty, and more!

Sunday, Oct 12

• Twenty One Pilots & The XX: Headliners again
• Saint Motel: 5:20-6:20 PM 
• Houndmouth: 5:30-6:30 PM 

Supporting acts include Blood Orange, Geese, Parcels, Bad Nerves, The War on Drugs, and more!

Tips to Maximize Your ACL Experience

To make the most of your time at ACL Fest, here are some recommendations:

Clothing at ACL

With temperate fall weather expected, you'll want to dress comfortably for the festival:

• For Sunshine: Expect sunny days, light, breathable clothing is key! Opt for fabrics that provide UV protection. A wide-brimmed hat will help shield you from the sun, and cooling Buffs or towels will be a lifesaver when temperatures peak.
• For Rain: Prepare for unpredictable weather with a lightweight, hooded rain jacket. Consider quick-drying materials over heavy fabrics to stay comfy even if the skies open up.
• Footwear: Comfortable shoes are essential since you'll be on your feet all day. Choose closed-toe options or sturdy sandals that can withstand Zilker Park's uneven terrain and dust.

What and What Not to Bring

Things to Bring:

• Refillable water bottle
• Non-aerosol sunscreen (3.4 ounces or less)
• Bandana
• Phone charger
• Blanket and/or chairs
• Flashlight

Do Not Bring:

• E-cigs or vaping devices
• Liquids (outside permitted exceptions)
• Professional audio/video recording equipment
• Glass containers or any large backpacks
• Outside food or beverages (including alcohol)
• Pets (except service animals)

Where to Eat

Austin's food scene is not to be missed, especially during ACL Fest! While local vendors will offer a variety of fare, make time to explore nearby dining hotspots. Don't miss:

• Hopdoddy Burger Bar (South Congress Location): This vibrant area offers various eateries ideal for a quick bite between sets.

• Hopdoddy (East 5th Location): A little further away but located near several local bars and restaurants.

Other notable spots to check out include:

• Uchi
• Terry Black's Barbecue
• Franklin Barbecue
• Austin Eastciders

Have Fun and Stay Safe at ACL 2026

Safety should always be a top priority at music festivals. Look out for each other and be a positive presence in the crowd. ACL Fest fosters a sense of community, and enhancing that experience will enrich your own enjoyment.

With the right preparations, all that's left to do is have an incredible time! For any questions that arise, be sure to check out the ACL FAQ. The Austin City Limits Music Festival has solidified its reputation for a reason, it's an event that always promises unforgettable memories. So gather your friends, dive into the spirit of Austin, and get ready for an amazing ACL Fest 2026!

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