The Austin City Limits Music Festival, commonly known as ACL, is a cornerstone of the American music landscape, held annually in the sprawling Zilker Park of Austin, Texas. Inspired by the historic PBS concert series of the same name, the festival launched in 2002 and quickly grew into a premier destination for music lovers worldwide. The event spans two weekends in October, each offering a nearly identical lineup that allows more people to share the experience.
With over eight stages and more than 130 performers each year, musical diversity is its hallmark. Attendees can enjoy a vast array of genres, from indie rock and chart-topping pop to country, hip-hop, R&B, and electronic dance music. This variety ensures there is something for every musical taste, from intimate performances on smaller stages to massive headlining shows on the main stages set against the Austin skyline.
Beyond the musical offerings, ACL is enriched by a strong local identity. The ACL Eats section showcases Austin's acclaimed culinary scene, while the Art Market provides a platform for local artists to sell their creations. The festival also focuses on community and sustainability, with initiatives like Austin Kiddie Limits, a family-friendly area, and programs to minimize its environmental impact.
This fusion of music, art, food, and community consciousness creates a comprehensive cultural experience that defines ACL.
The festival has officially announced its highly anticipated lineup for the 2026 edition, featuring a mix of global icons and rising stars set to take over Zilker Park this October.
Demand for Austin City Limits 2026 has been overwhelming, with 3-Day passes for the first weekend selling out within hours of the general sale. Limited tickets remain for Weekend Two.
The festival's popular food section, ACL Eats, is set to expand this year with the addition of several of Austin's most acclaimed eateries, offering attendees even more culinary choices.
Austin City Limits is strengthening its commitment to the environment with new recycling and composting programs, as well as promoting the use of sustainable transportation to Zilker Park.
Organizers have released the full daily and stage-by-stage schedules, allowing attendees to start planning their experience and navigating the inevitable conflicts between their favorite artists.
The festival's family-friendly area will feature its own lineup of performers and activities, ensuring a fun and safe experience for the youngest attendees and their parents.
This year's premium packages will include access to new viewing lounges, gourmet catering, and exclusive amenities for a luxury festival experience.
This year's Art Market will be the largest to date, providing a platform for artists and designers from the Austin area to showcase and sell their unique creations.
Frequently asked questions about purchasing tickets