ACL Fest 2025: All You Need to Know About Dates, Lineup, Tickets, and Tips

Key Dates and Location for ACL Fest

The Austin City Limits Music Festival is set to return for its 23rd year in Zilker Park this October. The event will take place from October 3-5 and October 10-12, with gates opening at noon and closing at 10 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays of both weekends. The music starts at 12:45 p.m. on each Friday and 12:15 p.m. on each Saturday and Sunday.

Headliners and Performances

This year’s lineup includes a mix of big names and emerging artists. On the first weekend, Hozier and Luke Combs will headline, with Hozier performing on the T-Mobile stage and Luke Combs on the American Express stage. Other notable acts include Dr. Dog, Maren Morris, and Empire of the Sun, all playing around 7 p.m. on Friday. For the second weekend, Rilo Kiley will replace Maren Morris in the lineup.

On Saturday, The Strokes and Sabrina Carpenter are headliners, while Doechii and Djo (Joe Keery) are among the rising stars. Japanese Breakfast and Marina will perform on the American Express stage throughout both weekends. Additional acts include Latin Mafia, LA LOM, and Ocean Alley on Saturday afternoons.

Sunday’s lineup features the Killers and John Summit as headliners, along with Polo & Pan, Mk.gee, Passion Pit, and Feid. Phantogram will play on the first weekend, while Wet Leg and the Dare are scheduled for both Sundays.

Ticket Availability and Purchases

General admission three-day passes for either weekend are available through the official Ticketmaster exchange site or secondary markets. As of now, weekend passes average around $530, with single-day tickets ranging from $170 per day. VIP and upgraded GA+ passes are available for Friday and Sunday entries, except for both Saturdays.

If you have already secured your wristband, make sure it is registered for entry and cashless payments. This allows for easier access and convenience during the festival.

Getting to the Festival

Reaching Zilker Park can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking. Options include rideshares, driving, biking, scooting, and taking the complimentary shuttles provided by the festival. Rideshares should use "Austin City Limits Music Festival" or "Zilker Park" as the destination. Driving requires reserving parking near the park, as no parking is available on-site. Biking and scooting are popular, with designated areas for securing bikes.

Complimentary shuttles run from Sand Beach Park starting at noon each day. Walking is another option, with routes available via the Ann and Roy Butler Trail. Google Maps offline can help navigate the area, especially given potential spotty cell service.

Entry Points and Tips

There are multiple entrances to Zilker Park, including the west entrance near Andrew Zilker Road, the east entrance near Azie Morton Road, and the Lady Bird entrance at Stratford Drive. The Azie Morton Road entrance is typically the busiest. Arriving early can help avoid long lines and crowded areas.

Leaving and Re-entering the Festival

Festivalgoers can leave and re-enter up to two times on the same day. Make sure to scan your badge when exiting and go through security again upon re-entry.

Allowed and Prohibited Items

Bags larger than 6-by-9 inches must be clear and not exceed 12-by-6-by-12 inches. Small purses and fanny packs are allowed but must have only one pocket. Sunscreen, personal hand sanitizer, baby strollers, blankets, towels, and factory-sealed Narcan kits are permitted. Professional cameras, selfie sticks, and GoPro mounts are prohibited. Coolers, hammocks, glass containers, outside food and drink, umbrellas, tents, fireworks, and weapons are not allowed.

What to Pack

Essential items include a bandana, sunglasses, earplugs, sunscreen, lip balm with sunscreen, a light long-sleeved shirt, band-aids, and a portable phone charger. A reusable water bottle is necessary, as hydration stations are available throughout the park. Hydration/electrolyte packets in single-serving packages are also allowed.

Clothing Suggestions

October in Austin can bring mixed weather, so layering is key. Western wear is popular, with cowboy hats recommended for sun protection. Light fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, and chambray help stay cool. Comfortable shoes are essential due to extensive walking.

Festival Atmosphere and Stages

The festival features seven main stages, with the T-Mobile and American Express stages hosting headliners. Other stages include the Miller Lite, BMI, Lady Bird, Beatbox, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Kiddie Limits, and Bonus Tracks. Each stage offers a unique experience, with the Bonus Tracks stage featuring non-music programming such as political speakers, yoga classes, and live podcasts.

Additional Activities

The ACL Fest Market offers one-of-a-kind gifts from local artisans. Merchandise tents and air-conditioned stores provide festival gear. Children can enjoy the Austin Kiddie Limits program, which includes live performances, crafts, snacks, and photo booths.

Food and Drink

Over 70 food vendors are available, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. New additions include the Grove, El Patio, and food hawkers selling Popsicles and hot dogs. Drink options include canned beer, cocktails, and commemorative cups. Dessert lovers can visit ACL Sweets, featuring a variety of ice cream and dessert vendors.

Alternative Experiences

For those unable to attend Zilker Park, ACL Fest Nights shows offer additional opportunities to see performers at venues across Austin. These shows range from Stubb's Amphitheater to Devil May Care, with ticket prices varying by venue and performer. Late-night shows at ACL Live provide more options for festivalgoers.