Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
By Sunday night, the grass at Zilker Park was gone, the dust hung in the air, and more than 225,000 people had passed through the gates over three long, beautiful, chaotic days. Austin once again lived up to its claim as the Live Music Capital of the World, proving that few cities can match the blend of sound, spirit, and scene that defines the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
ACL Festival 2025 enjoyed mild but still demanding Texas weather. Daytime highs hovered near 93 degrees, manageable compared to 2024’s record-breaking 101, but still punishing after hours in the sun. Dust coated everything by Sunday afternoon, and many festivalgoers wore face masks as protection against allergies and haze. Hydration and safety remained priorities, with boxed water tossed into crowds and hydration stations never far away. Medical tents, staffed by Ascension Seton volunteers, stayed busy throughout the weekend, treating up to sixty patients per hour.
The nonprofit This Must Be The Place distributed free Narcan and educated festivalgoers about overdose prevention. The organization’s quiet work added an important layer of safety in a weekend filled with celebration.
Food was a highlight as always. Forty-six local and regional vendors filled the ACL Eats lineup, with most offering vegan or vegetarian options. Barton Springs Beer Hall was renamed to The Big Tent, and became a shaded haven where guests cooled off with pizza from Bambino while watching the Red River Showdown, with Texas defeated Oklahoma 23 - 6, adding another reason for the park to erupt in cheers that day.
This year's ACL Festival felt both familiar and significantly refreshed, particularly in the layout and sponsor presence. The grounds saw major signage changes, with the long running Honda Stage officially rebranded as the T-Mobile Stage, and the former T-Mobile platform renamed the Lady Bird Stage. The Beatbox Stage, once the small southernmost stage, gained new attention with its increasingly eclectic lineup.
Though the loss of the traditional Honda Retreat disappointed some regulars, sponsors quickly filled the void. T-Mobile took a sprawling footprint, offering massive Club Magenta lounges and essential portable charger rentals. Tito’s Vodka impressed festivalgoers with the Chillmaster5000, a massive walk-in fridge that doubled as a brand activation zone, complete with prizes and branded bandanas. Meanwhile, Miller Lite offered shaded games and cooling stations, and American Express continued to pamper cardholders with its privileged, shaded viewing decks.
While ACL 2025 scaled back some attractions, including the Wrangler Ranch and Coke Studio, new experiences filled the gap. Hacienda Patrón debuted its multi-level tequila lounge, and a mirror exhibit near Rock Island became one of the most photographed spots of the weekend. The festival’s family-friendly spirit endured. Austin Kiddie Limits offered crafts, dance lessons, and a drum zone for young attendees, while the Bonus Tracks Stage hosted drag shows, taco fests, and lively discussions that expanded the meaning of a music festival.
By the end of Sunday night, the skyline behind the stages glowed with city lights. The dust still hung in the air, shoes were ruined, and voices were gone, but no one wanted to leave. ACL Music Festival 2025 delivered what Austin does best, community, rhythm, and the sense that music still has the power to connect strangers under the same hot Texas sky.
Fan reviews:Friday had a strong display of genre diversity, offering fans a unique blend of powerful rock, introspective folk, and mainstream country appeal. Cage The Elephant then tore up the American Express Stage, their first ACL appearance since 2016. Frontman Matt Shultz bounded across the stage in his signature chaos, shouting to the crowd, “You know the best part of this job? I get to help you guys lose yourself.” The crowd roared its approval.
Amazing festival! great organization, multiple water stations and food options. It's a nice vibe, everyone is cool, polite and respectful. I felt very safe. I went solo both times and trust me, such a pleasant experience! got to know lots of new artists that I still till these days.
I look forward to attending ACL every year! Time and time again, ACL can bring amazing artists from many genres of music. From country, rock, pop, and rap to EDM, this festival appeals to the masses. Something I have appreciated is that they recruit up-and-coming artists who perform on smaller stages and allow them the audiences to one day be a potential superstar.
ACL is so special to me. It is in the heart of Austin, with the downtown skyline in the background and full of people who appreciate music. I highly recommend going at least once!
This year was my first time going to ACL and it was tremendous! From start to finish everything ran smoothly. What seemed to be extensive lines to enter moved quickly. There were several areas of refuge, water, medical, etc. for safety and well-being during the event. The crowds were enormous but still space to move around comfortably. The performers were amazing!
This was my first time going to ACL and I was pleased I got to secure my 3 day ticket as soon as they dropped. I went with friends and had a great time. Yes, it was a bit chaotic at times (food lines) and certain stage areas were extremely crowded. Beverages and food prices were questionable but folks need to eat and hydrate. I personally loved the credit card linked to wristband feature, made it super easy to purchase items and no worries about losing your physical credit card. Overall solid experience, would love to go again next year.
Everyone should go to ACL at least once! I go every year, but I'm bias, I just love live music and the vibe.
I've been attending this festival for years. I will even purchase tickets before I even know what artists will be playing. That's how confident I am that regardless of who'll be performing it'll be a good time. Each year there will be some popular headliners performing each day. Throughout the day there will be artists playing from open to close. It gives you a chance to discover new upcoming artists. There are some cool photo opportunities available throughout the park along with games to win some cool prizes.
As fun as it is dusty! In the past five years I have been to about 10 music festivals and this one has become my personal favorite as far as the lineup, the vibe, the location, the art, the food, the set up and layout.
Best event of this kind we have been to. So organized, plenty of restrooms, plenty of friendly upbeat staff, constantly removing garbage and recycle . Plenty of water everywhere, they were handing it out and it seemed impossible anyone would get dehydrated. Security good without being invasive, medical tents and hydration stations everywhere, and good swag.
Look forward to coming back! First time attending the festival and can’t wait to return. Friendly staff, clean grounds, easy to get there and depart, incredible line ups, and all in the heart of an awesome city!
Empire Of The Sun brought their unique brand of kaleidoscopic electronic pop and theatrical spectacle to the stage, ensuring the night ended with dazzling visuals and infectious energy.
As the sun dipped toward the horizon on Friday evening, crowds gathered at the Bonus Tracks Stage for a lively conversation between Brené Brown and Matthew McConaughey. McConaughey’s words captured the heart of Austin: “As long as you’re not an asshole, you can just be you. That’s my favorite thing.” He also touched on the food and sense of community in Austin: “I feel held here. I like the tacos. When I’m here, no matter how hard things are, we’re all in this together.” Their conversation mixed humor, warmth, and genuine love for the city that raised him.
Dr. Dog returned with a sound perfectly suited for Austin: loose, soulful, and steeped in good vibes. Their harmonies floated across the park and drew smiles from a multigenerational crowd. For many, their set represented the soul of ACL, timeless music played by seasoned musicians who understand Austin’s pulse.
Hozier took the stage under the night sky, closing out Friday with a performance that was both powerful and deeply moving. His voice carried over Zilker’s skyline during “Cherry Wine,” “Someone New,” and an unforgettable “Take Me to Church.” It marked his fourth ACL appearance, and his connection with the audience was as strong as ever.
Closing out the other main stage was country superstar Luke Combs, his performance resonated with a huge audience, showcasing the star power that has made him one of the genre's defining voices.
Aidan Bissett
Aidan Bissett performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Aidan Bissett’s appearance at ACL felt like a homecoming. He brought heartfelt intensity to the sunlit Main Stage slot and infused his set with vulnerability and sweet hooks. From the first chord, he drew Zilker Park in with songs like “Shut Up and Love Me.” Even under the bright Texas light, his voice cut through with confidence. The crowd sang along, swaying between the upbeat and the emotional. As one of the younger artists on the bill, he carried himself like a veteran. His performance reminded everyone that ACL’s best moments often come from artists who are just beginning to take flight.
Farmer’s Wife
Farmer’s Wife performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Farmer’s Wife brought gentle harmonies and dreamy folk energy to ACL Weekend Two. Their sound, both grounded and ethereal, fit perfectly with the park’s natural surroundings. Soft guitars, layered vocals, and subtle percussion created a calm space in the middle of a chaotic festival day. Their ability to command attention through quiet strength set them apart. When their harmonies rose over the crowd, it felt like the park took a collective breath. Farmer’s Wife gave the audience something rare at festivals: stillness that felt powerful.
Spill Tab
Spill Tab performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Spill Tab delivered a sharp and vibrant set that pulsed with indie-pop electricity. The performance was sleek, stylish, and full of movement. With infectious beats and emotional lyrics, Spill Tab captured the restless energy that defines a perfect festival afternoon. The crowd connected with every drop of rhythm and emotion. From bass-heavy moments to delicate vocal shifts, Spill Tab proved that clever production and raw emotion can exist in the same breath. The result was a confident, memorable ACL debut.
Judy Blank
Judy Blank performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Judy Blank’s set at ACL radiated warmth and charisma. Her crisp voice carried across the park, blending folk storytelling with pop clarity. She played with sincerity and light humor, connecting easily with an audience that quickly leaned in to listen. Her songs balanced melancholy and optimism, turning each verse into a conversation. By the end of her performance, it was clear she had gained new fans who appreciated music with both heart and intelligence.
Girl Tones
Girl Tones performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Girl Tones brought a mix of rock drive and pop sparkle to ACL’s Friday lineup. Their sound was bold but precise, filled with hooks that invited dancing and lyrics that felt personal. The trio’s chemistry was visible from the first song. As the set unfolded, the audience matched their energy, clapping and moving in rhythm. Girl Tones proved that even in a sea of acts, personality and tight musicianship always find their spotlight.
Crowe Boys
Crowe Boys performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Crowe Boys delivered a heartfelt performance that carried echoes of Americana and Texas grit. Their harmonies filled the park with warmth, and their songs struck a balance between nostalgia and authenticity. For many in the audience, their set felt like rediscovering the roots of live performance. Each note sounded honest, and each lyric came from experience. Crowe Boys left ACL with the kind of impression that lingers long after the last chord fades.
Good Neighbours
Good Neighbours performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Good Neighbours took the ACL stage with charm and sincerity. Their mix of indie pop and folk warmth created an atmosphere that was both intimate and uplifting. The duo’s harmonies floated across the field, and their chemistry gave the performance an easy flow. They transitioned effortlessly from soft ballads to anthemic moments. The audience responded with quiet appreciation and later with full applause. Good Neighbours offered a reminder that joy and emotion can live comfortably side by side.
Amble
Amble performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Amble’s set brought dreamlike serenity to the ACL soundscape. Their soft vocals and atmospheric arrangements created a sound that seemed to drift on the breeze. The band used space and silence as much as melody, giving each song time to breathe. Their performance became a moment of calm in an otherwise kinetic festival. Listeners closed their eyes, swayed gently, and let the sound wash over them. It was music built for reflection and connection.
Jensen McRae
Jensen McRae performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Jensen McRae’s performance felt powerful and intimate at once. Her voice carried the weight of her words, and her songwriting commanded attention even in a festival setting. Every lyric felt deliberate, and every pause added meaning. Between songs, she spoke with candor about inspiration and resilience. Her authenticity resonated deeply with the Austin audience. By the end of her set, the applause was more than polite appreciation. It was respect.
Maggie Antone
Maggie Antone performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Maggie Antone arrived at ACL with confidence and a natural stage presence. Her set was fresh and genuine, blending country undertones with modern songwriting. Her voice carried easily over the crowd, clear and full of character. Each song told a story, and she made it easy to listen. The simplicity of her setup kept the focus on the music itself. As she left the stage, it felt like Austin had witnessed the early chapter of a promising career.
Bilmuri
Bilmuri performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Bilmuri brought intensity and humor to ACL’s Friday crowd. Their fusion of punk spirit and pop sensibility created a set that was loud, fast, and undeniably fun. The energy from both band and fans never dipped. Between heavy riffs and anthemic choruses, they reminded everyone that live music thrives on imperfection and chaos. Bilmuri’s performance was wild in the best possible way and perfectly suited to the free-spirited Austin crowd.
King Princess
King Princess performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)King Princess gave ACL one of its most dynamic sets. Their mix of glam rock flair and soulful introspection had the crowd completely engaged. Vocals soared over glittering guitar work, and stage presence commanded every inch of space. The balance between vulnerability and confidence defined the performance. Each song carried its own story, but together they built a narrative of empowerment and identity. King Princess didn’t just perform; they connected.
Dylan Gossett
Dylan Gossett performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Dylan Gossett’s set at ACL glowed with authenticity. His rich voice and grounded storytelling style resonated deeply with the Texas audience. Every lyric felt honest, and his delivery made it personal. He interacted with fans between songs, keeping the mood light but meaningful. His ability to connect on a human level turned a simple performance into a shared experience. Gossett’s sound felt right at home in Austin.
The Favors
The Favors performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)The Favors lit up the festival with bright melodies and infectious energy. Their sound blended crisp pop hooks with confident rock rhythms. The crowd responded quickly, drawn in by the group’s upbeat confidence. Each song hit with precision, yet there was room for spontaneity. Their chemistry made the set feel joyful and unforced. The Favors showed that strong songwriting and genuine enthusiasm never go out of style.
Skrilla
Skrilla performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Skrilla brought high-energy beats and a futuristic edge to ACL’s lineup. Their performance leaned into heavy bass and intense lighting, creating a sensory experience that stood apart from the day’s more traditional sets. While some moments felt experimental, the overall energy kept the crowd engaged. Skrilla’s mix of confidence and creative production hinted at potential still being refined. For those drawn to bold sound design, it was a memorable experience.
MJ Lenderman
MJ Lenderman performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)MJ Lenderman’s set delivered the kind of understated cool that fits perfectly with Austin’s musical identity. His guitar tone was warm and unhurried, and his lyrics painted vivid emotional pictures without ever forcing the message. The simplicity of his stage setup allowed his music to do the talking. The result was quietly magnetic. His ACL performance proved that subtle artistry can hold its own against any big-name spectacle.
Role Model
Role Model performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Role Model performed with charisma and emotional depth, creating one of the more intimate moments of the festival. His confessional lyrics and conversational tone made the massive park feel small. When he invited Lizzy McAlpine onstage during “Sally, When the Wine Runs Out,” the crowd erupted. It was a highlight that blended humor and connection. Role Model’s performance felt like both a show and a shared story.
Cage The Elephant
Cage The Elephant performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Cage The Elephant reminded ACL why they remain one of the great live rock acts of their generation. The set exploded with energy, from thunderous guitars to the unfiltered passion of their vocals. The audience fed off that intensity, singing every word. Between songs, their frontman balanced chaos and charm, pacing the stage like a man possessed. Each transition landed cleanly, and every song felt urgent. Cage The Elephant reaffirmed that pure rock spirit still has a powerful home in Austin.
Empire Of The Sun
Empire Of The Sun performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Empire of the Sun transformed Zilker Park into a dreamscape. Their combination of theatrical costumes, layered synths, and hypnotic lighting turned the night into a visual and musical spectacle. The opening notes of “Walking on a Dream” drew a massive cheer. Luke Steele’s performance was mesmerizing. Every movement felt deliberate, every sound perfectly timed. Their set delivered exactly what ACL is known for: art that entertains and elevates at the same time.
Dr. Dog
Dr. Dog performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Dr. Dog’s return to the ACL stage felt like a joyful reunion between an old friend and a devoted audience. Their signature blend of psychedelic pop and Americana filled Zilker Park with an easy, nostalgic warmth. The crowd swayed as harmonies stacked beautifully over vintage tones and steady rhythm. The band’s chemistry was effortless. Each transition felt lived-in, like the continuation of a musical conversation that never really ended. Their set struck the perfect balance between reflection and celebration, a reminder that Dr. Dog’s place in the modern indie landscape remains both earned and enduring.
Luke Combs
Luke Combs performing at the Austin City Music Festival at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas on October 10, 2025. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)Luke Combs closed his ACL set with the kind of commanding presence that only comes from an artist fully at ease with his craft. His voice, powerful and familiar, rolled through the crowd with the force of a summer storm. From the first notes of “Hurricane” to the final singalong, the audience was locked in. Combs blended stadium-sized anthems with heartfelt storytelling, shifting seamlessly from rowdy celebration to quiet sincerity. The Texas crowd sang every word back to him. It was more than a concert; it felt like a collective release. His set reminded everyone why country music, when performed with honesty and conviction, can unite thousands under a single chorus.
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