Photography by Lily Cruse
Austin City Limits Music Festival Celebrates 25 Years with a Spectacular Second Weekend in Zilker Park
Austin City Limits Music Festival returned to Zilker Park in Austin, Texas, October 9–11, 2026, for its second weekend of celebrations, marking a major milestone with the festival's 25th anniversary. Bringing together an expansive lineup of internationally recognized headliners and emerging talent, this year's festival featured an impressive mix of artists spanning multiple genres, including Charli XCX, Kings of Leon, Lorde, RÜFÜS DU SOL, Twenty One Pilots, The XX, Turnstile, Labrinth, The Chainsmokers, Bleachers, Lola Young, Geese, The War on Drugs, Parcels, Blood Orange, Young Miko, and many more. With three days of live music set against the backdrop of one of Austin's most iconic outdoor venues, ACL Fest once again brought together music fans from across the country for a weekend celebrating the past, present, and future of live music.
FRIDAY
An expansive lineup of artists took over the T-Mobile, Miller Lite, BMI, Beatbox, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Snapchat, and American Express stages, bringing together an eclectic mix of genres and talent throughout the day. From emerging artists and rising singer-songwriters to established acts and international favorites, the day's lineup included Happy Landing, Bella Kay, Jessie Murph, Sienna Spiro, Paris Paloma, Leanne Thomas, Turnstile, Girlfriend, Natasha Bedingfield, Steve Aoki, BUNT., The Chainsmokers, Labrinth, Veeze, and Kings of Leon, among many others, all leading up to Charli XCX's highly anticipated headlining set. With music spanning multiple genres and artists at every stage, the lineup made for an exciting opening day of Weekend Two. Let's dive into some of the day's standout performances.
Sienna Spiro proved she is a star in the making, delivering one of Friday's most unforgettable performances and drawing one of the largest crowds of the day. With an audience stretching across the festival grounds, the rising singer-songwriter commanded the stage with a presence and confidence far beyond her years. Her raw, powerhouse vocals and deeply personal songwriting created an emotional connection with the crowd, moving audience members to tears as thousands sang along. Throughout her set, standout moments including "Pure," "Die on This Hill," "Material Lover," and "You Stole the Show" showcased the extraordinary vocal ability and emotional depth that are quickly setting Spiro apart as one of music's most exciting emerging talents. There was an undeniable star quality to her performance, from the effortless way she captivated such a massive audience to the vulnerability and conviction she brought to every lyric. Spiro didn't simply perform for the crowd; she made the entire audience feel every moment alongside her. If Friday's performance was any indication of what lies ahead, Sienna Spiro is well on her way to becoming a household name.
Faouzia delivered one of Friday's standout performances, bringing an ethereal stage presence and commanding vocals to Zilker Park. Dressed in a flowing white gown, the singer brought an enchanting, almost cinematic quality to the American Express Stage, effortlessly commanding attention as she moved across the stage. Her powerful vocal range and emotionally charged delivery remained at the forefront throughout the set, creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and grand despite the festival's expansive setting. From the dramatic storytelling woven throughout her music to the striking visual elements of her performance, Faouzia delivered a memorable set that showcased her artistry and undeniable presence as a performer.
Bella Kay brought a hometown connection to Austin City Limits Music Festival, taking the T-Mobile Stage with a performance that showcased her growing presence in the music scene. Originally from Houston, Texas, the singer-songwriter brought her sound to a festival audience in her home state, making her Friday appearance a special moment. With her captivating vocals, natural stage presence, and fresh approach to pop music, Bella Kay continued to demonstrate why she is an emerging name worth watching. Her appearance at ACL Fest offered another opportunity to introduce her music to new audiences while adding to the weekend's diverse lineup of rising talent.
Paris Paloma brought an enchanting energy to the Miller Lite Stage on Friday, captivating the ACL Fest crowd with her distinctive artistry and expressive stage presence. Hailing from Ashbourne, Derbyshire, England, the singer-songwriter brought an animated and theatrical quality to her performance, frequently moving and dancing across the stage as she connected with the audience. Her dynamic movements and captivating delivery added another layer to her already distinctive sound, creating a performance that felt both intimate and visually engaging. With a commanding presence and an unmistakable artistic identity, Paloma made the most of her Friday afternoon appearance, giving festivalgoers a memorable introduction to her world of music.
Labrinth brought an electrifying production to the American Express Stage on Friday, delivering a captivating performance that blended his signature sound with an impressive visual presentation. One of the most striking elements of his set was the immersive lighting design, with dramatic colors, atmospheric effects, and perfectly timed transitions that transformed the stage into a visually mesmerizing experience. Labrinth took fans through an impressive collection of his catalog, with standout moments including "Mount Everest" and "Jealous," alongside fan favorites from the acclaimed Euphoria soundtrack. Performances of "Still Don't Know My Name," "All for Us," and "Forever," among others, brought some of the series' most recognizable musical moments to the festival stage. Combining his atmospheric production, distinctive vocals, and a visually dynamic performance, Labrinth delivered one of Friday's most memorable sets at ACL Fest.
Turnstile brought an explosive burst of energy to the T-Mobile Stage on Friday, drawing a massive crowd for one of the weekend's most high-energy performances. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Turnstile delivered an electrifying set that kept fans moving from beginning to end, with an atmosphere fueled by nonstop movement and an incredibly interactive audience. Known for their dynamic live shows, Turnstile made the most of the festival setting, with members engaging directly with fans and even making their way down into the pit to join the crowd. The connection between the band and their audience was unmistakable, as fans sang, danced, and moshed along throughout the performance. Combining their signature intensity, infectious energy, and a genuine connection with the crowd, Turnstile transformed the T-Mobile Stage into one of Friday's most exciting gathering points at ACL Fest.
The Chainsmokers brought an electrifying energy to the Snapchat Stage at Austin City Limits Music Festival, delivering a high-energy set packed with crowd favorites, infectious beats, and an impressive visual production. An expansive display of lights, vibrant colors, and dynamic visuals illuminated the stage throughout the performance, creating an immersive atmosphere that complemented the duo’s signature electronic sound. Moving seamlessly between dance-driven tracks and familiar hits, The Chainsmokers kept the crowd engaged from beginning to end, turning the Snapchat Stage into a full-scale dance party and delivering one of the weekend’s standout electronic performances.
SATURDAY
An equally impressive mix of talent took over the festival grounds throughout the day, with artists spanning a wide range of genres and musical styles across the multiple stages. The lineup featured an exciting combination of emerging names, fan favorites, and established acts, including Temper City, Suki Waterhouse, Bleachers, Levity, Chloe Qisha, Ryan Beatty, Dawn Richard, It's Murph, Lykke Li, Finn Wolfhard, Young Miko, Lola Young, and many more. The day's performances built anticipation for an exciting evening of headlining sets from Lorde and RÜFÜS DU SOL, bringing another major night of live music to Zilker Park. With an eclectic lineup and something happening across every stage, the festival continued its 25th anniversary celebration in style. Let's take a closer look at some of Saturday's standout performances.
Young Miko brought an undeniable energy to the American Express Stage, delivering a vibrant performance that had the crowd moving from beginning to end. The Puerto Rican rapper and singer commanded the stage with her confident presence, infectious charisma, and genre-blending sound, creating an atmosphere that reflected her growing influence in Latin music and beyond. Her ability to connect with the audience while effortlessly shifting between hard-hitting moments and melodic hooks made for an engaging set. With a crowd fully immersed in the music and her unmistakable stage presence leading the way, Young Miko delivered a memorable performance that added another highlight to Saturday's lineup.
Lola Young took over the American Express Stage with a captivating performance that showcased her distinctive vocals, unfiltered artistry, and undeniable star power. The British singer-songwriter brought an impressive combination of raw emotion, confidence, and personality to the stage, drawing audiences into her world through her deeply personal songwriting and soulful delivery. Standout setlist moments included "SPIDERS" and her breakout hit "Messy," which brought an exciting moment of recognition and singalongs from the crowd. Her ability to balance vulnerable, emotionally driven moments with an infectious onstage presence made for a standout addition to Saturday's lineup. With her unmistakable voice and refreshingly authentic approach to performing, Young continued to establish herself as one of the most compelling talents in today's music scene.
Suki Waterhouse brought her dreamy, alternative pop sound to the T-Mobile Stage on Saturday, delivering a captivating performance that blended her signature indie sound with an effortlessly cool stage presence. The singer-songwriter took festivalgoers through a collection of fan favorites and standout tracks, including "Supersad," "OMG," "Moves," and "Dream Woman." One of the set's most memorable moments came with "Good Looking," giving longtime fans an opportunity to sing along to one of her most recognizable songs. Waterhouse also performed selections from her latest musical releases, including "Back in Love," "Notting Hill," and "Model, Actress, Whatever." With her distinctive vocals, dreamy musical arrangements, and natural onstage charisma, Waterhouse delivered a memorable afternoon performance that added another highlight to Saturday's lineup at ACL Fest.
Finn Wolfhard, widely recognized for his role as Mike Wheeler in Netflix's hit series Stranger Things, brought a different side of his artistry to the American Express Stage at Austin City Limits Music Festival. Stepping away from the screen and into the spotlight as a musician, Wolfhard delivered a set that showcased his indie rock influences, distinct sound, and passion for performing live. The actor and musician connected with festivalgoers through his guitar-driven sound, giving fans a chance to experience his talents beyond his well-known work in film and television. His performance added a unique highlight to the festival's diverse lineup, introducing audiences to another dimension of his creative career.
Lykke Li brought an atmospheric and captivating performance to the Snapchat Stage at Austin City Limits Music Festival, captivating festivalgoers with her distinct vocals and emotionally driven sound. Blending elements of indie pop, alternative, and electronic influences, she created an immersive experience that highlighted her artistic individuality and signature musical style. Her set moved between haunting melodies and more upbeat moments, drawing audiences into her performance and showcasing the depth of her catalog. With her unmistakable stage presence and powerful delivery, Lykke Li added a memorable highlight to the festival's diverse musical lineup.
Bleachers brought an energetic and feel-good performance to the T-Mobile Stage at Austin City Limits Music Festival, led by frontman Jack Antonoff. Known for their infectious indie rock sound, soaring melodies, and emotionally charged songwriting, the band delivered a set filled with crowd favorites and plenty of singalong moments. Antonoff commanded the stage with his signature enthusiasm, engaging the audience and bringing an undeniable energy to every song. Blending upbeat anthems with heartfelt moments, Bleachers created an atmosphere that had festivalgoers singing along and dancing throughout the performance. Their appearance added another memorable highlight to the weekend's lineup, showcasing the band's ability to turn a festival set into a shared celebration of music.
SUNDAY
Audrey Hobert brought her rising indie pop sound to the T-Mobile Stage at Austin City Limits Music Festival, connecting with festivalgoers through her playful songwriting, catchy melodies, and distinctive artistic style. Her set featured fan favorites including “Sue Me,” “Bowling Alley,” and “Thirst Trap,” giving the crowd plenty of opportunities to sing along and experience her clever, personality-driven songwriting live. Moving between upbeat pop moments and more heartfelt tracks, Hobert showcased her versatility as a performer while bringing an infectious energy to the stage. Her performance added a fresh pop highlight to the festival's diverse lineup and further showcased her growing presence as one of music's emerging talents.
Saint Motel brought their signature indie pop and alternative rock sound to the Miller Lite Stage at Austin City Limits Music Festival, delivering an upbeat performance filled with infectious melodies, vibrant instrumentation, and plenty of crowd participation. Known for their theatrical approach to live music, the band kept festivalgoers engaged with a set featuring fan favorites like “My Type,” “Move,” and “A Good Song Never Dies.” Each song brought its own energy, with the crowd joining in on familiar choruses and dancing along to the band's lively arrangements. Blending colorful visuals, charismatic stage presence, and their unmistakable sound, Saint Motel turned their performance into a full-scale celebration, adding another standout moment to the festival's diverse lineup.
Blood Orange brought an atmospheric blend of alternative R&B, indie, and electronic influences to Austin City Limits Music Festival, delivering a captivating performance filled with layered instrumentals, smooth vocals, and immersive soundscapes. Led by Dev Hynes, the project showcased its signature fusion of genres with a set featuring standout tracks such as “Champagne Coast,” “You're Not Good Enough,” and “Best to You.” Moving between soulful melodies, rhythmic arrangements, and emotionally rich moments, Blood Orange created an immersive experience that highlighted the depth and versatility of Hynes' artistry. The performance offered a refreshing addition to the festival's diverse lineup, drawing audiences into a set that celebrated musical experimentation and distinctive creative expression.
Geese brought their distinctive alternative rock sound to Austin City Limits Music Festival, delivering an energetic performance that highlighted the band's musicianship and unconventional approach to rock. Known for their experimental arrangements, dynamic guitar work, and unpredictable sound, the Brooklyn-based band kept festivalgoers engaged with a set that moved between gritty instrumentals, driving rhythms, and melodic moments. Frontman Cameron Winter commanded attention with his distinctive vocals and captivating stage presence, while the band showcased the chemistry that has helped establish them as one of the most exciting emerging acts in alternative rock. Their performance added a fresh edge to the festival's diverse lineup, giving audiences a taste of the band's growing influence on the modern rock scene.
The XX closed out their appearance at Austin City Limits Music Festival with a highly anticipated headlining performance on the T-Mobile Stage, bringing their signature atmospheric sound to one of the weekend's biggest moments. Blending indie rock, electronic influences, and dreamy melodies, the trio created an immersive atmosphere with their signature interplay of guitar, bass, and layered vocals. The set featured beloved tracks including “Intro,” “Crystalised,” “Islands,” and “Angels,” giving longtime fans plenty of memorable singalong moments. With their minimalist yet captivating approach to live performance, The xx balanced intimate moments with sweeping musical arrangements, drawing festivalgoers into their world from beginning to end. As one of the festival's headliners, their performance delivered a fitting highlight to the weekend, bringing the crowd together for a memorable closing moment on the T-Mobile Stage.
BEYOND THE MUSIC
Beyond the music, Austin City Limits Music Festival's 25th anniversary celebration offered festivalgoers plenty of opportunities to explore, recharge, and enjoy experiences throughout Zilker Park. A variety of brand activations transformed the festival grounds into interactive spaces, giving attendees opportunities to participate in games, create personalized keepsakes, enjoy complimentary amenities, and take a break between sets. From exclusive lounges and creative experiences to giveaways and photo opportunities, the festival's brand partnerships added another dimension to the weekend.
T-Mobile Club Magenta gave members an opportunity to enjoy a more elevated festival experience with access to a dedicated lounge, complimentary phone chargers, lawn chairs, and lockers. One of the activation's biggest attractions was the Magenta Gumball Machine, where participants could try their luck at winning prizes that included side-stage viewing opportunities, merchandise gift cards, and aftershow tickets. The experience offered T-Mobile members an opportunity to enjoy some added perks while taking in the festival.
Hacienda PATRÓN brought a taste of its signature atmosphere to Zilker Park with an impressive two-story activation. Featuring vinyl DJ sets, custom PATRÓN cocktails, comfortable lounge spaces, and dedicated photo opportunities, the experience offered festivalgoers a place to unwind and socialize between performances. The thoughtfully designed space provided a stylish retreat from the busy festival grounds.
BeatBox Music Mirage gave attendees an opportunity to add a little creativity to their festival looks with complimentary airbrush body art and hair braiding. Complete with photo opportunities and a chance to win access to the private BeatBox Stage Lounge, the activation combined beauty, music, and interactive experiences in one colorful setting. Nearby, the Snapchat Charm Bar offered another personalized experience, allowing festivalgoers to create custom photo keychains to take home as a keepsake from the weekend.
That Tito's Thing brought a playful element to the festival with an interactive claw machine where every participant walked away with a prize. Those who landed among the top winners also had the opportunity to unlock exclusive lounge access. Meanwhile, the Coca-Cola Refresh Lounge provided a welcome place to cool down and recharge, offering ice-cold beverages through its wristband tap experience, along with phone charging stations and shaded seating.
Mike and Ike's We Got' Chew activation offered festivalgoers complimentary candy, temporary tattoos, free Wi-Fi, and a relaxed lounge space to enjoy throughout the day. Recess Unwind Club also encouraged attendees to slow down between performances with a selection of cocktails and mocktails, a photo swing, and custom merchandise. Both experiences added opportunities for festivalgoers to step away from the crowds, connect with friends, and enjoy something beyond the music.
Together, these activations highlighted how Austin City Limits Music Festival extends beyond its impressive musical lineup, creating an environment where attendees can discover new experiences, interact with familiar brands, and make memories throughout the weekend.
FINAL THOUGHTS
As Austin City Limits Music Festival celebrated its 25th anniversary, the 2026 edition once again demonstrated why it remains one of the country's most anticipated annual music events. Bringing together an impressive mix of established headliners, emerging artists, and performers across genres, the festival offered something for every kind of music fan. Beyond the music, the vibrant atmosphere, immersive brand activations, and unforgettable moments throughout Zilker Park made for a weekend that extended far beyond the stages. From standout performances and surprise moments to thousands of fans coming together to celebrate their shared love of live music, ACL delivered another memorable year in Austin. With 25 years of bringing artists and audiences together, Austin City Limits Music Festival continues to solidify its place as a staple of the live music scene, leaving festivalgoers already looking forward to what next year's celebration will bring.
