How to Get the Most Out of ACL 2023: Your Go-To Guide to Austin’s Premier Music Festival
Austin City Limits Music Festival, or ACL Fest as it’s called by fans, is one of the most anticipated events in the live music calendar, loved by locals and tourists alike. Year after year, music enthusiasts from all over the world arrive in droves to Austin, Texas, to experience this iconic, and innovative festival. If you’re planning to attend ACL 2023, you’re in for a real treat. Below we’ll provide you with all the deets & info you will need to make the most of your ACL experience.
Dates and Venue
ACL 2023 will take place over two weekends: October 6-8 and October 13-15.
The festival is held in the beautiful and verdant Zilker Park, located right in the heart of Austin. Zilker Park’s expansive green fields and natural beauty provide the just the right kind of backdrop for this epic music event.
2023 Lineup
The lineup for ACL 2023 is not to be missed, with an eclectic mix of musicians spanning various genres. From rock legends, like Foo Fighters and Alanis Morrisette to emerging indie acts like Sudan Archives, and everything in between, there’s surely something for everyone at ACL. Be sure to check the official ACL website for the most up-to-date lineup and stage schedules.
Ticket Information
Tickets for ACL 2023 go on sale several months before the event. There are multiple ticket options to choose from, including single-day passes and weekend passes for both weekends. VIP and Platinum options are also available for those looking for an elevated (and pricey) festival experience. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, so it’s a good idea to purchase them as soon as they become available. If you are a little late to the game, you may still be able to get tickets on the many resale sites.
Getting There
Austin is a vibrant and growing city with a well-connected transportation network. If you’re flying in, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is the best bet. From there, you have lots of choices, including a cab, rideshare service, like Uber or Lyft, or public transportation to get to Zilker Park or your accommodation of choice.
Accommodations
Austin offers a wide range of accommodation options from comfortable and spacious furnished suites to luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and cozy Airbnb rentals. We advise booking your accommodations as far in advance as possible, as the city gets quite crowded during ACL weekends.
Festival Tricks & Tips
- Pack Essentials: Don’t forget to bring sunscreen (It is sunny Texas after all – even in October!), comfortable footwear (the festival is spread out amongst several stages and you may find yourself walking A LOT over the duration of the festival), a refillable water bottle (there are hydration stations on-site), and cash for food and merchandise.
- Drink Up: Austin can be quite hot in October, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Plan Your Schedule in Advance: With multiple stages and acts, it’s important to plan your schedule to ensure you catch all your favorite artists. ACL Fest usually releases an app for just this purpose.
- Arrive Early: If you want to make sure you have good spot for headlining acts, it’s a good idea to arrive at the stages as early as possible.
- See Austin: Don’t limit your visit to just the festival. Austin is a dynamic and diverse city with a lot to offer, from its vibrant live music scene to delicious Tex-Mex cuisine and beautiful natural attractions.
Austin City Limits Music Festival is more than just a music event; it’s a cultural celebration that showcases the best of what Austin has to offer. With an incredible lineup, beautiful setting, and a lively atmosphere, ACL is always an unforgettable experience for music lovers, and this year’s show will be no exception. Make a plan, grab your tickets, and get ready to throw yourself into the magic of the ACL experience this October!