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Ready for ACL? Here's How to Act Like You Care While Still Having Fun

Oh, brilliant! Another wildly privileged crowd descends on Austin, pretending to be cool while gentrifying the local scene. Just what we need! 🙄 Don't forget your overpriced tickets and cultural appropriation kits, folks!

Published October 1, 2024 at 6:03am by Mars Salazar


The Austin City Limits Music Festival is Here! 🎶🔥

Alright, party people! Grab your reusable water bottles and slap on that SPF because the Austin City Limits Music Festival kicks off this Friday at Zilker Park! Gates open at noon, and the party keeps rolling through Sunday night (earlier start times on Sat/Sun). Plus, we're back for round two on Oct. 11-13.

We've packed our bags, planned our schedules, and stocked up on allergy meds. Check out our hourly guide for who to see, and keep scrolling for everything else you need to know!

Bag Policy & Essentials 🌐🎒

Bags: Clear bags only if larger than 6x9 inches. Small purses/fanny packs okay, but no more than one pocket.

Allowed Items: Non-aerosol sunscreen, hand sanitizer, baby strollers, blankets, Narcan kits, personal cameras (no GoPros), chairs in designated areas.

Prohibited Items: Coolers, hammocks, glass containers, outside food/drink, umbrellas, tents, fireworks, weapons. Full list here.

Pro-tip: Pack a bandana, sunglasses, earplugs, sunscreen lip balm, light layers, band-aids, TP, portable charger, and a pillowcase for squeezing in those impromptu naps. Oh, and hydration packs are allowed but must be empty first! 💡

Hydration Nation 💦💦

Bring an empty water bottle and refill at stations throughout the park. We’re not kidding—it’s still hot in October, and shade's a precious commodity.

Pro-tip: Electrolyte packets are clutch; don’t leave home without them.

Who's Playing? 🎵🎶

Friday: blink-182 vs. Chris Stapleton, plus Foster the People, Leon Bridges, and Austin's own Dasha.

Saturday: Dua Lipa vs. Khruangbin, plus Reneé Rapp, Vince Staples, and Pretty Lights.

Sunday: Chappell Roan before Tyler, the Creator, and Sturgill Simpson, with mike., Dom Dolla, That Mexican OT, and Kehlani (weekend one). Full schedule here.

Tickets & Transportation 🎟️🚗

GA three-day passes and some weekend one single-day tix are sold out, but weekend two GA and VIP options are still available.

Transportation Options: Rideshares, driving, walking, biking, scooting, or busing. Details here.

Pro-tip: Parking is limited. Consider reserving spots nearby (although they ain’t cheap) or sweet-talking a friend into dropping you close. Oh, and the festival provides free shuttles from Republic Square—score! 🎉

Must-Knows & Kiddie Bonuses 👨‍👩‍👦🔞

Entry Points: Two on Barton Springs Road, one on Stratford Drive. Azie Morton is the busiest. Plan to check out early sets!

Re-entry: Yes, up to three times a day, just scan out and come back through security.

Kid Stuff: Austin Kiddie Limits runs both weekends, noon-6 PM Friday, 11 AM-6 PM Saturday/Sunday. Children 8 and under are free and need a wristband. More info here.

Food & Drink 🍔🥤

Over 70 vendors, including new spots like La Pachanga and the Big Tent. Craft beers, cocktails, and sweet treats—all the good stuff. Dive into the food here.

Pro-tip: ACL Sweets has your sugar high covered. Don’t miss the ice cream vendors—Amy’s, GoodPop, and new gems like CVT Soft Serve.

Road Closures & Streaming Options 🌐🚧

Closures on Stratford Drive and Barton Springs Road start before the fest. Full details on the city's traffic impact grid.

Streaming: If crowds aren’t your thing, catch live sets on Hulu weekend one, or snag tickets to ACL Fest Nights shows (Oct. 2-12). Check out Kehlani, Jungle, Foster the People DJ set, and more! Full list here.

Stay woke, stay hydrated, and let’s have a time, Austin! 🎉🚀

Read more: Ready for ACL Fest? Pro-tips on the lineup, what to wear, pack, when to arrive and more