Hotter, Louder, and Still Trying to Save the Planet: ACL Fest Weekend Two Hits Austin

Alright, sweaty liberals, it's time to brace yourselves. ACL Fest is back for round two, and it's hotter than a Texas summer debate on climate change. Buckle up, buttercups.

When and Where’s the Sweaty Shindig?

ACL Fest weekend two kicks off October 11-13 at Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Road. Gates open at noon on Fridays (for all you night owls) and 11 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Music starts almost as soon as the gates open, so get ready to rock.

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Can You Still Snag Tickets?

If you're still scrambling for tickets, you're not alone. Premium tickets are the only things left on the ACL Fest website, but Ticketmaster's verified resale site has three-day passes available for $302 and up. Single-day passes are at $223 minimum. Fear not, scalpers won't drain your wallet like last weekend! Other secondary markets might have more options.

Who’s Taking the Stage?

Friday Frenzy

blink-182 is headlining opposite country crooner Chris Stapleton. Joining them are Foster the People, Leon Bridges, and Austin's king of diss tracks, Dasha.

Saturday Showdown

Dua Lipa will rock the stage after Houston’s Khruangbin. Plus, Reneé Rapp, Vince Staples, and Pretty Lights are on deck.

Sunday Scorcher

Get ready for Chappell Roan followed by Tyler, the Creator. Sturgill Simpson headlines the Honda stage, and you'll also catch mike., Dom Dolla, and That Mexican OT.

How Do You Get There?

It’s not easy, folks. Here’s the lowdown:

Rideshares

Use "Austin City Limits Music Festival" or "Zilker Park" as your destinations. After the fest, walk away from the park before requesting a ride. Expect surreal waits and surge pricing after crossing the river, South Lamar Boulevard, or MoPac Boulevard's frontage road.

Driving Yourself

Parking is scarce. LAZ Parking at Barton Oaks Plaza is a mile walk away for $40 and up. 360 transportation at 1000 Mopac Circle starts at $50, and Austin High School parking lot is $55 and up.

Bikes and Scooters

Bike or scoot to the fest. Lock up your bike on Stratford Drive or Toomey Road at Sterzing Street. MetroBike drop-offs at Barton Springs Road and Sterzing Street.

Bus

ACL provides complimentary shuttles from Republic Square to Zilker. Plus, Capital Metro’s 803 MetroRapid bus goes to Barton Springs Road and South Lamar Boulevard.

Walking

Use the Ann and Roy Butler Trail map to reach the park.

Where to Enter?

You've got options:

• Barton Springs Road: West entrance near Andrew Zilker Road and East entrance near Azie Morton Road.
• Lady Bird entrance: Stratford Drive, near Loop 1 (MoPac Boulevard).

Pro-tip: Take advantage of early afternoon sets to avoid heavier crowds.

Pro-tip: Google Maps’ new destination guidance will light up Zilker Park entrances. Download offline maps for spotty service.

Can You Come and Go?

Yes, you can re-enter up to two times each day after your first entry. Scan your badge out and go through security again when you return.

What Can You Bring?

Bags

Bags larger than 6-by-9 inches must be clear and cannot exceed 12-by-6-by-12 inches. Small purses and fanny packs up to 6-by-9 inches do not need to be clear but can’t have more than one pocket.

Allowed Items

• Non-aerosol sunscreen
• Personal hand sanitizer
• Baby strollers
• Blankets, towels, factory-sealed Narcan kits
• Personal-use cameras (no professional gear, selfie sticks, or GoPro mounts)
• Chairs (designated areas only)

Prohibited Items

• Coolers, hammocks, glass containers
• Outside food and drink
• Umbrellas, tents, shade structures
• Fireworks and weapons

See the full list: support.aclfestival.com.

Essentials

• Bandana, sunglasses, earplugs
• Lip balm with sunscreen, light long-sleeved shirt
• Band-aids, portable phone charger

Pro-tip: A pillowcase can serve as a makeshift seat.

Hydration Stations

Bring a reusable water bottle. October in Austin is still hot, and shade is limited. Refill stations are dispersed throughout; ensure your water bottle is empty at entry.

Pro-tip: Hydration packs like CamelBaks are allowed but must be empty before entry. Hydration/electrolyte packets are clutch.

Dress Code

Functionality and style are key. Opt for cowboy hats, lighter fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, and chambray. Comfortable shoes are a must; the ground gets dusty and muddy.

Inside the Park

Seven main stages, photo ops, and the ACL merch store offer air-conditioning. Check the official map for special brand installations.

More to Do

• Bonus Tracks Stage: Drag shows and dance parties.
• Merch Tent: Artist T-shirts and official festival gear.
• Vendor’s Market: Browse handmade goods from 26 artisans and makers.

Kids’ Corner: Austin Kiddie Limits

Austin Kiddie Limits runs noon to 6 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Children 8 and under attend free with a ticketed adult. Register them in the "Tag-A-Kid" program on the ACL Fest website.

Austin Kiddie Limits programming includes live performances, crafts, snacks, photo booths, and more.

Foodie Heaven: ACL Eats

Over 70 food vendors will be available, including new spots like Bambino and Taco Mafia. Traditional ACL Eats offerings will also be there. Full featured food at statesman.com.

Drink Options

Main beer hall changed from Barton Springs Beer Hall to the Big Tent. Rum drinks at the Barton Beach Club and Tiki Bar, tequila at El Patioville.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

ACL Sweets will have vendors like Amy’s Ice Creams, GoodPop, Bananarchy, Sno-Beach, Tiff's Treats, and Tiny Pies. New selections include CVT Soft Serve, Dulce Amor Mio, and Gelato Paradiso.

Road Closures

Stratford Drive daily closures from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting Sept. 23 to 27. Extensive closures start on Oct. 3. See the full details.

ACL Nights

Can't handle the crowds? Hulu will broadcast live sets during weekend one. Catch your favorite artist at ACL Fest Nights shows, Oct. 2-12. Highlights include Remi Wolf (Oct. 11) at Emo’s and Orville Peck (Oct. 12) at Stubb’s Amphitheater. Full list at aclfestival.com/nights.

UPDATE: This story was updated to include information on a Capital Metro bus route.