The ACL Music Festival may be over 20 years old, but it still hold true to its Austin roots. From the anything-goes fashion, to all the local food options, the ridiculously hot Texas sun and yes, the amazing music, ACL Festival is what Austin is all about. Though the festival has gotten bigger and more commercial over the years, festival organizers still make every attempt to keep things local.
Here are the most Austin things we saw at ACL Festival 2024.
Performers Repping The ATX
Whether it was Leon Bridges and Dom Dolla wearing UT jerseys, Benson Boone sporting jumpsuits with a steer and the word “Austin” across the back, or Tom DeLonge donning a tee from Franklin Barbecue, the ATX was well represented on stage. After a visit to Donn’s Depot prior to her weekend 2 performance, Dua Lipa also donned a UT jersey with a Donn’s patch on the chest.
Local Band Rocks Out
This year it seemed there were more local bands than ever taking the stage. But the one that we’re deeming the most Austin is West 22nd. The five man rock band is composed of University of Texas seniors who live on 22nd Street, hence the name. Gigs at local bars and fraternity events have propelled them from a dorm band to featured performers on the Tito’s stage!
We also caught sets with The Tiarras, Kalu & The Electric Joint, and Bob Schneider on the same stage during weekend two.
DJ Cassandra Keeps the Party Going
Following the jam packed Chappell Roan set on Sunday, DJ Cassandra kept the party going by spinning a mix of party tunes at the Bonus Tracks stage. The Austin-based artist is not just a DJ, but she’s a composer, producer, pianist, educator, and all-around creative.
And how about this person dancing to her set dressed as Willie Nelson? Turns out, that’s local drag king Travis Randy Travis.
Willie Nelson Joins The Party
Things got Willie exciting during weekend two when Willie Nelson showed up at the fest not once, but twice! First, he popped up on stage to sing “Whiskey River” with Chris Stapleton. He later joined Orville Peck for a rendition of the gay cowboy anthem “Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other.” And did we mention that Willie was wearing a Broken Spoke t-shirt?
Austin Brands Keep It Local
Homegrown brand Tito’s hosts Tito’s Thing next to the Tito’s Stage. Festival goers can take home custom swag, hit the photo booth, get a custom engraved dog tag, and try their hand at the claw machine for a chance to win a wristband that grants access to the That Tito’s Lounge. It is the best private grove in the festival to enjoy cocktails, enjoy side stage viewing of the Tito’s stage, sit and cool off in front of mega fans, and even get a festival hairdo courtesy of Paige & Co. Salon.
There are so many local food options throughout the fest but shout out to El Patio for their set up – and the fact that they gave away VIP tickets to both weekends on their Instagram account.
The artist market features so many local vendors like Feels So Good, Mana Culture, Ornamental Things and, our favorite, Vinca Jewelry, where we made the cutest little charm bracelet.
Did we mention that Tyler the Creator told the crowd during his set that Austin is home to his favorite Whole Foods!
Freebies and Family Fun Rock!
Children ages 8 and under can once again attend the festival for free when accompanied by a paid ticketed adult. The limit is two children per ticketed adult. Be sure to bring the kiddos by Austin Kiddie Limits. Activities include: Lifeway Yoga with ATX Yoga Girl, presented by Kefir, a button station, strolling circus performers, a hip hop workship, photobooth, and so much more! Full details here.
But that’s not all. Get details on more freebies here!
Limited tickets are still available for weekend 2 of ACL. Get yours here.
In case you missed it, Dua Lipa was spotted all over Austin during weekend one of ACL. Here’s everywhere she was spotted!
