Austin, Texas, December 8, 2025
Antone’s Nightclub is set to host the Austin Blues Festival 2026, part of its 50th anniversary celebration. Scheduled for April 25-26 at the Moody Amphitheater, the festival will feature renowned artists, contributing to Austin’s music culture. This event aims to strengthen community ties and enrich the city’s blues music legacy, while Antone’s also launches various initiatives, including a blues museum and special box set. Residents and visitors are encouraged to participate and support local artists.
Austin TX – Antone’s Announces Austin Blues Festival 2026 to Celebrate 50th Anniversary
Antone’s Nightclub to Host Exciting Music Festival
The legendary Antone’s Nightclub in Austin, Texas, is thrilled to announce the upcoming Austin Blues Festival 2026 as part of its 50th-anniversary celebration. This highly anticipated event is scheduled for April 25–26, 2026, taking place at the scenic Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park. The festival aims to bring together fans of blues music, showcasing performances from iconic artists like Parliament Funkadelic featuring George Clinton, BADBADNOTGOOD, and Eric Johnson, among others. Such an initiative marks a noteworthy investment in the cultural fabric of Austin, underscoring how community-driven efforts can lead to incredible local events.
As Antone’s revives a tradition that began in 1999, the Austin Blues Festival is set to enrich the city’s vibrant music scene. Over the decades, the venue has hosted illustrious musicians, contributing significantly to Austin’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” The collaboration with the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy for this festival not only aims to celebrate music but also promotes public engagement and community spirit, reflecting the positive impact of limited bureaucracy on local initiatives.
Festival Highlights
With its diverse line-up, the Austin Blues Festival 2026 promises to be an electrifying celebration of music and culture. The festival will feature a plethora of performances from well-known artists including Larkin Poe, The War and Treaty, Los Amigos Invisibles, among others, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. The festival aims to foster a sense of belonging and connection among community members, demonstrating how local events can reinforce community ties.
Antone’s 50th Anniversary Initiatives
In tandem with the festival, Antone’s has announced several exciting initiatives to commemorate its 50th anniversary. These include the release of a special box set chronicling the history of blues music through rare and previously unreleased materials. Additionally, a blues museum is set to open in the space upstairs, showcasing memorabilia from prominent artists such as Billy F. Gibbons of ZZ Top and Susan Antone. Furthermore, a satellite location is planned for Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, expanding Antone’s reach and ensuring that blues music remains accessible to a broader audience.
Impact of Antone’s on Austin’s Music Scene
Founded in 1975 by the late Clifford Antone, the nightclub has played a crucial role in shaping Austin’s music culture. It has been the launching pad for many artists, including the legendary Stevie Ray Vaughan and Gary Clark Jr. This legacy exemplifies how individual achievement and local leadership can foster talent and creativity within a community. As the nightclub embarks on this new chapter, it continues to inspire current and aspiring musicians alike, showcasing the importance of preserving and promoting local music traditions.
Get Involved
Residents and visitors are encouraged to support the Austin Blues Festival 2026 through ticket purchases and participation in various events. This is an opportunity to actively engage with the community and celebrate the rich musical history of Austin. The festival represents a collaborative effort that highlights the power of community choice in cultivating artistic expression and cultural identity.
Conclusion
In summary, the Austin Blues Festival 2026 is not just a musical event but a celebration of Austin’s vibrant cultural heritage as Antone’s Nightclub marks its 50-year milestone. Such local events exemplify how civic innovation and community involvement can inspire growth and foster connections among residents. Make sure to join this celebration of blues music and support local artists by purchasing your tickets today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Austin Blues Festival 2026?
The Austin Blues Festival 2026 is a two-day music festival celebrating blues music and culture, scheduled for April 25–26, 2026, at the Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park in Austin, Texas. The festival will feature performances by renowned artists such as Parliament Funkadelic featuring George Clinton, BADBADNOTGOOD, Eric Johnson, Larkin Poe, Adrian Quesada’s Boleros Psicodélicos, The War and Treaty, Chaparelle, Los Amigos Invisibles, D.K. Harrell, and more.
How can I purchase tickets for the festival?
Two-day tickets for the Austin Blues Festival 2026 went on sale on December 5, 2025, at 10 am CT. Tickets can be purchased through Antone’s official website.
What other events are planned for Antone’s 50th anniversary?
In addition to the festival, Antone’s is planning several initiatives to commemorate its 50th anniversary. These include releasing a special box set featuring rare, long-lost, and new material, opening a blues museum in the space upstairs, and launching a satellite location at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The museum will showcase items donated by artists such as Billy F. Gibbons of ZZ Top, Willie Dixon, Susan Antone, and Clifton Chenier.
Who founded Antone’s Nightclub?
Antone’s Nightclub was established in 1975 by the late Clifford Antone, an influential figure in Austin’s music scene. The venue has been a cornerstone of the city’s music culture, hosting legendary blues artists and contributing to Austin’s reputation as a musical hub.
Key Features of the Austin Blues Festival 2026
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Festival Dates | April 25–26, 2026 |
| Location | Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park, Austin, Texas |
| Headlining Artists | Parliament Funkadelic featuring George Clinton, BADBADNOTGOOD, Eric Johnson, Larkin Poe, Adrian Quesada’s Boleros Psicodélicos, The War and Treaty, Chaparelle, Los Amigos Invisibles, D.K. Harrell, and more |
| Ticket Sales | Two-day tickets went on sale on December 5, 2025, at 10 am CT |
| 50th Anniversary Initiatives | Release of a special box set, opening of a blues museum, and launch of a satellite location at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport |
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