Austin, Texas, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The Austin City Limits (ACL) music festival has commenced at Zilker Park, featuring a diverse lineup of popular artists. With significant attendance expected, local residents should prepare for traffic disruptions due to road closures. In addition to music, festival-goers can enjoy a variety of culinary offerings, including tacos, barbecue, and beverages. Speculation about surprise performances adds to the excitement surrounding this year’s event, promising a memorable experience for attendees and the Austin community.
Austin
The Austin City Limits (ACL) music festival commenced on Friday, October 4, 2025, and will take place over two weekends: from October 4-6 and October 11-13, 2025. Located at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas, the festival promises an exciting lineup, featuring performances by well-known artists, including Doechii, Sabrina Carpenter, Hozier, The Killers, Luke Combs, The Strokes, John Summit, and Maren Morris.
As thousands of attendees flock to the festival, many Austin residents are bracing for significant traffic disruptions in the area. The Austin Transportation and Public Works Department has released information detailing road closures and partial closures associated with the event. Major roads affected include Barton Springs Road, Stratford Drive, and MoPac Boulevard.
Traffic Disruptions
Full road closures during the festival include:
- Barton Springs Rd. to MoPac
- MoPac to Sterzing St.
- Stratford Dr. to Azie Morton
- Barton Springs Rd. to Lund St.
- Cesar Chavez to Electric Dr.
In light of these closures, parking at Zilker Park and in the nearby neighborhoods will not be available. Festival-goers are encouraged to utilize alternative transportation methods, such as walking, biking, using ride-hailing apps, or coordinating drop-offs with friends and family.
Culinary Offerings
In addition to the musical performances, the ACL festival is known for its diverse food and drink selections. Attendees can enjoy a range of options, including tacos, barbecue, beer, and burgers. New food vendors for this year include Oko, Brotherton’s BBQ, and JABS Burgers & Fries. The festival also features a dessert area, ACL Sweets, with vendors such as Amy’s Ice Creams and Tiff’s Treats, along with newcomers like Gati Ice Cream.
Festival-goers looking to quench their thirst can find various mixed drinks and general admission bars offering options like vodka-sparkling lemonade and various beers.
Potential Surprise Performance
Amid the excitement, a rumor has surfaced regarding a potential surprise performance by Taylor Swift alongside Sabrina Carpenter. This speculation arises as Swift’s new album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” is set to release at midnight on Friday, October 3.
ACL Live Events
The festival isn’t the only attraction; ACL Live at The Moody Theater is scheduled to tape a performance by the artist Role Model on October 7 at 8 PM. Role Model’s music career has gained recognition with his debut album “Rx” and his sophomore album “Kansas Anymore,” highlighting his achievements as a pop artist. Health and safety protocols will be in effect during ACL tapings, complying with local COVID-19 guidelines.
The festival aims to create a vibrant atmosphere while ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all attendees. For those seeking more dining options in the area, Eater has published lists of local culinary offerings that festival-goers can explore while enjoying the event.
Conclusion
With an exciting lineup, diverse food options, and thorough planning to address traffic issues, this year’s Austin City Limits music festival promises to deliver a memorable experience for both attendees and the local community.
FAQs
When does the Austin City Limits music festival take place?
The festival will run for two weekends: October 4-6 and October 11-13, 2025.
Where is the festival located?
The festival takes place at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas.
What major roads will be affected by traffic disruptions during the festival?
Major roads affected include Barton Springs Road, Stratford Drive, and MoPac Boulevard.
What types of food and drink can attendees expect at the festival?
The festival offers a wide variety of food and drink options, including tacos, barbecue, beer, and burgers.
Are there any rumors about surprise performances?
A rumor is circulating that Taylor Swift may make a surprise appearance to perform with Sabrina Carpenter.
Key Features
| Event | Date | Location | Major Artists | Traffic Impact | Food Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin City Limits Music Festival | October 4-6 & October 11-13, 2025 | Zilker Park, Austin, Texas | Doechii, Sabrina Carpenter, Hozier, The Killers, Luke Combs, The Strokes, John Summit, Maren Morris | Significant disruptions with multiple road closures | Tacos, barbecue, beer, burgers, and dessert options |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Austin City Limits Music Festival Set to Attract 450,000 Attendees
Texas Lawmakers Pass SB 840 to Address Housing Affordability
Housing Advocates Rally Against Proposed HUD Funding Cuts in Austin
Business Booms for Texas Barbecue Joints
Lorde Kicks Off ‘Ultrasound’ World Tour in Austin
Austin’s Live Music Fund Receives Major Boost
UT-Austin Prepares for Longhorns Home Game and Tailgates
Texas THC Ban Efforts Stalled as Legislative Session Ends
Texas Financial System Overhaul through CAPPS STARR Project
Additional Resources
- Statesman
- Wikipedia: Austin City Limits Music Festival
- KXAN News
- Google Search: Austin City Limits 2025
- Eater Austin
- Google Scholar: Austin City Limits Music Festival
- Hits Daily Double
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Austin City Limits Music Festival
- KVUE
- Google News: Austin City Limits Festival 2025

Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.


