ACL Festival 2025: Exciting Lineup Kicks Off in Austin

AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin City Limits Music Festival 2025 kicked off on Friday, October 3, at Zilker Park, featuring a diverse lineup of artists across multiple stages. Fans are eager to see global headliners such as Hozier, Luke Combs, Cage the Elephant, and Empire of the Sun, with early performances from rising stars.

The day began with local favorites Asleep at the Wheel, whose set started at 12:45 p.m. This year marks the band’s 55th anniversary and their recent induction into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame. Ray Benson, the band’s frontman, celebrated the occasion by encouraging fans to enjoy a mix of music and food, emphasizing the importance of local culture during the festival.

Next on the T-Mobile stage was Spill Tab, performing from 1:30-2:15 p.m. The UK pop duo Good Neighbors followed at 2:15 p.m. with their catchy tunes and relatable lyrics. At 3 p.m., Los Angeles singer-songwriter Jensen McRae took the stage, known for her personal and introspective lyrics.

Highlighting the day’s performances, Panda Bear, awarded the album of the year by Pitchfork in 2007, took the stage at 3:30 p.m. His unique sound has been a staple in the music scene for years. Upcoming acts included Dylan Gossett at 4:30 p.m. and the duo of Finneas and Ashe at 5 p.m., showcasing heartfelt music that resonates with fans.

As evening approached, Cage the Elephant rocked the American Express stage from 6:30 p.m., followed by Luke Combs at 8:30 p.m. Combs, known for his emotional hits, drew crowds eager to hear his viral cover of Tracy Chapman‘s song.

Fans unable to attend can enjoy the festival from home. Hulu is streaming the event, featuring select performances and behind-the-scenes content. The festival continues through the weekend, wrapping up on October 5th.