10. ACL Music Festival
When and Where: October 3-5, 10-12; Zilker Park in Austin, Texas
Lineup: April 22nd (Ticketing also available)
Ins and Outs: Held over a pair of weekends in the waning days of summer — actually, early October, but it still feels like summer in Texas — ACL Music Festival not only has one of the most eclectic mixes of musical genres on its lineup year in and year out; but it has also struck the perfect balance of established and up-and-coming artists. (A variety of stages dotting the festival grounds allow for multiple micro-venue experiences.) Located in a pocket of the picturesque, 46-acre Zilker Park, the festival grounds offer a heavenly outdoor food-cart court (make sure to try a Mighty Cone); a multi-vendor art market; and a kid’s stage (if you come with little ones). Wristbands allow for re-entry, so if it’s a scorcher, you can go take a dip in nearby Barton Springs (basically, a public watering hole), then come back for more great music.
Insider Information: This might seem a little obsessive-compulsive, but one of the greatest aspects of the festival is its immaculate cleanliness (trust us on this one). Festival swag is awarded to ticket-holders that roam the grounds and bag cans and recyclable trash. It’s pretty much the best idea ever — and allows for a high-class festival experience.
Ticket Information: April 22nd.
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