Austin, TX Concerts & Events 2026 – Festivals & Live Shows

Austin, Texas has long been known as the “Live Music Capital of the World”, and 2026 continues that tradition with an unmissable lineup of concerts, festival experiences, and exciting cultural events. Thanks to its eclectic music scene, thriving arts community, and reputation for innovation, the city draws visitors from across the U.S. and around the world.

In 2026, Austin’s events calendar is packed with international tours, local festivals, niche showcases, and family-friendly activities — making it a must-visit destination for live entertainment seekers, music lovers, and culture vultures alike.

Discover the most in-demand events in Austin, TX in early 2026, featuring top concerts, live shows, sports, and major entertainment experiences.

Below is a chronologically sorted list of trending Austin events, helping fans plan ahead and secure tickets for the hottest dates in the city.

February 2026 – Top Austin Events

JUNNY

📅 February 24, 2026 (Tuesday) • 8:00 PM
📍 Control Room at Empire Control Room & Garage – Austin, TX
🎶 K-pop / R&B live performance

Aimee Mann

📅 February 26, 2026 (Thursday) • 8:00 PM
📍 Paramount Theatre – Austin, TX
🎤 Alternative / singer-songwriter concert

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban™ in Concert

📅 February 28, 2026 (Saturday) • 1:00 PM
📍 Bass Concert Hall – Austin, TX
🎼 Live orchestra film concert experience

Eric Church

📅 February 28, 2026 (Saturday) • 7:30 PM
📍 Moody Center – Austin, TX
🤠 Country music live tour

March 2026 – Must-See Austin EventsD.C. United at Austin FC

📅 March 1, 2026 (Sunday) • 1:30 PM
📍 Q2 Stadium – Austin, TX
⚽ MLS soccer match

NASCAR Cup Series – COTA Grand Prix

📅 March 1, 2026 (Sunday) • 2:30 PM
📍 Circuit of the Americas – Austin, TX
🏁 Motorsports & racing event

Nine Inch Nails

📅 March 1, 2026 (Sunday) • 8:00 PM
📍 Moody Center – Austin, TX
🎸 Industrial rock live concert

Gladys Knight

📅 March 1, 2026 (Sunday) • 7:00 PM
📍 Paramount Theatre – Austin, TX
🎶 Soul & R&B legendary performance

Blood Orange

📅 March 7, 2026 (Saturday) • 8:00 PM
📍 ACL Live at The Moody Theater – Austin, TX
🎧 Alternative / indie / electronic concert

Gabby’s Dollhouse Live

📅 March 26, 2026 (Thursday) • 6:00 PM
📍 Bass Concert Hall – Austin, TX
👨‍👩‍👧 Family & kids live show

Austin’s concert scene in 2026 features everything from stadium tours by global artists to intimate club performances by rising stars.

Major Concert Tours in Austin

Each year, top artists include Austin as part of summer and fall tours. In 2026, expect big names across genres — from pop and rock to hip-hop and country.

• Sunset Stadium Concert Series – Hosted at one of Austin’s largest outdoor venues, this summer series brings stadium-level performances to Central Texas.
• Downtown Austin Amphitheater Shows – A mix of national touring acts and regional favorites take the stage in the heart of the city.
• Country & Americana Nights – With its Texan roots, Austin frequently hosts major country music tours featuring legendary and up-and-coming artists.

These concerts not only showcase mainstream performers but often include local opening acts, giving Texas talent a spotlight alongside international names.

Intimate Venues & Live Shows

Austin is equally known for smaller venues where the live show experience is close, raw, and personal.

• Antone’s Nightclub – A historic blues and rock venue that consistently features both iconic performers and fresh talent.
• The Parish – In Downtown Austin, this spot is known for its eclectic bookings ranging from indie to electronic.
• Coyote Drive-In Theatre & Bar – Combines live music with outdoor fun and is especially popular in warmer months.
• Mohawk Austin – A beloved local venue with excellent acoustics and tiered outdoor viewing.

Concertgoers in Austin can discover new artists, enjoy surprise gigs, and experience music in settings that make every show feel unique.

Austin’s festival culture is strong, with events that celebrate music, film, food, and creativity. In 2026, several fan-favorite festivals return, plus new events worth adding to your bucket list.

Austin City Limits Music Festival 2026

One of the most iconic music festivals in the U.S., Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival features multi-genre lineups across two weekends. Expect performances from world-renowned artists, breakout stars, and local favorites. ACL isn’t just a concert — it’s a full cultural experience with art installations, food vendors, and activities for all ages.

South by Southwest (SXSW) 2026

SXSW is more than a music festival; it’s a global gathering of music, film, tech, and innovation. Thousands of performances happen across Austin during this week-long celebration, with festival badges that give access to shows, panels, and industry showcases.

Seasons: March
Why attend: Innovative showcases, debut performances, film premieres, tech talks
Local venues from Rainey Street to East Austin become SXSW hotspots, attracting industry professionals and fans alike.

Other Austin Festivals You Can’t Miss in 2026

Austin hosts a variety of festivals that celebrate food, culture, art, and community:

• Blues on the Green – Free summer concert series in Zilker Park.
• Pecan Street Festival – Showcases artisans, crafts, and live music in historic downtown.
• Austin Reggae Festival – A week of reggae music, Caribbean culture, and beach vibes.
• Film Festivals & Book Fairs – Cultural events that run throughout the year and draw diverse audiences.

These festivals not only create unforgettable weekend experiences — they also drive tourism, strengthen community bonds, and highlight the cultural diversity of Austin.

When planning your event schedule, it’s important to secure tickets early for popular shows.

Best places to purchase tickets:

• Official event websites (e.g., ACL Festival, SXSW)
• Venue ticket offices
• Verified ticketing platforms with mobile entry

Avoid unofficial resellers without guaranteed authenticity to protect your purchase.

Whether it’s your first time at an ACL weekend or a casual summer concert at Zilker Park, here are practical tips:

• Plan AheadBook accommodations early — major festivals fill hotels and rentals quickly.
• Check event schedules and start times; outdoor shows often begin late afternoon or evening.
• Confirm age policies — some venues have 18+ or 21+ restrictions.
• Getting Around the CityRide-share apps and bikes are popular ways to navigate downtown during busy events.
• Public transit options increase service during major festivals.

Stay Hydrated & Sun Safe
Austin can be hot, especially summer outdoor events. Bring water, stay shaded, and wear sunscreen.

Local Dining & After-Show Scenes
Austin’s food scene — from BBQ to tacos — is part of the live event experience. Plan dinner reservations near venues or check food trucks lining festival grounds.

The city’s nightlife doesn’t stop when the main stage goes silent.

Explore:

• Rainey Street bars and live music patios
• Sixth Street historic entertainment district
• East Austin lounges and cocktail spots

After parties are common during festivals like SXSW and ACL, with DJs, local bands, and special performances into the night.

Austin welcomes visitors of all ages with events that are fun for families:

• Free outdoor concert series with picnic setups
• Cultural festivals with hands-on activities
• Holiday parades and children’s theater productions
• Art fairs and community workshops

Check event descriptions for age recommendations and ticket requirements.

Many Austin events take place in outdoor settings that define the city’s cultural landscape:

Zilker Park
A hub for outdoor concerts, fitness events, and festivals.

Circuit of the Americas
Large scale outdoor concerts and motorsport-linked entertainment.

Lady Bird Lake
Hosts events like paddle-board races with live music and festival vibes.

Historic Theaters & Clubs
Indoor venues add diversity to the live entertainment options throughout the year.

Austin, TX remains one of the most dynamic event cities in the country in 2026. With a thriving music culture, world-class festivals, live shows across genres, and entertainment for all ages, Austin’s events calendar is a destination in itself.

Whether you're attending ACL Festival, exploring SXSW showcases, discovering local bands, or enjoying outdoor summer concerts — Austin delivers a cultural experience like no other.

Plan ahead, grab your tickets early, and make the most of every live show and festival that Austin has to offer in 2026.

Q1: When is the Austin City Limits Festival 2026?

A1: Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL) usually takes place over two weekends in October at Zilker Park, Austin, Texas. The official 2026 dates, lineup, and ticket details will be announced by the organizers. ACL tickets sell out fast, so check updates early to secure your spot.

Q2: How can I find free concerts in Austin?

A2: Austin offers free concerts year-round. Check city-sponsored events like Blues on the Green, outdoor park concerts, local event calendars, and bars or music lounges hosting free shows. Free concerts often happen on weekends, festivals, and special city celebrations.

Q3: What are the best live music venues in Austin?

A3: Austin has iconic venues for all music genres: Antone’s Nightclub (blues), Mohawk Austin (indie/rock), The Parish (touring artists and local acts), and Moody Center Austin (arena concerts). These venues host events year-round, from intimate shows to sold-out concerts.

Q4: What is the best time of year to attend concerts in Austin?

A4: The best months are March–May and September–November, with mild weather and major festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits. Summer and winter still offer plenty of indoor concerts and touring shows.

Q5: How early should I buy Austin concert tickets?

A5: For popular events and festivals, buy tickets as soon as they go on sale. Major arena shows and ACL tickets sell out quickly. Smaller club shows may have tickets closer to the event date, but prices often rise with demand.

Q6: Is Austin a good city for live music fans?

A6: Yes! Austin is one of the top live music cities in the US, with thousands of concerts each year across rock, country, pop, blues, hip-hop, indie, and electronic genres. Live music happens almost every night.

Q7: Are concerts in Austin family-friendly?

A7: Many Austin concerts and festivals are family-friendly, especially outdoor and daytime shows. Some venues are 18+ or 21+, so check age restrictions before attending.

Looking for upcoming concerts, live shows, and major events across the United States? Explore our city-focused event guides to find updated schedules, venues, and ticket availability for the most popular destinations.

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