Prepare to immerse yourself in a year-long celebration of music, culture, and community as Austin unveils its vibrant festival calendar for 2025. From the pulsating beats of Carnaval Brasileiro to the soulful melodies at Luck Reunion, the Live Music Capital promises an unforgettable journey through diverse genres and experiences.

Experience Unparalleled Entertainment with Austin’s Premier Festivals

January: A Musical Awakening with Free Week

The Red River Cultural District (RRCD) sets the tone for the new year with its annual Free Week, held on the first weekend of January. This event offers a no-cost exploration of Austin’s eclectic music scene, featuring performances across various venues on 7th Street. Local acts like Being Dead, Pelvis Wrestley, the Irons, and Marry Cherry will take center stage, providing a comprehensive introduction to Austin’s thriving underground talent. The lineup is carefully curated to ensure attendees encounter fresh sounds and emerging artists, much like RRCD’s popular Hot Summer Nights series.Free Week not only showcases established favorites but also introduces lesser-known gems, fostering a sense of discovery and excitement. For those unfamiliar with Austin’s local music landscape, this event serves as a perfect starting point, offering an immersive experience that highlights the district’s commitment to supporting homegrown talent.

February: Celebrating Diversity with OUTsider Fest and Carnaval Brasileiro

As February unfolds, Austin welcomes two unique festivals that celebrate diversity and inclusivity. OUTsider Fest, now a staple in the city’s cultural calendar, shines a spotlight on queer and trans artists. Since its inception in December 2013, this festival has grown into a platform for groundbreaking performances by artists like Moor Mother, Cowboi Dukes, and Anima Cruz. With support from the City of Austin’s Thrive Grant, OUTsider Fest continues to push boundaries and foster a welcoming environment for all.Simultaneously, Carnaval Brasileiro transforms Austin into a vibrant carnival hub, marking its 47th year of bringing Brazilian culture to life. What started as a small gathering for homesick students has evolved into the largest indoor Carnaval party globally. The event’s uninhibited atmosphere invites participants to embrace the spirit of festivity, with energetic dancing to samba rhythms and elaborate costumes creating an unforgettable spectacle. Carnaval Brasileiro exemplifies the power of music and dance to unite communities and transcend cultural barriers.

March: A Month of Musical Marvels

March heralds a flurry of festivals, beginning with South by Southwest (SXSW), a global phenomenon that attracts international artists and music enthusiasts alike. The 2025 edition promises a diverse lineup spanning multiple continents, from Iceland to Indonesia. Acts such as The Criticals, Catcher, DarkoVibes, and badfocus will captivate audiences, showcasing the festival’s commitment to discovering new talent. SXSW’s ability to bridge language gaps through shared experiences like barbecue and light beer underscores its role in fostering cross-cultural connections.Luck Reunion, another March highlight, embraces its identity as an "anti-festival" with a family-oriented approach. Hosted on Willie Nelson’s historic ranch, this intimate gathering features renowned artists like Tyler Childers, John Oats, and the Red Clay Strays. While the 2025 lineup remains under wraps, the festival’s tradition of hosting special performances ensures fans can look forward to memorable moments. Luck Reunion’s emphasis on creating a familial atmosphere distinguishes it from other events, making it a cherished part of Austin’s festival scene.

April: A Fusion of Latin Rhythms and Country Classics

April kicks off with Bésame Mucho at Circuit of the Americas, a one-day extravaganza celebrating Latin music. Fans can anticipate performances by Peso Pluma, Carin León, Los Tigres del Norte, and Banda MS, transforming the venue into a lively fiesta. This event not only honors regional Mexican music but also fosters a sense of unity among attendees, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community.Two Step Inn Fest, held at Georgetown’s San Gabriel Park, brings together country music icons Alan Jackson and Sturgill Simpson for a weekend filled with live performances, dance floors, and fair attractions. The festival’s final appearance by Alan Jackson marks a significant moment for country music lovers, while Sturgill Simpson’s alter-ego Johnny Blue Skies adds an intriguing twist to the lineup. Two Step Inn Fest encapsulates the essence of country music, blending traditional elements with contemporary flair.

May: Honoring Heritage and Community

May sees the return of iHeartCountry Festival, hosted by Bobby Bones at Moody Center. This event celebrates country music with performances from top artists, ensuring an electrifying atmosphere for fans. Meanwhile, Fiesta Austin prepares for its Cinco de Mayo festivities, inviting visitors to experience Mexican culture through food, music, and entertainment. These events underscore the importance of heritage and community, fostering a sense of belonging and pride.Pecan Street Festival, held bi-yearly along East 6th Street, showcases a diverse range of artists, artisans, and vendors. The festival’s free admission policy and family-friendly activities make it a beloved tradition, reminding Austinites of the joy found in sharing experiences within their hometown. Pecan Street Festival embodies the spirit of community, offering a platform for local talent to thrive and connect with residents and visitors alike.

June to October: A Season of Specialties

Summer brings unique festivals that cater to specific interests. Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally returns for its 28th year, attracting motorcycle enthusiasts with vendors, contests, and camaraderie. Rodeo Austin, held in March, combines rodeo events with live music performances, creating a thrilling experience for all ages. Hot Luck Festival, benefiting the Southern Smoke Foundation, unites food and music lovers for a cause-driven celebration.Kerrville Folk Festival, entering its 53rd year, offers an immersive experience for singer-songwriters and music aficionados. Set in Quiet Valley Ranch, this 18-day event provides opportunities for impromptu jam sessions and intimate performances, embodying the grassroots spirit of Texas music. As summer transitions into fall, Austin PRIDE takes center stage, uniting LGBTQ communities with a parade and special performances. Viva la Vida, presented by the Mexic-Arte Museum, celebrates Día de los Muertos with spectacular costumes, Aztec dancers, and Ballet Folklorico, enriching Austin’s cultural tapestry.

October: Climaxing with ACL and Seismic Dance Event

October marks the climax of Austin’s festival season, with Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival and Seismic Dance Event stealing the spotlight. ACL, a cornerstone of the city’s music calendar, features two weekends of world-class performances across multiple genres. The festival’s reputation for excellence draws crowds from far and wide, solidifying its status as a must-attend event.Seismic Dance Event, a Halloween-themed techno fest, fills Central Texas’s gap in the EDM scene. Organized by the Concourse Project, this weekend-long celebration brings together electronic music fans for an immersive experience. With its atmospheric setting and cutting-edge sound, Seismic Dance Event stands out as a highlight of the fall season, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the subculture in a large-scale setting.