Austin City Limits is Austin’s time to shine. Although the lineup is jam packed with amazing artists each year, this is more than just a music festival. Remember to support local businesses and to really soak in all of the special moments, before the weekend is over in the blink of an eye. Here’s what I plan to do:
1. Try some new food.
Austin is a food paradise. It’s a city known for having eclectic restaurants scattered throughout the city. One of the best parts is the food trucks. The good news is these vendors will be at ACL. Yes, that includes Amy’s Ice Creams, Torchy’s Tacos, and even Stubb’s Bar-B-Q. This year, I want to try something unique. Skull and Cakebones makes unique vegan cakes, such as their Affogato Cakewich. This is a coffee cake rolled in almonds and topped with vanilla ice cream. I’m drooling.
2. Buy art.
Not only is food a trademark of the city, Austin loves supporting its local artists. Therefore, ACL is home to an art market. You never know what kind of trinkets you may find here: cowboy boots, soy candles, or a new vintage dress. I’m stopping by The Art Garage, which gives artists a place to display their work.
3. Support a local organization.
While they can, ACL wants to do some good in the community. They give local organizations an opportunity to come to the festival and let their message be heard, such as Keep Austin Beautiful and the Austin Music Foundation. Support your community by stopping by their tent to find out a way you can make a difference.
4. Discover my new favorite beer.
ACL gives festival goers a chance to dive into some beer. If there is a break in your day, and you’re trying to find a place to recuperate, try stopping by the Barton Springs Beer Hall, where you’ll discover 16 different craft beers. After visiting Colorado this past summer, I’m excited to taste the Breckenridge Agave Wheat. I’ll let you know if it becomes my new favorite.
5. Meet my favorite band.
Honda and Waterloo Records are hosts of this year’s Artist Signing Shack. Here you can meet your favorite artists, and have them sign something you brought, or just your face. Check out Waterloo’s Instagram to find the schedule.
See you at 5:30, Shakey Graves!
6. See a new band.
Yes, Drake will be here. DRAKE! The Strokes too! Crazy, right? The lineup is filled with some big names in music. This is also a chance to discover some new bands too. Who knows, they could become your new favorite. Often times at festivals, I get lost in the crowd trying to see big name artists, and passing up bands I’ve never heard of before. This year will be different. Finding a new band gives for a more intimate performance with a smaller crowd.
