It’s the time of year we’ve all been waiting for… ACL time! The Austin City Limits Music Festival is arguably two of the best weekends to be in Austin. Here are our ACL survival tips to help you prepare for a weekend full of great music and good times!  

STAY COOL

While it may be fall everywhere else in the US, Texas is still sitting at 90 degree temperatures so staying cool and hydrated during the fest is crucial! Be sure to take advantage of the Camelbak Hydration Stations located throughout the park. We’ll have Birdie, our Grand Waggonier located on Barton Springs Road on Friday afternoon. Be on the lookout on our Instagram Stories for exact details so you can stop by and grab a Thunderbird reusable water bottle. As a reminder, EMPTY reusable water bottles are the only type of bottles allowed in the park! Clear skies are predicted this weekend so don't be the poor soul who leaves on Sunday with a painful sunburn. Come prepared with ThinkSport sunscreen to avoid those awkward tan lines and potential sun damage. Hand held fans are also a lifesaver in this Texas heat! They are easy to recharge and throw into small purses, totes or drawstring bags. 

STAY FULL

You can find our bars at any of the Bodegas at the park. It’s important to eat real food for real energy, especially if you’ll be staying out late enjoying everything ACL has to offer. Choosing the healthiest option for food at the fest can be hard, which is why we’ve put our bars in the most convenient spots. Our bars are made with all natural ingredients that will help you be #FueledByThunderbird all weekend long!

STAY TOGETHER 

It’s easy to get lost in the music of ACL and from your friends. Download the official ACL app for easy access to the map and pick a designated spot to meet in the case that someone strays from the group. Cell service in the park isn't always the best but having a designated meeting spot is always a good plan. Totems or flags are also a good way to rangle your festival buddies. There are specific size and dimensions on the ACL website so check that out before you start getting creative. 

STAY SMART 

The ACL official app is a great resource that everyone should download before heading into the park. There is an awesome scheduling tool to make sure you get to see all of your favorite artists! You can also keep your bags at home and go cashless by connecting your credit card to your ACL wristband. Party at ease knowing everything you need is on your wrist! 


Austin City Limits is a great time and planning your weekend ahead of time will only make the experience better. Be sure to stop by and see Birdie set up near the main entrance of the fest. Also, watch out for our Instagram sweepstakes. To enter to win a box of free bars and Thunderbird merch, tag us in your ACL photos featuring our Thunderbird reusable water bottle. We’ll be picking our favorite entries at the end of both weekends and slide into the winner’s DMs so be on the lookout!

Rachel Shay