The 10 Best Music Festivals in Texas

There’s nothing better to spend your weekend than at a music festival. In Texas, they sure know how to throw a good one. Texas is home to some of the best music festivals in the country, spanning every genre from electronic to indie and everything in between. 

I’ve found 10 great festivals in Texas you should check out:

1. Old Settler’s Music Festival

Dale, Texas

When: April (four days)

Old Settler’s is an annual April event that showcases Texas talents. This four-day festival highlights over 30 bands focusing on bluegrass, country, Americana, and roots music. On-site camping is available for those making a weekend of it.

2. UTOPIAfest

Burnet, Texas

When: October (two days)

UTOPIAfest is a fun event on a scenic ranch in Texas. The two-day festival offers a wide range of musical genres and family-friendly activities like mountain biking, hiking, arts, and workshops for all ages. Camping is also available on-site.

3. Austin City Limits Music Festival

Zilker Park, Austin, Texas

When: October (six days)

ACL is a legendary musical event held over two weekends in October, featuring over 100 bands on nine stages.

It’s one of Texas’ most diverse festivals, featuring both famous musicians and rising stars. Enjoy photo booths, giveaways, and activities for all ages.

4. Levitation

Austin, Texas

When: October (four days)

Levitation offers festival-goers a mix of psychedelic rock pioneers, grunge rock, and modern-day experimentalists. On-site food and drinks are available. The festival celebrates creativity and heavy music.

5. Wildflower! Arts and Music Festival

Galatyn Park Urban Center, Richardson, Texas

When: May (three days)

Celebrate spring at the Wildflower! Arts and Music Festival. This three-day event features indoor and outdoor performance stages, band and songwriting competitions, and interactive displays. Enjoy food, drinks, activities, and merchandise for sale.

6. National Polka Festival

Ennis, Texas

When: May (three days)

Celebrate Czech heritage at the annual three-day National Polka Festival in Ennis, Texas. Enjoy authentic polka music and dancing, traditional Czech foods, a picturesque parade, and handcrafted arts.

This event welcomes everyone, no matter your age or cultural background, while celebrating Czech traditions. Bring your dancing shoes and enjoy traditional Czech festivities at this wonderful festival.

7. Euphoria

Austin, Texas

When: May (four days)

Euphoria music festival is a four-day event in Austin, Texas, featuring electronic, jam, and hip-hop music. There are on-site activities like yoga, live painting, and art installations that celebrate art and culture.

8. So What?! Music Festival

Arlington, Texas

When: May (three days)

So What? Music Festival is a top annual event, featuring big names in pop-punk, alt-rock, rock, metal, rap, and hip-hop.

This three-day event features six stages for a full musical experience. Get ready for mosh pits and hear your favorite songs live!

9. South by Southwest Music Festival

Austin, Texas

When: March (ten days)

SXSW is a ten-day music festival in Austin, Texas. It features a mix of new artists and famous headliners. 

There are days set aside for interactive media, film screenings, workshops, and conferences. SXSW offers an educational, fun, and immersive experience for music and film lovers everywhere.

10. JMBLYA

Dallas, Houston, & Austin, Texas

When: September (one day)

JMBLYA is a one-day music festival held in various Texas locations, showcasing hip-hop, R&B, and trap genres.

The festival features performances from big names like Travis Scott, Chance the Rapper, and The Kid Laroi. JMBLYA is a touring music festival that visits multiple states.

Conclusion

Texas hosts numerous music festivals for every genre, from country to punk rock. Most last three days, perfect for a weekend getaway.

With camping, activities, food, and drinks on-site, these festivals offer a great way to fully enjoy music and culture. Check out more here.

Old Settler’s Music Festival Featured Image by: John Grubbs, Attribution, via Wikimedia Commons