ACL Fest Nights

AUSTIN (Sept. 1, 2025) — When Zilker Park goes quiet, the city keeps buzzing. ACL Fest Nights, the festival’s official aftershow series, runs Oct. 2–13 with separately ticketed gigs across Austin’s most beloved venues. Think festival headliners in club-sized settings, or artists you might miss during a packed day in the park.

Why it matters

Fest Nights are a uniquely Austin tradition: festival acts slipping into Stubb’s, Antone’s, or ACL Live for late-night sets that often feel like bonus shows. No wristband required — each show is its own ticketed event, generally $40–$70 (Statesman overview).

Highlights this year

• Modest Mouse @ Stubb’s (Fri, Oct. 3 — doors 8 p.m.)

• MARINA + Mallrat @ ACL Live (Sun, Oct. 5 — 9 p.m.)

• Wet Leg @ Stubb’s (Sat, Oct. 11)

• Dr. Dog @ ACL Live (Thu, Oct. 2)

• Passion Pit @ Emo’s (Mon, Oct. 6)

• Plus: MJ Lenderman, Phantogram, LP Giobbi, DJO, Yoke Lore, Ocean Alley, Zeds Dead vs. Polo & Pan, and more (full list on Do512).

Tickets & timing

• Presale (Amex): Aug. 19

• General on-sale: Aug. 22

• Many shows are already moving fast, but Do512’s calendar is the best place for availability and door times.

Tips for maximizing Fest Nights

• Mind the overlap: Aftershows often start around 9–10 p.m., meaning you might have to leave Zilker before the headliner ends.

• Plan transit: Rideshare demand spikes at night; walking or micromobility to Red River or Rainey helps avoid surge zones.

• Stay nimble: Some shows release additional tickets closer to the date — keep an eye on ACL’s official channelsand resale partners.

ACL Fest Nights turn Austin into one giant unofficial festival grounds — and for photographers, they offer intimate settings that can be just as rewarding as the main stage.