Spread out over two weekends in Zilker Park, Austin City Limits solidifies the city's reputation as the “Music Capital of the World.” (Ismael Quintanilla III/Shutterstock)
As a state bursting at the seams with different cultures, it’s no wonder that Texas music festivals are so diverse when it comes to genres. From the thumping bass of EDM to the guitar twang found in folk, there’s a festival for every ear and every type of music in the Lone Star State.
The best part? Some of these are even free.
Free Week
Austin
Jan. 9-10
Launched in 2003 as a way to keep music venues open during slower winter months, Free Week (as the name suggests) is a two-day long, completely free festival that spans across venues in the Red River Cultural District. Participating spots include The 13th Floor, the Sidebar, Stubb’s, Swan Dive, and Valhalla.
Fort Worth Music Festival
Fort Worth
Feb. 26-March 1
Though the artist lineup hasn’t dropped quite just yet, tickets are now on sale for the fourth annual Fort Worth Music Festival. Similar to Free Week in Austin, the festival takes place across different venues in Fort Worth and showcases numerous country artists with deep roots in Texas culture.
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
Houston
March 2-22
One of Houston’s most attended and anticipated annual events, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo brings together fans of pop, R&B, Latin, Christian, and, of course, country music. More than just a festival, the Houston Rodeo has awarded over $660 million in scholarships for Texas students since it began in 1932.
KEEP READING: What to expect at the 2026 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
South by Southwest
Austin
March 12-18
An Austin staple since 1987, this iconic, week-long festival blends music, movies, television, education, and politics, so that it offers something for everyone. While the full musical lineup isn’t out yet, hip hop artists Don Toliver, Mexican singer Junior H, and Dutch DJ Mau P have all been confirmed as performers.
Sips and Sounds Fest
Austin
March 13-14
Got a thirst that can only be quenched by a Coca-Cola? Then snag a ticket to the Sips and Sounds Fest, where you can hear headliners Christina Aguilera and Calvin Harris, snag a snack from food vendors, and of course, swill your favorite Coke product.
Tejano Conjunto Festival
San Antonio
May 14-17
Honoring the best in Conjunto music, the 44th iteration of this festival aims to preserve and promote Conjunto musical traditions. It features four days of performances characterized by small bands that play the button accordion, the bajo sexto, an electric bass, and drums.
Kerrville Folk Fest
Kerrville
May 21-June 7
Founded by Rod Kennedy, a Texas music promoter, in 1972, this nearly three-week festival nurtures the art of songwriting through concerts and activities. Fun fact: The Kerrville Folk Fest is the oldest, continuous music festival in Texas.
State Fair of Texas
Dallas
Sept. 25-Oct. 18
While the food and drinks are definitely what everyone buzzes about, the State Fair offers four stages to catch musical acts during its 24 days. Past performers have included TLC and The Band Perry.
Austin City Limits
Austin
Oct. 2-4, Oct. 9-11
This legendary festival is so popular that tickets drop almost five months before the actual event, and often sell out as soon as they go on sale. Spread out over two weekends in Zilker Park, the event solidifies Austin’s reputation as the “Music Capital of the World.” Just last year, the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Hozier, Doja Cat, Luke Combs, The Strokes, John Summit, and Doechii headlined the festival.
