7 Music Festivals to Attend in Texas

Texas has long been known for the honky-tonk and the two-step. But its music scene is so much more diverse than that! In fact, the Texas music industry is worth $10 billion a year! In the Lone Star State each year, there is a music festival for everyone – no matter what your jam is – from indie and electronic to hip-hop and alternative. Enjoy classic favorites and find new bands to love with this list of the best 7 music festivals to attend in Texas in 2019.

1. Willie Nelson's Fourth of July Picnic

One of the must-see Texas music festivals is the state's biggest Independence Day party hosted by none other than Willie Nelson. Willie himself selects the entire lineup. So if you like Willie Nelson, this is the Texas music festival for you. This music festival/picnic has been going strong for decades! Come check out the best acts in country music all in one day on July 4.

2. Float Fest

What's one of the best ways to survive the Texas 100-degree heat this summer? By attending float fest of course. Join the other 10,000 guests at this two-day Texas music festival. Start your morning with a cold one in hand as you drift down the San Marcos River. Then spend the day enjoying some great acts like Snoop Dogg, Lil Wayne, Glass Animals, and more. You can camp for one or all three nights to get the most out of this music festival. This year, Float Fest will be July 21-22.

3. SXSW

It's pronounced South by Southwest and is one of the best Texas music festivals in 2019. The hardest thing about this festival is narrowing down all the fun into manageable amounts You'll enjoy seven—yes, seven—days of music at both official and unofficial events like parties and showcases. Best of all, lots of events are free to attend so long as you RSVP ahead of time. Expect to see an all-star global lineup all in a week. If you need a hand financing your music fest experience, income-based loans may get you the funds you need right when you need them.

4. Waterloo Music Festival

The Waterloo music festival is the new kid on the block. It doesn't have years of experience, but it is sure to quickly become a music lover's favorite event. This year it is held from September 7-9. You have the option of camping or glamping at Carson Creek Ranch depending on how much luxury you need in your life. Each of the three nights, you can enjoy listening to music performed by The String Cheese Incident. You'll also be listening to music by The Motet, Joe Russo's Almost Dead, Railroad Earth, and more. Did we mention that Carson Creek Ranch is Austin's premier outdoor convent venue? It's just a quick 10 minutes to downtown and also gives you access to the Colorado River. You can't go wrong with a venue like that.

5. Viva Big Bend

Viva Big Bend is a one-of-a-kind music fest. It's kinda like a big music industry mixer and music fest all rolled up into one. This Texas music festival takes place in various venues. You can expect to listen to over 50 performances in everything from mariachi and blues to pop and bluegrass. If your music tastes are eclectic and varied, then you must check out Viva Big Bend this July 25-28. While you're here, head over to the lush Big Bend National Park for some hiking and nature watching.

6. Austin City Limits

Austin City Limits (ACL for short) takes place over two weekends in October. There are 8 stages and over 130 bands including Cardi B, Mumford & Sons, Guns & Roses, and The Cure. Many headliners will perform late at night. This is one of those music festivals perfect for night owls. You can also enjoy performances by several local rising acts. Getting hungry? The ACL Eats Food Court offers the tastiest festival food, drinks, and sweets from the best restaurants in Austin and the surrounding area. The whole family is welcome at ACL. There's a fun art market, a mini-fest just for kids, and plenty of phone-charging stations and places to get merch. Make sure to head over to Zilker Park this fall for Austin City Limits so you can enjoy an extra summer music fest in fall.

7. UTOPiAfest

Are you looking for a family-friendly Texas music festival to bring the whole gang to UTOPIAfest is the one for you. 2019 will make the 11th year that UTOPIAfest has been around. It'll be held at Reveille Peak Ranch. Enjoy curated food and drink as well as plenty of outdoor activities for little ones, teens, and adults. Then head over to hear some cool workshops and maybe enjoy some camp cooking. The music selection ranges from indie and soul to electronic, rock, and hip-hop – there's something for everyone. Plus, there are yoga and camping workshops scheduled throughout the event as well. Free camping is included in the price of your ticket. And yes, you can BYOB and camp stove. The gorgeous sunrises and sunsets at UTOPIAfest are one of a kind and will crown your music festival experience. This year's lineup includes Brownout, Southern Avenue, The Deer, Night Glitter, and more.