Who’s Playing ACL Fest 2026? The TRIBEZA Team Shares Their Predictions
With the official lineup dropping May 5, we're sharing the artists we’re predicting—and hoping—to see in Zilker Park this fall
With the official lineup dropping Tuesday, May 5, the TRIBEZA team is buzzing over who might perform at ACL Fest this fall. ACL Fest 2026 takes place Oct. 2–4 and Oct. 9–11 at Zilker Park in Austin, with three-day tickets going on sale May 5 at 12 p.m. CT. While our guesses are based on tour schedules, festival patterns and a healthy dose of wishful thinking, here are a few predictions — and personal picks — from the staff:
Prediction by: Cassie Butterfield, Senior Digital Editor
Who I think will be there: Lorde
Lorde is a strong contender for this year’s lineup as she’s already slated for Lollapalooza—another C3 Presents festival—and ACL often shares major acts across those lineups. A gap in her touring schedule also suggests she could land a Weekend One slot.
Who I want to be there: David Byrne
As a longtime Talking Heads fan, seeing David Byrne perform live has always been a dream. After watching his Coachella performance this year, I’m even more convinced that his commanding stage presence would make for an unforgettable set at ACL.
Prediction by: Heidi Okla, Editor-in-Chief
Who I think will be there: Skrillex
Leaning into the 25th anniversary, I would guess that the festival organizers might bring in some nostalgic acts from ACL Music Festival’s first year, like hometown icon Gary Clark Jr. Of course, I’d love to see that! But in terms of buzzy, gossip-driven predictions, I’m going with Skrillex, since he’s back on the festival circuit this summer with Bonnaroo, Summer Smash Festival, Primavera Sound and other European fests.
Who I want to be there: The xx
I loved seeing them at ACL in 2017, and I loved watching their recent Coachella set from my couch. It would be great to see them return to Austin.
Prediction by: Ashley Sauls, Account Executive
Who I think will be there: Fred Again..
ACL has leaned into emotional electronic closers in recent years, booking acts like Odesza and RÜFÜS DU SOL. Fred Again.. fits squarely within that lane, making him a strong contender for a headlining set.
Who I want to be there: Bob Moses
At this point, Bob Moses feels like a perennial pick. Their sound would be a natural fit for a sunset slot—something they’ve proven time and again on festival stages.
Prediction by: Avery Toomes, Assistant Editor
Who I think will be there: Kacey Musgraves
Her new song “Dry Spell,” followed by her album “Middle of Nowhere” just released. She has already graced the ACL stage, and I could see a return with her new album.
Who I want to be there: Addison Rae
Addison Rae has been steadily bringing back theatrical pop performances that nod to early 2000s Britney Spears. Her sets have the drama, storytelling and glamour that pop has been missing in recent years. Rae seems determined to be fabulous and outrageous without a shred of guilt — and I’m here for it. After her Coachella performance, I’d love to hear “Fame Is a Gun” live if she makes her way to Texas next.