Hot Luck Returns to Austin with Mouthwatering Bites and Live Music

Hot Luck Festival is set to make its highly anticipated return to Austin, bringing four days packed with culinary creations from some of the nation’s top chefs and music performances from May 23 to May 26. Founded by Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue, James Moody of Mohawk, and Mike Thelin of Feast Portland, Hot Luck has become a beloved fixture in the festival scene, offering a unique fusion of food, music, and community camaraderie.

This year’s edition boasts an exciting lineup of events, including a brand-new supper club-inspired Friday night event and a Sunday summer camp brunch.

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Hot Luck 2023 (Photo by Alison Narro)

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Hot Luck 2023 (Photo by Alison Narro)

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Hot Luck 2023 (Photo by Chad Wadsworth)

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Hot Luck 2023 (Photo by Dusana Risovic)

What to look forward to at Hot Luck

The festivities kick off on Thursday, May 23, with the “Giddy Up” taco welcome party at Mohawk, exclusively available to Whole Enchilada pass holders. Renowned chefs from the Taco Mafia Crew will be serving up delectable tacos alongside treats from Sarah Lim of OMG Squee. Following the culinary celebration is an electrifying performance by indie rock band Calexico.

On Friday, May 24, guests will be treated to the debut of the Hot Luck Supper Club at Fair Market, paying homage to the nostalgic charm of classic American comfort food. Expect an evening filled with culinary innovation as celebrated chefs put inventive twists on beloved dishes. The lineup includes award-winning chefs such as Marc-Olivier Frappier, Mashama Bailey, and Nick and Leslie Goellner. Afterwards, music enthusiasts can head to Mohawk for a show featuring Lightning Bolt, Big Business, and Porcelain.

RELATED: Aaron Franklin’s Hot Luck Fest Was the Place to Be

Saturday heats up with Turkey and the Wolf pop-up at Uptown Sports Club, featuring specialty sandwiches from New Orleans’ beloved chef Mason Hereford. The main event, Al Fuego, ignites at Wild Onion Ranch for a live-action celebration of flame-fueled cooking styles with music performances by The Mummies and The Ugly Beats at Mohawk.

Wrapping up the weekend on Sunday is the inaugural Camp Sunnyside brunch at Wild Onion Ranch, where campfire classics receive a gourmet makeover from an all-star lineup of chefs. From slow-cooked meats to indulgent pastries, this brunch extravaganza offers the perfect conclusion to another memorable Hot Luck weekend.

Whether you’re a seasoned Hot Luck attendee or a first-time festival-goer, there’s something for everyone at this foodie fest. Individual tickets and weekend passes are now available for purchase with proceeds benefiting the Southern Smoke Foundation. For more information and ticket purchases, visit their website.