Looking for Thanksgiving Dinner specials in Austin area? You are in the right place. Read on to find out.

If you’re not in the mood to break your back in the kitchen or break the bank dining out this Thanksgiving, then these top 10 best cheap Thanksgiving dinners in Austin will come in clutch for you this year. Check out which Austin area restaurants and grocery stores are offering delicious, cheap, pre-made Thanksgiving meals this year!

Thanksgiving Dinner Specials in Austin

Salt Grass Steakhouse

10614 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78759

All Salt Grass locations will be open on Thanksgiving with delicious turkey feasts available for dine-in or to-go. Their meals come with roasted turkey break, dressing, gravy, garlic mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce. They offer a Thanksgiving dinner for $19.99 for dine-in customers or a Family pack for $79.99 that serves four! All you have to do is heat it up.

Denny’s

1601 IH35 N, Austin, TX 78702 (and other locations)

Old faithful Denny’s has your back once again. They’re back again this year with their Turkey & Dressing Dinner Packs to save you the trouble of cooking. All you have to do is preorder 24 hours in advance, pick it up, and reheat it! The family portion comes with carved turkey breast, savory stuffing, red-skinned mashed potatoes, your choice of a second side, turkey gravy, and cranberry sauce. You can get the whole pack for only $37.99

Cracker Barrel

2350 N Interstate Hwy 35, Round Rock, TX 78761 (and other location)

Cracker Barrel doesn’t just have one affordable thanksgiving available, they have options for you to choose from! They’re offering the Holiday Heat N’ Serve Feast in two sizes, 4-6 servings and 8-10 servings. These meals just need two hours to heat and you’re good to go. If you’re looking to do even less, they also have Hot and Ready Meals. You can choose the Turkey N’ Dressing, or Turkey N’ Dressing & Ham meals, both of which serve 10 people. Their meals are starting around $14 per serving.

HEB

6001 W Parmer Ln, Austin, TX 78727 (and other locations)

Head on down to your neighborhood HEB for a Simple Whole Over Roasted Turkey Meal for only $94.99 with an online coupon. Considering this meal serves 8 people, that’s less than $12 per serving! It comes with a fully cooked, over roasted turkey, cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, turkey gravy, and of course, cranberry sauce. You must order ahead for curbside pick up or delivery and they’re only available while supplies last, so get your order in ASAP.

Check out Early Black Friday Deals in Austin – Beauty, Dining, Experiences & More 

Boston Market

4607 W Braker Ln Suite 100, Austin, TX 78759

Boston Market is also offering a bunch of ways to enjoy their Thanksgiving dinners. You can choose from Heat & Serve, home delivery, a la carte entrees, sides, and pies, or head into your closest Boston Market to eat in the store. Don’t forget to get your orders in by midnight on November 23rd!

Golden Corral

7300 S I-35 Frontage Rd, Austin, TX 78745 (and other location)

What could be better than an endless buffet of Thanksgiving food?! At Golden Corral, they will stock their buffet with all the usual Thanksgiving fixins. You can also get a Holiday Meal To-Go with your choice of ham or turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, choice of sides, their famous yeast rolls, a whole pie. Be sure to pre-order online through their app!

Whole Foods Market

525 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78703 (and other locations)

We love the prepared food that Whole Foods offers throughout the year so it’s likely they knock Thanksgiving dinner out of the park as well! They have a different holiday meal for everyone. Options include organic, apple-brined, whole roast, breast only, paleo-friendly, and even a vegan thanksgiving meal. Pricing starts at around $18 per serving.

Luby’s

8176 North Mo-Pac Expressway Austin, TX 78759 (and other locations)

You already know Luby’s is going to have some good old-fashioned American Thanksgiving food available! Comfort food is their specialty after all. They will be open on Thanksgiving and are offering a turkey meal for only $11.99 per plate. It will come with carved turkey, cornbread dressing, two holidays sides, a dinner roll, and holiday dessert.

Buca di Beppo

3612 Tudor Blvd, Austin, TX 78759

Have a Thanksgiving with an Italian twist with Buca di Beppo’s to-go Thanksgiving Feasts. You can pick up your meal either hot or cold and even add on your favorite Italian dishes to mix things up. They come with sliced white meat turkey, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, homestyle gravy, spicy Italian sausage stuffing, green beans, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Their large feast serves six and comes out to be just under $25 per person.

Perry’s Steakhouse & Grill

114 W 7th St, Austin, TX 78701

Perry’s Steakhouse is offering a fine-dining Thanksgiving at an affordable price. Dine-in for a choice of starter and main for $45 per person. Ordering to-go is even more affordable, with a Family-Style Thanksgiving Dinner that serves for at $35 per person. You have your choice of soup or salad plus a turkey entree with all the trimmings. Kid’s plates are only $15 for both dine-in and to-go options. Plus, you can add a pumpkin cheesecake for an additional $20.

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More than the preamble to the holiday crazy, Thanksgiving is a perfect time to slow down, share a meal, and reflect. It’s also a great time to give back to our community. With our hearts and thoughts pointed to those less fortunate, here’s 5 great ways to give back in Austin this Thanksgiving 2021.

Ways To Give Back For Thanksgiving in Austin

31st Annual Thundercloud Subs Turkey Trot

One of Austin’s longest running Thanksgiving Day traditions, this year’s Turkey Trot is a celebration of activity and charity. With all proceeds going to Caritas of Austin, a non profit that works to prevent and end homelessness, this five mile run is more than preparing for a monster meal. And if you’re still not comfortable running with a large crowd, you can always participate in a virtual run via a special tracking app. A fantastic event for an important cause.

For information on the in person race, the virtual race, and fees, visit www.thundercloud.com/event-info.

Operation Turkey

Like many people, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner was the jump off point for the holiday season. For many in our community, they aren’t so lucky. Operation Turkey aims to change that by providing free Thanksgiving meals for needy families in cities all over the country. This week, you can still participate in the turkey Tailgate at Rodeo Austin to help smoke 600 turkeys and again on Thanskgiving Day to help distribute meals to those in need. A great way to help keep Austin fed.

For volunteer information on the Austin events, visit www.operationturkey.com/locations/austin/

Operation Blue Santa

While it may be too soon for holiday shopping, it’s never too soon to begin giving to Operation Blue Santa. An arm of the Austin Police Department, this charitable effort provides toys and food to Austin families in need. Drop boxes are already popping up all over town, so now’s the perfect time to donate goods or sign up to volunteer.

For information on volunteering and donating, please visit https://www.bluesanta.org/

Central Texas Food Bank

Any time of year is a great time to donate to the Central Texas Food Bank, but late November / early December is critical. The holidays can be a challenging financial time for many families, so the more we can raise, the better. CTFB’s website has dozens of ways you can chip in to the cause. From fundraising opportunities to volunteering, this longstanding organization is always in need of people and resources. Why not make Thanksgiving week the jump off point for your seasonal giving.

https://www.unitedwayaustin.org/ten-free-thanksgiving-meals-in-austin/

Coats for Kids

Remember Snowpocalypse 2021? This year is projecting to be another cold one, so it’s important to have quality winter wear. Coats for Kids provides an invaluable service that this year’s weather emergency proved important, even in Central Texas. The Junior League of Austin is currently collecting gently used coats for their December 4th distribution event. Just swing by any Jack Brown Cleaners and donate today!

For more information on the coat drive and other volunteer opportunities, visit https://www.jlaustin.org/coats/

While everyone is getting ready to choose what to do this weekend with kids in Austin, we are preparing the best events for you; so you don’t have to. Join events like Family Day Jingle Llama Way and the well waited for Holiday Tree Lighting. More Nature inclined? Visit Wildlife 101 in Georgetown, Texas, or the Girl Power event at hosted by Life Ki-Do. Rummage through our list below; you can find our list of things to do this weekend in Austin in order from Friday to Sunday. 

Things To Do This Weekend With Kids – Friday

Holiday Celebration

Start your holiday season early this weekend with the kids! Enjoy celebrating the holiday season with; visits with Santa, a snow slide, horse and carriage rides, and hot cocoa. The event kicks off at 5 pm and lasts until 8 pm, but don’t wait until the last minute to join because this holiday celebration is highly anticipated!

Where: 1015 W. University Ave. Ste. 601 

When: Friday, November 19, 2021 @ 5pm

Price: FREE

Savory Farmers Market at Belterra

Support your local vendors this weekend with the kids at the Savory Farmers Market in Belterra. Stroll through the market on a beautiful Friday evening while you marvel at the high-quality food and artisan products. Don’t miss out on live music, children’s activities, and guest vendors!

Where: 801 Belterra Dr, Austin, TX

When: Friday, November 19, 2021 @ 3pm

Price: FREE

Fall Festival Weekend

The festival is hosted by Texas Wine Country Jellystone Park Camp-Resort this weekend! Hurry and book a night or maybe two this weekend and enjoy a plethora of children’s activities suited for the fall season! Not to worry, this campground is set right between the best wineries around, so while the kids get their activities on, you can get your wine on!

Where: 10618 US-290, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

When: Friday, November 19, 2021 @ 3pm

Things To Do This Weekend With Kids – Saturday

Wildlife 101

Another outdoor activity that is sure to entertain your kids this weekend is Wildlife 101, hosted by Georgetown Parks and Recreation. Experience educational presentations, Texas’s wide range of biodiversity, and a chance to meet animals face-to-face!

Where: 6450 Ranch to Market Rd 2243, Georgetown, TX

When: Saturday, November 20, 2021 @ 9am

Price: $15 Residents/$25 Non-Residents

Stories from the South: A Family Archiving Workshop Series

Take a step into your family history this weekend with the kids! This hands-on archiving workshop is hosted by the Asian American Resource Center in alliance with the Austin History Center. Learn more about preserving your family’s photographs, artifacts, and stories for the future! 

Where: 8401 Cameron Rd, Austin, Texas via ZOOM (online only)

When: Saturday, November 20, 2021 @ 9am

Price: FREE

Holiday Tree Lighting

Another celebration with Santa this weekend with the kids in Austin! Be a part of the annual Christmas tree lighting and watch Mr. And Mrs. Claus light the tree! Who knows, maybe even do a little Christmas Shopping!

Where: 10000 Research Blvd, Austin, TX

When: Saturday, November 20, 2021 @ 5pm

Price: FREE

Community Fall Festival

Hosted by St John’s Tabernacle, your kids will enjoy arts & crafts, train rides, and music. They also have health screenings available! If the gospel is your idea of fun this weekend with kids, then join the celebration of fall!

Where: 7501 Blessing Avenue, Austin, Texas

When: Saturday, November 20, 2021 @ 12pm

Price: FREE

Girl Power: Self Empowerment for Girls

Boost your daughter’s confidence and self-love with this virtual class full of activities. Girl Power provides self-empowerment through movement and non-movement like; yoga, martial arts, dance, and theater games. Don’t miss this self-empowerment journey this weekend with kids!

Where: 3636 Bee Caves Rd STE 212, Austin, Texas

When: Saturday, November 20, 2021, @ 10am on Zoom (Online Only)

Price: $39-$79

Things To Do This Weekend With Kids – Sunday

Family Day Jingle Llama Way

Located in Round Rock, this painting class is hosted by Painting with a Twist. You can even bring your own food and drinks for the family! Buy your class in advance; spots fill up fast!

Where: 1401 S I-35 Frontage Rd #140, Round Rock, TX

When: Sunday, November 21, 2021 @ 11am

Price: $27-$29 per person

Field Day Benefiting Family Promise This Weekend With Kids

Hosted by Kiddie Academy, a free event open to the community. The kids can enjoy fun games and activities while supporting a good cause, family promise. If supporting a cause is on your agenda this weekend with kids, then this is your place to be!

Where: 16003 State Hwy 71 W, Bee Cave, TX

When: Sunday, November 24, 2021 @ 2pm

Price: FREE

To get similar updates on other local favorites, bookmark the Things To Do section of Austinot.

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Top Wings Places in Austin

Looking for wing places in Austin? Check out Austin’s favorite places for hot wings, stuffed wings, and more than you can imagine. Whether you’re looking for wings drenched in sauce or Asian style sprinkled with sesame seeds, we got you covered for the best chicken wings in Austin. By the time you read through our local favorites, you’ll be wondering what else we know the best of in Austin!

1. Delray Cafe

This food truck located right outside Nickel City bar serves all your late-night cravings. Try the coney dogs, sliders, onion rings, and crinkle-cut fries with a side of wings. While you’re munching, grab a cocktail next door at Nickle City. 

Location: 1133 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702

Localite Tip: Try the Chef’s Special sauce!

2. Hi Wings

Looking for all things fried? Hi Wings offers your traditional choice of naked or battered wings. Additionally, they offer Korean fried chicken! Load up on your fried favorites like fried mushrooms, jalapeno poppers, and garlic parmesan fries. 

Location: 2525 W Anderson Ln #135, Austin, TX 78757

Localite Tip:  Don’t skip out on the honey biscuits! 

3. Pluckers Wing Bar

All your chicken wing needs in Austin are at Pluckers Wing bar! Providing a range of sauces, you can also buy anywhere from 5 to 100 piece chicken wings. Need a wings place to try late-night? 

Location: 9070 Research Blvd Ste 201C, Austin, TX 78758

Localite Tip: Open till 12am!

4. Tommy Want Wingy

They take the fuss and muss out of eating chicken wings with their chicken lollipops. Offering traditional and creative wings flavors but the lemon pepper is by far a local favorite. Everything is made to order, so you know your getting it fresh! Trust us, it’s worth the wait. 

Location: 94 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701

Localite Tip: If you’re up for it, try the painfully hot Holy Schnikes wings!

5. Green Mesquite

Locals have loved this spot for decades! The menu consists of a variety of BBQ, PO Boys, and Chicken dinners. But, of course, were here to talk about wings. Green Mesquite smokes their wings, making them one of the best wings in Austin. 

Location: 1400 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Localite Tip: The South Park and San Marcos locations offer 85 cent wings every Sunday. 

6. The Peached Tortilla

Simple southern food with an Asian flair! Try the crispy umami chicken wings with a fish sauce vinaigrette, herbs, and shallots. To get a full chicken experience go for Fried Chicken and Whiskey Wednesday’s!

Location: 5520 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78756

Localite Tip: Try The Peached Tortilla for your next sophisticated night out with a flair. 

7. Shu Shu’s Asian Cuisine

A family-friendly authentic Chinese restaurant that provides quick service! Often overlooked, their fried chicken wings come with your choice of General Tso Sauce, Dragon Sauce, Sesame Sauce, Garlic Pepper Sauce, or Teriyaki Sauce.

Location: 8303 Burnet Rd #1, Austin, TX 78757

Localite Tip: Pssst! Try the sesame sauce!

8. bb.q Chicken Higland Village

There is nothing ordinary about this chicken wing gem! Try over 12 flavors of unique chicken wings that will knock your socks and taste buds to the moon. If you are in the mood for spicy, try the Gangnam-style chicken wings. 

Location: 6929 Airport Blvd Suite 158, Austin, TX 78752

Localite Tip: In the Top 25 fastest growing chains in America!

9. Spicy Boys Fried Chicken

One of the best wing places in Austin! Spicy Boys Chicken has bone-in and boneless options. Vegetarian? Try the Cauliflower Nugs! The Som Tam hits the spot as makes this a go-to wings place in Austin. 

Location: 440 E St Elmo Rd g2, Austin, TX 78745

Localite Tip: They have two locations!

10. Lucy’s Fried Chicken

A southern fried chicken joint that lives on the edge! If your looking for southern-style chicken wings in Austin this is your place. Offering traditional style, they have a large menu with options that compliment the taste. One of the best wing places in Austin!

Location: 2218 College Ave, Austin, TX 78704

Localite Tip: Dig into the Fried Green Tomatoes!

To get similar updates on other local favorites, bookmark the Food & Drink section of Austinot.

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Austin’s 5th Street Downtown

If you are intrigued by Austin’s independent vibe and rich history, check out Austin’s 5th Street, located downtown. Whether; you plan to travel by foot, Uber, or bar bike. Wait, did we say bar bike? Yes, Bar bike! Discover how to travel by bar bike, explore the streets deep culture, and eat upscale in our guide to Austin’s 5th Street. In order, from Austin’s Bar Bike to Central District Brewing, find out what 5th Street is all about. 

Austin’s Bar Bike

Rain or shine, you can ride Austin’s bar bike solo or with a group of 15. Sing your heart out and join the most authentic way to experience Austin downtown. This bar bike is a 2-hour ride equipped with a stereo, led lights, and an electric assist motor for your enjoyment.

Where: 1108 Rose Street

Localite Tip: Remember to plan a sober ride home!

Tiniest Bar in Texas

The Tiniest Bar in Texas is a routine stop for locals and tourists alike. Favored for their hip atmosphere and attentive bartender’s this spot rocks! Try one of the best happy hours in town, all while looking at a great view of Austin’s 5th Street Downtown.

Where: 817 W 5th

Localite Tip: Enjoy the food trucks nearby!

Republic Square

Republic Square; is named in remembrance of the Republic of Texas. Located in the heart of downtown, it serves as an event space, farmers market, and public park. Check out the farmers market that is open from 9:00 am-1:00 pm!

Where: 422 Guadalupe Street

Localite Tip: This square was once named Mexico, holding concerts and the yearly celebrations of Mexico’s independence.  

The Roosevelt Room

Considered a highly distinguished cocktail bar and event venue, you can treat friends and family to an unforgettable experience. This historic space built in 1929 offers a luxurious cocktail collection. As they like to say, “Cheers to you!”

Where: 307 W 5th Street

Localite Tip: Indulge in cocktail classes on the last or second-to-last Sunday from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm!

Mexic-Arte Museum

A local art museum trusted with a collection of education programs, preservation, and interpretations of Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art; And contributes to educating tourists and locals on Mexican art and culture.

Where: 419 Congress Avenue

Localite Tip: Check out the MX 21-Resistance, Reaffirmation, and Resilience Exhibition opening on September 17, 2021. 

Russian House

You are in for a treat! The Russian House is a unique gem on Austin’s 5th Street: a combination of Russian and Ukrainian cuisine with an extensive authentic menu. Not familiar with Russian cuisine? That’s why they are there!

Where: 307 E 5th Street

Localite Tip: Food suggestions: Pirozhki, Ukrainian Borsch, and the Schnizhel! 

El Arroyo

Known; for their famous marquee sign, this Tex-Mex joint on Austin’s 5th Street Downtown has been serving it up since 1975. Go ahead, try the breakfast taco truck, take a picture with the marquee sign, and drink a delicious margarita!

Where: 1624 W 5th Street

Localite Tip: Submit a recommendation for their marquee sign online!

Susanna Dickinson Museum

This museum serves as a rich representation of Austin’s history. Relive the survivor stories of the Battle of the Alamo by setting up an appointment online. And, don’t miss their new exhibit called “The Messenger,” available from October 2021 – December 2021!

Where: 

Localite Tip: To Volunteer, visit the Brush Square Museums Foundation

Floppy Disc Repair Co.

We know what your thinking, really a floppy disk store? Think again; this speakeasy requires a code to enter, so you better ask someone in the know. You might not be able to repair your floppy disk, but you might get floppy!

Where: 119 E 5th Street

Localite Tip: Nice try; they regularly change code.  

Central Brewing District

A brewery, women-owned, and Great American Beer Festival (GABF) Gold Medal winner, offers some of the best beer in town. Stay updated for new beer releases on their Instagram. Also, take a sip of their IPA’s, and you won’t be disappointed!

Where: 417 Red River Street

Localite Tip: Take Beer-to-go and choose their Key Lime Pie Gose!

To get similar updates on other local favorites, bookmark the Food & Drink section of Austinot.

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Looking for a fast & easy way to sell your home in Austin? Read on to find out how HomeLight Simple Sale™ can help you start getting offers within 48 hours!

How is HomeLight Simple Sale™ different from Traditional Listing Services

HomeLight Simple Sale™ is the best option for selling your home quickly. It is different from traditional listing services in 3 key areas

1. Direct Access To Cash Buyers: Simple Sale connects you to the largest network of iBuyers in the U.S. and gets you top offers on your home. In a Traditional Listing service, the home sellers work with an agent to narrow down a price and then list the house on the market
2. Sell Your Home As-Is: This means that there is no need for prep, staging, or showings. You can sell your home in any condition HomeLight’s network of buyers. With traditional services, listing a home often requires a deep clean, updates to the home, and professional staging.
3. Close In Days: With HomeLight Simple Sale™ you get to pick your closing day and move date. HomeLight handles the rest and you’ll get money in your bank account within 7 days. Traditional listing can take up to months to close and there is always the risk of the buyer financing falling through at the last minute

How fast are houses selling in the Austin, Texas area?

The days on market average for homes sold in Austin, TX dropped 1.92% in 1 year. Looking back over the last five years, the days on market average has dropped an average -0.53% each year. According to HomeLight’s latest Austin home sales data, the average days on market for a home in Austin (prices ranging from $145,900 to $1,600,000) is 51 days (primarily using Traditional Listing Services)

Where in Austin are homes selling the fastest?

Based on the available days on market data for homes sold in Austin this year, homes located in Zilker, North Loop and Old West Austin sell fastest.

What’s the best way to explore selling your home quickly in Austin?

HomeLight Simple Sale™ is a great option to sell your home quickly and easily in Austin. Check out the HomeLight Austin website for additional details. And if you want to explore the traditional way of selling your house, HomeLight make that easy too!

HomeLight compares real estate agents working in Austin and ranks them by how fast they sell. A top real estate agent in Austin can help you sell fast and for more money.

This is a sponsored post. We only accept sponsored content that we believe offers a great value to our loyal readers in the greater Austin area. Sponsored content allows Austinot to manage the expenses of running this website and to work tirelessly to bring you extensive coverage of the area’s best deals and events.

Agree or disagree, as of this article, ACL Fest 2021 is on and ready to rock. As always, this world class event features some of finest artists from Austin. While most of the lesser known names require early arrival, seeing a local artist play on a massive festival stage is a sight to behold. Here’s your ultimate guide to our local heroes playing one of the biggest festivals of the year.

As always, I’ve created a Spotify playlist with music from all of this year’s ATX artists. Click here to give it a listen.

Austin Artists at ACL 2021 – Friday, October 1st

Asleep At The Wheel

The day Asleep at the Wheel fails to open ACL Festival with their signature brand of dancehall country, Austin will die a little bit. If you haven’t seen Austin Artist Ray Benson’s band of down home musicians live and in person, you are missing out on a crucial piece of local music history. Get in early and dig an Austin legend.

1:00 -1:45 on the Honda Stage

Audic Empire

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A resplendent expression of sun-soaked positive vibes, Audic Empire’s been blessing stages for well over a decade. Their latest single, “Let the Sun In”, laces it’s Saturday afternoon reggae upbeat with guest verses/vocals by Baby Bash and Keara Alyse while the message of “Come and Toke It” is – well – self explanatory. While you’re not permitted to bring in the sort of substances that pair well with Audic Empire’s sound, you’ll be tempted.

1:00 – 1:45 on the Tito’s Stage

Primo The Alien

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More than a throwback to the days of The Human League and New Order, Primo The Alien takes well worn sounds and weaves them into music fresh, exciting, and new. Her biggest hit, “My Delorean”, is an electro-wave jam soaked in 80’s synth and propelled by Primo’s palpable desire to start over while her latest single, “Do It Again”, is a dramatic relationship post-mortem soaked with electronic percussion, cosmic synth, and urgent, emotional vocals. A talented songwriter who uses synthwave as a medium as opposed to a nostalgia trick, Primo The Alien transcends a genre full of strobe-light pretenders.

Austin Artists at ACL 2021 – Saturday, October 2nd

Sir Woman

Once considered Kelsey Wilson’s Wild Child side project, Sir Woman’s become a musical force of its very own. Her latest single, “Party City”, is a bouncy 70’s soul bop celebrating the forward momentum and easy-does-it joy of spending time with someone you love. Listening to Ms. Wilson’s effortless vocal curl around a funky bass line and biting horn pops is pure musical candy.

1:00 – 1:45 on the Tito’s Stage

Gina Chavez

The last time Gina performed at ACL Fest, she performed on the Tito’s stage in the early afternoon. This year, she has an early evening spot on the 3rd largest stage in the park. It’s been fun watching her rise from a local Latin songstress to Tiny Desk concerts and headlining gigs around the globe. Her latest single, “Juntos Together”, stiches sparse shakers, Mexican accordion, and various Latin percussion into a bouncy jam worthy of steamy dancehall evenings. A must listen set on one of Austin’s biggest stages.

5:20 – 6:20 on the BMI Stage

Austin Artists at ACL 2021 – Sunday, October 3rd

Deezie Brown

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One of the torchbearers of the new ATX hip-hop movement, Deezie Brown’s tight flow and head knocking production keeps the flame alight. His latest collaboration EP, “Geto Gala (Chopped and Slowed)”, is a collection of slow burn, chill anthems featuring the talents of Mr. Brown, Jake Lloyd, and the titular Geto Gala. The drowsy “Sum’n to Say” is an album highlight, but pray Brown performs “I Want It All” during his early afternoon ACL Fest set. Sure to wake the crowd up and enable hype mode for the day’s events.

12:15 – 1:00 on the Miller Lite Stage

Shooks

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If hip hop’s not your thing, swing to the VRBO stage for the indie rock sway and strut of Shooks. Combining indie rock sensibilities with a post punk twang, Shooks generates earwork hooks glazed with a subtle psychedelic haze. “You Know I’m Right” features a straight-forward guitar rift that allows lead vocalist Marlon Sexton (yes, that Sexton) to inject emotion galore through his wandering, evocative tenor. And hell yeah, they’re catchy as all get out. Check them out either at ACL Fest or any other means necessary.

12:15 – 1:00 on the VRBO Stage

TC Superstar

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With love and respect to all the local artists preforming this year, TC Superstar convinced me to cover Weekend One. A group full of depth, fun, self awareness, and pure joy, TC is my happy candy. From early dance gems like “Denial” and “Toyota Corolla” to their lush and poignant “R&D” LP, TC Superstar is proving they’re more than a quirky hook. And their latest record, “As Seen on TV”, is a triumph of smile inspiring jams with “Waste My Time” becoming my early favorite. A binge worthy act worthy of arriving early to see.

2:15 – 3:00 on the Tito’s Stage

Austin Artists at ACL 2021 – Friday, October 8th

Riders Against the Storm

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Musicians, MC’s, activists, and defenders of social causes from Black Lives Matter to local artists rights, Riders Against the Storm isn’t a simple hip hop group. They are a cultural movement. For decades, Chaka and Qi Dada have used their talents to not only create landmark records but push Austin’s social conversation forward with a heart for peace, unity, and love. The title track off their latest record, “Flowers for the Living”, is a buoyant and uplifting call for joy in a world at a loss for it. Required viewing / listening.

1:30 – 2:15 on the Tito’s Stage

The Teeta

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Evocative and brutally honest in both lyrics and flow, The Teeta is an A tier Austin MC. With tracks like the slow burn “come up” anthems “Summersaults” and “Get Yourz” to the slick wordplay of “Forex”, this ATX wordsmith layers droning trap beats with tights lyrics that feel raw and real. It’ll be cool watching The Teeta practice his craft on the BMI stage.

3:15 – 4:00 on the BMI Stage

Hinds

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Balancing chill vibes with catchy, genre bending pop hooks, Hinds is a band worth paying close to attention to. “Good Bad Times” is a multilingual bop that evokes spending time with loved ones on cool spring afternoons while “San Diego” is a delightfully messy romp. The DIY spirit is strong with this four and the result is intoxicating.

3:15 – 4:00 on the VRBO Stage

Austin Artists at ACL 2021 – Saturday, October 9th

Mike Melinoe

I’ve been speaking a good deal of sugar about Mike Melinoe over the last year and it’s for good reason. An impressive MC of talent, swag, and style, Melinoe pumps out bangers with startling efficiency. “Telsa” is still one of my favorite tracks from last year, 2020’s “Costco” is a rapid fire scorcher, and his latest single, “Lost Prophets”, bumps with a retro mid-90’s beat, providing a silky landing spot for Melinoe’s signature flow. Get there early, get blown away.

12:05 – 12:50 on the VRBO Stage

The Tender Things

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Need some country in your life? Grab lunch, mosey over to the nearby Tito’s stage, and get your dance on to The Tender Things. “Sister Elizabeth” is a boot scooting boogie of the highest order while “How You Make a Fool”, off the 2020 record of the same name, injects a touch of Southern blues to a cautionary tale of how not to approach life and its many choices. Cool, smoothed out country in a classic vein.

1:00 – 1:45 on the Tito’s Stage

Dayglow

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Last year, Sloan Christian Struble, also known as Dayglow, was a bubbling-under-the-radar pop producer looking for a hit. Today, he’s an ATX darling on the level of the Black Pumas and Gary Clark Jr. And it’s for good reason. His skyrocketing single, “Can I Call You Tonight”, shimmers with a infectious indie groove while “Hot Rod” evokes the motions of long drives to destinations unknown via a cerebral, tongue-in-cheek smile. His latest single, “Close to You” off this year’s “Harmony House”, uses sparkling synth and an upbeat 80’s beat to tell a story of smiling through longing and regret. Love Dayglow and I’m confident you will too.

7:20 – 8:20 on the VRBO Stage

Austin Artists at ACL 2021 – Sunday, October 10th

Zach Person

Ashamed to admit, I didn’t quite get Zach Person until I saw him live. During an early summer Black Fret event at The Long Center, Person torched the stage with a stomping brand of rock-a-blues that made me a believer. “Can’t Stop Running” immediately sparks comparisons to Gary Clark Jr while his new single, “Remnants” is a daring six minute opera that begins as a smoldering ember and grows into a 5 alarm fire of guitar wizardry and pure soul. Join me in the church of Person in a few weeks at the BMI Stage.

12:00 – 12:45 on the BMI Stage

BLK ODYSSEY

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Butter smooth R&B MC with a decidedly modern edge, BLK ODYSSY will bring a touch of swag to the early Sunday lineup. “HANG LOW” burns with sultry vibes like a D’Angelo tune while “BIG BAD WOLF/SOBER” turns toward the serious in a tale of addiction and poor choices in the vein of Kendrick Lamar. A complex yet highly entertaining artist worth arriving early for.

12:00 – 12:45 on the VRBO Stage

Superfonicos

Another artist I’ve written many complimentary words about, Superfonicos continues their rise to ATX Latin elite. Their latest single, “El Adios”, is a scorching samba number while “Cumbealo” screams heat, passion, and positive energy in a quick step cumbia. Call me crazy, but if this sensational group isn’t playing ACL Live alongside Grupo Fantasma within a few years, I’ll be sorely disappointed. Run, don’t walk, to the BMI stage for this mid afternoon treat.

3:30 – 4:30 on the BMI Stage

David Ramirez

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An artist of range and depth, David Ramirez is one our local luminaries and for good reason. Propelled by the sensitive and touching folk/country hit “Harder to Lie”, 2015’s “Fable” hit national recognition. Since then, from headlining appearances at major festivals to Austin Music Awards, Ramirez is cementing his reputation as an ATX staple. His latest single, “Normal” is anything but. A personal and biting testimonial track that begs repeated listens, the song might his best work in years. More than enough to catch his Sunday ACL Fest set.

5:30 – 6:30 on the BMI Stage

Austin Artists at ACL 2021 – Both Weekends

Black Pumas

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It’s not a stretch to call The Black Pumas the biggest ATX success story of the last five years. Maybe ten. For all of Gary Clark Jr’s success, nobody’s experienced the meteoric rise to prominence like this Eric Burton / Adrian Quesada collaboration. Their latest single, “Wichita Lineman”, continues their trend of finely crafted blues/rock. If you’re one of the millions who dug their self titled debut, you’ll need to be in attendance to experience Black Pumas live and in person.

6:00 – 7:00 Friday on the Lady Bird Stage (both weekends)

Missio

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The audio equivalent to an erupting volcano, Missio’s thundering electronic sound projects power and emotion in equal measure. While my adoration of their debut record “Loner” is well documented, they’ve done nothing but keep the quality high since 2017. Their latest EP, “Skeletons: Part 3 (Instrumentals)”, is a fantastic companion piece to 2020’s stellar “Can You Feel the Sun”. Come for the soaring title track, stay for the beautifully discordant “Wolves”. Loved Missio when I saw them at SXSW a few years back, love them even more four years later.

5:20 – 6:20 Saturday on the VRBO Stage (both weekends)

Nane

This is going to be a-mazing. I’ve been lucky enough to experience Nane in small venues and this Latin/funk/soul fusion band lifts souls to the rafters. Seeing them on ACL’s biggest stage will be a mind bending experience. From newly minted classics like the rollicking party jam “Blue Velvet” and the sultry “Always On My Mind” to their most recent single, “Seventeen”, these ATX rock-a-funkers are legends in the making.

1:00 – 1:45 on the Lady Bird Stage (Friday, October 1st)

12:00 – 12:45 Sunday on the Miller Lite Stage (Sunday, October 10th)

Check out our Local’s Guide to ACL Fest including what to pack, what to wear, and other pro tips on making the most of your time at ACL!