Do you wish ACL wasn’t only during the fall? Well, during the week-long SXSW panels and events, the Coca-Cola Sips and Sounds Music Festival took place at Auditorium Shores in Austin, Texas! Bring a smaller taste of the Austin City Limits music festival right in the heart of downtown Austin, the field is filled with food trucks, stages, and people eager to see some of music’s well known stars! Artists like Calvin Harris, Christina Aguilera, and Foster the People took the stage to bring fans a weekend of excitement. The event also featured brands like Peace-Tea, Smart Water, and Cinemark to bring festival goers free samples and snacks to enjoy. From sipping Coca-Cola beverages to enjoying local food options in spring weather the festival brings a fun-filled way to spend the weekend. Explore what goes on throughout the two days and how you can go in the future!
Credit: Aerials by Andrea Escobar Garcia for Sips & Sounds Festival
This year the festival happened on March 13th – March 14th on the field of auditorium shores, right across from the Long Center in downtown. The field overlooks the South Congress Bridge and the Austin Skyline making it the perfect destination for live music. The event featured over 16 artists between the two days. Starting on Friday, Christina Aguilera headlined the night accompanied by Major Lazer sound system, Group Love, Ravyn Lenae and many more! Saturday, Calvin Harris took the stage headlining along with Foster the People, Stephen Sanchez, Flipturn, among many artists. The nights offered a mix of pop, techno, and alternative music to appeal to all kinds of music interests.
Credit: FTP by Charles Reagan for Sips & Sounds 2026
Not only is Coca-Cola Sips & Sounds Music Festival a hub for good music, but they also offer a variety of food, drink, and free snack options! The vendors included local businesses like Amy’s Ice Cream and Blenders and Bowls for something on the sweeter end. It also showcased an Austin Mexican staple, El Patio, Burro Grilled Cheese, Happy Chicks, Chi’Lantro, and Goodtimes Burgers, offering the perfect mix of everything! The vendors were set up in concession stand style making it a perfect grab and go option with minimal wait time. The festival also offers accessible seating and restrooms to ensure everyone can take part. From accessible viewing areas to entrances, the festival is made wheelchair and other mobility devices safe with an ADA Accessibility Center located on sight.
Credit: Aerials by Andrea Escobar Garcia for Sips & Sounds Festival
Prices for Coca-Cola Sips & Sounds Music Festival range depending on the kind of vendor you purchase from. A one day pass can start at around $80 up to $150 for a two day pass. They tend to get higher the closer it gets to the event so be sure to sign up for updates on the festival website for the future. The tickets are available to all ages and include a variety of perks. With a pass purchase you get access to free water-refill stations, merchandise, and with GA+ tickets attendees get access to air-conditioned lounges with additional restrooms and seating.
Credit: Calvin Harris by Roger Ho for Sips & Sounds Festival 2026
Nothing beats live music in the scene of downtown Austin! From incredible food to a variety of music genres, it offers the chance for some good beats during a busy SXSW week. To get more information on how to participate in the festival next year, check out the Coca-Cola Sips and Sounds Music Festival website and sign up for more updates!