If you were lucky enough to be at ACL Music Festival 2025, you know how memorable it was. From surprise appearances to random magical moments, this year’s festival delivered. Let’s relive the chaos, the craziness and the unforgettable vibes that went down during weekend one of ACL Fest 2025.

Best Moments From ACL Fest 2025

An Intimate Moment With Maren Morris

Maren Morris kicked off ACL Music Festival with an intimate performance at the Proper Hotel. The Grammy winner performed a five song set in front of a crowd of approximately 100 people. Read more here.

Hilary Duff Is Sally

This is what dreams are made of! When Role Model performs their biggest hit “Sally, When The Wine Runs Out,” they usually bring out a surprise guest who dances along as “Sally.” At ACL, it was native Texan Hilary Duff and boy, did she have a good time! Check it out here.

Sabrina and Shania Impress Us Much

The rumor mill ran rampant during the week leading up to the fest with fans convinced that Taylor Swift would show up on stage with Sabrina Carpenter. However, the special guest was actually Shania Twain! The powerhouse duo performed Twain’s hit, “That Don’t Impress Me Much.”

Joe Keery Gets Cuffed

Another highlight from Carpenters set came in the form of her famous cuffing stunt before she performs “Juno.” At Saturday night’s performance, the surprise guest she cuffed was Stranger Things star (and ACL performer DJO), Joe Keery.

T-Pain Brings the Heat

Poor T-Pain decided to wear a full leather fit to perform on the hottest stage at the fest, but that didn’t stop him from putting on a show that was truly fire! He even exposed the audience to his real voice, proving that he can very much sing. Of course, Masked Singer fans like us already knew that.

DJ Cassandra Turns the Tables

Austin’s own DJ Cassandra played not one but two sets at the Bonus Tracks stage on Friday. The latter was titled “Life of a Showgirl Dance Party” with a string quartet. She will also be performing two sets during weekend two.

King Princess Brings The Beats To Hacienda Patron

Speaking of DJs, another top moment happened at Hacienda Patron. Following the September release of her new album Girl Violence, King Princess played an intimate set at the brand’s elevated immersive experiences where fans got up close and personal – while sipping on free Patron margaritas.

T-Mobile Welcomes Fans To The Club

Another impressive brand installation is Club Magenta, a members-only destination for T-Mobile customers and a guest. Located near the T-Mobile Stage, they offer a premium viewing area with a chance to win your way in to the T-Mobile Backstage are which includes side-stage viewing access. Check out these pictures of our view for the Modest Mouse set!

Chilling Out With Tito’s

At the Tito’s Chillmaster5000, a giant walk-in fridge, fans can beat the heat in between sets. After walking through the pop-up, you’ll receive a card so you can play the claw machine which is stocked with prizes, including wristbands into the Tito’s VIP area next to their stage. Trust us, the line is worth it!

Throw It Back To Your Youth With The Killers

Many were disappointed by Doja Cat cancelling her set. It seems she chose to play SNL rather than fulfill her commitment to the festival. However, replacement band The Killers did not disappoint. Though the crowd was rather thin – and the Platinum and VIP sections even thinner – they put on a killer show. Brandon Flowers and the gang even played two covers of Willie Nelson: Whiskey River and Always On My Mind.

Be sure you’re following Spill the ATX on Instagram and TikTok for more highlights from ACL and all the other events happening in Austin this month!