“Sonic Bliss and Vegan Feasts: ACL 2025, I'm Ready!”
By: Frida Idunate-Jackson
Senior Editor - Health & Wellness
Arts & Culture Contributor
HOLA, fellow music lovers and plant-based amigos! The annual Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL) is back in full force, and guess what? The vegan game has only gotten stronger. Zilker Park transforms into a musical wonderland for two weekends this October (Oct 3–5 & Oct 10–12) (Statesman+2Statesman+2) — and your taste buds are in for a treat. Let’s dive into the updated lowdown on ACL 2025’s vegan and plant-based eats, plus my top 5 must-try bites.
Vegan Vibes at ACL 2025
If you thought ACL’s vegan offerings peaked in prior years, think again. This year’s festival map, the ACL Eats & ACL Sweets listings, and vendor announcements show a serious recommitment to dietary inclusivity. The official ACL Eats site already lists dozens of vendors with a “Vegan/Vegetarian” filter as part of their food categories. (aclfestival.com)
Beyond static listings, new zones like The Grove are now integrated into the festival food layout, giving even more space for creative bites beyond the classic food courts. (Statesman+ The Texas Tasty )Roaming hawkers, popsicle carts, and snack vendors will also be active throughout the day so you don’t have to stray far from the music. (Statesman +The Texas Tasty)
ACL’s core ethos — supporting local food businesses, promoting sustainability, and giving space to creative (and cruelty-free) cuisine — still resonates loud and clear. The roster of vendors includes longtime Austin favorites, new upstarts, and returning dessert legends. (The Texas Tasty + ACL Festival Support )
What Vegan Options to Expect in 2025
Here’s a sampling of vendors that will be offering vegan or plant-forward fare in 2025 (based on festival listings and past patterns):
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BBG’s — listed under “Burgers / Vegan/Vegetarian” on the ACL Eats listing (aclfestival.com)
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Blenders & Bowls — known for smoothie and bowl options that are often fully vegan or modifiable (The Texas Tasty)
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El Patio — in the Latino / Vegan-vegetarian category (think loaded nachos, chips & dips, aguas frescas) (aclfestival.com)
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Chi’Lantro — included under Asian / Vegan-vegetarian in ACL’s vendor list (aclfestival.com)
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Lamba’s Indian Kitchen — continues to appear in the ACL vendor list flagged vegan/vegetarian (aclfestival.com)
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Burro Grilled Cheese — often offers vegetarian/vegan options or modifications in their menu that work for vegans aclfestival.com
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CVT Soft Serve / ACL Sweets vendors — among the dessert vendors flagged “Vegan/Vegetarian” (ice creams, sorbets, etc.) aclfestival.com+2ACL Festival Support+2
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Skull & Cakebones (or its festival presence) — historically a vegan bakery favorite (though its brick-and-mortar has had challenges) and often still appears in festival dessert listings Eater Austin+2aclfestival.com+2
Because ACL publishes full vendor lists (with diet filters) ahead of the festival, I recommend double-checking the ACL Eats “Vegan/Vegetarian” filter right before you go. ACL Festival Support
Top 5 Vegan Eats You Can’t Miss in 2025
Here are my handpicked favorites (or high-potential picks) for vegan or plant-forward delights at ACL 2025:
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Loaded Nachos or Chips & Dips at El Patio
In the new El Patio zone, nachos with vegan cheese, beans, guac, and salsas offer crunchy satisfaction between sets. -
Smoothie / Bowl from Blenders & Bowls
Perfect for a light, refreshing, nutrient-rich bite mid-day. Customizable so you can keep it fully plant-based. -
Vegan Burger or Plant-Based Sandwich at BBG’s
A solid “main dish” option when you want something filling in a burger or sandwich format. -
Indian Delights from Lamba’s Indian Kitchen
Curry, veggie wraps, or masala-themed dishes are often naturally vegan or easily adaptable in Indian cuisine. -
Vegan Frozen Treat at ACL Sweets / CVT Soft Serve
When the Texas heat is real, cool off with a sorbet, dairy-free soft serve, or vegan ice cream cup from ACL’s dessert vendors. -
Honorable mentions: chips and guac or bean bowls from Chi’Lantro, or a modified grilled cheese from Burro (with vegan cheese).
More Than Just Food
Of course, ACL is about more than just food (though that's a significant part of it for me). The music lineup is consistently top-notch, featuring a diverse range of artists and genres. Whether you're into indie rock, hip-hop, or country, there's a stage for you.
As a vegan Hispanic woman, I also appreciate the festival's commitment to inclusivity and diversity. ACL showcases not only musical talent from around the world but also celebrates different cultures through its various food options and art installations. It's a reminder that music truly transcends boundaries and brings us all together.
Final Thoughts
So gear up, grab your wristbands, and prepare to groove and feast. In 2025, ACL doesn’t just deliver musical magic — it’s a full-on vegan culinary playground. I’ll be circling those food stands as much as the stages. Let me know if you want a printable vegan-food map or “beat-the-line” timing tips!
