If you were lucky enough to attend the 2025 ACL Music Festival, you know how unforgettable it was. From surprise performances to random magical moments, this year’s festival had it all. Let’s relive the chaos, craziness and unforgettable atmosphere that was the first weekend of ACL Fest 2025.
Best moments from ACL Fest 2025
An intimate moment with Maren Morris
Maren Morris opened the ACL Music Festival with an intimate performance at the Proper Hotel. The Grammy winner performed a five-song set in front of about 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 a surprise guest to dance along as “Sally.” At ACL it was native Texan Hilary Duff and boy did she have a blast! Check it out here.
Sabrina and Shania impress us very much
In the week leading up to the festival, the rumor mill was abuzz, with fans convinced that Taylor Swift would be joining Sabrina Carpenter on stage. However, the special guest was actually Shania Twain! The powerful duo performed Twain’s hit “That Don’t Impress Me Much.”
Joe Keery is tied up
Another highlight of the Carpenters’ set was their famous bondage stunt before performing “Juno.” At Saturday night’s performance was the surprise guest she had captivated Stranger Things star (and ACL cast member DJO), Joe Keery.
T-Pain brings heat
Poor T-Pain decided to wear a full leather suit to perform on the festival’s hottest stage, but that didn’t stop him from putting on a show that was truly on fire! He even presented his real voice to the audience, proving that he can sing very well. Of course, Masked Singer fans like us already knew this.
DJ Cassandra turns the tables
Austin’s DJ Cassandra played two sets on the Bonus Tracks stage on Friday. The latter was titled “Life of a Showgirl Dance Party” with a string quartet. She will also play two sets on the second weekend.
“Royal Princess Brings the Beats to Hacienda Patron”.
Speaking of DJs: Another top moment happened at Hacienda Patron. After releasing their new album in September Violence against girlsKing Princess performed an intimate set at the brand’s upscale, immersive experiences that brought fans up close – while sipping complimentary 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 guests. Located near the T-Mobile stage, they provide a prime viewing area with the chance to gain access to the T-Mobile backstage area, which also includes side audience access. Check out these images of our view for the Modest Mouse set!
Relax with Tito’s
Fans can beat the heat in Tito’s Chillmaster5000, a huge walk-in refrigerator. After going through the pop-up, you’ll receive a card that you can use to play the claw machine filled with prizes, including wristbands, in the Tito VIP area next to the stage. Trust us, the snake is worth it!
Throw it back to your youth with The Killers
Many were disappointed that Doja Cat canceled her appearance. It seems that she has chosen to play SNL instead of fulfilling their obligation to the festival. However, replacement band The Killers did not disappoint. Although the crowd was 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.
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