Don’t get me wrong, the music is certainly the best part of ACL, but the food is not far behind. As an Austinite — and by default, a food enthusiast — you’ve probably already scoped out the food and drink joints that you will be hitting up this year at ACL.
But in all of the chaos of music, crowds and Porta-Potties, let’s not forget to stay hydrated. Surviving 93 degree heat for 10 hours is quite a challenge, but it’s much easier when you’re not dehydrated.
So if you’re feeling a little woozy or are in need of a quick, tasty pick-me-up, hit up one of these vendors to cool off and stay refreshed.
By Megan Prendergast
Amy’s Ice Cream
Amy’s Ice Cream is home to the unbelievably delicious Mexican vanilla ice cream. This vanilla is unlike any vanilla ice cream — it’s a richer, sweeter vanilla ice cream that will please all ice cream fans. Not in the mood for vanilla? Try the Zilker mint chip ice cream. It’s a creamy scoop of minty goodness blended with chocolate chips. Don’t forget that Amy’s also has vegan options.
GOODPOP POPSICLES
The popsicle selection at GoodPop is something to write home about, and lucky for ACLers, GoodPop is not skimping on its selection at the festival. Don’t miss out on the watermelon agave pop, which is naturally gluten-free and vegan, or the cold-brew coffee pop, which might give you the necessary energy to get through the rest of the festival.
Juiceland
It’s important to stay hydrated when you’re standing for so long in such hot weather. So if you’re thirsty and are a green smoothie kind of person, the green drink at Juiceland is the way to go. It’s made with cucumber, kale and agua fresca, and will definitely quench ya thirst.
Maine Root Beverages
Maine Root Beverages serves trade certified, organically sweetened drinks. So forget that soda made with GMO high fructose corn syrup, and sip on a sweet soda made from organic cane juice. Order the Texas Pink Agave Lemonade. It will rock your world.
ShadeTree Fresh Squeezed Lemonade
This is not your typical lemonade stand lemonade… it’s made with real lemons. This year ShadeTree is offering four of its tasty beverages: lemonade, strawberry lemonade, limeade and strawberry limeade.
Snowie
Snowie serves classic snow cone flavors, such as cherry, blue raspberry and watermelon. But it also offers snow cones covered in their all-natural, homemade flavors. Definitely go for the all-natural Hill Country peach Snowie — it will not disappoint.
Hope Farmers’ Market
The Hope Farmers’ Market is a great place to explore during concert lulls. While you’re there, try the kombucha popsicle. Maybe even try two?
Water
Bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it up at the water stations at the park, because it’s important to stay #hydrated.