Austin Blues Festival 2026 Brings Legendary Acts to Moody Amphitheater

Parliament Funkadelic, BADBADNOTGOOD, and Eric Johnson headline two-day event at Waterloo Park.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The Austin Blues Festival is set to return in 2026 with a star-studded lineup at the Moody Amphitheater in Waterloo Park. The two-day event on April 25-26 will feature performances by Parliament Funkadelic featuring George Clinton, BADBADNOTGOOD, and guitar virtuoso Eric Johnson. The festival, co-presented by Antone's Nightclub and Waterloo Greenway Conservancy, will also include sets from Larkin Poe, Adrian Quesada's Boleros Psicodelicos, The War and Treaty, and more.

Why it matters

The Austin Blues Festival has become a cornerstone of the city's vibrant music scene, celebrating the rich blues legacy that has long defined Austin's cultural identity. By bringing together both legendary and up-and-coming acts, the festival continues to introduce new audiences to the depth and diversity of blues, soul, and funk music.

The details

In addition to the headliners, the 2026 Austin Blues Festival lineup includes Larkin Poe, Adrian Quesada's Boleros Psicodelicos, The War and Treaty, Chaparelle, Los Amigos Invisibles, D.K. Harrell, Annie and The Caldwells, and the Huston Tillotson Jazz Orchestra. The festival grounds will also feature second line parades from Pinettes Brass Band and New Breed Brass Band, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

  • The Austin Blues Festival will take place on April 25-26, 2026.
  • The festival will be held at the Moody Amphitheater in Waterloo Park.

The players

Parliament Funkadelic

A legendary funk music collective led by George Clinton, known for their influential and innovative sound that blends elements of funk, psychedelia, and rock.

BADBADNOTGOOD

A Canadian jazz band that has gained critical acclaim for their unique blend of jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music.

Eric Johnson

A Grammy-winning guitarist and composer renowned for his virtuosic guitar playing and innovative approach to the instrument.

Antone's Nightclub

A legendary Austin music venue that has played a pivotal role in the city's blues and live music scene for decades.

Waterloo Greenway Conservancy

A non-profit organization dedicated to transforming and maintaining the Waterloo Park area, which includes the Moody Amphitheater.

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What they’re saying

“Each year, Austin Blues Festival brings together generations of music lovers and introduces new audiences to our amazing and unique lineup of artists. Our 2026 programming represents the incredible depth and diversity of music today, from its traditional roots to its modern innovations, and we're thrilled to share this experience with the Austin community and music fans from around the world.”

— Will Bridges (thatericalper.com)

“The lineup guarantees an unforgettable musical experience lighting up Moody Amphitheater against the backdrop of beautiful Waterloo Park.”

— Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette (thatericalper.com)

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Austin Blues Festival, including GA, Reserved Seating, and VIP Hill packages, are available now. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy, reinforcing the festival's commitment to the local community.

The takeaway

The 2026 Austin Blues Festival promises to be a must-attend event for music lovers, showcasing the city's rich blues heritage while also highlighting the genre's continued evolution and influence on contemporary sounds. By bringing together legendary acts and rising stars, the festival celebrates the enduring power of the blues to bring people together and inspire new artistic expression.