Experience the hottest new chefs and inventive culinary creations at Hot Luck Live Food & Music Festival taking place October 16 & 17, 2026. This event—created by MICHELIN-recognized and James Beard Award-winner Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue, Mohawk owner James Moody and Mike Thelin, co-founder of Feast Portland—is a melting pot of the culinary and music worlds. Check out shows spanning all genres, from Americana and bluegrass to indie and R&B in Austin’s most iconic venues.
For the first year ever, this beloved festival will take place in the fall. Here's the rundown on the weekend's can't-miss activities and events.
Credit Alison Narro.
Food Events
Each year, Hot Luck Festival features several food-focused events with unique highlights and multiple chefs. Learn more about the 2026 Hot Luck festivities below.
Giddy Up
Franklin Barbecue
Kick off the weekend with a live fire feast at Franklin Barbecue. This year's Giddy Up festivities puts the chefs front and center allowing guests to sample unique bites and beverages.
House Party
Assembly Hall
House Party on Saturday is the largest culinary happening of Hot Luck. The event will feature dozens of dishes, chefs from across the country, creative food pairings, cold drinks and of course live music.
Chefs
Per usual, the 2026 Hot Luck chef lineup features a stellar mix of local and national talent. Just to name a few, this year's event will feature several Austin chefs including Mariela Camacho of Comadre Panaderia, Todd Duplechan of Lenoir, Tracy Malechek-Ezekiel of Birdie's, Bob Somsith of Lao'd Bar and many more.
Find the full lineup on the Hot Luck website.
Credit to Chad Wadsworth.
Live Music
Past festivals have featured some of Austin's top venues like Mohawk, Antone's and Hotel Vegas. Listen to a little bit of everything from jazz fusion and blues to cover bands and indie rock. Previous musical lineups featured local artists including the Porcelain and The Ugly Beats, as well as rock bands Calexico, Lightning Bolt, The Mummies and Big Business.
Details on the 2026 Hot Luck music lineup will be announced closer to the event date, so stay tuned!
Tickets
Tickets for 2026 Hot Luck Festival are now on sale online. The classic "Whole Enchilada Pass" will gain you access to all the food events, every music show and more. Planning on bringing the whole family along? There are additional lower priced tiers for those under 21. Head to www.hotluckfest.com/whole-enchilada to buy your ticket today before they sell out.
Don't miss this electric annual event and a chance to experience some of the best music and food in Austin at Hot Luck Festival this fall. Start planning your trip today and find more events happening in October to add to your Austin itinerary.
