It’s been 50 years since Willie Nelson performed on the very first episode of Austin City Limits back in October of 1974. Willie has been selected to headline a free concert celebrating the iconic music show’s 50th anniversary, taking place at The Long Center for the Performing Arts in Austin, Texas on October 17th, exactly 50 years to the day from Willie’s performance on the show’s very first episode. A free show, The Austin City Limits 50th Birthday Bash will include performances by Willie along with the local Austin-based band, Asleep at the Wheel. The concert will be taped and recorded, and highlights from the performances will air on PBS early 2025.
Austin City Limits has other big celebrations planned for its 50th season, including an event honoring Garth Brooks that was taped earlier this month, and a primetime special, ACL Celebrates 50 Years, featuring performances from the show’s history, which is set to premiere in 2025.
