A decade ago, The Front Festival launched inside an east Austin warehouse with a mission to put women and LGBTQ+ artists at the forefront.

Since then, the festival from nonprofit Future Front has welcomed over 15,000 attendees, awarded more than $20,000 in micro-grants through ticket sales, and spotlighted 100+ independent artists, filmmakers, and musicians.

The Front Festival returns Thursday, Aug. 27-Sunday, Aug. 30 for its 10th anniversary. This year’s slate is packed with film screenings, conversations with creative leaders, and live music performances — with even more event announcements still to come.

Presale passes are available now. Here’s a look at what’s planned:

👙 Opening Night Swim | August 27

Festivities kick off at The LINE Hotel with a poolside DJ set from Ed West of Neon Rainbows. Guests can also explore installations from Austin-based artists in the lobby.

People relax in and beside the pool at The LINE Hotel in Austin, Texas, with plaid umbrellas and modern, white loungers. — Can every Austin festival start with a pool party, pretty please? | Photo provided by The Front Festival

🎸 Independent Music Night | August 28

Swan Dive will host this evening celebrating Texas music, with panels covering everything from music-making to building stages. Speakers include Where Y’all At Though’s Erinn Knight, recording artist LYNN, and Grammy-nominated Jessy Wilson, then live performances keep the party going into the night.

🎬 Independent Film Night | August 29

On Saturday, The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria will transform into an outdoor cinema, complete with a picnic in the sculpture garden, community conversations, and screenings in the lakeside amphitheater. The lineup includes 13 indie short films by Texas directors and writers.

A crowd of people sit on a tiered yard outside at Laguna Gloria to watch a film projected onto a large screen. — Outdoor screenings at the festival are reminiscent of magical nights at summer camp. | Photo provided by The Front Festival

🎉 Closing Pool Party | August 30

Finally, festivalgoers will return to where it all began for another poolside celebration at The LINE Hotel, featuring DJ sets from DJ Riobamba and DJ BAD APPLE.

Want to customize your festival experience? Single-event tickets are available, with swim session passes starting at $10. Stay tuned for more details as The Front Festival inches closer.