Hangout Fest 2023 is finally here and with it, hot temperatures and even hotter acts.

As compared to the 2022 event, which dealt with off-and-on rain throughout the weekend, the 2023 fest got off to a picture-perfect start, with crowds building even for some early acts — notably The Vegabonds, a Nashville-based group with Alabama ties.

The energy seemed to build quickly, thanks to groups such as the hard-rocking trio Meet Me @ The Altar. Tove Lo stepped on stage to a huge cheer at 3:15 and seemed to surf from peak to peak through the next hour on the festival’s main stage.

Still to come were the day’s top acts, including Lil Nas X and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

The festival takes place May 19-21 on the Gulf Shores beach adjacent to the Hangout Restaurant. Other top acts for 2023 include SZA, Calvin Harris and Paramore. Tickets remain available, with prices starting at $349 plus fees for general admission.

Full festival information can be found at the Hangout website. For ongoing coverage, visit AL.com/hangout.