It’s SXSW.

And if you don’t have a badge, wristband or industry credentials, don’t worry.

You can still have an incredible SXSW experience.

In fact, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is thinking you need a badge to enjoy SXSW.

You don’t.

The trick is knowing where to go, what to look for and how to navigate the city when thousands of other people have the exact same idea.

And if you’ve been around Austin long enough, you know the unofficial rule:

SXSW is happening everywhere.

THE FIRST RULE: DON’T PAY FOR EVERYTHING

SXSW can get expensive very quickly.

Badges cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Hotels raise their prices.

Rideshares surge.

Restaurants get crowded.

And suddenly what started as “I’m just going to check it out” turns into a very expensive weekend.

But Austin has always had another side to SXSW.

Free concerts.

Outdoor stages.

Brand activations.

Pop-up events.

Parties.

Food.

Art.

Street performances.

And events happening around downtown that don’t require a badge.

That’s where you should focus.

SXSW 2025 RAN MARCH 7-15

The official 2025 SXSW festival ran March 7-15 in Austin.

The music portion ran March 10-15, while the film and television festival ran March 7-15. (sxsw.com)

That means Austin basically spends the middle of March operating under a completely different set of rules.

The downtown streets become crowded.

Hotels fill up.

Bars are packed.

Restaurants get lines.

And music comes out of almost every doorway.

THE BEST WAY TO EXPERIENCE SXSW WITHOUT A BADGE

Don’t think of SXSW as one event.

Think of it as a citywide scavenger hunt.

Your job is to find the free stuff.

And there is a lot of it.

The official SXSW Community Concerts program has historically included free performances, and Austin’s streets and surrounding venues also fill with unofficial showcases and brand-sponsored events.

The exact lineup changes every year, which is why you should start looking at event announcements in the weeks leading up to SXSW.

START DOWNTOWN

The easiest strategy is to start around downtown.

Sixth Street.

Congress Avenue.

Red River.

Rainey Street.

The Convention Center area.

These are the places where you’re most likely to run into something unexpected.

You might be walking to one event and discover another happening across the street.

That’s normal during SXSW.

SIXTH STREET IS A DIFFERENT ANIMAL DURING SXSW

If you normally think of Sixth Street as a bar district, forget that.

During SXSW, it becomes a giant festival corridor.

Music is coming out of venues.

People are walking everywhere.

Pop-up stages appear.

Brands take over spaces.

Restaurants are packed.

And the street itself becomes part of the show.

You don’t necessarily need a plan.

Walk.

Look.

Listen.

Stop when something catches your attention.

RED RIVER IS WHERE MUSIC FANS SHOULD GO

If your primary goal is music, spend time around Red River.

This is one of Austin’s most concentrated live-music districts, and during SXSW it becomes even more intense.

The Mohawk.

Stubb’s.

Cheer Up Charlies.

Elysium.

Valhalla.

Empire.

And other venues become magnets for musicians and fans.

You can spend hours walking around the neighborhood.

THE BEST SXSW STRATEGY: FIND THE UNOFFICIAL SHOWCASES

This is where Baller ATX-style SXSW comes in.

Don’t just search “SXSW schedule.”

Search for free SXSW parties, SXSW unofficial showcases, free concerts, SXSW day parties and SXSW free events.

Many unofficial events are hosted by record labels, local businesses, radio stations, magazines, brands and individual venues.

Some are free.

Some require RSVPs.

Some have capacity limits.

Some are completely open.

And some fill up immediately.

That’s why you need a backup plan.

RSVP WHEN YOU CAN

This is one of the biggest free-SXSW secrets.

If a free event has an RSVP option, use it.

It doesn’t necessarily guarantee entry.

But it can put you in a much better position than simply showing up.

And don’t assume “free” means “walk right in.”

During SXSW, free events can have huge lines.

SHOW UP EARLY

If there’s a band you absolutely want to see, get there early.

This is especially important for small venues.

A free showcase can reach capacity quickly.

And once the room is full, the fact that you didn’t pay doesn’t matter.

You’re still outside.

DON’T BUILD YOUR DAY AROUND ONE EVENT

This is the biggest mistake.

If you have one free showcase at 4 p.m., don’t spend the entire afternoon standing in line.

Give yourself options.

Have three or four potential events.

If one is packed, move.

If one isn’t what you expected, leave.

There’s always something else happening.

THE BEST PART OF SXSW IS WALKING

Seriously.

Walk.

This is one of the few times of year when you can leave one venue and stumble into something completely different five minutes later.

Maybe there’s a band.

Maybe there’s a food truck.

Maybe there’s a pop-up art installation.

Maybe there’s a celebrity.

Maybe there’s a giant inflatable whatever.

You never know.

That’s SXSW.

DON’T DRIVE DOWNTOWN

This should be obvious.

But every year people try it.

Don’t.

Parking gets expensive.

Traffic gets ugly.

Road closures happen.

Rideshare prices surge.

If you’re going downtown, park outside the core and walk, use public transportation or use a rideshare strategically.

The less time you spend sitting in traffic, the more time you have to enjoy SXSW.

IF YOU DO DRIVE, PARK ON THE EDGE

If you absolutely have to drive, look for parking outside the most congested area.

Then walk.

You might save money.

You might save time.

And you won’t have to deal with trying to move your car every time you want to go somewhere.

WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES

This is not optional.

You’re going to walk.

A lot.

SXSW can turn into 15,000 or 20,000 steps before you even realize it.

Don’t wear brand-new shoes.

Don’t wear uncomfortable boots because they look cool.

Wear something you can walk in all day.

BRING A PORTABLE CHARGER

Your phone is going to be working overtime.

Maps.

Instagram.

Event schedules.

Texts.

RSVP confirmations.

Pictures.

Videos.

Rideshares.

Your battery can disappear quickly.

Bring a portable charger.

It might be the most important thing in your bag.

WATER IS EVEN MORE IMPORTANT

March weather in Austin can be unpredictable.

It can be cool.

It can be warm.

It can rain.

It can feel like summer.

You’re walking.

You’re standing outside.

You’re drinking.

Stay hydrated.

Don’t let SXSW turn into a dehydration competition.

EAT BEFORE YOU GET HUNGRY

This is another rookie mistake.

You wait until you’re starving.

Then you realize every restaurant is packed.

Don’t do that.

Eat early.

Find a food truck.

Grab tacos.

Get a sandwich.

Eat something substantial.

Then keep moving.

SXSW IS ONE OF THE BEST TIMES TO EAT AUSTIN FOOD

The food scene gets crazy during SXSW.

Restaurants create special menus.

Food trucks get busy.

Pop-ups appear.

Chefs host events.

Brands bring in food.

And you can find something happening almost everywhere.

But remember:

You don’t need a celebrity chef dinner to have a great SXSW meal.

Sometimes the best meal is a taco from a food truck while you’re walking to the next show.

THE FREE FOOD TRAP

Here’s a Baller ATX warning.

You’ll see signs advertising free food.

Free tacos.

Free drinks.

Free snacks.

Free everything.

And suddenly you’re standing in a line that takes an hour.

Don’t spend an hour in line for a free taco.

If the line is ridiculous, move on.

Austin has thousands of tacos.

THE FREE DRINK TRAP

Same thing.

A party offering free drinks sounds fantastic.

Until you realize 500 people are waiting outside.

If the line is short, go.

If it’s two blocks long, find another bar.

Your time is worth more than one free cocktail.

THE BRAND ACTIVATIONS CAN BE FUN

SXSW is filled with companies trying to get your attention.

Some activations are boring.

Some are incredible.

You might find a photo installation.

A gaming experience.

A food pop-up.

A music stage.

A celebrity appearance.

A weird interactive exhibit.

Don’t automatically skip them.

If something looks fun, go inside.

Just don’t spend your entire day standing in line because a company promised you a free T-shirt.

THE BEST FREE SXSW EVENT IS SOMETIMES THE ONE YOU DIDN’T PLAN

This happens constantly.

You walk down the street.

Hear music.

Look inside.

Find a band.

Stay.

Then realize you’re watching somebody who ends up becoming much bigger later.

That’s one of the reasons Austin locals love SXSW.

The city is full of discoveries.

MUSIC IS STILL THE HEART OF SXSW

SXSW has become enormous.

Film.

TV.

Technology.

Startups.

Brand events.

But music is still a huge part of what makes the festival feel like Austin.

And you don’t need a badge to hear it.

You can hear music spilling out of venues all over downtown.

THE BEST MUSIC STRATEGY

Don’t only chase famous artists.

If you see a huge name playing somewhere free, absolutely check it out.

But also find an unknown band.

Walk into a small venue.

Listen to 15 minutes.

If you like it, stay.

If you don’t, leave.

That’s how you find something new.

SXSW AND THE BAR SCENE

This is where Austin becomes completely insane.

Every bar wants your attention.

Some have live music.

Some have DJs.

Some have pop-up parties.

Some have themed events.

Some have celebrity appearances.

Some just have a packed patio.

Don’t feel like you need to visit the “coolest” bar.

The best bar is the one where you can actually get a drink.

RED RIVER AFTER DARK

Once the sun goes down, Red River becomes one of the best places to be.

Live music.

Crowds.

Bars.

Food.

People everywhere.

It’s loud.

It’s crowded.

It’s chaotic.

And it’s exactly what SXSW should feel like.

RAINEY STREET IS ANOTHER OPTION

If you’re looking for a more bar-focused night, Rainey Street is an obvious choice.

But during SXSW, it gets extremely busy.

If you don’t like crowds, go earlier.

If you want the full SXSW chaos, go later.

DON’T FORGET EAST AUSTIN

East Austin can be a great alternative to the downtown madness.

Restaurants.

Bars.

Pop-ups.

Music.

And plenty of unofficial events.

If downtown becomes too much, move east.

You’ll still feel like you’re in SXSW.

You’ll just be able to breathe.

THE PERFECT NO-BADGE SXSW DAY

Here’s the Baller ATX version:

10:00 a.m.

Breakfast tacos.

11:00 a.m.

Walk downtown and check out free activations.

12:30 p.m.

Free showcase or day party.

2:00 p.m.

Lunch.

3:00 p.m.

Find another free event.

5:00 p.m.

Happy hour.

6:00 p.m.

Walk Red River.

7:00 p.m.

Live music.

9:00 p.m.

Another showcase.

11:00 p.m.

Late-night tacos.

Midnight

One more venue.

1:30 a.m.

Go home.

You don’t need a badge.

You need comfortable shoes and a willingness to explore.

THE FREE WEEKEND VERSION

If you don’t want to deal with SXSW every day, pick one Saturday.

That’s enough.

Arrive early.

Do a few daytime events.

Eat.

Take a break.

Come back downtown around 6 p.m.

Then stay out late.

One well-planned day can give you the entire SXSW experience without destroying your wallet.

THE DATE-NIGHT VERSION

SXSW can actually be a fun date.

You don’t need a reservation.

You can wander.

Find music.

Try food.

Have a drink.

Watch people.

And if you don’t like the event you’re at, move.

The entire city is your backup plan.

THE FRIEND GROUP VERSION

Have everyone choose one thing.

One person chooses a band.

One person chooses food.

One person chooses a bar.

One person chooses an activation.

Now everybody gets to contribute.

And nobody gets to complain that the entire day was planned around somebody else’s favorite band.

THE SOLO VERSION

Going alone is even easier.

You can move faster.

You don’t have to wait for anybody.

You can squeeze into smaller spaces.

And you can leave whenever you want.

Just stay aware of your surroundings and keep your phone charged.

THE BIGGEST SXSW MISTAKE

Trying to do too much.

You don’t need 15 events.

You don’t need 10 bands.

You don’t need 12 free drinks.

You don’t need 50 pictures.

Pick a few things.

Actually enjoy them.

Then wander.

THE SECOND BIGGEST MISTAKE

Thinking SXSW is only for people with credentials.

It isn’t.

Credentials give you access to certain official programming.

They don’t give you exclusive access to Austin.

The city itself is still here.

And during SXSW, the city becomes the festival.

THE THIRD BIGGEST MISTAKE

Spending your entire day in line.

Don’t.

If a line is ridiculous, move.

There is something else happening.

The people standing in that line may spend two hours waiting for a party.

You could walk three blocks and discover an amazing band.

USE PREVIOUS BALLER ATX TIPS

The Baller ATX approach to SXSW has always been simple:

You don’t have to have credentials to have a good time.

You need to know where to look.

Find free events.

Find unofficial showcases.

Look for day parties.

Check local bars.

Look for food events.

Follow the music.

Walk downtown.

And don’t be afraid to leave something that isn’t worth your time.

YOUR PHONE IS YOUR BEST SXSW TOOL

Before leaving home, save your important event information.

Have addresses.

Have RSVP confirmations.

Have screenshots of event information in case your phone service becomes unreliable.

And don’t rely on one website.

Event information changes.

Shows get added.

Times change.

Venues change.

Check the latest information before leaving.

THE AUSTIN WEATHER RULE

Never trust the morning forecast completely.

SXSW can give you sunshine in the morning and rain in the afternoon.

Bring a light jacket.

Wear comfortable shoes.

Have a rain plan.

And don’t wear anything you would be devastated to ruin.

THE SXSW FOOD RULE

Don’t eat the same thing twice.

You have too many options.

If you see tacos, try them.

If you see barbecue, try it.

If you find a food truck you’ve never heard of, give it a shot.

March is one of the best months to explore Austin’s food scene.

THE SXSW MUSIC RULE

See something you’ve never heard before.

That’s mandatory.

If you leave SXSW having only watched artists you already knew, you missed half the point.

THE SXSW BAR RULE

Don’t spend the entire night at one bar.

Austin has too many options.

Walk.

Explore.

See what’s happening.

And remember that a packed bar isn’t necessarily a good bar.

Sometimes the empty place with a band playing in the corner is exactly where you should be.

THE BALLER ATX SXSW CHECKLIST

Wear comfortable shoes.

Bring a portable charger.

Bring water.

Eat before you’re starving.

RSVP for free events.

Show up early for must-see shows.

Have backup plans.

Walk between events.

Check out Red River.

Explore East Austin.

Try a food truck.

See at least one band you’ve never heard of.

Don’t spend all day in line.

Don’t drive downtown if you can avoid it.

Don’t assume free means unlimited access.

And don’t think you need a badge to enjoy SXSW.

THE BIGGEST SECRET

The biggest SXSW secret isn’t a particular party.

It isn’t a secret bar.

It isn’t a celebrity event.

It’s simply this:

Austin itself is the event.

During SXSW, you can walk down the street and hear a band you’ve never heard.

You can walk into a restaurant and find a special menu.

You can stumble into an art installation.

You can meet somebody from another country.

You can watch a movie.

You can hear a startup pitch.

You can see a famous musician.

And you can do all of that without ever showing a badge.

THE BOTTOM LINE

SXSW can be overwhelming.

It can be expensive.

It can be crowded.

It can be frustrating.

But it can also be one of the most exciting weeks of the year in Austin.

And you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to experience it.

Skip the expensive credentials if they aren’t your thing.

Find the free concerts.

Find the unofficial showcases.

Explore the food scene.

Check out the brand activations that actually look interesting.

Walk Red River.

Explore Sixth Street.

Hit East Austin.

Drink some water.

Eat some tacos.

And most importantly, follow the music.

Because the best SXSW experience isn’t necessarily the event you planned three weeks ago.

It’s the thing you stumble into while walking to something else.

That’s the real Austin SXSW experience.

And the best part?

You don’t need a badge to be part of it.

Every March, Austin becomes a different city.

Traffic gets worse.

Hotel prices go insane.

Downtown gets packed.

Music pours out of bars.

Brands take over parking lots.

Celebrities start appearing at restaurants.

And seemingly every empty piece of pavement becomes an opportunity for somebody to build a temporary stage.

It’s SXSW.

For people with badges, SXSW is a massive conference, film festival, music festival and networking event.

For everybody else, it can look like you’re locked out of the party.

You’re not.

One of the biggest misconceptions about SXSW is that you need a badge to experience it.

You don’t.

In fact, some of the most memorable SXSW experiences happen outside the official conference venues.

The key is knowing how Austin works during SXSW.

And after years of covering Austin events, Baller ATX has learned one important lesson:

Don’t try to do SXSW like a badge holder if you don’t have a badge.

Do it like an Austin local.

FIRST: UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU’RE NOT GETTING

Let’s be clear.

A SXSW badge gives you access to official programming, venues and events that aren’t necessarily available to the general public.

Without credentials, you’re not going to walk into every keynote, every panel or every official showcase.

That’s not the goal.

The goal is to take advantage of everything happening around SXSW.

And there is a lot.

The city fills with unofficial parties, outdoor concerts, brand activations, restaurant events, pop-ups and free shows.

Some require RSVPs.

Some have capacity limits.

Some are first-come, first-served.

Some are completely open.

And some events advertise themselves so heavily that you’ll wonder how anyone could possibly miss them.

SXSW 2024 RUNS MARCH 8–16

The official 2024 SXSW conference and festivals run March 8 through March 16.

Music is one of the biggest components, with showcases and performances spread throughout downtown and the surrounding entertainment districts.

Film and TV programming also takes over theaters across Austin.

And then there are the hundreds of unofficial events happening outside the official schedule.

That’s where Baller ATX comes in.

TIP #1: DON’T START DOWNTOWN AT 10 P.M.

This is probably the biggest mistake first-time SXSW visitors make.

They wait until nighttime.

Then they head downtown.

Then they discover everyone else had exactly the same idea.

If you don’t have credentials, start early.

Morning events.

Day parties.

Food pop-ups.

Brand activations.

Outdoor stages.

Panels open to the public.

Those are your opportunities.

By the time the sun goes down, you’ll already have had half a day of SXSW.

TIP #2: RSVP TO EVERYTHING

This is probably the most important rule.

If an unofficial party offers an RSVP:

Do it.

Even if you’re not sure you’re going.

Even if you have five other events scheduled.

Even if the event is free.

RSVP.

You can always decide later.

But if the event fills up and you didn’t RSVP, you may be out of luck.

This is especially important for brand parties, private showcases and popular day parties.

TIP #3: FREE DOES NOT ALWAYS MEAN WALK-IN

This is where people get confused.

An event might be advertised as “free.”

That doesn’t necessarily mean you can simply walk up and get inside.

Free may mean:

Free with RSVP.

Or:

Free while capacity lasts.

Or:

Free before a certain time.

Or:

Free for people who register online.

Read the details.

Don’t assume.

TIP #4: CHECK THE RSVP THE NIGHT BEFORE

SXSW changes quickly.

Events get updated.

Times change.

Venues change.

Additional performers are announced.

So if you’ve RSVPed to something several days ago, check it again before heading out.

The event website or organizer’s social media account may have updated information.

TIP #5: USE INSTAGRAM AS YOUR SXSW GUIDE

During SXSW, Instagram becomes one of the best ways to find out what’s happening.

Bars.

Restaurants.

Brands.

Musicians.

Promoters.

Event organizers.

They’re all posting.

Follow the places you already like before the festival begins.

Watch Stories.

Look for announcements.

Look for RSVP links.

Look for same-day events.

Sometimes the best party of the day doesn’t get heavily promoted until the morning it happens.

TIP #6: FOLLOW THE BARS

This is one of the easiest Baller ATX strategies.

Make a list of Austin bars and venues you already like.

Then check their SXSW schedules.

Places on Red River, Sixth Street, East Sixth, Rainey Street and South Congress often become part of the SXSW ecosystem.

Some host official showcases.

Some host unofficial parties.

Some host DJs.

Some bring in touring bands.

Some simply become packed with people.

Either way, they’re worth watching.

TIP #7: RED RIVER IS YOUR FRIEND

If you’re looking for live music without a badge, start with Red River.

The neighborhood already has a concentration of music venues, which means SXSW crowds naturally gravitate there.

Mohawk.

Empire.

Cheer Up Charlies.

Elysium.

Swan Dive.

Valhalla.

And the surrounding bars and restaurants.

You can spend hours walking around without ever needing to travel across the city.

TIP #8: GO TO EAST SIXTH

East Sixth is another great option.

During SXSW, bars and restaurants throughout the area get involved with events.

And unlike a giant festival venue, you can walk from place to place.

Find a show.

Grab a drink.

Walk outside.

Hear something coming from another bar.

Go investigate.

That’s how SXSW should be experienced if you’re going without credentials.

TIP #9: DON’T IGNORE SOUTH CONGRESS

South Congress can be slightly less chaotic than downtown while still giving you plenty to do.

Restaurants.

Bars.

Shops.

Pop-ups.

Outdoor events.

And plenty of people walking around.

It’s particularly good during the day.

Start with lunch.

Walk around.

Find a patio.

Check out a brand activation.

Then head downtown later.

TIP #10: DAY PARTIES ARE GOLD

If you’re trying to do SXSW without a badge, day parties are your best friend.

They are often easier to access than nighttime events.

Many are free.

Some have open bars.

Some have food.

Some have live music.

And some have surprisingly big names.

The best part?

You don’t have to stay until midnight.

You can attend a day party from noon to 3, then go somewhere else.

You’re building your own SXSW schedule.

TIP #11: FOOD IS A HUGE PART OF SXSW

Don’t make the mistake of thinking SXSW is only about music.

Austin restaurants know thousands of visitors are coming.

That means special menus.

Pop-ups.

Chef events.

Brand activations.

Food trucks.

Barbecue.

Tacos.

And plenty of free food at sponsored events.

If you’re doing SXSW on a budget, keep an eye out for events offering food.

You can turn a day of SXSW into breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks without spending as much as you might think.

TIP #12: FOLLOW THE FOOD TRUCKS

Food trucks are another advantage for the badge-less SXSW visitor.

You don’t need a reservation.

You don’t need a ticket.

And you can usually find something quickly.

Tacos are the obvious choice.

But don’t limit yourself.

Austin’s food-truck scene is enormous.

Use SXSW as an excuse to try something you’ve never eaten.

TIP #13: DON’T CHASE CELEBRITIES

This is important.

You’re going to see famous people.

Maybe.

But don’t spend the entire day trying to find them.

SXSW is filled with celebrities, musicians, actors, executives and influencers.

You’ll hear rumors constantly.

“Someone saw so-and-so at this restaurant.”

“That actor is at this party.”

“That band is playing a secret show.”

Some of it will be true.

Some of it won’t.

And even if it is true, you may spend two hours chasing somebody who leaves five minutes before you arrive.

Go enjoy the festival.

If you happen to see somebody famous, cool.

TIP #14: SECRET SHOWS ARE REAL — BUT DON’T BUILD YOUR ENTIRE NIGHT AROUND THEM

SXSW has always had surprise appearances.

Bands show up.

Artists play unexpected sets.

Celebrities appear.

But secret events are exactly that.

Secret.

Don’t rely on them.

Have an actual plan.

Then if something unexpected happens, it’s a bonus.

TIP #15: GET OUT OF DOWNTOWN

SXSW doesn’t end at Congress Avenue.

Austin is a big city.

Some of the best unofficial parties happen outside the immediate downtown core.

Look at:

East Austin.

South Congress.

East Sixth.

Red River.

South Lamar.

The Domain.

Different neighborhoods have different events.

And if you’re willing to travel a little, you’ll have more options.

TIP #16: DON’T DRIVE DOWNTOWN

This should be obvious.

It isn’t.

Every year people attempt to drive directly into downtown during SXSW and then wonder why they’re stuck in traffic.

Don’t.

Park outside the busiest area.

Use rideshare.

Walk.

Use public transportation where practical.

And if you’re drinking, absolutely do not drive.

TIP #17: WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES

You’re going to walk more than you think.

You may walk a mile between events.

Then another mile to food.

Then another mile because your next event is somewhere else.

Comfortable shoes are not optional.

They are SXSW survival equipment.

TIP #18: BRING A PORTABLE CHARGER

Your phone is going to get destroyed.

Maps.

Instagram.

RSVP emails.

Tickets.

Event websites.

Group texts.

Photos.

Videos.

Rideshare apps.

Everything depends on your phone.

Bring a portable charger.

Seriously.

TIP #19: DON’T OVERBOOK YOURSELF

This is the biggest mistake after not RSVPing.

People schedule:

12 p.m. event.

1 p.m. event.

2 p.m. event.

3 p.m. event.

4 p.m. event.

5 p.m. event.

6 p.m. event.

It looks great on paper.

It will never happen.

Austin traffic.

Lines.

Walking.

Events running late.

Security.

Crowds.

Give yourself time.

Two or three major events in a day is plenty.

Everything else is a bonus.

TIP #20: HAVE A BACKUP PLAN

If your main event has a huge line, leave.

Don’t stand there for two hours hoping.

Find another event.

This is the advantage of going without a badge.

You aren’t locked into a schedule.

If something doesn’t work, move.

SXSW WITHOUT A BADGE IS ABOUT BEING FLEXIBLE

This is the biggest lesson.

If you’re trying to recreate the official SXSW experience without credentials, you’re going to be frustrated.

Don’t.

Create your own.

Wake up.

Find breakfast.

Check Instagram.

Look at the day’s events.

Pick a couple.

Head downtown.

See what happens.

Maybe you get into the party you wanted.

Maybe you don’t.

Maybe you discover a band.

Maybe you find a food truck.

Maybe you end up at a bar you had never visited.

That’s SXSW.

THE BEST FREE THINGS AREN’T ALWAYS THE BIGGEST EVENTS

Don’t assume the biggest party is automatically the best.

Sometimes a small venue with a local band is much more fun.

Sometimes a tiny backyard party has better food.

Sometimes a bar you’ve never heard of has the best DJ.

Sometimes the biggest brand activation is just a giant line.

Explore.

THE BANGER’S SAUSAGE HOUSE STRATEGY

One of the easiest ways to build a day around East Austin is to start with food.

Grab something at a local restaurant.

Walk toward East Sixth.

Find a bar.

Check the day’s events.

Then move toward downtown as the afternoon develops.

You’re not trying to be everywhere.

You’re trying to enjoy the city.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE OFFICIAL FREE EVENTS

SXSW itself also offers programming and performances that don’t necessarily require the same credentials as every conference session.

Keep checking the official SXSW schedule as the festival approaches.

Events and access requirements can change.

The key is to look for anything specifically marked as open to the public or requiring free registration.

THE BLAZER-AND-SNEAKERS RULE

Austin SXSW fashion is simple.

Wear something that works for 80-degree weather.

And something that works for 50-degree weather.

Because you might get both.

Bring layers.

Wear comfortable shoes.

Don’t worry about looking like you’re attending a technology conference.

You aren’t.

You’re going to be walking around Austin all day.

THE BALLER ATX SXSW SURVIVAL KIT

Here’s what should be in your bag:

✔ Phone

✔ Portable charger

✔ ID

✔ Comfortable shoes

✔ Sunglasses

✔ Sunscreen

✔ Light jacket

✔ Water

✔ Event RSVP confirmations

✔ Rideshare app

✔ Patience

You’ll need all of them.

THE BOTTOM LINE

SXSW can seem intimidating if you don’t have credentials.

Don’t let it.

The badge is only one way to experience the festival.

The other way is to experience Austin during SXSW.

And honestly, that’s what we recommend.

Walk Red River.

Explore East Sixth.

Eat tacos.

Find a food truck.

Check out a day party.

Listen to a band you’ve never heard.

Grab a drink.

Find another event.

Talk to people.

Take pictures.

And let the city surprise you.

Don’t spend the entire week worrying about what you’re missing inside the convention center.

There is an enormous amount happening outside of it.

And the best part?

You don’t need a badge to experience Austin.

You just need to know where to look.

SXSW 2024: March 8–16.

No badge?

No problem.

Go have your own SXSW.

Let’s get one thing out of the way before SXSW takes over Austin: you do not need a badge to have an amazing SXSW.

Sure, having a badge makes things easier. You get access to official showcases, conference events and other parts of the festival that aren’t available to everyone. But if you’re an Austin local—or you’re visiting Austin on a budget—you can still have an absolutely ridiculous week without spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on credentials.

In fact, one of the best ways to experience SXSW is to forget about trying to get into everything.

The trick is to know where to look.

For years, Baller ATX has been telling readers essentially the same thing: RSVP, RSVP, RSVP.

And that advice is still one of the most important things you can do.

The difference between someone who has a great no-badge SXSW experience and someone who spends the entire week standing outside looking at a line is usually preparation.

SXSW is not one festival with one entrance.

It is hundreds of events, parties, concerts, brand activations, showcases, food events and unofficial parties spread throughout downtown Austin and surrounding neighborhoods.

Some require credentials.

Some require an RSVP.

Some are completely free.

Some are first come, first served.

Some have separate lines for people without badges.

And some events that look impossible to get into suddenly become accessible if you are willing to wait.

That is the game.

And in 2023, the best strategy is to build your own SXSW instead of trying to recreate the experience of someone with a Platinum badge.

FIRST RULE: GET YOUR FREE SXSW GUEST PASS

If you don’t have a badge, the first thing you should investigate is the SXSW Guest Pass.

This has long been one of Baller ATX’s favorite recommendations because it gives people without credentials access to a selection of free official SXSW programming.

The exact benefits can change from year to year, so check the official SXSW information before heading downtown, but the basic idea remains the same: there are official SXSW experiences available to the public.

And don’t assume that “free” means boring.

The official SXSW schedule has historically included free exhibitions, activations, outdoor performances and other events.

In 2023, SXSW’s official schedule itself included a substantial free-events section, including exhibitions and special events around the Convention Center and other downtown locations.

The important thing is to understand that free official events and credentialed events are two different things.

Don’t show up at an event assuming your Guest Pass gets you everywhere.

Check the event’s access requirements before you make the trip.

SECOND RULE: RSVP LIKE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT

This is the biggest piece of Baller ATX SXSW advice that has stood the test of time.

If an event says RSVP is required, RSVP.

Even if you aren’t sure you are going.

Even if you think the event will be easy to get into.

Even if you have five other parties you’re considering.

RSVP.

Why?

Because the unofficial SXSW party ecosystem is enormous.

Companies, record labels, radio stations, tech companies, brands, bars, restaurants, agencies and musicians all host events during SXSW.

Many are free.

Many don’t require a badge.

But they may require you to be on a guest list.

The old Baller ATX guide specifically recommended using websites, Facebook groups and other party listings to find free events for people without badges.

That advice is still gold.

The best no-badge SXSW experience isn’t necessarily found on the main SXSW website.

It’s found by hunting down the parties happening around the official festival.

And in 2023, there are already community-maintained lists circulating that compile unofficial events specifically for people looking for no-badge access.

THIRD RULE: HAVE A PLAN A, B, C AND D

This may be the most important tip of the entire article.

Do not build your SXSW schedule around one event.

You will get rejected.

You will encounter a line.

The venue will hit capacity.

The party will close early.

Your Uber will take forever.

Your friend will want tacos.

You will discover a better party two blocks away.

Something will happen.

That’s SXSW.

Baller ATX has recommended creating a schedule with Plan A, B, C and D because the festival offers so many events simultaneously that trying to stick rigidly to one schedule is almost guaranteed to cause frustration.

Think of your schedule like this:

Plan A: The party you really want to attend.

Plan B: Another event within walking distance.

Plan C: A free concert or activation nearby.

Plan D: Find a bar with live music and see what happens.

That last option is important.

Don’t underestimate the value of wandering around Austin during SXSW.

Some of the best experiences happen because you were walking to one place and heard music coming from another.

THE SECRET IS LOCATION

You don’t want to spend half your night traveling across Austin.

During SXSW, downtown becomes extremely crowded.

That means walking is often your best friend.

Instead of choosing a party in South Austin at 2 p.m., another party in East Austin at 4 p.m. and something downtown at 6 p.m., build your afternoon around one neighborhood.

Red River is a perfect example.

You can walk between venues, find food, hear multiple bands and make decisions as you go.

Sixth Street is another obvious option, although it can become extremely crowded.

East Austin is also worth exploring because numerous bars, restaurants and venues are close together.

The goal is simple:

Move less. Experience more.

DON’T BE AFRAID OF THE “NO BADGE” LINE

Here’s another Baller ATX trick worth remembering.

If you see a massive line at a party, don’t automatically turn around.

Ask what the line is for.

Some events have separate badge, wristband, RSVP and general-admission lines.

Some give priority to credentialed attendees but allow everyone else in when capacity permits.

Baller ATX’s longstanding advice is to walk up and ask at the door rather than assuming you can’t get in. The worst thing they can do is tell you no.

And yes, sometimes you will be told no.

That’s why you have Plan B.

DON’T SPEND THE ENTIRE DAY WAITING IN ONE LINE

This is one of the easiest ways to ruin SXSW.

You arrive at 1 p.m.

You see a huge line.

You decide to wait.

Two hours later, you’re still waiting.

Now you’ve missed three other events.

Don’t do it.

Give yourself a reasonable cutoff.

If the line isn’t moving after 30 or 45 minutes, ask yourself whether the event is worth sacrificing the rest of your afternoon.

If the answer is yes, stay.

If not, move.

There are too many things happening during SXSW to spend half the day standing behind 200 people.

USE THE FREE OFFICIAL EVENTS TO YOUR ADVANTAGE

The official free programming is especially useful because it gives you somewhere to go between parties.

In 2023, SXSW’s official free-event schedule included things like Flatstock 84, free exhibitions, brand activations and other public programming.

These events can also give you a break from the madness.

Go into the Convention Center.

Enjoy the air conditioning.

Use the bathroom.

Charge your phone.

Walk around.

Get out of the sun.

Then head back outside.

This is especially important because SXSW can involve an unbelievable amount of walking.

THE CONVENTION CENTER BATHROOM TRICK

Here’s one of the oldest Baller ATX survival tips:

Know where the clean bathrooms are.

The Austin Convention Center has a ton of bathrooms, and Baller ATX has long recommended using them rather than spending half your day searching for a restroom. Hotel lobbies downtown are another useful option for a quick bathroom stop.

You will thank us later.

Especially after you’ve been drinking all afternoon.

BRING A PHONE CHARGER

Your phone is basically your SXSW lifeline.

You are going to use it for:

RSVP confirmations.

Maps.

Schedules.

Texts.

Instagram.

Photos.

Ride shares.

Finding your friends.

Finding parties.

Checking whether a line is moving.

And figuring out where you are going next.

Your battery will disappear.

Bring an external battery.

Bring a charging cable.

Charge whenever you get the opportunity.

There is nothing worse than getting separated from your friends downtown with a dead phone.

BRING CASH

Even in 2023, don’t assume every vendor is going to take your preferred payment method.

Bring some cash.

And bring small bills.

Baller ATX has recommended having $1 bills available for tipping and keeping some cash available for food trucks and other vendors that may not accept cards.

You don’t want to be the person standing at a food truck with a $20 bill while everyone behind you is waiting.

EAT SOMETHING

This sounds obvious.

It isn’t.

SXSW is notorious for people drinking all afternoon while forgetting that their bodies require food.

Don’t do that.

If a party has food, eat it.

If there are fruits and vegetables available, eat those too.

Baller ATX has specifically recommended taking advantage of free food at parties rather than treating SXSW like one giant day-drinking competition.

And if you don’t find free food, Austin has plenty of affordable options around the festival footprint.

Tacos.

Pizza.

Burgers.

Food trucks.

Barbecue.

Whatever you can get your hands on.

Eat before you drink heavily.

Then eat again later.

Your future self will appreciate it.

WATER. WATER. WATER.

We’re going to steal one of Baller ATX’s most important pieces of advice and put it in giant letters:

DRINK WATER.

The old Baller ATX guide recommends having water after every one or two alcoholic drinks.

That’s good advice.

SXSW involves walking.

Standing.

Dancing.

Sun.

Alcohol.

Crowds.

And potentially long days.

You don’t want to make it to 9 p.m. and realize you’re exhausted, dehydrated and already done.

The goal isn’t to win SXSW by drinking the most.

The goal is to still be functioning by Saturday.

TAKE BREAKS

This is another old Baller ATX rule that should absolutely remain in the guide.

Sit down.

Seriously.

If you find an empty chair, sit down.

If there is a shaded area, use it.

If you can sit under a tree, do it.

If you need air conditioning, walk into the Convention Center.

Your body doesn’t care that you have another party at 3 p.m.

Take ten or fifteen minutes.

Recharge.

Drink water.

Check your phone.

Then keep going.

SXSW is a marathon, not a bar crawl.

DRESS FOR AUSTIN, NOT INSTAGRAM

SXSW weather is unpredictable.

It can be hot.

It can be cold.

It can rain.

It can be beautiful.

It can be all four in the same week.

Baller ATX’s longstanding recommendation is to dress in layers and wear sunscreen.

Wear comfortable shoes.

This may be the single most important clothing decision you make.

You’re going to walk.

A lot.

Do not wear brand-new shoes because they look good in photographs.

Wear shoes you can walk in for ten hours.

Your feet will determine your SXSW experience more than your outfit will.

FREE DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN EASY

This is something first-time SXSW attendees often don’t understand.

An event can be free and still be extremely difficult to enter.

Free does not mean guaranteed entry.

Capacity still exists.

Venues still have fire codes.

Badge holders may have priority.

RSVP guests may have priority.

VIPs may have priority.

And some parties simply become more popular than organizers expected.

That’s why you need backups.

The official SXSW schedule itself labels certain programming as free, but that does not mean every free event is automatically available to everyone at every moment.

Read the access rules.

Look for RSVP requirements.

Arrive early for something you really want.

And keep moving when necessary.

LOOK FOR DAY PARTIES

If you don’t have a badge, day parties can be your best friend.

A huge number of unofficial events happen during the afternoon.

These are often easier to access than late-night showcases because people are spread across the city.

You can find food.

Drinks.

Music.

Brand activations.

Games.

Networking.

And sometimes surprisingly big artists.

The 2023 community lists showed just how many unofficial events were happening outside the official SXSW credential system.

The key is to start looking before SXSW actually begins.

Don’t wait until you’re standing on Sixth Street.

FOLLOW THE PARTY, NOT THE BADGE

This may be the biggest Baller ATX philosophy of all.

SXSW is not about proving that you have credentials.

It’s about experiencing Austin.

If you find a great free party, stay.

If you discover a band you love, watch the entire set.

If somebody tells you about a barbecue party around the corner, go investigate.

If you see a crowd gathered outside a venue, find out what’s happening.

The people who have the most fun at SXSW aren’t necessarily the ones with the most expensive badges.

They’re the ones who know how to navigate the city.

AND THEN THERE’S THE MUSIC

This is still Austin.

At some point, forget the parties.

Go listen to a band.

The official festival’s free programming can include music and outdoor performances, while the unofficial ecosystem provides countless additional opportunities to see artists. The point is to take advantage of the sheer amount of music happening throughout the city.

You may walk into a venue expecting to stay for 20 minutes and end up staying for the entire set.

That’s SXSW.

And that’s why Austin becomes such an incredible music city during March.

DON’T FORGET THE FOOD

SXSW can make people think the festival is only about music, technology and film.

It isn’t.

Austin’s food scene becomes part of the festival too.

Restaurants get packed.

Food trucks get busy.

Bars create special menus.

Brands throw food events.

And some of the best unofficial parties are essentially giant food-and-drink events with music attached.

If you’re going to spend your entire day downtown, take advantage of it.

Try something you’ve never eaten.

Go somewhere you normally wouldn’t visit.

And remember that the restaurants and bars are part of what makes SXSW work.

THE ULTIMATE NO-BADGE SXSW DAY

Here’s how we’d do it.

10:00 a.m.

Start with breakfast.

Not glamorous.

Necessary.

Eat.

Drink water.

Charge your phone.

11:00 a.m.

Head downtown.

Check out an official free exhibition or activation.

Get inside somewhere with air conditioning.

1:00 p.m.

Hit your first unofficial day party.

If there’s food, eat.

If there’s free water, drink it.

If there’s a band you like, stay.

3:00 p.m.

Move to another nearby event.

Don’t cross the entire city.

Walk whenever possible.

5:00 p.m.

Take a break.

Sit down.

Eat.

Charge your phone.

Drink water.

6:30 p.m.

Start your evening music plan.

Pick a neighborhood and stay there.

9:00 p.m.

Check out a showcase or party.

If the line is ridiculous, use Plan B.

11:00 p.m.

Find another venue.

Or find tacos.

1:00 a.m.

Go home.

Yes.

Go home.

You do not get extra SXSW points for staying out until 4 a.m. every night.

AND PLEASE—GET HOME SAFELY

This is one piece of advice that should never change.

SXSW means drinking.

It means crowds.

It means late nights.

And it means a lot of people trying to get around downtown at the same time.

Baller ATX has long recommended carpooling or splitting rideshares with friends and making transportation part of the plan rather than figuring it out after everyone has been drinking.

Don’t drink and drive.

Don’t get into a car with someone who has been drinking.

Use a rideshare.

Take public transportation when practical.

Walk when you’re close enough.

And stay with your friends.

THE BOTTOM LINE

You don’t need a SXSW badge.

You need a phone.

A charger.

Comfortable shoes.

A little cash.

A plan.

A backup plan.

And the willingness to walk into something you’ve never heard of.

RSVP to everything that looks interesting.

Get the Guest Pass if it’s available and useful for the programming you want.

Look for unofficial parties.

Use free official events.

Ask about access at the door.

Don’t spend two hours standing in one line.

Eat.

Drink water.

Take breaks.

Wear sunscreen.

Wear layers.

And don’t try to do everything.

You can’t.

Nobody can.

SXSW is too big.

Instead, pick the things that sound fun and build your own festival.

That’s the secret.

The person with the $1,000 badge isn’t automatically having more fun than the person walking around Austin with a free RSVP and a taco in their hand.

Sometimes the person with the taco is having a much better day.

And that’s the beauty of SXSW.

For one week every March, Austin becomes one giant festival.

You can spend a fortune trying to experience it.

Or you can spend almost nothing.

Either way, the city is waiting.

Welcome to SXSW. Now get out there and make it count.

If there is one month when Austin stops feeling like a normal city and starts feeling like the center of the universe, it is March. Balleratx has you covered on insta and fb.

After a quieter start to the year, Austin’s streets, restaurants, bars and music venues are about to be overwhelmed by SXSW, and this year’s festival is bringing the city’s famous combination of music, food, technology, film and nightlife back into the spotlight. But SXSW isn’t the only thing happening. March is also bringing new restaurants, new bars, major concerts and plenty of reasons for locals to explore the city before the spring crowds arrive.

The biggest event on the calendar is obviously SXSW 2022, which runs March 11 through March 20.

For ten days, Austin becomes a giant collection of conferences, concerts, film screenings, parties, pop-ups, brand activations and unofficial events. Downtown becomes the epicenter, but SXSW stretches far beyond the Convention Center. Music venues, restaurants, bars, hotels, parks and businesses throughout the city become temporary stages and gathering places.

The official music festival alone features hundreds of artists performing throughout Austin, with venues ranging from established clubs to temporary stages. This year’s lineup includes major names such as Keith Urban, St. Vincent, Charlie XCX, Kacey Musgraves, Pusha T, Måneskin and Japanese Breakfast, along with a huge collection of emerging artists.

For music fans, March is one of the best times of the year to be in Austin.

You can walk into a bar you’ve never visited and discover a band you’ve never heard of.

You can see an established artist in a tiny venue.

You can stumble across a pop-up concert while walking downtown.

And you can spend an entire night moving from one venue to another without ever needing to plan exactly where you’re going.

That unpredictability is part of what makes SXSW different.

The festival isn’t contained behind a fence.

It takes over the city.

For Baller ATX readers, though, the music is only half the story.

The food scene gets just as busy.

Restaurants throughout downtown, East Austin, South Congress and other popular neighborhoods are preparing for the massive influx of visitors. Reservations become harder to get, bars get busier and restaurants begin creating special menus and events designed specifically for the festival crowd.

SXSW is essentially a ten-day advertisement for Austin food.

Visitors arrive wanting barbecue.

They want tacos.

They want breakfast tacos.

They want craft cocktails.

They want margaritas.

They want food trucks.

And they want to know where locals actually eat.

That makes March one of the best months for Austin restaurants to show off.

One of the most interesting new additions to the food scene is Este, the coastal Mexican restaurant from the team behind Suerte. The restaurant is located on Manor Road and focuses on seafood and coastal Mexican cuisine, with dishes influenced by the food traditions of Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Este is particularly worth watching because it represents a direction Austin’s Mexican food scene has increasingly taken.

The city has plenty of excellent Tex-Mex and taco restaurants.

But newer restaurants are going much deeper into regional Mexican cooking.

Instead of simply serving “Mexican food,” chefs are focusing on particular regions, ingredients and techniques.

Este’s seafood-centered menu fits perfectly into that movement.

And with SXSW visitors arriving from across the country, it is exactly the kind of restaurant that can become an instant destination.

Another highly anticipated restaurant opening is Maie Day, the new steakhouse from the team behind Olamaie. Located at South Congress Hotel, Maie Day is bringing a classic steakhouse concept to one of Austin’s most popular dining and shopping districts.

South Congress is already one of the easiest areas in Austin for visitors to experience several different sides of the city in one afternoon.

You can shop.

Grab coffee.

Eat lunch.

Have a cocktail.

Listen to live music.

And now you can add another major steakhouse to the list.

That makes the area particularly attractive during SXSW when visitors are looking for places to eat between events.

But March isn’t just about expensive dinners.

Austin’s food truck scene remains one of the easiest ways to experience the city without spending a fortune.

During SXSW, food trucks become particularly important because festivalgoers need something quick between concerts, panels and film screenings. Trucks throughout downtown and nearby neighborhoods can turn into unofficial festival destinations.

Tacos are especially popular.

And nobody should be surprised when a line starts forming outside a truck that normally has only a handful of customers.

That’s SXSW.

Everything gets busier.

The same thing happens with Austin’s bars.

Downtown is about to become one enormous nightlife district.

Sixth Street.

Red River.

Rainey Street.

Congress Avenue.

East Austin.

Everywhere will be busy.

Bars that are normally neighborhood hangouts suddenly have tourists standing outside.

Cocktail lounges get reservations.

Music venues fill.

Rooftops become packed.

And every empty piece of sidewalk seems to become a gathering place.

The trick for locals is knowing when to embrace the chaos and when to avoid it.

If you love crowds and discovering new music, SXSW is one of the best times of the year to be downtown.

If you hate crowds, March is probably the month to explore restaurants and bars outside the central festival areas.

Either way, the city is going to be busy.

And then there are the unofficial parties.

Some of Austin’s most memorable SXSW experiences happen outside the official festival.

Brands rent buildings.

Record labels host showcases.

Restaurants organize parties.

Bars book special performers.

Companies give away food and drinks.

Local businesses host events that don’t require an official SXSW badge.

For Austinites, these unofficial events are often where the festival becomes most accessible.

You don’t necessarily need a wristband to experience SXSW.

You just need to know where things are happening.

That is one reason March can be so much fun for Baller ATX readers.

There is always something going on.

Even if you don’t attend a single official conference session, you can still walk downtown, listen to music, discover a new restaurant, grab a drink and stumble into an event.

The city becomes the festival.

Music isn’t the only part of SXSW either.

The film festival brings premieres, screenings and celebrities into town, while the interactive and conference portions attract entrepreneurs, technology companies, artists and business leaders from around the world.

For restaurants and bars, that means a constantly changing customer base.

One night you might be surrounded by musicians.

The next night it’s filmmakers.

Then technology executives.

Then college students.

Then tourists.

Austin becomes an international meeting place.

And the food and nightlife industries get to serve all of them.

Outside the official festival, March is also the beginning of Austin’s spring outdoor season.

The weather is warming up.

Patios are becoming more attractive.

Outdoor concerts are returning.

Breweries are getting busier.

Restaurant patios are filling up.

People are spending more time outside.

That makes March one of the best months to explore Austin’s outdoor drinking and dining scene.

A brewery afternoon can easily turn into dinner.

Dinner can turn into a concert.

A concert can turn into drinks.

And drinks can turn into tacos.

That is the Austin March itinerary.

Another thing to watch this month is the continued growth of Austin’s cocktail scene.

New bars and restaurants are increasingly emphasizing specialty cocktails instead of simply offering the standard beer-and-well-drink menu.

Austin has become a serious cocktail city, and SXSW gives those bars a huge opportunity to introduce themselves to visitors.

A good cocktail bar can become one of the most talked-about discoveries of someone’s trip.

That is why March is such an important month for new businesses.

A restaurant that opens quietly in January can suddenly find itself packed with SXSW visitors in March.

A new bar can gain thousands of new customers in a single week.

A local chef can suddenly get national attention.

And a small music venue can host an artist who becomes the next big thing.

SXSW has always been about discovery.

That is true for restaurants and bars just as much as it is for music.

So if you’re looking for something new to do this month, don’t automatically head to the places you’ve already been.

Try something new.

Eat at a restaurant that just opened.

Check out a new cocktail bar.

Go see a band you’ve never heard of.

Walk down a street you normally drive past.

Try a new food truck.

That’s how you experience Austin during March.

The city is changing quickly, and SXSW makes those changes much easier to see.

By the middle of the month, downtown will be packed.

Music will be coming from nearly every direction.

Restaurants will be full.

Bars will be busy.

People will be standing in lines.

The sidewalks will be crowded.

And Austin will once again feel like the unofficial capital of live music, food, technology and nightlife.

For Baller ATX, March is the month to get out and experience it.

You don’t need to attend every SXSW event.

You don’t need to buy an expensive badge.

You don’t need to spend every night downtown.

You just need to take advantage of the fact that the entire city is putting on a show.

March is when Austin becomes Austin.

The music is everywhere.

The food is everywhere.

The bars are packed.

New restaurants are opening.

New businesses are trying to make a name for themselves.

And thousands of visitors are coming to town looking for the next great thing.

The best part?

Some of those visitors are going to discover something that locals already know.

Austin is pretty damn good at throwing a party.

SXSfree?

by Dominic Mondragon

Every year SXSW has many free official events that are easy to get into. I am gonna highlight some of them. Here is a link to all the official free SXSW events. In past years I recommended the free Mazda cars leaving the convention center..Mercedes-Benz  is the new sponsor so not sure if those are available. Also, all events listed in this blog are free when using the SXSW Guest Pass if you don’t have a badge. Enjoy!

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SXSW COMEDY

One of the little known facts about SXSW is that all the Comedy shows are FREE to the public after badges/wristbands have been admitted, if the venues aren’t full. Unlike films and music showcases, Comedy doesn’t charge those without a badge. Simply line up in the “Standby” line at the venue, and 10-15 minutes before the show, you’ll find out whether or not you can get in to the show. See the complete schedule here. Your best bet to get into a show is at Esther’s Follies, since it is the larger venue…but try your luck at any show you’re interested in seeing!

 

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SXSW OUTDOOR STAGE AT LADY BIRD LAKE

One of my favorite SX events every year are the free shows at Auditorium Shores. I have seen so many great bands on this stage during SX over the last decade including Garth Brooks last year. They have made it bigger and better the last few years since The Strokes played there a few years ago and overpacked the place. Get there early so you can get a good spot. If you have a badge, you can get a free shuttle ride over to the park, and they have a private area off to the right where you can get bleacher seats and in past year free beer and Titos drinks!

Outdoor Stage at Lady Bird Lake Presented by MGM Resorts | March 15 – 17 from 4pm-10pm (View Entry Conditions and Rules)

Thursday, March 15 | Dream Out Loud presented by Voto Latino
5:15 PM – Centavrvs
6:15 PM – El Freaky Colectivo & Friends
7:15 PM – TBA
8:30 PM – Los Lobos

Friday, March 16
6:00 PM – Caamp
6:45 PM – Albert Hammond Jr.
7:40 PM – Shakey Graves
8:45 PM – Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats

Saturday, March 17
5:00 PM – Bidi Bidi Banda
6:00 PM – Night Drive
7:00 PM – A Giant Dog
8:00 PM – Shinyribs
9:00 PM – Roky Erickson

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SXSW WELLNESS EXPO

 is FREE and open to the public!

March 10-11. For the first time, SXSW is hosting the SXSW Wellness Expo dedicated to fueling your mind, body, and soul. Occurring over two days at the Palmer Events Center, this exhibition brings together thousands of SXSW attendees interested in healthy living and companies in the continually growing health and wellness industry. For more info visit here.

WHEN

Saturday, March 10 | 11:00–6:00pm
Sunday, March 11 | 11:00–6:00pm

WHERE

Palmer Events Center

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

FREE MOVIES during SXSW at the Long Center!

If you have never been to a movie on the long center lawn, it is a great way to spend a late afternoon in downtown Austin. Take a blanket and your favorite food and beverage and watch a movie under the stars. SXSW badges can get here by using the free shuttles from the convention center.

SX will show free movies during March 12th at 8pm presented by Cartoon Network.

For more info click here.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

FLATSTOCK

Basically, this is a huge poster show where you can see the world’s best poster art as well as purchase it. I have never personally purchased anything so I am not sure if you need to bring your own tubes, but I visit flatstock at least once during SX to see all the awesome artwork. For more info click here.

WHEN

Thursday, March 15 | 12:00pm – 6:00pm
Friday, March 16 | 11:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday, March 17 | 11:00am-6:00pm

WHERE

Austin Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 4, Level 1

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

SXSW Job Market

Now in its third year, the Job Market Stage will feature talks from industry leaders covering the latest trends, techniques and perspectives in the world of talent acquisition. For more info click here.

WHEN

Saturday, March 10 | 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday, March 11 | 10:00am – 5:00pm

WHERE

Austin Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 1

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

General Assembly + SXSW 2018 Workshops

Join General Assembly and SXSW at the Palmer Event Center for 2 days of FREE classes on today’s hottest tech topics and desired skills. Saturday March 10 and Sunday March 11, you’ll have access to some of our most popular classes in web development, data analytics, data science, digital marketing, business development, user experience design, product management and more. You’ll learn new skills from seasoned practitioners and leave with the know-how to meet the next milestone in your professional life.

No badge or wristband needed to attend. You can sign up via this link.

WHEN

March 10–11, | 11:00am–4:30pm

WHERE

Palmer Events Center 2nd floor. (900 Barton Springs Road)

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

SXSW MARKETPLACE

SXSW Marketplace brings together local Austin boutiques and hand-selected national and global brands to create a unique shopping experience at the epicenter of SXSW.

SXSW Marketplace is open to all badge types and the general public with the free SXSW Guest Pass.

More info available here.

WHEN

Thursday, March 15 | 12:00pm – 6:00pm
Friday, March 16 | 11:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday, March 17 | 11:00am – 6:00pm

WHERE

Austin Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 4, Level 1

 

Tips and Hacks for Having the Best SXSW Ever!

by Traci Mondragon

One of the greatest things about living in Austin is SXSW: that magical week in March when technology, film, and music combine to create a tangible energy in our beloved city.  If you’re reading this post, then you definitely know what SXSW is, and you’ve probably experienced it. So welcome, settle in for a long, but informative, read.

First things first… remember that SXSW is a marathon, not a sprint. Your body, your friends, and your spirit will thank you if you live by that motto all week. If you take nothing else away from this post, let it be that. Slow your roll. Stop and enjoy the week. Pace yourself!

SXSurvival Hacks for ALL!

Tricks for just getting through the week unscathed… or relatively alive anyway.

• Load up on Emergen-C and/or Pedialyte (these powder packs are easy to take with you!)
• Wear sunscreen
• Dress in layers. Texas weather is unpredictable, and you’ll likely be moving in and out of venues with varying temps.
• DRINK WATER (one after every 1-2 boozey beverages)
• If a party has fruits/veggies available as part of their free snacks, eat them!
• Take sit-down breaks when seats are available
• A break could be as simple as sitting under a tree at one of those free parties, or going inside the convention center to cool off in the A/C (if it’s hot).

Speaking of the Convention Center… there are a TON of free, clean bathrooms inside! Most hotel lobbies also have lovely bathrooms, and because so many people are going in and out of all these downtown hotels, no one will stop you from using their facilities if you’re not staying there.

Pack the essentials.

• Photo ID (everyone ID’s during SX)
• Cell phone
• Phone charger, extra battery, and/or wireless/battery-powered charger
• Cash (preferably $1’s for tipping, and some food trucks are cash-only)
• Credit/Debit card
• Refillable water bottle (there are water coolers all throughout the convention center)
• Maps, schedules
• Light snacks
• Emergen-C/Pedialyte powder packs
• Sunscreen

A cross-body bag or backpack can store all these items, as well as any swag you might collect throughout the day.

 

Getting downtown, parking, getting home safe

If you’re driving yourself…

• Give yourself about 2 hours to drive downtown, find parking, and get to where you’re going on time. No, this isn’t an exaggeration. Parking will be a nightmare, as will traffic in and around downtown.
• A good tip for where to park, in regards to your plans for the day… park near where you plan to end your night. You’ll be so incredibly tired by 2am, especially if you’ve been out since before noon. It’s better to have a long trek at the start of your day, than at the end.
• Many of the street meters will be wrapped up and only allow special permits to park by them, so don’t rely on where you “know” there is street parking. Garages may cost up to 5x as much as usual. So budget for parking, or be prepared to park much farther from downtown than expected.

Take Public Transpo or Use Ride Sharing Apps

• Capital Metro runs later than usual during SXSW, and this site will help guide you to your destination with ease! Key tip if you live central/west: Highland Mall is pretty much shut down, and has a huge parking lot right across the street from a Metro Rail stop! The Metro Rail that also stops RIGHT in front of the Convention Center!
• Austin has Uber and Lyft back (they were gone last year) so your options are plentiful.

 

I Have a Badge… So Now What?!

First off, DON’T be an idiot and keep your credit cards/photo ID inside the plastic badge sleeve. Taking that thing in and out of that is a great way to lose your badge, lose your ID/cards, or make it more difficult to scan your badge at official venues.

Badge Types/Admittance

Your admittance priority into events is dependent on what type of badge you will have. Most venues will have two lines: one for Priority Access and one for Secondary Access.

• Interactive = Priority admittance to Interactive panels/sessions/workshops and events (Secondary access to Film and Music events)
• Film = Priority admittance to Film screenings, panels/sessions/workshops, and events (Secondary access to Interactive and Music events)
• Music = Priority admittance to Music showcases, panels/sessions/workshops, and events (Secondary access to Interactive and Film events)
• Platinum = Priority admittance into Interactive, Film, AND Music events!

All official events will have capacity limits of course, so your badge will not get you into events that are at capacity, and there are a few, rare private or ticketed events that even your badge alone is not enough to get you into.

Create a Schedule with a Plan A, B, C, and D.

• SXSW has SO much to offer, and it can definitely be overwhelming. There are several different types of events, from morning till the wee hours of the night! But planning is key. And backup planning is crucial.
• If you haven’t already, create an account at schedule.sxsw.com. There, you can search events you’re interested in, and add events to your custom schedule. There’s also an app!

Best Kept Secrets for Badgeholders

There are a few insider tricks I’ve learned over many years of SXSW’ing, through trial and error, and some by pure happy accident!

• Some day parties and events offer priority entrance to badgeholders, over non-badgeholders who have just RSVP’d, so always go up and ask at the door if you see a HUGE line. It might be worth asking! The worst they can do is send you to the back of the line.
• The Registrant’s Lounge is open all week, and is a chill place to get a free drink, mingle, and get ready for all those evening parties, films, and showcases! Note: Volunteers are NOT allowed into the Registrant’s Lounge. Sorry, guys. We can’t get ALL the perks. The Registrant’s Lounge is located in Brush Square Park, just across 4th street from the Convention Center.
• In the past few years, SXSW has introduced new concepts to compliment the big three conference areas. These include Gaming, Sports, Style, and Comedy. Many of these “Convergence” events are open to all Registrants, no matter your type of badge.
• Take the Festival Shuttle! It runs between most film venues, and there’s also a loop from Palmer Events Center to the Convention Center.

Interactive Tips

Interactive parties tend to be overlooked by those who still think SXSW is just all about music. Often, these are great networking events with loads of free booze and food. Some of the best parties I’ve been to are Interactive parties. Those tech people know how to go hard! The Interactive closing party is at Stubb’s, and has always featured some HUGE acts (Ludacris, Deadmau5, Jimmy Eat World), not to mention an open bar. At Stubb’s! Those drinks are usually like $7 or more a pop! There are SO many day and night parties during Interactive. So take advantage of this!

Film Tips

Film panels often highlight specific films, and will feature the filmmakers and entire casts. These are often intimate settings with Q&A portions, so you can get up close to pick the brains of your favorite filmmakers or TV stars.

Music Tips

Inside the Austin Convention Center, in the 4th Floor ballrooms, are the music day stages. Super intimate settings feature artists both well-known and up-and-coming. These shows are a great way to see that band you love, but maybe conflicts with another band you love later in the week! The shows are never full, and you can always get a great spot up front, out of the elements, and the sound is always fantastic.

 

What if I Just Want to do All the FREE Stuff?!

If you’re a Baller ATX friend and follower… you probably can’t afford a badge (although you should have taken our advice back in January when we posted about volunteering!) But don’t fret… there are ways to do SXSW right…even if you’re broke!

RSVP till your fingers hurt.

There are so many sites, Facebook groups, etc. that list free parties if you DON’T have a badge. So if you don’t take my first piece of advice, then do this. In fact, Baller ATX has a handy list to aid in your RSVPing.

Register for a SXSW Guestpass.

This free wristband will allow you to experience a lot of SXSW, and the free “official” events have expanded over the years! New this year, the Guestpass allows you entry into the 2-day Wellness Expo at the Palmer Events Center. The most popular event you can attend with the Guestpass are the free outdoor shows at Lady Bird Lake. SXSW brings amazing bands to this stage each year.

 

So Remember…

Pace yourself, be SAFE, and have FUN. If you’re anything like me, SXSW is your Christmas, birthday, and Mardi Gras all rolled into one amazing week. Make it count, make it last, and make it memorable. But most importantly make it safe so you can make it out again next year! And the year after that and the year after that…

Give a little to Get a LOT!

When you think of SXSW, you think of the parties, the shows, the drinks, and the FUN! And the best way to experience everything SXSW has to offer is to have a badge. But how do you get a badge on a budget?! VOLUNTEER for SXSW. I know what you’re thinking. “I don’t have enough time to volunteer! So many hours! It’s too much work!” But no worries… You’re an adult. You’re smart. You’re capable.

Make your schedule work and sign up to volunteer. You work some (mostly easy) shifts, you get a badge. A badge most people pay WELL over $1500 for. It’s almost unbelievable! There are still plenty of crews who need volunteers, so head on over to volunteer.sxsw.com to learn more. There’s also a Volunteer Call this weekend at the Austin Convention Center, Ballrooms ABC. Saturday, January 27th from 3-5pm. Get down there and sign up!

You’ll get into SO many parties, lounges, panels, films, shows, etc. that you wouldn’t have if you didn’t have that badge. RSVPing can only get you so far… so help out, get a badge, and have the best SXSW ever!

SxSurvival Tips – How to Have the Best, Safest SXSW Ever!

by Traci Marie Mondragon

SXSW is a marathon, not a sprint. Let that be your mantra from March 11-20. Your body, your friends, and your spirit will thank you. If you take nothing else away from this post, let it be that. Slow your roll. Stop and enjoy the week. Pace yourself!

Living, breathing, and going to the bathroom.

If you’ve heeded my other advice throughout this series, then you are well-equipped with a plan for loads of parties with free food, drinks, and amazing live music. You want to make the most of all this planning you’ve worked hard at! This means staying WELL throughout the week. This means:

• Load up on Emergen-C
• Wear sunscreen
• Drink WATER (one after every 1-2 boozey beverages)
• If a party has fruits/veggies available as part of their free snacks, eat them!
• Take sit-down breaks when seats are available
• A break could be as simple as sitting under a tree at one of those free parties, or going inside the convention center to cool off in the A/C (if it’s hot).

Speaking of the Convention Center… there are a TON of free, clean bathrooms inside! Most hotel lobbies also have lovely bathrooms, and because so many people are going in and out of all these downtown hotels, no one will stop you from using their facilities if you’re not staying there.

Pack the essentials.

• Photo ID (everyone ID’s during SX)
• Cell phone
• Phone charger, extra battery, and/or wireless/battery-powered charger
• Cash (preferably small bills for tipping)
• Credit/Debit card
• Refillable water bottle (there are water coolers all throughout the convention center also)
• Maps, schedules
• Light snacks
• Emergen-C
• Sunscreen
• (because I’m a super girlie girl) powder, lip gloss, eyeliner  *optional

A cross-body bag or backpack can store all these items, as well as any swag you might collect throughout the day. Oh, and if you DO have a badge… DON’T be an idiot and keep your credit cards/photo ID inside the plastic badge sleeve. Taking that thing in and out of that is a great way to lose your badge, lose your ID/cards, or make it more difficult to scan your badge at official venues.

Getting downtown, parking, getting home safe!

If you’re driving yourself…

Give yourself about 2 hours to drive downtown, find parking, and get to where you’re going on time. No, this isn’t an exaggeration. Parking will be a nightmare, as will traffic in and around downtown.

A good tip for where to park, in regards to your plans for the day… park near where you plan to end your night. You’ll be so incredibly tired by 2am, especially if you’ve been out since before noon. It’s better to have a long trek at the start of your day, than at the end.

Many of the street meters will be wrapped up and only allow special permits to park by them, so don’t rely on where you “know” there is street parking. Garages may cost up to 5x as much as usual. So budget for parking, or be prepared to park much farther from downtown than expected.

Take Public Transporation!

If you just read the above, I might have scared you off from driving yourself. And while Austin isn’t exactly the most public transpo-friendly city, we’ve still got some great options.

Capital Metro runs later than usual during SXSW, and this site will help guide you to your destination with ease! Key tip if you live central/west: Highland Mall is pretty much shut down, and has a huge parking lot right across the street from a Metro Rail stop! The Metro Rail that also stops RIGHT in front of the Convention Center!

If you partied way too hard, use ride-sharing. GET HOME SAFE.

Above all else… make sure you get home safe. The ride sharing options in Austin no longer include Uber and Lyft, but we have Fasten and Fare, which are both good options.

I have a Badge…so now what?

by Traci Marie Mondragon

I’d like to thank everyone who read Vol 1 of my SXSW 2017 Advice Column. So, if you took my advice and signed up to volunteer, then you are going to earn a badge! Or maybe you’re just made of money and you purchased a badge. Either way… if this is your first time with that coveted plastic-encased-paper-holy-grail-on-a-lanyard, or you just need some helpful info on how to ROCK that badge, then this column is for you.

Keep in mind, I have been attending SXSW for over ten years, so I speak from experience. Also keep in mind that I’ve only ever attended because I’ve volunteered for that long as well…so I may not cover everything a paid registrant would know about. But I’ll do my best!

Badge Types/Admittance

There are BIG changes to the SXSW badge structure in 2017. Most notably, ANY badge type can get you into ANY part of the conference or festival. Here’s what I mean…

Your admittance priority into events is dependent on what type of badge you will have. Most venues will have two lines: one for Priority Access and one for Secondary Access.

Interactive = Priority admittance to Interactive panels/sessions/workshops and events (Secondary access to Film and Music events)

Film = Priority admittance to Film screenings, panels/sessions/workshops, and events (Secondary access to Interactive and Music events)

Music = Priority admittance to Music showcases, panels/sessions/workshops, and events (Secondary access to Interactive and Film events)

Platinum = Priority admittance into Interactive, Film, AND Music events!

All official events will have capacity limits of course, so your badge will not get you into events that are at capacity, and there are a few, rare private or ticketed events that even your badge alone is not enough to get you into.

Create a Schedule with a Plan A, B, C, and D.

SXSW has SO much to offer, and it can definitely be overwhelming. There are several different types of events, from morning till the wee hours of the night! But planning is key. And backup planning is crucial.

If you haven’t already, create an account at schedule.sxsw.com. There, you can search events you’re interested in, and add events to your custom schedule. There’s also an app!

Use the day/type filters to search only the types of events you want, or by conference type.. Play with the filters, or use the search field at the top right to search for specific bands, films, or speakers you’re interested in.

Best Kept Secrets

There are a few insider tricks I’ve learned over many years of SXSW’ing, through trial and error, and some by pure happy accident!

Interactive

Interactive parties tend to be overlooked by those who still think SXSW is just all about music. Often, these are great networking events with loads of free booze and food. Some of the best parties I’ve been to are Interactive parties. Those tech people know how to go hard! The Interactive closing party is always at Stubb’s, and has always featured some HUGE acts (Ludacris, Deadmau5), not to mention an open bar. At Stubb’s! Those drinks are usually like $7 or more a pop! There are SO many day and night parties during Interactive. So take advantage of this!

Film

Film panels often highlight specific films, and will feature the filmmakers and entire casts. These are often intimate settings with Q&A portions, so you can get up close to pick the brains of your favorite filmmakers or TV stars.

Music

ACC Day Stages. Inside the Austin Convention Center, in the 4th Floor ballrooms, are the music day stages. Super intimate settings feature artists both well-known and up-and-coming. These shows are a great way to see that band you love, but maybe conflicts with another band you love later in the week! The shows are never full, and you can always get a great spot up front, out of the elements, and the sound is always fantastic.

Some day parties and events offer priority entrance to badgeholders, over non-badgeholders who have just RSVP’d, so always go up and ask at the door if you see a HUGE line. It might be worth asking! The worst they can do is send you to the back of the line.

All-Conference

Not specific to badge type…the Registrant’s Lounge is open all week, and is a chill place to get a free drink, mingle, and get ready for all those evening parties, films, and showcases! Note: Volunteers are NOT allowed into the Registrant’s Lounge. Sorry, guys. We can’t get ALL the perks. The Registrant’s Lounge is located in Brush Square Park, just across 4th street from the Convention Center. Speaking of Brush Square, there are parties going on at both the East side tent and West side tent ALL week! These usually feature free drinks, snacks/food, and bands.

Convergence

In the past few years, SXSW has introduced new concepts to compliment the big three conference areas. These include SXSW Gaming, SXSW Sports, and SXSW Comedy. Many of these Convergence events are open to all Registrants, no matter your type of badge.

Finally…

Always remember to have several back-up plans. Even with that badge, there may still be long lines, or they might run out of food or drinks, or the band you thought was playing that party may have cancelled. Always have a backup plan.

Enjoy that badge! You’ve earned (or paid for) it!

How to Own SXSW Like a BOSS

by Traci Marie Mondragon

One of the greatest things about living in Austin is SXSW: that magical week in March when technology, film, and music combine to create a tangible energy in our beloved city.  If you’re reading this post, then you definitely know what SXSW is, and you’ve probably experienced it.  And if you’re a Baller ATX friend and follower… you probably can’t afford a badge.  But there are SO many ways to do SXSW right…especially if you’re broke!  I’m about to give you the secrets to having the BEST possible SXSW experience of your life.

 

Give a little to Get a LOT

VOLUNTEER for SXSW. I know what you’re thinking. “I don’t have enough time to volunteer! So many hours! It’s too much work!” Okay, quit being ridiculous and get it together!!! You’re an adult. You’re smart. You’re capable.

Make your schedule work and sign up to volunteer. You work some (mostly easy) shifts, you get a badge. A badge most people pay WELL over $1200 for. It’s almost unbelievable! There are still plenty of crews who need volunteers, so head on over to volunteer.sxsw.com to learn more!

You’ll get into SO many parties, lounges, panels, films, shows, etc. that you wouldn’t have if you didn’t have that badge.

 

Can’t Volunteer?

RSVP till your fingers hurt. There are so many sites, Facebook groups, etc. that list free parties if you DON’T have a badge. So if you don’t take my first piece of advice, then do this. In fact, Baller ATX has a handy list to aid in your RSVPing.

 

Stay Safe

Gather your friends together and carpool, or better yet, split Rideshares. If the above tips are successful, you WILL be drinking A LOT. So be safe above ALL else.

 

Pace yourself!

SXSW means day drinking. My best advice? Stop drinking at about 8pm. Especially if you have a badge and will be going to night showcases. You won’t make it to that headliner you’re dying to see on the Friday night of Music if you are drinking from noon-4am every night that week. And even if you do you’ll feel miserable and probably won’t remember much.

 

Finally… Have FUN

If you’re anything like me, SXSW is your Christmas, birthday, and Mardi Gras all rolled into one amazing week. Make it count, make it last, and make it memorable. But most importantly make it safe so you can make it out again next year! And the year after that and the year after that…

 

Stay tuned for Volume 2 of Traci’s SXSW Tips Next Week!