Finding the free stuff at SXSW
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Much of SXSW is only available to badge holders, but there are plenty of free concerts and pop-ups around town. Photo: Gary Miller/Getty Images
You don't need a badge or wristband to experience the fun of South by Southwest March 7-15.
Yes, but: Keeping up can be overwhelming. Here's a quick guide to the best free shows, parties and beyond.
Head to SXSW's official free events
SXSW officials recently announced a number of official free events, including concerts and a gig poster art exhibition March 11-13.
- You can find a lineup of free concerts at Auditorium Shores on Sunday from 3-7pm, with local artists like Sir Woman, Geto Gala and Pedal Steel Noah.
- Radio outlets from across the country and a collective of NPR music stations have curated a free lineup of musicians to enjoy March 10-15, 12-5pm each day in Brush Square Park.
Find brand activations
Brands spend a lot of money to take over Rainey Street businesses and other venues around downtown.
- The so-called activations — like this year's Prime Video pop-up at Hotel San José, and FX's "Alien: Earth" experience — often include free music, food, drinks and other giveaways.
- Pro tip: Stop by early. These spots get pretty busy, especially in the evenings, and organizers often prioritize badges and wristbands when they're at capacity.
Stop by local venues and businesses
Plenty of local hotels, bars and music venues are hosting their own unofficial SXSW events.
- Check social media and event pages, but here are some to get you started:
Cosmic Saltillo: The East Austin coffee shop and cocktail bar is hosting a free showcase with music and a wellness market March 14-16. Plus, there's free yoga on the rooftop 9-10am each morning.
Hotel San José: The hotel's "South by San José" remains one of the most popular recurring free events each year. Enjoy music and shop from local vendors in the parking lot of the hotel and Jo's Coffee, March 12-16.
Yeti: Yeti's annual music showcase is back at its South Congress store 12-6pm, March 15-17.
Scholz Garten: KUTX's live morning broadcast from Scholz Garten returns to SXSW March 12-15 at 8am to noon each day. A $10 entry donation goes to the Central Texas Food Bank.
- KUTX will also host a free showcase at Lefty's Brick Bar on March 12 at 7pm.
The Peach House: Lululemon's resale shop, Like New, will take over Pilates studio The Peach House for free workout classes March 8-9 and a community run on March 9.
Still Austin Whiskey: BMI's annual "Howdy Texas" party will be held at Still Whiskey, with free performances from nine Texas-based artists from March 11-14.
The bottom line: Check social media, assume you should RSVP and be prepared to pivot.
- SXSW is all about going with the flow and knowing when it's time to ditch that long line to find something better.