South by Southwest is Austin's most significant cultural event—a multi-week festival that began as a music showcase in 1987 and has grown into a global convergence of film, music, interactive technology, and culture. SXSW draws hundreds of thousands of visitors, fills every venue in the city with performances, and turns Austin into the center of the creative and tech universe. The Interactive portion launches products and ideas, the Film Festival premieres major movies, and the Music Festival showcases thousands of artists across hundreds of venues. For Austin residents, SXSW is both a source of pride and a beloved disruption.
Event Highlights
- ★Thousands of musical performances
- ★Film premieres
- ★Tech industry convergence
- ★Celebrity sightings
- ★Free outdoor shows
What to Expect
- ➤Crowded city center
- ➤Music everywhere
- ➤Tech industry buzz
- ➤Film screenings
- ➤Incredible networking
Event History
SXSW began in 1987 as a music festival and has grown into one of the world's most important creative industry events, helping launch careers from Twitter to Billie Eilish.
Insider Tips
- Many free events without a badge
- Book lodging months in advance
- Use public transit—parking is impossible
- Explore unofficial showcases