Slightly Updated SXSW 2016 Unofficial Guide
SXSW is a Music, Film and Interactive conference from March 13 – 22, which provides a chance to party with some of the greatest people on Earth. (Official SXSW Site)
SXSW 2014 had over 2300 official and unofficial artists!
Stuff
Hardcore
- ID
- Cash/Credit card
Everyone Else
- Bag – to hold other supplies and free swag (Timbuk2 Messenger Bag)
- Poncho – Weather is crazy in Austin
- Comfortable Shoes – e.g. Nike Air Pegasus
- Sunscreen – at least SPF30
- Lip balm
- Wet-wipes
- Quality Ear Plugs – Keeps ears healthy and drowns out side conversations (Etymotic Research ER20)
- Extended battery pack – Your phone will die (small or large)
- Phone Charger – You may forget to recharge your extended battery pack
- Print outs of the parties you want to go to –Your phone will be slow
Getting Around
- Pedicabs – staple of SXSW travel $5 – $20 to get most places
- Taxis – Head to a hotel or I-35 access road to catch one
- Taxis Alternatives – Uber and Lyft
- Parking – Try to get downtown before noon
- Walking – Lots
- Bicycles – Helps cut down on the walking
Parties
Many SXSW attendees are here for business. So, expect a lot of side conversation during performances. If you are there for the music try to get to the front and remember earplugs.
- RSVP for everything – create a separate email account (rsvpster)
- Have a backup plan or four – print them out (phones die)
- Arrive early – lining up an hour or two early is sometimes the only way to get into a “must see” party or shows
- If you are not having fun, leave
- Find new music
- Make friends
- Tip the bartender – even if the drinks are free
Food
- Some parties will have food – Check the RSVP (follow @SouthByFreeNOMS on Twitter)
- Food Trucks are awesome
- Taco, Taco, Taco– (Torchy’s Secret Menu – my pick is Trailer Park Hillbilly Style)
- BBQ – If you need a break and have a car head to Lockhart for authentic Central Texas BBQ
- Many more – Check Yelp or Urban Spoon
Official Music Showcases
- Arrive early
- Usually you can get in after the badges and wristbands for $5 – $15
Must Follow Twitter Party People