SXSW 2017 Unofficial Guide

SXSW 2017 Unofficial Guide

SXSW is a Music, Film, Interactive, and more conference from March 10 – 19 in Austin, TX, which provides a chance to party with some of the greatest people on Earth. (Official SXSW Site)

SXSWi – South by Southwest interactive is the conference where Twitter was launched and staring at your phone is expected. Understand SXSWi parties are more business with a side of music, booze, and food.

SXSW Film – The who’s who of Hollywood are all in town for the movies, parties, and music.

SXSW Music – The variety in music is unmatched by any festival in the world.   2016 had over 2000 official and unofficial artists playing multiple shows daily to break to the next level!  Theses artist are putting in work!

What to Bring

Hardcore
  • ID
  • Cash/Credit card
Everything Else

Getting Around

  • Pedicabs – staple of SXSW travel $15 – $40 to get most places
  • Taxis – Head to a hotel or I-35 access road to catch one
  • Taxis Alternatives 
    • Ride Austin – Promo code: zfyheui6 (first ride free up to $25)
    • Fare – Referral ID: James1010
    • Fasten – Promo Code: IX7952 ($5 off first ride)
    • InstaRyde – Promo Code: jqs70q
  • Capital Metro Buses
  • 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.

  • Follow these accounts on Twitter – they will provide the best unofficial SXSW updates
  • RSVP for everythingcreate a separate email account (RSVPster is a lifesaver)
  • 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
    • If you are networking remember business cards
  • Tip the bartender – even if the drinks are free

Food

  • Some parties will have food – Check the RSVP (follow @thefreenoms on Twitter)
  • Food Trucks are awesome
  • Taco, Taco, Taco– (Torchy’s Secret Menu – try the Trailer Park Hillbilly Style)
  • BBQ – Austin is becoming the BBQ capital of World but 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 $0 – $20

SXSW 2017 Playlists

2017 Must Follow Twitter Party People

SXSW 2017 Unofficial Guides, Party Lists, and Helpful Sites