Every year, South by Southwest turns Austin into an international hub for music, tech and film, bringing in hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world.
While there are many festival events that are part of SXSW that require a festival badge, there are also exciting opportunities that are completely free and open to the public. From block parties to poster art exhibitions, here are some ways you can get a taste of the excitement of SXSW without the cost.
Congress Avenue Block Party
New this year, the Congress Avenue Block Party is free and open to the public and held for the duration of SXSW. The festival says the block party includes free food, drinks and swag bags. SXSW says this event is a good place for festival attendees and local residents to unwind and connect.
When: March 12-18 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 900 Congress Ave.
FlatstockÂ
Flatstock showcases fine poster art from artists around the world, giving attendees the opportunity to view the artwork in person and meet the artists behind the designs.
When: March 13-15 from 10 a.m-5 p.m.
Where: Austin Marriott Downtown, 304 E. Cesar Chavez St.
Hair of the Three-Legged Dog Day PartyÂ
The Hair of the Three-Legged Dog party is held at Hotel Vegas, honoring Hank, The Austin Chronicle’s beloved three-legged pooch. The event will feature tacos, drinks and will also support Austin Pets Alive.
When: March 13 from 12-4 p.m.
Where: Hotel Vegas, 1502 E. Sixth St.
Just Southwest of Official
Just Southwest of Official is a party with live music and a vendor market hosted by The Good for Nothings Club. Attendees of the event will have access to a free photo booth and a chance to get a flash tattoo all while enjoying the lively atmosphere and connecting with others in the Austin community.
When: March 15 from 1-5 p.m.
Where: Better Half Coffee & Cocktails + Hold Out Brewing, 406 Walsh St.
Marshall: Live From Mohawk Â
Marshall: Live From Mohawk provides live music, a pop-up from Waterloo Records, multiple interactive activities — and popsicles. The event also showcases a vinyl shop and live screen-printing demonstrations.
When: March 16 from 12-6 p.m.
Where: The Mohawk, 912 Red River St.
Wear Happy, Meet Cute — SXSW single’s mixerÂ
The SXSW Single’s Mixer is a social gathering in a casual and relaxed environment. Enjoy complimentary beverage selections, curated swag items and interactive activities while building relationships and connecting with other attendees.
When: March 13 from 4-8 p.m
Where: 3000 E. Cesar Chavez St. Unit 100
RYZE Coffee Popup
RYZE Coffee’s pop-up is a three-day event where the public can get free lattes, special branded merchandise and engaging art experiences. There will be morning yoga classes and entertainment during the day, creating a vibrant environment during the festival.
When: March 12-14 from 8 a.m-5 p.m.
Where: 147 E. Fourth St.
SXSW Pickle Party
Grillo’s Pickles is holding its fourth annual St. Pickles Day, which is co-sponsored by Pabst Blue Ribbon and Camp Snap Camera. Attendees will delight in complimentary pickles and hot dogs, live screen-printing workshops and opportunities for flash tattooing.
When: March 15, from 1 p.m-midnight
Where: 1502 E. Sixth St.
Black Makers MarketÂ
The Black Makers Market is a community event that will spotlight over 40 Black-owned businesses offering art, fashion, beauty, wellness and other products while celebrating Black creativity and culture.
When: March 14 from 12-4 p.m.
Where: Carver Museum, 1165 Angelina St.
Honorable mention: KUTX Live at Scholz Garten
A nearly free SXSW event from our sister music station, KUTX Live at Scholz Garten brings you live music and coffee in exchange for a $10 entry fee that benefits the Central Texas Food Bank.
When: March 12-14, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Where: Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.