<\/p>\n
Puzzled Panther performs at the Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Lainey Wilson performs at Stubb\u2019s as she promotes her new Netflix movie, \u201cLainey Wilson: Keepin’ Country Cool\u201d during South by Southwest in Austin, Tuesday, March 17, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Lainey Wilson performs at Stubb\u2019s as she promotes her new Netflix movie, \u201cLainey Wilson: Keepin’ Country Cool\u201d during South by Southwest in Austin, Tuesday, March 17, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling performers wear Buc-ee’s beaver costumes as they wrestle in the all-female Texas Stampede showcase during South by Southwest in Austin, Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Joshi Pro Wrestling blends WWE-style combat entertainment and Japanese pop idol culture into wrestling performances.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestler Mizuki body slams Suzume in the all-female Texas Stampede showcase during South by Southwest in Austin, Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Joshi Pro Wrestling blends WWE-style combat entertainment and Japanese pop idol culture into wrestling performances.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestler Mizuki is carried by Miu Watanabe as they wrestle in the all-female Texas Stampede showcase during South by Southwest in Austin, Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Joshi Pro Wrestling blends WWE-style combat entertainment and Japanese pop idol culture into wrestling performances.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The audience reacts to a hit as they watch Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestling in the all-female Texas Stampede showcase during South by Southwest in Austin, Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Joshi Pro Wrestling blends WWE-style combat entertainment and Japanese pop idol culture into wrestling performances.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Tokyo Joshi Pro Wrestler Miyu Yamashita suspends Shoko Nakajima from the top rope during their match in the all-female Texas Stampede showcase during South by Southwest in Austin, Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Joshi Pro Wrestling blends WWE-style combat entertainment and Japanese pop idol culture into wrestling performances.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Los Lonely Boys \u2014 from left, Henry Garza, JoJo Garza and Ringo Garza \u2014 react onstage as Ray Benson performs during his 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ray Benson is handed a guitar as he walks onstage to perform with his band Asleep at the Wheel during his 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ray Benson, right, performs with his band Asleep at the Wheel during his 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A crowd gathers for Ray Benson\u2019s 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. Benson and his band Asleep at the Wheel performed during the event, which benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show performs during Ray Benson\u2019s 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. Secor joined Benson and his band Asleep at the Wheel as a guest performer. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Jimmie Vaughan performs during Ray Benson\u2019s 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. He joined Benson and his band Asleep at the Wheel as a guest performer. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Jazz guitarist Stanley Jordan performs during Ray Benson\u2019s 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. He joined Benson and his band Asleep at the Wheel as a guest performer. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ray Benson, left, performs with Jimmie Vaughan during his 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Hayes Carll performs during Ray Benson\u2019s 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. He joined Benson and his band Asleep at the Wheel as a guest performer. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ray Benson performs with his band Asleep at the Wheel during his 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ray Benson, left, and jazz guitarist Stanley Jordan greet 93-year-old fan Imogene Bass of San Antonio after performing with Benson\u2019s band Asleep at the Wheel during his 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Jimmie Vaughan stands near a tour bus after performing during Ray Benson\u2019s 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. He joined Benson and his band Asleep at the Wheel as a guest performer. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Jimmie Vaughan carries his guitar after performing during Ray Benson\u2019s 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. He joined Benson and his band Asleep at the Wheel as a guest performer. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Los Lonely Boys \u2014 from left, Henry Garza, JoJo Garza and Ringo Garza \u2014 perform as the opening act at Ray Benson\u2019s 75th Birthday Bash at GSD&M during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The annual event benefits the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, a nonprofit that provides health care access for local musicians.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A star for Jeffrey Epstein is seen in the \u201cJeffrey Epstein Walk of Shame\u201d installation on Brazos Street during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The display, styled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, features star-shaped decals naming public figures reported to have ties to Epstein.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Jeff Browen of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, photographs the \u201cJeffrey Epstein Walk of Shame\u201d installation on Brazos Street during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The display, styled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, features star-shaped decals naming public figures reported to have ties to Epstein. The installation appeared during SXSW and includes QR codes linking to documents and reporting related to Epstein and his associates.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Stars from the \u201cJeffrey Epstein Walk of Shame\u201d installation line Brazos Street during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The display, styled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, features star-shaped decals naming public figures reported to have ties to Epstein.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Pedestrians walk past a star for Ghislaine Maxwell in the \u201cJeffrey Epstein Walk of Shame\u201d installation on Brazos Street during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The display, styled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, features star-shaped decals naming public figures reported to have ties to Epstein. The installation appeared during SXSW and includes QR codes linking to documents and reporting related to Epstein and his associates.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A drone from Austin Drone Wash sprays water while cleaning the exterior of The Driskill hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin. The Austin-based company uses drones to wash commercial buildings and demonstrated the technology on the historic hotel during SXSW.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Johnny Walker of the Austin punk band The Riverboat Gamblers performs at Hotel Vegas during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Jessica Dye of the New York City rock band Jasno breaks her bass guitar during her performance at Hotel Vegas during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Austin rock band Ritual performs at Hotel Vegas during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
An advertisement for Charley Crockett\u2019s album \u201cAge of the Ram\u201d is seen on a sidewalk in downtown Austin, marked by tire tracks, during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The Lumineers perform at Waterloo Park during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The Lumineers perform at Waterloo Park during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Fans watch The Lumineers perform at Waterloo Park during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Jeremiah Fraites, left, and Wesley Schultz of The Lumineers perform at Waterloo Park during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Members of the East Los Angeles band Los Lobos \u2014 from left, Cesar Rosas, Conrad Lozano, Louie Perez, David Hidalgo and Steve Berlin \u2014 perform during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin. The band is at SXSW in connection with the documentary \u201cLos Lobos: Native Sons,\u201d about its decades-long career.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Cesar Rosas of the East Los Angeles band Los Lobos performs at the Radio Day Stage at the Downright Austin Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin. The band is at SXSW in connection with the documentary \u201cLos Lobos: Native Sons,\u201d about its decades-long career.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
East Los Angeles band Los Lobos perform during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin. The band is at SXSW in connection with the documentary \u201cLos Lobos: Native Sons,\u201d about its decades-long career.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Conrad Lozano of the East Los Angeles band Los Lobos performs at the Radio Day Stage at the Downright Austin Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin. The band is at SXSW in connection with the documentary \u201cLos Lobos: Native Sons,\u201d about its decades-long career.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
David Hidalgo of the East Los Angeles band Los Lobos performs at the Radio Day Stage at the Downright Austin Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin. The band is at SXSW in connection with the documentary \u201cLos Lobos: Native Sons,\u201d about its decades-long career.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Cesar Rosas, right, of the East Los Angeles band Los Lobos takes a photo with Elias Olvera of Austin after performing at the Radio Day Stage at the Downright Austin Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin. The band is at SXSW in connection with the documentary \u201cLos Lobos: Native Sons,\u201d about its decades-long career.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Toronto, Canada, rock band Hot Garbage performs on the Radio Day Stage at the Downright Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Toronto, Canada, rock band Hot Garbage performs on the Radio Day Stage at the Downright Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Meg Elsier performs at the Marshall day party at The Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Brooklyn band Bloodsports perform at the Marshall day party at The Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Austin band Gran Moreno performs at the Marshall day party at The Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Hong Kong rock band Lucid Express performs at the Radio Day Stage at the Downright Austin Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026, in Austin. The band is at SXSW in connection with the documentary \u201cLos Lobos: Native Sons,\u201d about its decades-long career.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Meg Elsier performs at the Marshall day party at The Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
People wait in line at The Mohawk for the Marshall day party during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Monday, March 16, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Slash Need performs during the Grillo\u2019s \u201cSt. Pickle\u2019s Day,\u201d Showcase at Hotel Vegas during South by Southwest on Sunday, March 15, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n
Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The Spits perform during the Grillo\u2019s \u201cSt. Pickle\u2019s Day,\u201d Showcase at Hotel Vegas during South by Southwest on Sunday, March 15, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n
Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A fan crowd surfs while The Spits perform during the Grillo\u2019s \u201cSt. Pickle\u2019s Day,\u201d Showcase at Hotel Vegas during South by Southwest on Sunday, March 15, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n
Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Haylie Davis performs during the Fire Records, Songbird Creative and Anniversary Group Showcase at Hotel Vegas during South by Southwest on Sunday, March 15, 2026 in Austin.<\/p>\n
Aaron E. Martinez\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Dylan Gossett performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
In Color performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Dylan Gossett performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
In Color performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Dylan Gossett performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
In Color performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
In Color performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Dylan Gossett performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Dylan Gossett performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Dylan Gossett performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Dylan Gossett performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Scotty Alexander, of New Braunfels, skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Flags performs at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gus Baldwin and The Sketch performs at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A skater casts a shadow at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Emma Sue Cloudt, from Houston, skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Flags performs at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Aidan Morgan skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Emma Sue Cloudt, from Houston, skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gus Baldwin and The Sketch performs at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gus Baldwin and The Sketch performs at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gavin May skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gavin May skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gavin May skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Flags performs at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gavin May skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Simone Yael, from Chicago, checks out a Cirrus aircraft at the company\u2019s SXSW activation at the corner of 5th and Red River Streets, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Maxine McCormick, left, and Julia Von Dutch of the Brooklyn rock band The Dutch Kills do vocal warmups backstage before performing at Chess Club during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Maxine McCormick of the Brooklyn rock band The Dutch Kills sets up before her band\u2019s performance at Chess Club during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Alec Berry, from left, Julia Von Dutch and Maxine McCormick of the Brooklyn rock band The Dutch Kills perform at Chess Club during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Julia Von Dutch, left, and Maxine McCormick of the Brooklyn rock band The Dutch Kills perform at Chess Club during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Quinn XCII performs at Antone\u2019s during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Quinn XCII performs at Antone\u2019s during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The Only Bay Allstars play at Friends during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Famous Friend performs on the Radio Day Stage at the Downright Austin Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
New York punk band Balaclava performs at Hotel Vegas during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
James Walbourne, left, and Dave Page of the London rock band His Lordship performs at Hotel Vegas during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Kris Sonne, from left, James Walbourne and Dave Page of the London rock band His Lordship performs at Hotel Vegas during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Kris Sonne of the London rock band His Lordship drinks water and wipes sweat backstage after performing at Hotel Vegas during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ashley Kramer of Wichita, Kansas, poses in a photo booth at Space House during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin. The two-day activation focused on commercial space and space technology, bringing together founders, astronauts and technologists for talks and events.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Tony Diaz, founder of Industry Print Shop, and attendee Yumiko Suzuki of Tokyo create a screen-printed poster at Flatstock during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin. Flatstock is an exhibition and market featuring handmade, limited-edition posters by artists from around the world.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Poster artist Francisco Ramirez of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, hangs his posters at Flatstock during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin. Flatstock is an exhibition and market featuring handmade, limited-edition posters by artists from around the world.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A line of festivalgoers waits outside Blumhouse\u2019s SXSW Horror Trivia Meet-up at Swift\u2019s Attic during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin. The event reached capacity and additional attendees were turned away.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
James Distefano and Payton Cavin of Austin sit in a Zoox fully autonomous robotaxi that was displayed at the Line Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Camila Scop of Brazil steps out of a Zoox fully autonomous robotaxi that was displayed at the Line Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Austin.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A woman dressed as a slice of pizza rides a bicycle on West 2nd Street during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chino Pacas performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Brides walk along Congress Avenue in promotion of the upcoming Netflix horror series \u201cSomething Very Bad Is Going to Happen\u201d during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Christina Aguilera headlines the first day of the Sips & Sounds Music Festival during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Christina Aguilera headlines the first day of the Sips & Sounds Music Festival during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Fuerza Regida performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Christina Aguilera headlines the first day of the Sips & Sounds Music Festival during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Christina Aguilera headlines the first day of the Sips & Sounds Music Festival during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Charley Crockett performs at the Continental Club during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Charley Crockett performs at the Continental Club during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Charley Crockett leaves the stage after performing at the Continental Club during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Chino Pacas performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The crowd screams as Fuerza Regida performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The crowd screams as Fuerza Regida performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Fuerza Regida performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Linea Personal performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Fuerza Regida performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
SXSW attendees Ben Treat and Owen Whitworth play the new Invincible VS game at the arcade pop-up on Brazos Street in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
SXSW attendees Ben Treat and Owen Whitworth play the new Invincible VS game at the arcade pop-up on Brazos Street in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The Family Battenberg, a rock band from Cardiff, United Kingdom, performs at Valhalla during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The Family Battenberg, a rock band from Cardiff, United Kingdom, performs at Valhalla during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The Family Battenberg, a rock band from Cardiff, United Kingdom, performs at Valhalla during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Call Her Daddy podcast host Alex Cooper throws a pie at a man at the Unwell County Fair during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Michael Ebaugh gets a put thrown in his face at the Unwell County Fair during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Actor John Goodman passes out chili in the Blake Junior\u2019s food truck, in promotion of the new movie \u201cChili Finger,\u201d at South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
CrunchLabs founder Mark Rober unveils a robot during the \u201cAre You Faster Than a Robot?\u201d challenge at the Rivian Electric Roadhouse during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Austin. Rober and Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe hosted the event, challenging audience members to catch a falling $100 bill to test whether their reflexes were faster than a robot.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
CrunchLabs founder Mark Rober smears icing on the face shield of audience member Jim McClarty before he attempts to catch a falling $100 bill during the \u201cAre You Faster Than a Robot?\u201d challenge at the Rivian Electric Roadhouse during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Austin. Rober and Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe hosted the event, where audience members tried to catch a falling bill to see whether their reflexes were faster than a robot.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
An attendee plays \u201cpie a guy\u201d at the Unwell County Fair during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe, right, challenges Claire McClarty to catch a falling $100 bill while CrunchLabs founder Mark Rober distracts her with a megaphone during the \u201cAre You Faster Than a Robot?\u201d challenge at the Rivian Electric Roadhouse during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Austin. Scaringe and Rober hosted the event, where audience members tried to catch a falling bill to see whether their reflexes were faster than a robot. The robot also completed the test despite lights shining on its sensors, loud noises and icing smeared on its cameras.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe, left, challenges a robot to catch a falling $100 bill while CrunchLabs founder Mark Rober distracts it with a megaphone during the \u201cAre You Faster Than a Robot?\u201d challenge at the Rivian Electric Roadhouse during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Austin. Scaringe and Rober hosted the event, where audience members also tried to catch a falling bill to see whether their reflexes were faster than a robot. The robot completed the test despite lights shining on its sensors, loud noises and icing smeared on its cameras.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A robot catches a falling $100 bill dropped by Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe during the \u201cAre You Faster Than a Robot?\u201d challenge at the Rivian Electric Roadhouse during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Austin. Scaringe and CrunchLabs founder Mark Rober hosted the event, where audience members also tried to catch a falling bill to see whether their reflexes were faster than a robot. The robot completed the test despite lights shining on its sensors, loud noises and icing smeared on its cameras.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Takahiro and Hitomi Miyata look at a Tesla Cybercab on display at a pop-up event at Fareground Austin in downtown Austin during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026. The free event allows the public to get an up-close look at the Cybercab and Tesla\u2019s Optimus robot and continues through 10 p.m. Saturday, March 14.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Jessica Lee of Georgetown takes a photo with a Tesla Cybercab that was on display at a pop-up event at Fareground Austin in downtown Austin during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026. The free event allows the public to get an up-close look at the Cybercab and Tesla\u2019s Optimus robot and continues through 10 p.m. Saturday, March 14.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A Tesla Cybercab is on display at a pop-up event at Fareground Austin in downtown Austin during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026. The free event allows the public to get an up-close look at the Cybercab and Tesla\u2019s Optimus robot and continues through 10 p.m. Saturday, March 14.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Matt Barge of Austin looks at a Tesla Cybercab on display at a pop-up event at Fareground Austin in downtown Austin during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026. The free event allows the public to get an up-close look at the Cybercab and Tesla\u2019s Optimus robot and continues through 10 p.m. Saturday, March 14.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Josh West of Austin looks at a Tesla Cybercab on display at a pop-up event at Fareground Austin in downtown Austin during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Friday, March 13, 2026. The free event allows the public to get an up-close look at the Cybercab and Tesla\u2019s Optimus robot and continues through 10 p.m. Saturday, March 14.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Lola Young performs on the first night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gogol Bordello performs at the Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The All-American Rejects perform during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Sofia & the Antoinettes perform on the first night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The All-American Rejects perform during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Lola Young performs on the first night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gogol Bordello performs at the Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Boris and the Joy performs at the Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Grima, a rock\/shoegaze band from Burgos, Spain, performs at Shangri-La during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Fans mosh during the Gogol Bordello concert at the Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Gogol Bordello performs at the Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Puzzled Panther performs at the Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Grima, a rock\/shoegaze band from Burgos, Spain, performs at Shangri-La during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
An autonomous robot, Rizzbot, walks around giving compliments and insults to passers-by near SXSW activations on Congress Avenue during the first day of South by Southwest, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
at the Lone Star Roadhouse pop-up at East End Ballroom during South by Southwest in Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Alisha Revel jumps on Quincy Gause in a UFC ring photo op at Paramount+\u2019s The Lodge at Clive Bar in downtown Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The All-American Rejects perform during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
at the Lone Star Roadhouse pop-up at East End Ballroom during South by Southwest in Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Actress Demi Moore arrives for the world premiere of \u201cI Love Boosters\u201d at the Paramount Theatre during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Actor Eric Andr\u00e9 greets fans as he arrives for the world premiere of \u201cI Love Boosters\u201d at the Paramount Theatre during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Director Boots Riley arrives for the world premiere of \u201cI Love Boosters\u201d at the Paramount Theatre during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Julia Moreland, from Austin, plays the PWC Claw Machine at the SXSW Innovation Clubhouse in Brazos Hall on the first day of South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The All-American Rejects perform during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The All-American Rejects perform during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Shay Tressa of Madison, Wisconsin, walks along Congress Ave. during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A festival-goer waves a Feel Tech haptic device while watching an animated concert during the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The exhibition features global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies and new ideas across industries.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A Rivian R2 electric vehicle drives over a dirt obstacle course set up on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Festivalgoers could ride in the vehicles as part of Rivian\u2019s \u201cElectric Joyride\u201d demonstration.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Kelly Ritz of Walnut Creek, California, reacts while dancing with a Unitree G1 humanoid robot at the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during South by Southwest in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The expo brings together global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Andreas Aronsson of Raymond, Maine, holds Feel Tech haptic devices against his face while watching an animated concert during the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The exhibition brings together global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies and new ideas across industries.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Rivian R2 trucks drive on an off-road course at the SXSW Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue the first day of South by Southwest in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Muna Salah, from Washington D.C., tries out a musical vibrating hammock at the SXSW Innovation Clubhouse in Brazos Hall on the first day of South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A festival attendee plays the PWC Claw Machine at the SXSW Innovation Clubhouse in Brazos Hall on the first day of South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Zara Graciliano of Guadalajara, Mexico, poses for a photo at the Congress Avenue Block Party during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The event space on Congress Avenue is open throughout SXSW and is free and open to the public this year.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Rivian R2 Trucks navigate an off-road course at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue the first day of South by Southwest, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Kassidy Saba of Austin, from left, Aiden Blevins of New York and Haison Nguyen of Austin react to a Unitree G1 humanoid robot during the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The exhibition features global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies and new ideas.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
The Paramount Theatre, which hosts several red-carpet movie premieres during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Quinn XCII performs at Antone\u2019s during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Muna Salah, from Washington D.C., tries out a musical vibrating hammock at the SXSW Innovation Clubhouse in Brazos Hall on the first day of South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Festival-goers relax in the Film & TV Clubhouse at 800 Congress Ave. during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The venue serves as a gathering space for attendees with programming, panels and networking events focused on film and television.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Rivian R2 trucks drive on an off-road course at the SXSW Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue the first day of South by Southwest in Austin, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Rivian R2 Trucks navigate an off-road course at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue the first day of South by Southwest, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
An autonomous robot, Rizzbot, walks around giving compliments and insults to passers-by near SXSW activations on Congress Avenue during the first day of South by Southwest, Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Takahiro Yamamoto of Tokyo, Japan experiences a virtual reality demonstration from NHK Technologies during the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The exhibition brings together global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies and new ideas across industries.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Laurel Evans of Walnut Creek, California, dances with a Unitree G1 humanoid robot during the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The exhibition brings together global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies and new ideas.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A festival-goer holds a Feel Tech haptic device while watching an animated concert during the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The exhibition features global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies and new ideas across industries.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ryusuke Tomita of Chiryu, Japan, demonstrates a fabric-like speaker material developed by Tsuchiya Co. Ltd. during the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The exhibition features global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies and new ideas.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Tomas Bubenicek of Prague, Czech Republic, demonstrates the 3D-printed Prusacaster guitar at the Prusa Research booth during the SXSW Expo: International Innovations at the Fairmont Hotel during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals in Austin on Thursday, March 12, 2026. The exhibition features global companies and startups showcasing emerging technologies and new ideas across industries.<\/p>\n
Jay Janner\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Amanda Sink punches a dummy at the UFC activation at Paramount+\u2019s The Lodge at Clive Bar in downtown Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A staff member embroiders a personalized bandana at Paramount+\u2019s The Lodge at Clive Bar in downtown Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Anna Hanks and Erik Mossie light torches at the Survivor themed activation at Paramount+\u2019s The Lodge at Clive Bar in downtown Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
A disco armadillo is seen during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Patrons are served at \u201cThe Patch\u201d bar from \u201cLandman\u201d at Paramount+\u2019s The Lodge at Clive Bar in downtown Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
People take photographs at a \u201cLandman\u201d photo op at Paramount+\u2019s The Lodge at Clive Bar in downtown Austin Thursday, March 12, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Call Her Daddy podcast host Alex Cooper throws pies at men at the Unwell County Fair during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Men are dunked in water at the Unwell County Fair during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
An attendee plays ring toss at the Unwell County Fair during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Actor John Goodman visits the Blake Junior\u2019s food truck to pass out chili, in promotion of the new movie \u201cChili Finger,\u201d at South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Actor John Goodman visits the Blake Junior\u2019s food truck to pass out chili, in promotion of the new movie \u201cChili Finger,\u201d at South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Friday, March 13, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Brides walk along Congress Avenue in promotion of the upcoming Netflix horror series \u201cSomething Very Bad Is Going to Happen\u201d during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
An demonstration highlighting the Epstein files is seen on Red River and Fifth Street during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Ryan Gilfillian performs at Half Step during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
Protesters demonstrate against Capital Factory during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
People wait in line to visit the Paramount+ Lodge during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
An demonstration highlighting the Epstein files is seen on Red River and Fifth Street during South by Southwest as the festival celebrates its 40th year in Austin Saturday, March 14, 2026.<\/p>\n
Mikala Compton\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n
While crowds on the ground seemed sporadic during the the South by Southwest Music Festival, organizers tell the American-Statesman that attendance for music showcases was up 20% from last year.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
This figure might have saved the festival.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n
Penske Media Corporation took a controlling share of the 40-year-old conference and festival in 2021<\/a>. Its investment came with a more corporate approach to expansion, programming and expectations. The festival now hosts big ticketed events from Penske’s portfolio of publications, including Rolling Stone<\/a> and Billboard. There have also been significant staff layoffs<\/a> and clashes about who to invite.<\/p>\n From military\u00a0sponsors to calls for resistance<\/p>\n (L-R) Activist and comedian\u00a0Kamau Bell and actress\/activist Jane Fonda of The Committee for the First Amendment attend the “Say It Louder: Artists, Activism & the First Amendment Keynote” during the 2026 SXSW Conference And Festival at Hilton Austin on March 18, 2026 in Austin, Texas.\u00a0<\/p>\n Gary Miller\/FilmMagic<\/p>\n \u00a0Two years ago, military sponsors sparked more than 80 artists to cancel their appearances<\/a>. This year, longtime left-wing activist Jane Fonda gave SXSW\u2019s final major keynote on Wednesday; it was an anti-Trump plea for protest at the Hilton.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n Gavin May skates at the Cherries Wheels Mini Ramp Skate Jam at House Park in Austin, March 15, 2026.<\/p>\n Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n \u201cTyrants and authoritarians can\u2019t exist in a room with humor,\u201d Fonda, wearing a black \u201cResist\u201d T-shirt, told badge-holders on Wednesday. \u201cWhich is what artists do.\u201d<\/p>\n Her co-panelist, comic and documentarian W. Kamau Bell, didn\u2019t mince words.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n \u201cThere is a type of comedian here who wants to be in the front row of Trump’s inauguration,\u201d he said. He called out Austin for incubating podcast titan Joe Rogan<\/a>, whom he mentioned by name.<\/p>\n SXSW 2026 was about LinkedIn networking and finding new commodities, yes, but it also felt like a rebellion. Every night was a scavenger hunt for art struggling to justify its existence amid volatile oil prices.<\/p>\n Alanis Morissette performed her \u201890s hits over video backdrops about human rights abuses. On Wednesday at the Radio Day Stage, gay rapper Cameron McCloud performed a song about the Epstein files. TikTok-famous singer Lola Young read a diary entry off her phone about the troubling political times.<\/p>\n Showcases from international talent, rising stars<\/p>\n Dylan Gossett performs during the Big Loud at SXSW showcase at Stubbs, March 15, 2026 during South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n There were also incredible sounds from around the world.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n Malaysian rappers<\/a> and DJs self-funded a pilgrimage to SXSW \u2014 all to play Las Perlas, a 50-person tequila bar; next door at Seven Grand. Australian punk band SwapMeet inspired vigorous moshing. The British Music Embassy re-animated the otherwise-defunct Palm Door on Sixth, hosting confessional and wry art by breakout bands like Sarah Meth and Adult DVD.<\/p>\n A Czech piano player, B\u00e1ra Zmekov\u00e1, stunned at the Central Presbyterian Church, her vocals echoing beautifully. Kingston, Jamaica\u2019s Armanii oozed charisma and dropped one dancehall banger after another.<\/p>\n Buzzy new kids on the block like country songwriter Dylan Gossett debuted love letters to Austin.\u00a0JayDon, an 18-year-old who played Simba in the 2019 live-action \u201cLion King,\u201d danced and sang like a wholesome Chris Brown.\u00a0<\/p>\n Neon Sixth Street club Mala Fama hosted a hit parade of Spanish-language artists like San Antonio\u2019s Mariangela, who honestly\u00a0could be the next Selena.\u00a0<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n The Paradox played catchy, loud songs at an NFT party \u2014 the group just became the first Black band to top Billboard\u2019s alternative rock charts. Kendrick Lamar prot\u00e9g\u00e9 Ray Vaughn performed like a man possessed to close out the festival late Wednesday.<\/p>\n Industry veterans Lil Flip and John Popper simultaneously played their hits Tuesday night on the East Side: The Blues Traveler frontman threw several harmonicas into the audience after blasting the famed \u201cHook\u201d solo.<\/p>\n Chino Pacas performs on the second night of the SXSW Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at ACL Live in Austin, Friday, March 13, 2026 at South by Southwest Festival.<\/p>\n Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n The art delivered. But did it work?<\/p>\n Organizers told the Statesman that this was a \u201cprove-it\u201d year for music, the original of the SXSW disciplines, which now include technology, film, TV, education\u00a0and comedy, after all.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n It was \u201cfull with the right people,\u201d the fest\u2019s director of music, Dev Sherlock said: \u201ccool kids\u201d and \u201chardcore music fans.\u201d<\/p>\n In other words, Sherlock said, at SXSW \u201cbusiness is being done.\u201d Musicians are taking meetings and talking to labels, he said. Music wristband sales for the conference were up, organizers added, also noting that brands such as Netflix and Under Armour sponsored music events, as 7,000 daily attendees showed up to SXSW\u2019s free-to-the-public open-air block party.<\/p>\n SXSW in 2026 became decentralized amid the convention center teardown. So the host became, effectively, downtown Austin.<\/p>\n \u201cThis was the most ambitious reinvention of SXSW in our 40-year history,\u201d Tom Noonan, Visit Austin CEO, told the Statesman via email.\u201cThis ‘campus-style’ model provided a significant boost to our local ecosystem,\u201d he later added. Not all downtown businesses felt the benefit. Some owners of cafes and restaurants told the Statesman sales were down<\/a>. \u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n SXSW VP of Music Brian Hobbs said the proof is in the pudding. Rapper Russ gave a keynote speech, and then asked him last-minute to book a listening party for 100 fans so he could preview new music. Hobbs provided West Sixth nightclub Devil May Care \u2014 and a line quickly formed around the block, he said.<\/p>\n \u201cWe could have put Noah Kahan anywhere,\u201d Hobbs added.<\/p>\n But\u00a0SXSW specializes in pop-up concerts by arena headliners in small rooms that hold 500 people.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Puzzled Panther performs at the Mohawk during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Thursday, March 12,…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":212586,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[132,134,133],"class_list":{"0":"post-212585","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-austin","8":"tag-austin","9":"tag-austin-headlines","10":"tag-austin-news"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/212585","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=212585"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/212585\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/212586"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=212585"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=212585"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=212585"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}<\/p>\n
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