South by Southwest can be better described by what it’s not. With film, comedy and music festivals and all sorts of industry conferences, the weeks-long expo-fest is like a mega influencer trying to cover every possible base and reach every possible audience. In fact, we likely have SXSW to thank in part for this approach, and for shaping our current digital and cultural landscape. The festival has a taste-maker and trend-setter for years now. Austin has changed drastically around it — for good and bad — because of SXSW’s presence. (The festival, which first debuted in 1987, has been around long enough to have an “Iconic Moments” section on its website section.)
Moments from last year include Eric Andre’s standup and performance of his talk-show spoof The Eric Andre Show, as well as the premiere of Evil Dead Rise. On the tech side there were, of course, endless conversations about the implications and possibilities of AI.
As for SXSW 2024, there will be expos of creative industries in tech and health, the Flatstock 92 expo of poster artists, a virtual reality expo, as well as tons of (*deep breath*) live music, music showcases, screenings, latest announcements, conference sessions, meetups, happy hours, keynotes and the always-present tug at your professional FOMO with “knowing” programming (“artists to know”, “staying in the know” and “know before you go” are always on at SXSW.). If you’re attending for the first time, expect the gamut to run from within-reach topics like various hacks and music basics (showcases of local artists) to aspirational stuff like “the future” and humanity. (*Said with straight face.*)
Per usual, the conference happens all over Austin and is centered at the convention center.
This year’s music showcase will cover acts from all over the globe, including United Kingdom post-punk group Dry Cleaning, Colombian psych-funk BALTHVS, New York City punk band cumgirl8, Spain’s Hinds and Rawayana, one of Venezuela’s biggest acts. And the even bigger name this year? The Black Keys.
The Specs
- SXSW 2023 drew over 345,000 people.
- Music passes are $945. Film & TV passes are $1495. Interactive passes are $1595. Platinum passes are $1990.
- Enhance your experience by checking out the festival’s apps here.
- Check out Fifty Grande’s guide to Texas here.
FAQs
What is the closest airport to the festival?
Austin-Bergstrom International is a 20-minute drive to the conference.
Where does SXSW 2024 take place?
The conference takes place all around Austin with the main hub being the Austin Convention Center.
What is the Austin Convention Center’s address?
500 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
When does the film festival take place?
March 8-16.
What are the venues for the SXSW film festival?
The film festival takes place at Paramount Theatre, Atom Theater at the Austin Convention Center, Zach Theater, Stateside Theater, Rollins Theatre, Alamo Lamar, Alamo Ritz and Griffin Hall at JW Marriott. Satellite venue is AFS Cinema.
When does the music festival take place?
March 11-16.
Where do the live music events take place?
Live music events take place around Austin at places like ACL Live, Stubb’s, Marshall Funhouse, Courtyard ATX Live Music Venue, Do512 Lounge, Saxon Pub and many others.
Is the festival ADA accessible?
Yes, but you must contact the conference before February 24, 2024 for accommodations. See SXSW’s contact info here.
What is the bag policy?
Bags must be clear and not exceed 14x12x6.
Is there lodging nearby?
The conference is partnered with local Austin hotels. You can explore their housing options here.
What are the venues for the SXSW film festival?
The film festival takes place at Paramount Theatre, Atom Theater at the Austin Convention Center, Zach Theater, Stateside Theater, Rollins Theatre, Alamo Lamar, Alamo Ritz and Griffin Hall at JW Marriott. Satellite venue is AFS Cinema.
How far us UT Austin from the Austin Convention Center?
The convention center is two miles south.