Free Festival Fun
The best official SXSW events that are totally free to attend
Your SXSW experience doesn't have to break the bank. Here's the lowdown on the best free official SXSW happenings throughout the entire festival, which runs March 10-19. All you need to get in is a Guest Pass, and it won't cost you a dime.
SXSW Create
This community-oriented showcase at the Palmer Events Center offers cool tech-driven demonstrations and activities for innovators of all ages. March 10-12.
General Assembly + SXSW
The folks at General Assembly are hosting a variety of educational panels for those looking to learn more about fundamentals of business for musicians and technology for everyone. March 10-12.
SXSW Outdoor Film Screenings
SXSW is bringing back its free film series at the Long Center. Catch the original animated version of Ghost in the Shell, a 20th anniversary screening of '90s grunge doc Hype!, and new content from Cartoon Network. March 11-14.
SXSW Job Market
Sure, SXSW is about partying and having fun, but the festival is also about networking. Connect with some of the hottest companies and employers during the SXSW Job Market at the Austin Convention Center. New this year is a stage showcasing speeches from top businesses and professionals.March 11-12.
SXSW Outdoor Stage at Lady Bird Lake
SXSW's annual outdoor music showcase returns for three days. Our advice? Come early and prepare for a massive crowd. Residente headlines Thursday, and a big-name lineup will perform a Prince tribute on Friday. Saturday's bill has yet to be released. March 16-18.
Flatstock at SXSW
Flatstock is a long-running tradition at the Austin Convention Center, displaying beautiful work from top poster artists. Peruse the collection and purchase a few new additions for your office or home. March 16-18.
SXSW Marketplace
The first-ever SXSW Marketplace at the Austin Convention Center (next to Flatstock) is a curated exhibition of local and national brands selling everything from tech to jewelry. March 16-18.
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This year, the SXSW Gaming Expo costs $25 to attend. You get three days worth of panels, tournaments, performances, and, of course, video games.