The 2025 iteration of South by Southwest (SXSW) kicks off on Friday, March 7, and as has long been the case with the festival, you don’t really need a badge or a wristband to get out and take part in it. If you’re curious as to where to go, here are 10 free events and activations that are sure to be worth the effort.

Most of these events give priority to whomever arrives first, but read carefully in case you need to reserve space.

Stay tuned for a list of free and low-cost music events coming soon.

Criterion Mobile Closet – March 7-10
If you’ve been on the internet at all in the last couple of years, then you’ve surely seen “filmmakers, stars, and creative luminaries” excitedly take part in the Criterion Closet Picks video series. Well, now it’s your turn to explore the collection and make your own video. The Criterion Mobile Closet will be parked in front of the Paramount Theatre (at West 8th St. and Congress Avenue) from March 7-10. Get in line early, as this is sure to be a popular activation.

Museum Of The Future – March 7-11
The Dubai Future Foundation’s flagship project, Museum of The Future, will make its SXSW debut at 3rd St. and Congress Avenue from March 7-11. This immersive experience will feature interactive AI exhibits, curated talks, and your chance to indulge in a TikTok sensation: the original Dubai chocolate bars from Fix Dessert Chocolatier. Badges have priority entrance here, but it is otherwise open to the public.

Pop Up Grocer – March 7-April 6
While not explicitly a part of SXSW, Pop Up Grocer will be opening its doors at the onset of the festival, Friday, March 7, and will certainly be a hot spot for attendees. The NYC-based specialty grocery store can be experienced at 513 East 6th St., and what you’ll find there is “more than 400 products from over 100 brands, spanning categories like food, beverage, home goods, body care and more.”

Alien: Earth experience – March 7-8
Noah Hawley, the writer and creator of the Fargo series, has a new show coming called Alien: Earth, and FX will be giving fans a first look at it via a spaceship wreckage site at 318 East 5th St. on March 7 and 8. The immersive experience will send attendees on “an exploratory mission through the ship wreckage where they will have the chance to get up close and personal with alien specimens.” Priority entrance goes to badge holders, but it’s also open to the public.

Hook ‘Em House – March 7-8
Toss on your finest burnt orange attire and get to Antone’s on March 7 and 8 for Hook ‘Em House. The event will have “photo-worthy installations, conversations with world-class academics and entrepreneurs, live music performances and podcast tapings, an International Women’s Day breakfast event, and more.” Tickets are free but need to be reserved here.

Energia Pura Vida – March 7-8
Essential Costa Rica is back for the second year in a row with their Energia Pura Vida experience, and you can get in on it at Fareground on March 7 and 8. Not only will you be able to grab a cup of Costa Rican coffee, get a massage, and take in the sights and sounds of Costa Rica via an AR setup, but you’ll also be able to get registered to win a trip to the Central American country. Each day is open to everyone until 5 pm, then badge holders get priority entrance.

Keep It Local, Yokels – March 9
If you would like to feel like you’re festing without really being in the middle of it, then look no further than Keep It Local, Yokels, which is set to happen on Sunday, March 9, at 1614 East 12th St. The event will have live music, vendors, a tattoo artist, and food and beverage offerings. Be sure to RSVP.

Flatstock – March 11-13
Don’t just roll out of SXSW with hazy memories of what you saw and experienced; get yourself something tangible, like a great show poster or sticker, at Flatstock. This free event will be open to all at the Austin Convention Center in Exhibit Hall 5 from March 11-13.

The Texas Film Experience – March 12
Curious about the world of film production? Then get to the Capitol on Sunday, March 12, for the Texas Film Experience, a live set that will serve as your chance to “explore the artistry behind each film department and chat with the talented professionals behind iconic Texas films and TV shows including Yellowstone, Landman, Spy Kids, Friday Night Lights, and more.”

All Things Food – March 13-14
With a “delicious complementary all-day menu, drinks, live performance and entertainment, special interactive experiences, and 100+ luminary speakers,” All Things Food is a can’t-miss affair set to happen at Barr Mansion on March 13-14. The events are free but you’ll need to register for tickets HERE. Don't wait!