SXSW pro-tips from an Austin local

Every Austinite struggles with South By Southwest (SXSW) in some fashion.  You may be one of those who finds routes to avoid the crowds, while avoiding downtown like the plague.  Scratch that cliche; we have unfortunately learned recently that we don’t really avoid the plague. Perhaps you flee the bustling city altogether, or you’re intent on “proving” SXSW isn’t cool anymore. These SXSW pro-tips may help you navigate the festival a bit better.

There are many myths about SXSW.  Hopefully this might clear up some unanswered questions, and possibly offer helpful insights regarding the festival. Some may seem obvious, but plenty of good folks are apprehensive about checking out the festival or regularly attend and need a little reminder. The Cosmic Clash is happy to help. 

Wristbands and Badges create so much confusion. First, many assume that in order to enjoy SXSW, a wristband or badge must be purchased.  This is not true. In order to attend most official events, this is the case, but there is a catch.
Before you pull the trigger on a wristband, know that access is tiered. Badges receive priority, meaning that even with a wristband, you may not access all events. This is more often than not the case with small capacity venues.

Many assume that the festivities only happen at night. This is completely false. Many of the prime goings on are popping off throughout each day, with most bars, clubs, and restaurants hosting day parties starting in the late morning/early afternoon. Music fans can reference our SXSW 2023 day party page to see a curated list of day parties we like. When possible the image links to the corresponding RSVP page. 

In order to maximize your SXSW daytime experience, here are a few pointers:

Use public transportation.   To avoid the stresses of finding a parking spot, and having to drive home exhausted, in heavy traffic, do yourself a favor and catch the bus or train. Austin’s public transport organization, Capitol Metro has a page dedicated to getting around during SXSW.  You may have to rideshare home, but this eases your stress significantly, so you can truly enjoy the day. 

Pace yourself. Again, this seems obvious, but if you plan on making a day out of it, and staying for the nighttime revelry, take it slowly.  Treat yourself to a glass of water between alcoholic beverages. It’s easy to spot an exhausted fan who didn’t pace themselves hailing an Uber home in the late afternoon before the really big acts hit the stage in the evening.

Don’t wait in long lines. Most importantly, know that you are going to miss something. Everyone who has ever indulged in the 10-day event has found themselves in the throes of this predicament. There is so much going on; how do you choose which event to check out? If there is a long line, save yourself aggravation and move on to your plan B (more on that later).  Be content with missing something you’ll most likely hear others raving about later. Besides, the national touring acts at SXSW often come back through Austin within six months. If you missed an act you wanted to see, it’s likely they’ll be back. 

If there’s not a particular band you’d like to peep, just get lost.  Wander through the streets of Austin and follow your senses.  Catch a new band, try a new restaurant or food truck. For locals, it can be eye-opening to act like a tourist in your own city. Try it.  Often, the best live music is found at an unofficial showcase put on by a local eatery or drinking hole. You never know what you’ll stumble on like the time our Editor walked into a Dental office on Congress Avenue during Sx and saw Carolyn Wonderland slay her guitar like Muddy Waters and sing like Janis. 

If there is a band you are set on seeing, accept that you may not during Sx. Play the odds and look up their shows. Many artists play multiple events during the festival. Have a backup plan for the area surrounding each, and plan to get there a bit early. Odds are you’ll get in, but don’t bet the farm on it.

East Sixth and the Red River Cultural District are full of gems during the day; as is the Rainey Street area near the Austin Convention Center.

Hopefully these tips will lend you a stress-free SXSW experience. Remember, even though there will be a ton of “tech bros” in town, act as an ambassador to Austin. Be friendly, helpful and courteous. Also tip your bartenders at that day party with all the complimentary alcoholic beverages. The drinks may be free but your bartender isn’t volunteering. You should at least tip if the drink is free. Right?!

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