Free SXSW 2023 Events You Can’t Miss

Official or unofficial, these events won’t cost an arm and a leg.

The tourists are upon us! With the imminent arrival of SX 2023 comes a mass influx of out-of-towners. While the increased traffic can be frustrating, there is plenty of fun to be had for Austinites who don’t hold a festival badge but want to expand their horizons, support local talent and businesses, and maybe indulge in what this city does best: live music and free beer. We’ve rounded up just a few of the free events happening this week for your SXSW convenience. Godspeed, y’all.

Female Founders SXSW Happy Hour
March 10, 6pm
Join a group of incredible business-minded women at Moontower Cider Company for networking, camaraderie, and of course, delicious cider. This event is hosted by Dell’s Women Entrepreneurship Network.
RSVP Here | 1916 Tillery St.

The Future of Food
March 10, 10:30am-4:55pm & March 11, 8am-6:35pm
This two-day event series centered on the food industry features interactive installations, tasty bites, and innovative ideas brought by thought-leaders, chefs, and industry professionals.
RSVP Here | 1400 Lavaca St.

Progress Coffee + Beer Grand Opening Crawfish Boil
March 11, 11am-7pm
Celebrate the opening of the new Cherrywood location of Progress Coffee + Beer. They will be serving 200 pounds of free crawfish while supplies last. Live music on the patio and free food are the perfect ways to welcome Progress to the Eastside.
RSVP Here | 3421 N I-35

Unofficial SXSW Contemporary Classical Day Party
March 11, 12-6pm
Join the KMFA team for a day of performances by local contemporary classical artists while sipping on complimentary beverages from Tito’s, Twisted X Brewery, Still Austin, and Reyes Distributing.
RSVP Here | 41 Navasota St.

SX Soundcheck Saturday at Hotel Vegas & The Volstead
March 11, 12pm-3am
Head down to bustling East 6^th and pop into the 15 hours of live music at Hotel Vegas. Catch performances from local talent such as Die Spitz and Deezie Brown. Visitors will also have the chance to shop Mutiny Market.
RSVP Here | 1502 E 6^th St.

The Muslim House @ SXSW
March 11, 12-5pm
The Muslim House is hosting a day of programming centered around Muslim representation in the media and combatting hatred, as well as film screenings followed by discussions on the topic.
RSVP Here | 617 Congress Ave.

Fostering Equity in Gentrified Communities
March 12, 1:30pm-2:30pm
The Carver Museum will host a discussion about the impacts of gentrification and how to build community in its wake. Who better to speak on this topic than our favorite historic locale that has had a front porch view of the inevitable change through the years?
More Info Here | 1165 Angelina St.

The Non-Obvious Future Normal Party
March 12, 7:30-10:30
Swan Dive will host the book launch party for Rohit and Henry’s new book, The Future Normal. Those who line up early will have the opportunity to receive a signed copy. Free drinks and food will be served as a DJ brings up the energy.
RSVP Here | 615 Red River St.

KOOP Radio & Jungle Records Unofficial SXSW Day Party
March 12, 12-6pm
This outdoor event by KOOP Radio and Jungle Records will feature live music spanning most every genre. From experimental to jazz to indie rock, the diverse talent is sure to impress. A curated complimentary pop-up bar will fuel the fun.
RSVP Here | 903 E 14^th St.

Vancouver Day at Canada House
March 12, 12-6pm
Head to Swan Dive for a full day of programming centered around the cultural hub of Vancouver. There will be a plethora of demonstrations, giveaways, and live music to enjoy.
RSVP Here | 615 Red River St.

Soundwaves: A Metaverse Music Concert
March 14, 8-8:20pm
For a reprieve from the crowds, stay home and enjoy this virtual music experience. No dressing up, no driving, and no waiting in lines necessary. The line-up includes Japanese rapper Verbal, while the rest of the artists are yet to be disclosed.
More Info Here | Virtual

The Tiarras at Stubb’s
March 14 8:40-9:10pm
This talented local group will take the stage at Stubb’s during a free showcase that starts at 7:30 and goes well into the evening, ending at 1am. If you choose to go to Stubb’s for only part of the day, we suggest being there for this exciting set that starts at 8:40pm.
More Info Here | 801 Red River St.