SXSW 2019
The best SX events in East Austin
Words by Sam Lauron
It’s almost that time of year again. South by Southwest is just around the corner, and with it comes a variety of music-focused, fun-filled events—both official and unofficial. If you don’t want to venture too far from the Eastside during the festivities, here are some of the best events happening in East Austin during the two-week long affair.
Hotel Hot Burrito Unofficial SX Kick Off
Hotel Vegas can always be counted on to throw a major party once SXSW rolls through town. And this year is no exception! Join Hotel Vegas and The Volstead for their annual unofficial music event on Tuesday, March 12. Featuring three stages, both indoor and outdoor, there will be no shortage of live performances to enjoy throughout the day and into the night. Doors open at 1pm and the music lasts until 2am.
1502 E. 6th St. | facebook.com/hotelvegas
SaulPaul at Doris Miller Auditorium
Add a stop at Doris Miller Auditorium to the itinerary to enjoy an official showcase by local artist, SaulPaul on March 14. SaulPaul’s inspirational music ranges in style from pop to rap, but no matter what style he’s singing, the singer-songwriter’s mission remains the same: to spread his motivational messages.
2300 Rosewood Ave. | saulpaul.com
Girls Rock Austin Annual SX Day Party
Girls Rock Austin is dedicated to empowering all young girls through music education, mentorship and performance. To celebrate this mission, the organization will be hosting its annual SXSW party on Friday, March 15, from 12-7pm. Taking place at Batch, the free event will include performances featuring artists from around the world. The family-friendly event will also include raffle prizes.
3220 Manor Rd. | girlsrockaustin.org
Sober by Southwest
Presented by Sans Bar and Recovery Happy Hour podcast, Sober by Southwest is the first event of its kind. Join artists, festival goers and more for a social event filled with live music, ‘mocktails,’ arcade games, and even some B12 shots. The event is taking place on Saturday, March 16, at Urban Co-Lab from 12-7pm. Ticket prices start at $35 and include all-day access to the event and unlimited mocktails.
1818 E. 12th St. | soberbysouthwest.com
South by East 5th
To kick off the first weekend of SXSW, join local events studio, REVELRY, for a daytime market taking place from March 8-10 around the studio’s block. Shop from local makers as well as neighboring shops: Amanda Deer, ARO, and Succulent Native. Located just east of the downtown happenings, REVELRY is ready to provide festival-goers with a refreshing break from it all with a little shopping, music, and family-friendly fun.
902 E. 5th St., Unit 105 | facebook.com/thisisrevelry
Haymaker 2019 Crawfish Boil
Need to fuel up before diving into all that SXSW has to offer? Head to Haymaker for their annual crawfish boil on March 9. The bar will be serving up 1,400 pounds of crawfish and drink specials that include $2 beers, $1 off beer cocktails, and $1 Jell-O shots. The event starts at 2pm, so be sure to get there right on time to snag a plate of food before they run out!
2310 Manor Rd. | facebook.com/haymakeraustin