Top SXSW Picks: Best Events in Austin
What to do during SXSW 2022 and a few ways to avoid it, too.
Words by Abby L. Johnson Photo by Aaron Rogosin
The return of SXSW is imminent, and whether you’re overjoyed to have the annual festival back in-person, or you’re looking to avoid the crowds, we have you covered. So here is a roundup of some of our favorite official and unofficial happenings, and even a non-SXSW event just for you.
1. Luck Reunion
March 17, 11am- 11pm
Get out of town and enjoy the 10th anniversary of this self-proclaimed ‘anti-festival’ hosted at the incomparable Willie Nelson’s Ranch. Concert goers will enjoy sets by Willie Nelson & Family, Japanese Breakfast, Allison Russell, Weyes Blood, and many more (see the full line-up here). Though this coveted event is sold out, there is a waitlist available and an official ticket resale market, found here.
1100 Bee Creek Rd., Spicewood, TX, 78669 | luckpresents.com | @luckreunion
2. Road to Vendetta Music Fest
March 16, 11am-9pm
Celebrate the upcoming launch of Vendetta Music Fest, a new, Austin-born festival that benefits Imagine-A-Way, ALL ATX, and The Broad Institute. 50% of every dollar made at the festival and this showcase goes to those nonprofits. This free event will feature performances from Zach Person, Emily Wolfe, and many more! Make sure to reserve your free tickets ahead of time.
7400 Cooper Ln. | RSVP Here | vendettamusicfest.org | @vendettamusicfest
3. Austin Film School Cinema Showcase:
March 12, 2pm
This showcase of short films created by Austin School of Film students from 2019-2022 is free and open to the public. Ranging from experimental works to documentaries to music videos, this collection from budding directors is sure to entertain.
2200 Tillery St. | austinfilmschool.org | @austinschooloffilm
4. Unofficial Showcase Presented by Black Austin Musicians Collective and OVRLD
March 11, 2-7pm
Central Machine Works will host this unofficial free showcase featuring performances by Jonny Jukebox, Urban Heat, Alesia Lani, Geto Gala, and Jackie Venson. Grab a cold one, a group of friends, and enjoy the live music and great atmosphere found at CMW.
4824 E Cesar Chavez St. | cmwbrewery.com | @central.machine.works
5. What Once Was Launch Party at Carver Museum
March 12, 12-4pm
In partnership with Six Square and E4 Youth, this mixed reality project gives viewers a glimpse into historically significant sites, paying particular attention to the changes brought about by gentrification in Black and Brown neighborhoods. Additionally, attendees can browse offerings at an onsite Black owned business vendor market. This event is free and open to the public.
1165 Angelina St. | Official Event Page | @whatoncewasproject
6. Just Food: Community, Culture, and Economy
March 11, 2:30-5pm
Join in on this important conversation about our food systems hosted at Huston-Tillotson University. Over 20 experts will discuss the future for food at this free, thought-provoking event. Though this panel is open to the public, space is limited so make sure to RSVP.
900 Chicon St. & Virtual | RSVP Here | Official Event Page
7. The Left Eye Collective Vintage Market
March 19, 12-6pm
Enjoy the cool vibes and support local vendors at Kinda Tropical while shopping vintage clothing, jewelry, home goods, and art at this free, unofficial SXSW market. Then make sure to indulge Mezcal Paloma and Yucca Fries while there!
3501 E 7th St. | Event Page | kindatropical.com | @kindatropical
8. Springdale Station’s Eastside Official Unofficial SXSW Party
March 11, 7-9pm
Party it up for free at one East Austin’s most historic event venues, Springdale Station. Springdale is set to partner with Austin Eastciders, Dulce Vida Tequila, and a host of other party vendors to make this open house an evening to remember.
979 Springdale Rd. | RSVP Here | springdalestation.com | @springdalestation
9. Veracruz All Natural Presents: Hot Tacos
March 11-19, 11am-2am
Fuel your SXSW experience with a new taco concept brought to Austin by none other than Veracruz All Natural. The menu will feature an assortment of unique combinations, including vegan Al Pastor Cauliflower and cochinita pibil with consomé. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to taste these exciting new creations from a much loved Austin taco staple.
75 Rainey St. | @hottacosusa
10. Side One Track One & 101X Homegrown Live at Hotel Vegas
March 13, Doors at 2pm, 21+ only
This free showcase at East Austin’s own Hotel Vegas will feature an extensive lineup of local artists, such as Dossey, Calliope Musicals, and Mobley. Get a taste of local sounds at one of the most exciting and authentically Austin venues.
1502 E 6th St. | Event Page | texashotelvegas.com | @hotelvegastexas
11. unf0ld at Distribution Hall
March 12-14, 12-6pm
Confused by NFTs or love them? Either way, take this free opportunity to discover what they’re all about at this unique, unofficial SXSW art show. Event space Distribution Hall will host an NFT gallery, unf0ld, organized by Nightshift and presented by NFT marketplace Open Sea.
1500 E 4th St. | distributionhall.com | @distributionhall
To find a complete list of official SXSW events happening in East Austin, see the schedules linked below (wristbands may be required for some events).
Official Participating East Austin Venues:
Antone’s
ARRIVE East Austin
Hotel Vegas
Huston-Tillotson University
Inn Cahoots
Native
Revival Coffee
Historic Scoot Inn
Carver Museum
