SXSW 2026 free events in Austin: Music, showcases and parties

Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.

Masked country singer Orville Peck performs a free concert at the Rivian Electric Joyride on Congress Avenue during the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in downtown Austin.

Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

The South by Southwest Festival and Conference has made it through the weekend in Austin, despite severe winds forcing festival organizers to cancel Sunday’s community concert.

If you opted out of buying a badge this year, there are still several free events you can attend before SXSW 2026 comes to an end. From live music to day parties, here are some events you can attend without a badge.

Article continues below this ad

March 12-18: Radio Day Stage and Global Stage

ADVERTISEMENT

Each year, SXSW partners with radio stations nationwide to program live music on the  “Radio Day Stage,” which will be located inside the Music Clubhouse at the Downright Austin this year. As evening approaches, programming shifts to the “Global Stage,” showcasing international artists across multiple genres. This is a great opportunity to catch some of the best up-and-coming artists at the festival. 

Info: 701 E. 11th St. — sxsw.com

Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.

Chalk perform on the SXSW Radio Day Stage at Downright in Austin, March 15, 2026.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

March 12-18: Austin Sounds at Lefty’s Brick Bar

Local nonprofit EQ Austin presents the official showcase series Austin Sounds, in partnership with the City of Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment Division (AACME), KUTZ and SXSW. This week’s lineup features local artists Elijah Delgado, Julie Nolen, Marley Hale, Montclair, Ananto, Jeff Akoh, promqueen, Cazayoux, Joel Laredo, Zenal Nortex, Miguel Ortiz y El Nuevo Estillo and Eydrey.

Article continues below this ad

Info: 1813 E. Sixth St. — sxssw.com

March 16: The Rendezvous in ATX at Sahara Lounge

The Rendezvous is an independent music showcase presented by Urban Eclectic Internet Radio Station and RhythmAndSoulRadio.com. Performances start at 5 p.m. and feature Mama Moon & the Rump Shakers, WhoIsDXVII, AVO, Beautiful Phnix, Dominique Smith, Uptown RoyaltyNYC, Kelsey Muse, T.R.A.N.E. Spitta and Xayeknow.

Article continues below this ad

Info: 21 and up; 1413 Webberville Rd. — eventbrite.com

March 16: Marshall Day Party at Mohawk

Marshall’s unofficial SXSW day party returns to Mohawk from noon to 6 p.m. The event will feature live music, screen printing by FSG Prints, a Waterloo Records pop-up, food, drinks and more. The year’s lineup includes Water From Your Eyes, This Is Lorelei, Rocket, Meg Elsier, Cure For Paranoia, Diles Que No Me Maten, Ashaine White, Total Wife, Bloodsports, Gran Moreno, Almost Heaven and World’s Worst. You can RSVP now before space fills up.

Info: 912 Red River St. — etix.com

Article continues below this ad

Joe Carroll of The Manchester, England, band Maruja, performs at the Marshall day party at the Mohawk at SXSW Wednesday March 12, 2025.  

Joe Carroll of The Manchester, England, band Maruja, performs at the Marshall day party at the Mohawk at SXSW Wednesday March 12, 2025.  

Jay Janner/American-Statesman

March 16: Flak Records Showcase

Flak Records hosts its official SXSW showcase at Zilker Brewing Co., featuring Larry Seaman, Eric Hisaw Band, Parker Woodland and Little Wilderness. SXSW badge and wristband holders receive priority entrance at 7 p.m., but you can RSVP now for this free show now.

Info: 1701 E 6th St. — partiful.com

Article continues below this ad

March 17: Penny Loafer PR Showcase

Penny Loafer PR presents its official SXSW showcase at Zilker Brewing Co., featuring Grocery Bag, Otis Wilkins, the Bures Band, Mariae Cassandra and the Tullamarines. SXSW badge and wristband holders receive priority entrance at 7 p.m., but RSVPs are open now for this free event.

Info: 1701 E 6th St. — partiful.com

March 18-22: SoCo Stomp at C-Boy’s Heart & Soul

The unofficial SXSW showcase is back, bringing 50 bands to C-Boy’s Heart & Soul over five days. Performances take place on both indoor and outdoor stages, with food available for Halal Y’all ATX Weird Food Truck and El Patio.

Article continues below this ad

Info: 2008 S Congress Ave. — socostomp.com

CJ Chenier and The Red Hot Louisiana Band perform at Antone’s 50th celebration in Austin, Tuesday, July 15, 2025.

CJ Chenier and The Red Hot Louisiana Band perform at Antone’s 50th celebration in Austin, Tuesday, July 15, 2025.

Mikala Compton, Austin American-Statesman

March 18: Austin Blues Fest & Antone’s Forever Day Party at Antone’s

Austin Blues Fest and Antone’s Forever host their second-annual SXSW Day Party. Performers include CJ Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Adrian Quesada’s Trio Asesino, Gypsy Mitchell, Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band, Monica Valli, Eve Monsees & Friends with Steve Bell and more. The event runs from noon to 6 p.m. and includes complimentary food and drinks, activations and prize raffles.

Article continues below this ad

Info: 305 E 5th St. — eventbrite.com

‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’

‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.statesman.com ’

Next Post
ADVERTISEMENT

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Add New Playlist