MARCH 7-15, 2026 • AUSTIN, TEXAS
SXSW 2026
South by Southwest returns to Austin for its landmark convergence of music, film, technology, and innovation. Experience nine days of discovery, creativity, and connection.
9
Days
2000+
Performers
1000+
Speakers
400K+
Attendees
Event Details
- Dates
- March 7-15, 2026
- Location
- Austin, Texas
- Tracks
- Music, Film, Interactive/Tech
- Badge Sales
- On Sale Now
- Conference Type
- Hybrid (In-Person + Virtual)
- Website
- sxsw.com
Latest Updates
View All News →January 14, 2026
Music Lineup Announced
SXSW reveals first wave of music performers featuring breakthrough artists and iconic acts across 100+ venues.
Read More →January 10, 2026
AI & Tech Summit Details
Major tech companies confirm attendance. Expect announcements from OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, and more.
Read More →January 8, 2026
Film Festival Premieres
SXSW Film announces world premieres and exclusive screenings from acclaimed directors and emerging filmmakers.
Read More →About South by Southwest
The Festival
Since 1987, South by Southwest (SXSW) has grown from a small music festival into a massive cultural phenomenon that celebrates the convergence of the interactive, film, and music industries. Taking place every March in Austin, Texas, SXSW is renowned for launching careers, fostering innovation, and creating unforgettable experiences.
The festival attracts over 400,000 attendees from around the world, including musicians, filmmakers, technologists, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals seeking inspiration, networking, and discovery.
Why Austin
Austin's vibrant music scene, thriving tech sector, and creative culture make it the perfect host city for SXSW. The city transforms during the festival, with venues, hotels, restaurants, and streets buzzing with activity from morning to night.
SXSW has become a major economic driver for Austin, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue and solidifying the city's reputation as a global hub for creativity and innovation.
Three Unique Experiences
SXSW Music
The world's premier destination for music discovery. Over 2,000 performers across 100+ venues spanning every genre imaginable.
Dates: March 10-15, 2026
SXSW Film & TV
Celebrating the art of storytelling through cinema, episodic content, and immersive media. World premieres and exclusive screenings.
Dates: March 7-14, 2026
SXSW Conference
Where technology meets culture. Explore AI, startups, gaming, VR/AR, health tech, and the future of innovation with industry leaders.
Dates: March 7-14, 2026
Featured Speakers & Performers
SXSW 2026 will feature an incredible lineup of speakers, performers, and creators. Stay tuned as we announce featured guests throughout the coming weeks.
Past SXSW speakers and performers have included: Barack Obama, Lady Gaga, Elon Musk, Lady Bird, Questlove, Michelle Obama, and countless breakthrough artists.
Tech Innovators
CEOs and founders from leading tech companies sharing insights on AI, Web3, and the future.
Entertainment Icons
Musicians, actors, and filmmakers discussing creativity, culture, and the entertainment industry.
Visionary Leaders
Thought leaders and change-makers addressing policy, social impact, and global challenges.
Badges & Passes
Platinum
$1,850+
- ✓All events access
- ✓Priority entry
- ✓Exclusive lounges
- ✓Reserved seating
Interactive
$1,395+
- ✓Conference access
- ✓Tech showcases
- ✓Networking events
- ✓Trade show floor
Film
$1,095+
- ✓All film screenings
- ✓Filmmaker events
- ✓Industry panels
- ✓Q&A sessions
Music
$995+
- ✓All showcases
- ✓Day parties
- ✓Industry meetups
- ✓Venue access
💰 Early Bird Pricing: Save up to $200 by purchasing your badge before February 7, 2026. Student and senior discounts available.
🎟️ Wristbands: Free wristbands provide access to official day parties and select music venues. Available for Austin locals and visitors.
Navigating Austin During SXSW
Accommodations
Book early! Hotels fill up fast and prices surge during SXSW. Consider downtown for walkability or neighborhoods like South Congress, East Austin, or North Loop.
Hotel Guide →Transportation
Downtown gets congested. Use rideshare, bike rentals, scooters, or Austin's public transportation. Walking between venues is often fastest during peak hours.
Getting Around →Food & Dining
Austin's food scene shines during SXSW. From food trucks to fine dining, BBQ to breakfast tacos. Make reservations or expect long waits at popular spots.
Dining Guide →SXSW Survival Tips
Pro Tips
- 👟
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll walk 10+ miles per day
- 🔋
Portable charger is essential
Your phone will die by noon
- 📱
Download the SXSW app
Plan your schedule and get real-time updates
- 💧
Stay hydrated
Austin weather can be unpredictable in March
- 🎫
Badge up at will call early
Avoid long lines during peak times
What to Expect
- 👥
Massive crowds
400K+ attendees fill downtown Austin
- ⏰
Long lines
Popular events fill up fast, arrive early
- 🌡️
Variable weather
Layer clothes and bring rain gear
- 🎉
Serendipity moments
Best experiences are often unplanned
- 😴
Exhaustion
Events run from 11am to 2am daily
SXSW's Impact on Austin
$280M+
Economic Impact (2025)
400K+
Total Attendees
3,000+
Jobs Created
100+
Countries Represented
SXSW is one of Austin's biggest annual events, bringing massive economic benefits to local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and the creative community. The festival has helped establish Austin as a global destination for innovation and culture.
Ready for SXSW 2026?
Join us in Austin this March for nine unforgettable days of music, film, and innovation