Party Tips for SXSW
Posted by Sarah · March 20th, 2008I believe SXSW to be the most magical week in Austin, TX. Wonderful music, interesting indie films, lots of nerdy (but really cool) interactive peeps, and enough parties to turn anyone into an insomniac. Austin rocks the second week of March! The best part of SXSW is that you don’t need an expensive badge to experience all of the fun. Especially when it comes to music and parties.
Many of you already know that most bands that come to play at South By play at least one, almost always two unofficial shows during the day. These shows are usually free and many times involve free booze and food. So if you are broke like me, and can’t afford a badge, you can still have just as much fun as the the VIPs.
However, because all of these events are free, you have to deal with long lines, crowds, and lots of hassle. So here are some tips that I learned to have the best, cheap, SXSW EVER!!!!
1. http://showlistaustin.com/
This is pretty much the best website to find out about all of the unofficial events going on during the SXSW week. Check this website frequently leading up to South By to know about the best parties and shows.
2. RSVP to EVERYTHING
A lot of these really cool unofficial parties require you to RSVP in advance in order to attend. It really sucks when all of your friends are at some super cool party, and you can’t get in because you didn’t RSVP. Even if you’re not sure you are going to a certain event RSVP anyway just in case.
3. Show up Early
After you RSVP to these events, show up early, especially if it is a show you are dying to see. There were a couple of days I got lazy and showed up to a venue late only to see a line wrapping around the block. You’ll wait in line so long you just end up hearing pieces of the show outside while everyone is partying inside. A better example: I was dying to see a free NPR showcase at the Parish. The Parish is a tiny venue, so I went an hour early and waited in line. I got in and saw an amazing line up of bands standing in the front holding Shiners and eating BBQ. However, hardly any of my friends got to see the show because they showed up too late. Showing up early PAYS OFF!
4. Text Message
This might seem irrelevant but having text messaging on your phone is very important when it comes to SXSW. All of your friends are also running around downtown and they are hearing about different parties all the time and they want you to know about it. During SXSW, you are constantly wanting to meet up at different venues, but you can never hear anyone on the phone because of the live music. So whenever you hear of something great, you can just text “Hey come to this awesome secret Moby DJ party at MOHAWK NOW!”
5. Ride a Bike
During SXSW, it is impossible to find parking, and they close off many of the streets downtown, because of all the commotion. So your best option to get to shows fast and stress free is to start a bike gang! I’ve tried walking, taxis, and driving…trust me, biking is your best option.
6. Age a Little
You have to be 21 to get into most of the venues during SXSW. It sucks for young people, but that’s they way it goes. However, if you are not 21 yet, there are still plenty of events you can go to. Mostly any outdoor event is for all ages, so go to free shows at Auditorium Shores, Waterloo Park, and the Enchanted Forest. Also Emos, Stubbs, Mohawk, and Flamingo Cantina are available to people under 21 as well.
These 6 tips helped me have the most amazing week in Austin ever. I know SXSW is a year away but keep these ideas in mind for next year when you are visiting Austin during South By!
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