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And just like that, it was over. Rather than a ten day marathon of sights, sounds, and showcases, SXSW Online 2021 concluded in five. It was different and while I still long for the traditional SX experience, this year’s event was full of innovations that made it feel like home. In fact, some of these should stick around for years to come.
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South by Southwest is almost here! The time of year when locals and visitors alike flock to the streets of Austin to celebrate culture, film, music, art, and food. Of course, this year, people across the world are flocking to their phones and computers, because SXSW 2021 is fully online! Although not quite the same as the Austin’s beloved annual (in person) festival, we are so glad that SXSW is still able to happen this year. I’m looking forward to being able to attend and participate in more events than ever before, using their online platform.
SXSW has an incredible history of giving back, something that is near and dear to my heart and so important to me when choosing organizations to support. Every year, they showcase world-changing non-profits from across the globe, invest in the local community, promote human rights, and support environmental protection.
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With SXSW Online 2021 only days away, it’s time to celebrate the local artists who keep Austin well represented in the music showcase schedule. Due to the restrictions of the online format, there are 280 artists on the roster, 32 of which hail from the 512. And while each artist will get limited time due to the condensed showcase, it will be a great opportunity to take in a wide variety of music in a small amount of time. As I do every year, here are my Top 10 must-see Austin artists at SXSW Online 2021. But first, some notes!
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This will be a strange one for me. For the last five years, I took four days off from my 9 to 5 and ran around downtown Austin listening to music. Day parties, Black Fret showcases, 2 AM listening sessions. All exhausting, all exhilarating, all inspiring. It’s the journalistic highlight of the year.
This year, I’ll be doing the same from the coziness of my computer. While checking out a showcase, I’ll be able to burp my six month old. Instead of ducking into my favorite sanctuaries for meals, I’ll hit the fridge. But rather than be bummed, I’m intrigued and excited. In service to the artists who made the festival what it is today, SXSW is delivering innovative ways for musicians to perform in what’s hopefully a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic. Here’s everything you need to know to join in on the fun.
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And just like that, it’s over. With one proclamation of imminent disaster, the city of Austin pulled the plug on SWSX 2020. Regardless of your personal opinions, losing the biggest event of the year stings from a dozen difference perspectives.
But those of us who live in Austin are the lucky ones. We have an incredible talent pool of bands, artists, and musicians who live in our backyard. Even though the official SXSW showcases are dead and buried, many of the bands in this year’s Top 15 will be doing unofficial shows throughout the week and in the future. So why not celebrate some of our local finest? More than ever, come out to a show, buy some merch, and support our local scene.
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Batten down the hatches, y’all! SXSW is nigh! SXSW Film runs from March 13 to 22, 2020. This exciting film festival is in its 27th year. The film screenings, world premieres, and special events take place across 10 Austin film venues. Here’s a rundown of what to expect from each.
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With a seemingly never-ending list of panels and sessions for SXSW Interactive 2020, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your schedule. To make it easier, I’ve pulled the sessions I recommend that include Austin-based businesses and organizations. Pick the topics most relevant to you and show up to support local.
[Read more…]When combing through the SXSW schedule, it’s easy to miss out on the activations. These are chances for businesses big and small to showcase their latest and greatest products in cool, engaging environments. Plus, activations often offer the sweet swag festival-goers crave.
From a list of hundreds, here are six SXSW 2020 activations worth your time waiting in line. Enjoy!
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It’s easy to think about the special appearances, film premieres, concerts, and other cool things coming to Austin in March. But did you know an army of volunteers staff the events and lounges at SXSW? They work long hours, answering questions and scanning badges with smiles on their faces. It’s quite a commitment!
I volunteered at SXSW back in 2018 and it was a marvelous experience. And I would recommend doing it for more than just the free badge. From someone who lived it herself, here’s what it’s like to be a SXSW volunteer.
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Come March, the excitement of South by Southwest Conference & Festivals will take over Austin. Behind all our fun is a team of specialists and volunteers who make everything come together. This happens at the new SXSW Center on Lavaca Street, where the general public can enjoy SouthBites year-round.
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