South by Southwest – Austin, Texas March 7-16

South by Southwest is one of the largest annual festivals, which takes place in Austin, Texas. Not only is it a music festival, but it is also a film and interactive arts conference. From March 7-15, the film conference showcases many different genres of film including full-length, shorts and documentaries. They also focus heavily on the business side of film by hosting panels and discussion groups with major players in the film industry. The Interactive Arts conference runs from March 7-11, focusing on what is new and exciting in the world of new media and technology. There are panels, as well as a three-day trade-show and exhibition where people can shop around their ideas and inventions. SXSW has also added on a new gaming element the Interactive Arts conference, as well as an Arcade that will be set-up for 2 days.

But the conference that SXSW is known for best is their music conference and festival. The who’s who of the music industry will be there as part of the panels and participating as keynote speakers. Some of the greatest artists and bands today will be performing as well as some of the best up-and-coming bands. Hundreds of bands will be playing at some of the hottest venues around Austin. It is the true playground for any music enthusiast.

Tickets run higher than most festivals, but then you are getting a few more days worth. You can register for a Platinum Badge which will get you into all of events for all three conferences. There is the Gold Badge which is for the film and interactive conferences only, or you can individual badges for the film, interactive or music festivals. If you are a student and are interested in film, they offer a student badge just for the film festival.

I will be attending SXSW this year for the first time and I am so excited to go. I am already exhausted looking at the list of music performers. Here is the list so far. It is crazy! Lou Reed is going to be the keynote speaker this year and I am so pumped! Yo La Tango and My Morning Jacket are going to be doing a set together. It’s going to be awesome.

If there is anyone who had been before and has any helpful advice about how to plan out my time, maybe some good, cheap places to eat, etc. let me know. I will be most grateful.

Cheers!