Photo via SXSW | Mashable
South by Southwest is returning for 2022 after 3 years. Whether you are a new festival goer or need a refresher, Off Record Blog is providing everything you would want to know – conveniently located in one space.
There are plenty of opportunities to attend events without a badge. In honor of all those that agree “not in this economy,” we’ve compiled a list of the main hubs around Austin that will be hosting free/rsvp/donation events. Watch out for specific age requirements as well as proof of full COVID-19 vaccination for each event. Capacity for some events is limited. Be sure to check the links for more information on RSVPs.
RAINEY DISTRICT
If you’re looking for the life of the party, then in or around Rainey Street is where you should be. The five block radius is perhaps one of the most frequented spots for late nightlife and outdoor hangouts. Most of the activity will happen in the convenience of various food trucks and bar & restaurant combos with the added opportunity to walk the trails that line the Colorado River or ride on a pedicab.
| Event | Location | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midwest House Music at Half Step | Half Step | RSVP | Mar 11-15, 7PM |
| ACL Radio Morning Broadcasts | Hotel Van Zandt | $5 / day | Mar 16-19, 8AM-12PM |
| Tulsa Music Official SXSW Day Party | 86 Rainey St | RSVP | Mar 16, 11AM-9:30PM |
| Dr. Martens Presents at SXSW | Container Bar | RSVP | Mar 17-18, 12PM-7PM |
| Join Dillon T. Pickle SHOWDOWN | 85 Rainey Street | FREE | Mar 17, 1:30- 8:30PM |
| MACCnífico! 2022 | 600 River St | FREE | Mar 17-19, 4PM |
RED RIVER CULTURE DISTRICT
Sandwiched between Downtown and East Austin, this area is a classic spot for live shows and local talent. Listed showcases include opportunities to support underrepresented artists and have a taste of a mini-festival without the wristband. Among the local grub spots is none other than Stubb’s BBQ and Arlo’s, but you can still cheap out on a meal with Wendy’s near the vicinity.
| Event | Location | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOUNDCLOUD NEXT WAV: AUSTIN | Mohawk | RSVP | Mar 14, 2PM- 6PM |
| FLOODFest | Mohawk | RSVP | Mar 16-17, 11AM- 5PM |
| Stuporfriends 2022 | The Side Bar | RSVP | Mar 16, 12PM- 6PM |
| The Color Agent showcase | Swan Dive | RSVP | Mar 19, 10AM-10PM |
| Mohawk Women that Rock Day Party Showcase | Mohawk | FREE | Mar 19, 11AM-4PM |
East Austin
The east side takes on a piece of the fun with a variety of mixed events that welcome vinyl record heads, start-up, and also mescal enthusiasts. If you can’t make some of the dates, a proper four day showcase is set in place to save your ass. You could walk the entirety of Cesar Chavez St. discover plenty of murals and soak in all the culture. Even though most of the eats are at regular Austin prices, you could opt for some Domino’s if you’re really desperate.
| Event | Location | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Music @ The GAN Hub | Atelier | RSVP | Mar 11, 7PM-2AM |
| Weird Sisters Records & Friends | BLK Vinyl | RSVP | Mar 16, 12PM-6PM |
| Paste Magazine Anniversary Showcase | The Pershing | RSVP | Mar 16-19, 1PM-6PM |
| The Austin Chronicle’s Hair of the 3-legged Dog Day Party | Hotel Vegas | RSVP | Mar 18, 1PM-5PM |
OTHER EVENTS AND LOCATIONS
| Event | Location | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor Stage at Lady Bird Lake | Riverside | FREE | Mar 17-19, 4PM-10PM |
| SOUTH BY SAN JOSE | Hotel San José | FREE | Mar 16-20, 12PM-9:30PM |
| SXSW House Johnson Showcase | 913 E 39th ST | $10 | Mar 15, 12PM-11PM |
| Ranch X Chicken Ranch | Hole in the Wall | FREE | Mar 16, 12PM-8PM |
| Howdy x Howdy Fest | Hole in the Wall | FREE | Mar 19, 8PM-2AM |
I'm a southern bred writer and devoted bike-rider from Mission, Texas. I am known for crafting the finest assortment of playlists for every occasion. I received her Bachelor’s degree in Radio-Television-Film at UT Austin, and I enjoy dabbling in a variety of hobbies and am always down to learn something new. I'm also an ISFJ (Defender Personality) according to 16 Personalities, do what you will with that information.
