South by Southwest (SXSW) 2026 is making its return to the Austin city this Spring in a more condensed setting, and the fest just announced their first round of showcasing artists set to take the stages at different venues.
The time has come… SXSW is turning 40 this year, and based on the first round of showcasing artists, downtown Austin will come alive with live music for 7 full days. Over 100 showcasing artists, who range from nostalgic names to rising stars, this year is one you don’t want to miss.
One of the most exciting and highly anticipated acts is none other than the All-American Rejects, who will be headlining the SXSW Music Opening Party. There will be thousands of people singing along to songs like “Gives You Hell” — so loud that you’ll probably be able to hear it from several blocks away.
This year will also welcome darkwave artist La Texana, which presents Latin post-punk through moody synth sounds. The act belongs to the SXSW festival because it represents the exact type of performance which has gained popularity among audiences. Bayonne is also making their way back to the fest, as his live-looping skills and his ability to create minimalist electronic music make him an Austin performer who delivers mesmerizing live performances. His set notably provides a moment of pure melodic enjoyment.
Local Austin band Hot Garbage is a more ‘heavy’ addition to the lineup, as their music combines psych-rock and post-punk elements to create a heavy and loud sound. A sound which serves as the ideal background music for late-night performances at 6th Street dive bars.
SXSW 2026 will be taking place from March 12th through March 18th. View SXSW Badge levels + prices + more information here.
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I'm a full-time music journalist/photographer from Houston, number one Paramore fan and Husky dog owner. I have a B.S in Radio-Television-Film from UT Austin and a M.A in Mass Communications from the University of Houston, which makes me smart! On top of being an avid concert-goer and movie fanatic, I love bonding with others over the power of local music and media.
