Lady LUX

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that’s certainly true for South by Southwest (SXSW), the festival dubbed, “the world’s largest festival of its kind.” Back for its 27th year, the 10-day event is where original music, independent films and new, emerging technologies come together to foster creativity, promote professional growth and get discovered. While SXSW, held in Austin, Texas, includes independent films and interactive technologies, its musical conference is what has really makes this festival come alive and it has become a hub for veterans in the music industries and emerging talent alike. Last year, 19,000 music industry professionals attended the panels, discussions, demo listening sessions, exhibitions and the 2,286 various acts that represent over 49 countries, performing at 100 venues, all in downtown Austin. This year, the peeps from SXSW has even more in store for pop, hip-hop, Americana, folk, electronic, rock, reggae and more. However, with 10 days of back-to-back happenings, it’s hard to digest it all, so LadyLUX narrowed it down to five must-know bullet points.

Different Days for Different Conferences

Though SXSW is a 10-day event, not all events will take place over the same 10 days, so it’s important to know which days you want to attend. Are you an independent movie buff? You’ll want to attend the film conference from March 8 through the 16. Are you a techie? The Interactive technologies will be ongoing from March 8 through 12. If you’re going to SXSW to groove, the music conference is from March 12 through the 17.

Business in the day, Party at Night

Unlike most festivals, SXSW has a huge opportunity for networking and professional growth for upcoming artists. During the day, there’s a ton of conferences, inspirational speakers and trade show exhibitions. It’s a great way to meet people and get your foot in the door. However, at night is when people let their hair down and experience all the fun and parties that SXSW is known for. Because of this reason, it’s important to make sure you bring more than just your party clothes if you’re trying to make an impression on the industry.

Come with a Plan

There are literally thousands of discussions, parties and performances happening in the next 10 days, so it’s important to jot down which ones you want to go with. Check performance times, check-in times and set any alarms you might need to on your cell phone so you don’t forget.

The Food

No festival would be complete without a wide array of eats, and at SXSW there will be no shortage of them. Texas is known for its BBQ and Tex-Mex dishes so don’t forget to give those foods a try. From food trucks to Austin’s famed cuisine, there will be food for every personality, taste bud and budget.

Don’t Miss

The keynote speaker for the festival is musician Dave Grohl, of the Foo fighters and Nirvana and some of the not-to-miss artists are: the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, the Flaming Lips, Kendrick Lamar, Icona Pop, Snoop Lion and Paul Oakenfold. Also, every year big musical acts grace the stage at Lady Bird Lake for three nights of free concerts, so that’s a place to keep on your radar.

Listen to our SXSW Playlist

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