As SXSW officially kicks off today, we’re asking the question: Who says you need a wristband or badge to have fun in one of the best music cities in the US?

While having festival credentials is awesome, we’ve rounded up events where only your energy + excitement are needed, no badge or wristband required.

We’re talking about everything from connecting with your mind, body, and soul at a Wellness Expo, a Happy Hour with massage chairs, to vibing out at a ton of free concerts.

Here are 34 cost-free SXSW events (official and unofficial)taking place at this year’s festival:

Spurs x Sneaker Politics Collaboration | Fri., March 11-Sun., March 13 | Times vary | Sneaker Politics | Free | This event hosted by the San Antonio Spurs includes a seven-piece Spurs x Sneaker Politics capsule collection, with gear inspired by the 1990s and 2000s era.

Live at Central Machine Works | Fri., March 11-Sun., March 13 + Fri., March 18-Sun., March 20 | Times vary | Central Machine Works | Free | From an electric guitar performance by local artist Jackie Venson to music by The Texas Gentlemen, these shows will have you feeling all the SXSW vibes.

ZenBusiness Startup Crawl at SXSW 2022 | Fri., March 11 | 5-9 p.m. | Capital Factory | Free with registration | Head out to this startup party where you’ll get to explore Capital Factory's Austin Centre space — don’t forget to bring your resume to share with potential employers.

Check out unique artwork and sip on coffee at the Duel Diagnosis exhibition during SXSW. | Photo via West Chelsea Contemporary

You won’t believe all the performers set to hit the Outdoor Stage this year at SXSW. | Photo by David Brendan Hall

Brooklyn Bowl Family Reunion 2022 | Fri., March 18-Sat., March 19 | Empire Control Room & Garage | Free with registration | Get ready for 16+ live performances, including a special tribute to the Grateful Dead.

The Austin Chronicle's Hair of the 3-Legged Dog Day Party: Vol. 7 Take 2 | Fri., March 18 | 1-5 p.m. | Hotel Vegas | Free with registration | Listen to local bands, meet the team from Austin Pets Alive!, sip on Hornitos Ranch Water, and eat tacos from Eldorado Cafe at this party.

Makin' It Magazine's 8th Annual Media Matters Soundstage | Fri., March 18 | 12- 8 p.m. | Vulcan Gas Company | Free+ with RSVP | This is where people in the music industry + media professionals join together to enjoy performances and live interviews — $20 gets you VIP entrance.

2nd Annual Art Exhibition ~~ IT'S TIME TO PLAY! | Fri., March 18-Sat., March 19 | 6-8 p.m. | Jodie King Media Art Studio, 2525 S. Lamar Blvd, Ste. #14 | Free with registration | Join local artists Jodie King + Jane Robin at this event featuring art, music by local musicians, drinks, and prizes.