With SXSW 2026 just over a week away, we're getting excited about one of the biggest festivals in the world returning to Austin for its 39th year.

Even if you don't have a badge, there are official and unofficial events galore that are completely free to attend. In fact, around 53% of our audience only attends the free events.

We've rounded up 23 events to get on your radar — bookmark this page because we'll continue to update with more free events. Plus, if you do have a badge, check out our guide to all of the Austinites performing during the music festival.

Note: While these events are open to the public, some may require an RSVP or have priority access for badgeholders.

BMI Presents Howdy Texas | Wednesday, March 11
Hear from six bands — including local favorites like Magna Carda and Elijah Delgado — at this pre-festival showcase.

Porchella 2026 | Wednesday, March 11new
Join The Reverent Few for their fifth annual SXSW party, which is BYOB and features music from more than a dozen performers.

YETI Music Showcase: Presented by BMI | Thursday, March 12-Friday, March 13
Kick off SXSW with two days of music from more than a dozen bands from around the globe.

South By San José has been a free SXSW tradition for 25 years. | Photo by ATXtoday

South By San José | Thursday, March 12-Saturday, March 14
Two dozen bands — including Austin's own Next of Kin and Calder Allen — will perform at the 27th edition of this annual free festival, which also features vendors and drinks, at the Hotel San José.

Cosmic Fest | Thursday, March 12-Sunday, March 15New
Cosmic Pickle will turn into a live music wonderland, featuring sets from Brother Thunder, Dylan Leblanc, and Meg Lauren over four days.

Congress Avenue Block Party | Thursday, March 12-Wednesday, March 18
Previously known as the Registrant Lounge, the Congress Avenue Block Party will now be open to the public, featuring daily swag, complimentary drinks, and food.

Global Stage @ Downright | Thursday, March 12-Wednesday, March 18
Catch bands from around the world at this stage, which will have tunes bumping from 7 p.m. to midnight.

Hair of the Three-Legged Dog Day Party Vol. 11 | Friday, March 13
Stop by early for free tacos from Eldorado Cafe and drinks while you listen to sets from Bruce, Team Trust, Égaux Sells, and Free Hamze. Psst — this event benefits Austin Pets Alive!

The Open House Party | Friday, March 13new
Sun Room, Susannah Joffe, Night Cap, and more will take over the stage at Central Machine Works.

Lone Star Roadhouse | Friday, March 13-Sunday, March 15
Bands like Rattlesnake Milk and Emily Nenni will provide the tunes, Lone Star will supply the beer, and East End Ballroom will host vendor markets for three days.

Flatstock | Friday, March 13-Sunday, March 15
Peruse hundreds of music and event posters that are available for purchase, often by the artists who made them.

Radio Day Stage @ Downright | Friday, March 13-Wednesday, March 18
This stage will feature bands from far and wide, as well as locals like Grace Sorensen and Lew Apollo, to be broadcast live from local radio stations.

SXSW Expo: International Innovations | Saturday, March 14
Hear from hundreds of exhibitors from technology, design, entertainment, health, and more industries altogether for one day only.

South By South Emo | Saturday, March 14new
Local beer and local bands unite at this emo-focused free event for all ages.

Space House | Saturday, March 14-Sunday, March 15
Connect with industry leaders, including supporters at Firefly Aerospace, IMXP, and the Space Workforce Incubator for Texas, working beyond the boundaries of Earth.

Future Summit | Sunday, March 15
Lock in for keynotes with Hayley Williams, Jonathan Van Ness, Jaclyn Johnson, and more than a dozen female industry disruptors, plus there will be music, bites, and shopping.

Grillo's Pickles Presents St. Pickles Day SXSW Pickle Party | Sunday, March 15new
Pickle lovers, head to Hotel Vegas for pickle cocktails, screen printing, music from 19 bands, and of course, free pickles.

VC Mini Fest | Sunday, March 15new
The Violet Crown Wine Bar + Coffee Shop will host the Austin Feel Good Market, live music, a flash tattoo artist, and live music.

Community Concerts at Lady Bird Lake | Sunday, March 15
Relax by the shores of Lady Bird Lake with skyline views and performances from to-be-announced musicians.

Just Southwest of Official | Sunday, March 15
Hosted by The Good for Nothings Club, this day party will feature a free photo booth, live music, a vendor market, and flash tattoos at Better Half Coffee & Cocktails.

New Mexico House | Monday, March 16
For the second year in a row, representatives from the Land of Enchantment will showcase New Mexico-based technology, complimentary food + beverages, and live music for one day only.

Marshall: Live From Mohawk | Monday, March 16
Waterloo Records will pop-up at the space, Feels So Good will be providing live screen printing, Cold Ones will give out free popsicles, and there will be free swag giveaways.

SXSW Expo: Emerging Tech | Wednesday, March 18
Pioneering tech professionals will present their businesses at this one-day-only expo.