So, it’s that time of year again when people collectively drive up to Austin to check out the SXSW music and everything-young-hip-and-"innovative" festival. It’s a sinful week of binging on the myriad of vices to fill your senses. From movies to music to the open bars, here are my top picks for how to spend your week without having to spend any money.
AXE Collective + Crew Powered by SPIN at The Belmont Austin (3/17) and SPIN@Stubbs (3/18)
The first one on the list is put together by SPIN magazine. Known for their awesome line-ups, these events are not the ones to miss. The AXE Collective, held at The Bellmont on Thursday, features a carefully curated collection by John Legend, who will headline the event himself. The party will feature hip-hop sibling duo Rae Sremmurd, electrifying LA-based singer Gallant, electronic pop duo AlunaGeorge and former “Glee” star Alex Newell. Meanwhile, on Friday at Stubbs the SPIN party will feature rapper Vince Staples, DAWN, BAIO, the side project of Chris Baio from Vampire Weekend , and Bleached, plus breakfast tacos. No RSVP is needed for the AXE Collective + Crew Powered by SPIN, so get there early. However, an RSVP is required for SPIN@Stubb’s, so get on their waitlist here.
The Arcade at Fader Fort (3/14-15) and ConverseXFader Fort (3/16-19)
The mystery of Fader Fort has yet to be solved and each year it seems to get more and more exclusive. While this is the only event on the list that you actually have to be invited to, if you happened to be one of the lucky ones to have received an email or have a friend in need of a plus one, then hop on that shit. Last year the great Miley Cyrus stopped by and this year rumors of Kanye and Future are buzzing around, but the following artists are confirmed as of now: Metro Boomin, Sheer Mag, Davido, N.A.A.F.I., Desiigner and Kamaiyah. The great thing about this venue is that if you look cool enough you’ll get a pair of Chuck's for your trouble. Sign up for their mailing list to get a chance at possibly getting an invite for next year.
Spotify House (3/14-18)
If you get there early in the week this has to be your first stop, especially if you like Hannibal Buress. Featuring music by CHVRCHES, Miguel, Kacey Musgraves, Vince Staples, The Kills, St. Lucia and many more, this is somewhere you can spend your entire day getting hypnotized by the music. Lines will be long but it’ll be worth checking out. RSVP here.
Pandora Discovery Den (3/16-19)
This is one of the coolest events going on during SXSW. Hosted for four days, you’ll be sure to catch someone up and coming. Wednesday is dance, Thursday is Americana, hip-hop and R&B comes on Friday and closing off the week is rock on Saturday. Last year they brought out the likes of Halsey, Odesza and Earl Sweatshirt and this year they’re bringing Adventure Club, Jack Ingram, Kevin Gates, Grizfolk and Bloc Party. RSVP here.
Hype Hotel (3/14-19)
Located at the Fair Market on the outskirts of downtown, this is one is for the eclectic fan. Their line up seems to be designed for the ADHD music lover who can’t decide what genre to stick with for the better half of a day. With a collection of artists from Pumarosa, Petite Noir, JLIN and Charli XCX + Sophie, you’re bound to find something cool. RSVP here.
FLOODFest (3/16-19)
The picture says it all. All these bands, including Ra Ra Riot and Peaches? Stop by this hotspot to get your fix, or maybe to see Hinds for the fiftieth time this week. RSVP here.
Culture Collide on Rainey (3/16-19)
Multiple venues, countless artists. You could exclusively go to Culture Collide on Rainey St. and be sated. They're even hosting an event for Roadies, a new show on Showtime. RSVP for the multiple events by clicking on each graphic to lead you to their pages.
Live at the BBQ (3/17)
Word on the street is if you make it to this event you'll be one of a select few featured on DJ Khaled's snapchat. Talk about true life goals. Actually this is the event to catch a performance by none other than the great and powerful Nas. It's one night only, so make sure to get there early. RSVP here.
