25 Cool Things to Do at SXSW 2026
- Busylike Team
- Jan 26
- 3 min read
Are you heading to SXSW 2026 soon? It was our fifth SXSW visit last year, so we curated 25 ideas to help you make the most out of the festival this year!
Whether you're in town for tech, startups, music, film, or just the Austin vibes, this list has something for you.
SXSW in 2026
In 2026, SXSW marks its 40th anniversary with a radical structural shift: for the first time in decades, the Innovation, Film & TV, and Music tracks are running concurrently over seven days (March 12–18) to encourage cross-industry collision.
With the Austin Convention Center closed for a massive $1.6 billion redevelopment, the festival has transformed the city into a "campus-style" venue, anchored by three major Industry Clubhouses that serve as hubs for networking and immersive "neighborhood" programming. The 2026 agenda is heavily defined by the "Human-Centric AI" movement, featuring keynotes from Aza Raskin on using AI to decode animal languages and Jennifer B. Wallace on the psychology of "mattering" in an automated world, alongside high-profile appearances by José Andrés, Amy Webb, and Timnit Gebru. This iteration emphasizes "Innovation with Intention," balancing the rapid expansion of agentic AI with a "back-to-basics" focus on raw human connection, curated through a new reservation system that guarantees badge holders access to the festival's most coveted sessions.
25 Cool Things to Do at SXSW 2026
Visit a startup event in Capital Factory
The heart of Austin’s startup scene, where founders, investors, and innovators connect. Joshua Baer
Get inspired at the Creative Industries Expo
A showcase of cutting-edge ideas, from AI to immersive storytelling. https://schedule.sxsw.com/2024/events/OE44373
Listen to entrepreneur panels in Inc. Magazine Founders House
Hear firsthand insights from successful startup founders and business leaders.
RSVP to unofficial SXSW events in and around downtown
Some of the best networking and experiences happen outside the official schedule. Here is a curated list of all unofficial events this year:
Don’t stay downtown & walk to South Congress
A short stroll leads to amazing boutique shops, live music, and great coffee.
Participate in an indie film screening at the festival
Discover new filmmakers and creative voices before they hit the mainstream.
Attend an SXSW mentor session
Get one-on-one advice from experienced professionals in your field.
Dance Honky-Tonk at White Horse Country Bar
A true Texas experience with live bands and whiskey on tap.
Join a meet & greet event with a celebrity
SXSW attracts big names in tech, entertainment, and beyond—don’t miss your chance to connect. I plan to take a selfie with Seth Rogen this year!
Listen to a founder or CEO keynote speech
Industry leaders share insights that can reshape your perspective on business and innovation.
Discover up-and-coming bands on an international music stage
SXSW is where future Grammy winners get their start.
Go shopping in The Domain, Austin’s new downtown
A mix of high-end retail, great restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
Drive to Salt Lick for a world-renowned BBQ experience
The legendary Texas barbecue spot is worth the short trip outside Austin.
Swim at Barton Springs Pool:
A refreshing break from the hustle, in one of Austin’s most iconic natural pools. (Heard rumours it might not be open this week)
Visit Joe Rogan's comedy club
Catch top-tier comedians performing at one of the hottest new venues in town.
Check out the street art in East Austin
From colorful murals to hidden graffiti gems, this area is an Instagrammer’s dream.
Experience a brand pop-up activation
Companies go all out with interactive experiences, product launches, and exclusive swag.
Explore the SXSW Pitch competition
Watch startups pitch groundbreaking ideas to top investors.
Join a live podcast event with or without Tim Ferriss
Some of the best discussions happen in real-time with audience Q&As.
Grab a latte at Mozart's Coffee Roasters
A scenic coffee spot with lake views and a perfect spot to recharge.
Go kayaking on the Colorado River
Rent a kayak and paddle through the heart of Austin’s skyline.
Pitch your startup at a networking event.
Informal networking sessions can lead to big opportunities.
Join a late-night fireside chat
Intimate conversations with industry experts, often in relaxed and unexpected settings. Last year, I met Marc Cuban at a late night party!
Grab some food from a local food truck
Austin’s food truck scene is legendary, from tacos to gourmet eats.
Soak in the SXSW energy and make unforgettable connections!
The real magic of SXSW is in the conversations, serendipitous meetings, and creative inspiration you take home.
What’s on your SXSW must-do list this year?
If you're in Austin for SXSW and want to connect, feel free to reach out.
Always happy to meet fellow entrepreneurs, creatives, and festival-goers. Let’s make the most of SXSW 2025!
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