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January 28, 2014  •  by Alecia Abigail

5 Reasons why SXSW is the best festival in the world

It’s almost that time for thousands of people to descend upon the capital city of Texas. That time where a city shuts itself down in the name of art, technology and culture for self made festival that has grown into one of the most well known in the world.

South By Southwest (SXSW) is set to take over the streets of Austin once again, beginning March, 7th. This ever expanding 10 day festival covers all the latest and greatest in film, tech, comedy, music and more drawing thousands of people from all over the globe.

People who have never experienced SXSW may think; “it’s just another typical festival, just like the other millions that happen every year”. But boy are they wrong! Here are 5 reasons why SXSW is the best festival on the planet:

 1. SXSW brings in the biggest, brightest and most innovative people in the world In previous years, SXSW Interactive key-note speakers have included Al Gore, Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Sean Parker. Pretty well known names huh? Well that’s only the interactive portion of ‘South-By’.

Mark Zuckerberg speaking at SXSW in 2008

SXSW brings the best musicians from all over the world too. With over 2,000 bands performing in a 10-day period, it is hard to be disappointed. In 2013 some of the biggest acts included Justin Timberlake, Usher and Prince. With thousands of “breakout” bands also in the act, SXSW is a goldmine of musical talent. We haven’t even mentioned the film portion but need I say more?

2. Everything is free (if you know how to do it)

Many SXSW veterans will tell you, “don’t purchase that SXSW badge”. While it may help to buy one to get into some of the more “prestigious” events like keynote speakers, there are plenty of free events to go round.  These events have free food, drinks, entertainment and goodies to hand out and take place all week. You’ll find these concerts, events and parties all over Austin. Just keep your eyes and ears peeled and you won’t spend a dime during the festival. (HINT HINT) – Check out these awesome peeps if you want more information on all the parties and events going on during the festival:

3. Festivals within the festival

What other festivals can proclaim to have “mini” festivals within their own festival? While events like Fader Fort and The MtvU Woodie Awards at last year’s SXSW are seen as “unofficial” events and are in no way related with SXSW, these events rake in visitors with the promise of free beer, awesome food, sponsored goodies and a great time. Just be sure to get those wristbands!

Fader Fort sponsored by Converse in 2013

4. Only in Austin, TX.

What other major metropolitan city can say it shuts down for a festival? The dynamics of the city completely change during the 10-day span. With hundreds of events taking place day and night, college students on spring break and a mass influx of tourists and business people coming into town, SXSW makes Austin a 24/7 party mixed full of culture and experiences.

Everywhere you turn, there is something going on.

5. The Combo

SXSW is a week full of fun, culture and events. The combination of music, interactive and film make for a festival that is unmatched in content. Festivals are usually geared towards one specific category, but three “genres” mixed into one week of madness make for one of the biggest, brightest and best festivals on the planet.

Coming into Austin for SXSW? Tweet us @Ticketbud and let us know what your plans are and lets grab a beer (probably free!)

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