For music lovers who are looking to avoid the downtown chaos (or don’t want to buy a SXSW badge or wristband), SXSW thoughtfully hosts free shows during the last few days of the festival at Auditorium Shores. Since the usual site is experiencing renovations right now, it will be at Butler Park, 1000 W Riverside Drive. These free live shows always offer a good time and have showcased well-known bands like Counting Crows and The Shins. This year’s bands include Foster the People and Childish Gambino, who have also performed at ACL Fest. Bands take the stage evenings of March 13th-15th.
Head to Butler Park for SXSW and enjoy music without a badge or the hustle and bustle of SXSW in Downtown Austin. The Butler Park Concerts are open to the public with FREE guest pass wristbands that will be available in advance or at the entrance. You can RSVP here to get on the list ahead of time.
2014 SXSW Free Show Lineup at Butler Park
| Thursday, March 13th @ 6PM |
Los Lonely Boys |
| Thursday, March 13th @ 7PM |
Vintage Trouble |
| Thursday, March 13th @ 8PM |
‘A Jimi Henderix Celebration‘ |
| Friday, March 14th | Young & Sick |
| Friday, March 14th | Washed Out |
| Friday, March 14th | Foster the People |
| Saturday, March 15th @ TBA |
Take Me to the River |
| Saturday, March 15th @ 6:30 PM |
The Cool Kids |
| Saturday, March 15th@ 8PM |
Childish Gambino |
Don’t let the hectic Downtown area keep you from enjoying Austin’s favorite past time. There are several options for transportation to make your trip easier. Shuttles from the Austin Convention Center run everyday from 4-11pm (free for SXSW badge holders). There are also park & ride options, park & walk options, and the Mellow Johnny’s bike parking near the Auditorium Shores entrance. The Shores will be open from noon to close Thursday through Saturday with festival food, vendors and many arts & crafts.
Click here for the full list of free SXSW shows and events.