Austin Convention Center and SXSW music showcases

The Austin Convention Center has served as a primary venue for industry panels, trade events, and many music showcases during the annual South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, which launched in Austin in 1987. The convention center hosts indoor stages, film and interactive sessions, and conference programming tied to SXSW Music each year. Its downtown facilities are a recurring hub for festival-related performances and industry activity.