It's almost that time of the year - the great pilgramage south to Austin, TX for the annual SXSW.  Now before I get started on the subject in the title, I want to start by saying that I do not condone what I'm about to tell you.  If you have the financial means to purchase a badge to SXSW, it is absolutely worth it!  The badge will get you in to see panels, keynote speakers, the trade show area, tons of shows, and more. 

BUT, given the current economic conditions, many of you are probably sitting there asking yourself "Is it worth trying to come up with the money to get to Austin for SXSW if I don't have a badge?"  My answer - absolutely!  It's going to require some homework on your part, but if you plan correctly, it can be a very worth while trip.  Not to mention you can probably manage to stay drunk for at least 5 days straight (again, I do not condone this...and may or may not have done this in the past). 

So, how are you going to do this?  First, let's talk logistics.  Getting there - if you have some friends that are into music, get them to go with you, and drive.  Sure it can be a long drive, but if you're within 15 hours of Austin, probably cheaper for a group of you to drive than for all of you to fly.  Lodging - there are plenty of people that live in Austin that just want to get out of dodge during SXSW, and they rent out their place.  Or in the case that I experienced, a girl rented out the bedroom in her apartment to us and the 2 nights she was there, slept on the couch.  Might sound weird, but it was much more economical for us, and she made some money.  So start checking Craigslist ASAP to try to find a deal.  Eating - get groceries for the place you are staying, and eat some of the pizza on 6th St. 

Next, what are you going to do while you're at SXSW?  During the day, there are plenty of small record labels, publishing companies, other music groups, etc hosting showcases.  Many times you can get into these for free just by RSVP'ing on their website.  This is the part that is going to require a little homework to find the ones you want to attend.  Another great part about these is that they often offer a couple free drinks.  I saw some of the best music I saw at the festival at showcases such as this.  In the evenings, just walk down 6th St.  There is music everywhere!  Sure there are some shows that require a SXSW badge to get in, but there are plenty that do not.  But, be prepared to shell out a little cash to get into some of the better shows. 

Last but not least, the biggest way to make SXSW worth your time is to network.  That means beforehand (see who is going to be there), during the festival (meet up with them), and follow up after.  SXSW is a great time to see old faces and make connections for future endeavors. 

Hopefully I am there to see some of you this year.  After all, Cheap Trick is one of the headliners.  If that's not reason enough to go, I don't know what is. :)