300,000 attendees and $400 million in revenue—this can only mean one thing: the South by Southwest (SXSW) Music and Film Festival in Austin, Texas. Drawing people from around the globe, SXSW did not disappoint this year. Held from March 7–15, the festival showcased both music and film. Notable appearances included Nicole Kidman, Pedro Pascal, Michele Morrone, Jenna Ortega, and many more. While those names are impressive, SXSW is known for being a launchpad for emerging artists, performers, and directors, so you won’t typically see major headliners dominating the stage.
Now that the festival has wrapped, I want to share my experience as a volunteer.
Overall, it was incredibly positive. I met amazing people, spotted celebrities, attended countless concerts, and enjoyed some fantastic food. I aimed to earn a Platinum Badge, which required 32 hours of volunteering. My friend and I signed up as Festival Line Guides. Our job was to manage the lines and keep everything organized. It was mostly straightforward, aside from the occasional attempt at bribery from attendees (yes, even celebrities) trying to cut the line.
Some of my favorite moments included raving at John Summit’s concert, attending the movie premiere of On Swift Horses with Jacob Elordi and Daisy Edgar-Jones, and listening to a talk by Michelle Obama. John Summit, a rising EDM DJ, delivered an unforgettable performance on the festival’s final day. His remixes, lighting, and visuals created an out-of-this-world experience. On Swift Horses was equally captivating, full of unexpected twists and emotional depth. And Michelle Obama? Absolutely inspiring. I grew up watching her on TV, but seeing her speak in person was a completely different experience—powerful, moving, and unforgettable.
These experiences amazed and inspired me to keep trying new things. Volunteering opened doors to opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise. I’ve come to truly value volunteering. It’s clear that volunteers are the backbone of any major event. Every role matters, and the best part? You don’t need prior experience to get involved.
Next up for me: I’m hoping to volunteer at Lollapalooza this summer. After all, there’s nothing better than going to a music festival for free!