SXSW may seem overwhelming if you don't have a badge or wristband. VIP access is nice, but there are plenty of amazing free shows and events going on that are open to us lesser mortals. Check out this guide to get the scoop on free 2015 SXSW shows and music events.

1. FREE OFFICIAL SXSW MUSIC EVENTS

These events are officially affiliated with SXSW but they're still free - so don't miss out! 

Official Showcases

Free Official SXSW showcases are open to the public but many give priority entry to those with wristbands and badges. So if there's a show you really want to see its suggested you get there way early. Also be prepared to wait in long lines for the more popular shows. Check out the full list of Free Official SXSW Events here.

Get a Guest Pass

There are some SXSW events that are free and open to the public as long as you have a SXSW Guest Pass. Guest passes are free and can be picked up on-site at the events or in advance at several locations around Austin. More about Guest Passes here.

Music Gear Expo

One event that is free with a Guest Pass is the annual SXSW Music Gear Expo, which runs from March 18th-21st at the Austin Convention Center. This event is geared toward musicians and features a variety of cool interactive booths like The Deli's Stompbox Exhibit, where you can bring your guitar and try out the latest effects pedals from Malekko, Moog, TC Electronic and more. Find out more about the Music Gear Expo here.

Bring your guitar and try out effects pedals at the SXSW Music Gear Expo downtown. Image courtesy SXSW.

Free Outdoor Shows @ Auditorium Shores

A Guest Pass will also get you into the SXSW Outdoor Stage at Auditorium Shores, which features big name acts in a festival setting that is free and open to the public. This year's bill opens with Spoon on March 19th and closes out with international acts Mexican Institute of Sound and Bomba Estereo on March 21st. Details here. 

Free outdoor show at Auditorium Shores during SXSW 2012. Image courtesy SXSW.

2. FREE RECORD STORE/LABEL EVENTS @ SXSW15

SXSW is a great time to check out free live music at showcases hosted by well-known record stores and labels. While you're there you can also get in a bit of record shopping or buy merch from the bands you came to see! Here are two free record store events we recommend checking out for SXSW 2015.

Third Man Records Rolling Record Store

The Third Man Records Rolling Record Store will bring limited edition vinyl and merch along with a rotating lineup of rockin' bands to different stops around Austin. Founded by Jack White (of White Stripes fame), Third Man Records releases albums and singles primarily on vinyl records. The first show will take place on Thursday from 1-6pm outside of Antone's Record Shop and the last one will be on Sunday at Frank, with a stop along the way at Home Slice Pizza. 

All Rolling Record Store shows are free with no RSVP, wristbands or badges required. View the full schedule here.

Jack White performs at the Third Man Records Rolling Record Store at SXSW 2014. Image courtesy randomville.com

Waterloo Records SXSW Day Parties

Waterloo's annual free, all-ages day shows will take place outside the store on South Lamar March 18-21. No RSVPs, badges, or wristbands required and the bands will be doing autograph signings after their sets. See the full lineup below.

3. UNOFFICIAL FREE SHOWS

Aside from the official SXSW-endorsed stuff, there are plenty of free "unofficial" SXSW shows going on around Austin during this time of year too. These can range from small intimate sets at bars and restaurants to full-on weeklong mini-festivals.Here are a few resources we recommend:

Showlist Austin

Showlist Austin is an essential Austin music resource no matter what time of year it is. Check this website for a stripped-down list of most events going on any given day. Most event listings include the venue, bands playing, show start time, and details like whether the event is 21+ or if there is a cover.

Unofficial SXSW Guide

Check out the Unofficial SXSW Guide for showcases that are free with RSVP. Keep in mind that many RSVP-only events are first come, first serve and do not guarantee entry. If you're the perpetually-late type, remember that this is one time of year where you want to be sure to show up early for anything you really want to get into.

The Octopus Project performs during SXSW 2014 at "Mad Tiger Fest," a free unofficial SXSW event.

With all the cool free events going on around town, your biggest issue (aside from parking) will probably be pacing yourself so you don't burn out! Keep yourself hydrated, get plenty of rest, and plan out your week ahead of time so you can enjoy all of the free glory that SXSW 2015 has to offer.