The biggest two days of your partying life are here. Behold: the Friday of SXSW. Last year, I remember simply giving up on the spreadsheet and wandering the streets, knowing that free food and drinks were available at almost every bar I walked into. But! Don’t give up just yet, because there are some can’t-miss parties today–all of which are off of–but close to–Sixth Street (which has been closed off at 11am since Wednesday):
1. Standard Recording and Craftster Party at The Art Project, 301 Chicon. CRAFTS! Make your own t-shirt, tote, coasters, and rings PLUS beer and food! Since it’s off 6th, it’s likely to be either not-that-crowded or wicked-crowded, so just show up early and take advantage! 11am-5pm
2. Beat Street at Greystar Red River Flats, 9th & Red River. This party has more good eats and drinks than any, with sponsors Budweiser, Svedka Vodka, Sweet Leaf Tea, Red Bull, Cookie Lounge, J Blacks, Mellow Mushroom, and Wahoo’s. Texas Blooms, ENVY mag, and Planet Beach also sponsor, so maybe there’s on-the-spot tanning complete with free mags? At 7, there’s a White Lies guest DJ spot and screening of a new short film. 2-11pm.
3. T(EA) for Tennessee at The Tap Room at SIX. Aside from sweet food (biscuit bar), drinks (Fedor highly recommends Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka), and swag (“bags,” gear, software, and some acronym-ed things I don’t know what they stand for), singer-songwriters provide a nice, low-key break in the Tap Room’s cool, air-conditioned basement. noon-6pm
4. Paper Boat Music Presents at the Big Red Sun, 1102 E Ceaser Chavez. A family-friendly SXSW event that features Maine Root drinks, Curra’s Grill food, and cupcakes from the AMAZING Sugar Mama’s Bake Shop, this party also features bands like Kacy Crowley, Soldier Thread, Wide Awake, and more. 11am-6pm
After that, you’re on your own. Wander the streets. Don’t forget Fader Fort, Cedar Street, and Red Bull Moontower are always there for you. And some ridiculous Derbey party with rollerskates. If anyone attempts that, PLEASE report back!