5 Blogs That’ll Make You Feel Like You’re at SXSW

by Kim Niemi

As of today, South by Southwest has been underway for three days (the Interactive portion anyway), with a week left to go, and anyone who’s anyone is there – or wishing they could be. Sadly for some of us, duty (or lack of available funds) calls, and we must live vicariously through the digital updates of others. Here are five bloggers offering a virtual ticket to the event of the season. 

SXSW Baby!

For 15 Years SXSW Baby! has been sharing news from and about SXSW. In addition to daily updates on all that’s on offer, the blog is a community for past attendees to connect and reminisce, or for wannabes to connect and plan a future trip to the annual conference/festival. 

Eater Austin

Usually the Austin page of Eater.com shines a general light on grub around the Texas city, but during the weeks leading up to (and during) SXSW, the focus shifts to offering options for tourists – from the pickiest eaters to foodies looking for culinary adventure or a 500+ beer list – as well as locals wanting to avoid the festival crowds. 

Sprinklr

In addition to immersing oneself in the experience that is SXSW, the conference is a ripe opportunity for marketers to gain incredible exposure for their brands, products, artists, etc. That’s why Sprinklr has devoted their blogging space to the singular task of directing marketers to the best of the best at SXSW – meaning “parties, panels and events.” Their guide is even downloadable as a Google spreadsheet. 

Ketchum Blog

The Ketchum blog  breaks down conference trends based on SXSW’s programming, providing a compass for social conversation based on predictably-hot topics. Find out who to follow, how best to engage, and what’s likely to be buzz-worthy, whether part of the scene in Austin, or keeping tabs from afar. 

WCG

With a list of events and high-profile guests long enough to host their own mini-SXSW, WCG World offers a SXSW experience worth following. If you’re there, definitely try to take part live; if not, keep up via their special SXSW site and start planning for next year. 

If SXSW is out of reach for you this year, follow these five blogs for a serious taste of Texas hospitality. Making what’s happening far away feel close at hand is one of the best things the Internet has to offer – take advantage of it!

What are you most looking forward to learning/seeing/doing at SXSW this year? Let me know on Twitter! 

IMAGE CREDIT: NAN PALMERO