Showcase Opportunity: SXSW 2026
March 7–15/2025, Austin TX
Deadline: November 21, 2025
The South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival invites artists from around the world to apply to become Official Showcasing Artists at the 2026 edition of the festival. At SXSW, every performance is more than just a show—it’s a platform to share one’s sound with a global audience of industry professionals, media representatives, and music fans who gather in Austin to discover the next wave of talent.
Deadlines - Friday, November 21, 2025 (11:59pm PT)
In March, Austin—known as the Live Music Capital of the World®—will once again host a week of creativity, connection, and discovery as SXSW celebrates 40 years of live performances and innovation. Participating artists will gain access to:
Creative and global networking opportunities
Seven days of live music and celebration
Exclusive artist benefits and Platinum Badge-level access
For many, SXSW is where new careers take shape, collaborations are born, and international recognition begins.
To apply or learn more about showcasing at SXSW 2026, visit https://www.sxsw.com/apply/showcase-applications/
We STRONGLY recommend reaching out to SaskMusic for a consult if you are a Saskatchewan artist who is considering applying for this opportunity. Showcasing at SXSW requires advance preparation and financial commitment by the artist, including export-readiness.
Saskatchewan artists who are Canadian residents who receive official showcases are eligible to apply for showcase support through Creative Saskatchewan and FACTOR Canada (and potentially other funders). If you receive a showcase invite, please contact SaskMusic so we can offer assistance.
Within 48 hours of submitting an application, you will receive a confirmation email from SXSW. If you do not receive notification within 48 hours, please follow up by email to ensure your showcase application has been submitted properly and is under consideration.
How are artists chosen for official showcases at the SXSW Music Festival?
The SXSW Music Festival programming staff and their additional team members listen to and evaluate the acts according to originality, technical ability, songwriting skills, career establishment, and overall artistry. Every application is reviewed and evaluated by multiple parties, then invitations are extended to those selected to perform. As SXSW receives a large number of applications each year, it is unfortunately not possible to invite and accommodate every great act who applies.
SASKMUSIC DOES NOT SELECT THE ARTISTS WHO RECEIVE OFFICIAL SHOWCASE INVITATIONS TO SXSW.
