Everything You Need To See And Do (For The Culture) At The SXSW 2025 Festival

If you’re heading to Austin, Texas for South by Southwest aka the SXSW 2025 Festival, there is a LOT to do (and eat). But with so much happening, a lot of the awesome stuff gets lost in the sauce. Or in this case in all of the emails we’ve received over the last few weeks heading up to the event. 

And if you’re *ahem* of color … dare I say BIPOC? Ew, never mind, that was awful. But if you are, then I know you’re probably in search of creatives of color you can support (for the culture).

So here’s a list of the coolest films, TV shows, and events to check out while at the SXSW 2025 Festival, “if you’re rooting for everybody Black”. And in the words of our Canadian friend foe, you can thank me now.

A Black Girl’s Guide to SXSW 2025 Festival: What to See & Do

Please Note: You can click on the links for more info, locations, and to RSVP if needed.

For the Film + TV Enthusiasts

If you’re looking for Black filmmakers and talent, here’s what you should watch while you’re at the SXSW 2025 Festival …

Films with talent we already love

• 40 Acres: After a series of plagues and wars leaves society in ruins, the Freemans are surviving — even thriving — on a farm in the middle of nowhere… so long as they repel the occasional raiding party. Starring Danielle Deadwyler.
• Boxcutter: Aspiring rapper Rome has all the talent and vision, but his crippling insecurity prevents him from sharing his music without a celebrity co-sign. Starring Ashton James from Prime Video’s Beyond Black Beauty.
• The Dutchman: Clay, a successful but troubled black businessman, attends therapy sessions with his wife, Kaya, in an attempt to salvage their marriage. But their mysterious therapist is not all that he seems, and begins to unexpectedly appear to Clay outside of their sessions. Starring André Holland, Zazie Beetz, and Aldis Hodge.
• Government Cheese: “Government Cheese” is a surrealist family comedy set in 1969 San Fernando Valley that tells the story of the Chambers, a quirky family pursuing lofty and seemingly impossible dreams, beautifully unfettered by the realities of the world. Starring David Oyelowo, Simone Missick, Jahi Di’Allo Winston, and Bokeem Woodbine.
• Magic Hour: Erin and Charlie escape to the desert to navigate an unexpected and challenging new phase of their relationship. Starring Daveed Diggs.
• Newbies: One night in Brooklyn… Kai goes to meet up with someone from her past – but she can’t bring herself to do it. Moses goes to meet up with a secret lover – but realizes he doesn’t want to hide anymore. In the wake of these Earth-shaking epiphanies about their queerness, they find each other on the J train. Starring Mia Isaac, Josiah Cross and Danny Glover.
• Seen & Heard: From executive producer Issa Rae, Seen and Heard is a two-part documentary that travels through time, creating a kaleidoscopic portrait of Black talent being “seen,” to Black creatives being “heard,” shaping today’s Golden Age of Black television.
• The Makings of Curtis Mayfield: “The Makings of Curtis Mayfield”, directed by and featuring Grammy and Academy Award-winning artist, H.E.R., explores the legacy and deep musical and cultural influence of singer, songwriter, guitarist, producer, and entrepreneur Curtis Mayfield. Starring H.E.R., Dr. Dre, Mary J Blige, John Legend, Lena Waithe, Stephen Marley, and Maxwell. 

Films with talent we’re gonna fall in love with

• Cotton Candy Bubble Gum: After his mom gets engaged to a vindictive cop, Carter, a 21-year-old mama’s boy still living at home, must secure a paid promotion at his internship by the end of the day or find a new place to live. 
• I’m Carl Lewis: In track and field he’s remembered as The Greatest. Athletics’ first commercially global star. Away from the spotlight, his is a life often misunderstood. This biography delves into the consequences of his uncompromising drive.
• The Infinite Husk: Vel did something forbidden! Something so unspeakable she was exiled from the warm embrace of her people and imprisoned here on Earth. 
• It Ends: A group of recent grads head out on a late night drive for grub, hoping to enjoy one final hangout before their paths diverge. Instead, they accidentally turn onto a never-ending, two-lane hellscape surrounded by untold horrors and cosmic forces beyond their understanding.
• New Jack Fury: Dylan Gamble is a straight-edged, undercover police officer working to take down a powerful crime organization called the Styles Syndicate. However, Dylan is fired before doing so. 
• Night Bloom: In the middle of a quiet but restless night, Hazel and her father Mackie find themselves confined to their respective corners of their Bronx apartment months into the pandemic. Unable to settle into sleep or find respite, Mackie suggests they go on a drive. 
• The Perfect Neighbor: In June 2023, Ajike Owens, a vibrant young Black mother of four and family friend, was shot and killed by her neighbor, Susan Lorincz. The conflict that ignited this tragic event was a neighborhood dispute over children playing in a nearby field. 
• Whitch: After putting her daughter to bed, Aura finds that an elderly woman has broken into her house. The intruder, who acts strangely familiar with Aura, begins a ritual, summoning something dark into the living room.
• Ash: A woman wakes up on a distant planet and finds the crew of her space station viciously killed. Her investigation into what happened sets in motion a terrifying chain of events.

Screenings are held at venues like the Paramount Theatre, Zach Theatre, and Alamo Drafthouse Lamar.

Looking for movie + TV-related events and activations? Here are a few events to check out while you’re at the SXSW 2025 Festival …

• Escape With Prime: Prime Video’s immersive, pop-up activation at the Hotel San José will transport SXSW attendees away from the bustle of the festival and into the world of the incredible slate of women-led content available on and coming soon to Prime Video. Featured shows include My Fault: London, Picture This, Holland, G20, Another Simple Favor, The Summer I Turned Pretty, and Étoile. (3/7-3/8; 11am-6pm)
• FX’s Alien Earth: Buckle up. FX’s Alien: Earth is expected to make impact at SXSW. Highly classified operations are being conducted at 318 E 5th St. Stop by to see if you have what it takes to join the team. (3/7-3/8; 2:30pm-10pm)
• The Criterion Mobile Closet: Stocked with 1,000+ of the greatest films from around the world, the Criterion Collection Closet offers more cinematic inspiration per square foot than any other place on the planet. Come in, explore the collection, and make your Closet video! (3/7-3/10; 3pm-7pm)
• Love is Blind: Join us at Lucille Bar on Rainey street for 3 days of Love Is Blind inspired fun. Guests can capture photos, drink out of golden goblets, meet and greet with alumns. On Sunday they’ll be hosting a special screening of the season 8 reunion, complete with a cast conversation led by Vulture. (3/7-3/9; 5pm-2am)
• Paramount+ The Lodge: Paramount+’s ‘The Lodge’ is the ultimate fan experience, offering an unforgettable and immersive journey that lets guests engage with hit content, iconic franchises, and beloved characters. Featured shows include Yellowjackets, 1923, Gladiator II, the upcoming original series Happy Face and more. (3/7; 4pm-12am)
  

For the Comedy Lovers

If you’re looking for new comedians to follow, here are a few comedy shows you should attend while you’re at the SXSW 2025 Festival …

• Comedy Kickoff: Join us to kick off SXSW Comedy at The Creek and The Cave! (3/7; 7pm-8:30pm)
• Three Girls One Glass: The lovable, quirky Todd Glass headlines a lineup of some of your favorite standups. (3/7; 9pm-10:30pm)
• Only Murderers In The Building: Killer comics take the stage for a night of must-see standup. Come discover your new favorite comic (and maybe catch an unexpected drop-in or two). (3/7; 10-11:30pm)
• Comedy for Cave Dwellers: Come discover your new favorite comic (and maybe catch an unexpected drop-in or two). (3/8; 9pm-10:30pm)
• Good Sets: Who doesn’t like good sets? Some of the strongest emerging and established comics at the fest take the stage for an unmissable lineup. (3/8; 10pm-11:30pm)
• The Stand Presents WITZ Live: Witz is home to The Stand’s library and exclusive specials from comedians that include Rich Vos, Laurie Kilmartin, Bret Ernst, Derek Gaines, and more! Witz Live represents some of the best comedians currently in the New York comedy scene. Featuring Sam Jay and Ian Lara. (3/9; 6pm-7:30pm)
• Gotham Comedy Club Presents: Gotham Comedy Club is one of New York’s most popular stand-up destinations. For nearly 30 years, their coveted stage has hosted national acts and fostered generations of young comedians into comedy heavyweights who still consider the club a home today. (3/10; 8pm-9:30pm)
• The Last Laugh: It’s the final show of the SXSW Comedy Festival. Come have the last laugh with us. Featuring Godfrey. (3/10; 10pm-11:30pm)
• Would You Bang Him: This hilarious mock game show features a lineup of male comedians delivering quick sets to a panel of female judges, who then answer the question “Would you bang him?” Featuring Reggie Conquest, Punkie Johnson, Jay Jurden, and Ian Lara. (3/9; 10pm-11:30pm)

For the Music Aficionados

If you’re looking for new music artists to check out or just wanna vibe at a music festival, here are a few artists to check out while you’re at the SXSW 2025 Festival …

Artists I already love

• Brittney Spencer: Brittney made her Billboard Hot 100 as a featured artist on Beyoncé’s “Blackbiird” from the Grammy-winning album Cowboy Carter (3/12; 7:45pm-8:15pm)
• Big Freedia: The vibrant ambassador of New Orleans Bounce music, is a force in the hip-hop world, leaving her mark on television, film, and music. From her feature on Beyoncé’s Grammy-winning single, “Break My Soul,” to her collaborations on “Formation” and “Nice For What,” Freedia brings her distinctive voice and infectious energy to every project. (3/13; 10pm-10:45pm)
• Duckwrth: Duckwrth is a genre-bending multi-hyphenate artist and designer known for his unique sound and captivating performances. He’s also known for his song “Start a Riot” featuring Shaboozey on the Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse soundtrack. (3/14; 10:25pm-10:45pm)
• Ginuwine: Grammy-nominated R&B legend Ginuwine known for his collaboration with Timbaland on the iconic song “Pony”, which remains a cultural staple to this very day. (3/11; 11:40pm-12:40am)

Artists I think you’ll love

• DreTL: As the season two winner of Netflix’s Rhythm and Flow, DreTL has solidified his status as a rising star. Known for blending Atlanta’s rich culture with his journey, he has performed at events like Poetry vs. Hip-Hop, Georgia State’s Spring Carnival, and various other venues around the city. (3/13; 10:30pm-10:40pm)
• J’ray: With a sound that continues to evolve, J’ray is poised to make waves on the global stage, delivering music that resonates deeply across borders. (3/12; 9:30pm-10pm)
• Jaxs: Returning for her second festival appearance with Carefree Black Girl at SXSW, Netflix’s Rhythm & Flow Top 5 Finalist, Jaxs is a powerhouse rapper from Burgaw, NC, now based in Charlotte, blending hip-hop and rock with sharp lyricism, dry humor, and an unstoppable attitude.
• Sly5thAve: With a core underground following, Sly5thAve has been backed by Jarobi White (A Tribe Called Quest), Gilles Peterson, NPR, Jazz Times, and more. (3/11; 8pm-8:40pm and 3/14; 11:20pm-12am)
• Winnie Ama: Northern-Irish Ghanaian pop artist Winnie Ama has emerged as a standout talent over the past few years. Described as a ‘modern day Renaissance woman’, in 2024, she was recognised by The Belfast Telegraph and The Irish Times as ‘One to Watch’. (3/11; 10pm-10:40pm, 3/13; 3:20pm-3:50pm, and 3/14; 11pm-11:40pm)
  

Looking for music events and activations? Here are a few events to check out while you’re at the SXSW 2025 Festival …

• Dolby Airstream: Discover the power of Dolby Atmos with Rivian Premium Audio and experience the difference yourself. Explore the Dolby Airstream trailer, learn more about the creative process with Dolby Atmos mixing, and experience Dolby Atmos Music in a Rivian. (3/7; 10am-1pm)
• JBL Sound Bodega: Pop by the immersive, Austin-inspired corner store experience featuring the launch of JBL’s newest portable speakers JBL Flip 7 and Charge 6. Catch live music from Grace Bowers, Mon RovÎa, Mobley, LP Giobbi, NSQK, Laila! and more! (3/11; 5pm-8pm and 3/12-3/13; 1pm-7pm)
• JBL Truck Activation: Check out the JBL Truck for a chance to win prizes including JBL products, premiums, cut the line access to JBL events and tickets to Rolling Stone’s Future of Music Showcase! (3/10-3/11; 10am-6pm)
• Working Families Party: New Orleans bounce legend Big Freedia set to headline alongside underground rap hero billy woods, rising Houston hip-hop star Sunnitharapper, alternative/industrial Reggaeton artist PIERI, Austin-based hip-hop band Magna Carda. There will also be a drag show hosted by local Austin drag artist Brigitte Bandit. (3/12; 6:30pm-12:30am)
• Waterloo Records Day Parties: Celebrate their last day party lineup at 600 N Lamar before the big move! Shows are free and all-ages. Capacity limits may apply. (3/11; 3:30pm-7pm, 3/12; 11am-6pm, and 3/13-3/14; 1pm-6pm)

For the Foodies

Just here for the food? Here are a few events to check out while you’re at the Festival …

Foods we already love

• ¿Desayunaste? Breakfast Comes First: McDonald’s celebrates mamá’s age-old question, ¿Desayunaste? and reminds fans that Breakfast Comes First. Featuring breakfast classic menu items and merch giveaways, McDonald’s will be present at the SXSW Registrant Lounge and Billboard ‘The Stage’ concert series. (3/12-3/15; 9:30am-11:30am)
• My/Mochi x Barbie Joyfully Chill Ice Cream Shoppe: My/Mochi ice cream is the original “joyfully chill” treat. We make our own ice cream in more than 20 flavors like Cookie Dough, Strawberry and Mango and wrap it in our sweet rice dough for the ultimate snack experience. We are excited to launch a NEW, limited edition Barbie™ Birthday Cake flavor at SXSW. (3/7-3/12; 11am-7pm)
• Dave’s Killer Bread Sampling: Join us in the Registration Lounge area for delicious free samples of Dave’s Killer Bread. (3/13; 12pm-7pm)

Foods you’ll fall in love with

• Moonshots & Mimosas Breakfast: Join The Moonshot Podcast for complimentary breakfast tacos and bubbly as they celebrate 15 years of moonshots. Grab an artisanal donut or a superfood smoothie and stay for a special live podcast recording to explore the power of prototyping and how to transform bold ideas into reality. (3/10; 9am-10am)
• Energia Pura Vida Experience: Join Essential Costa Rica for some Costa Rica bites, enjoy a cup of Costa Rican coffee, a relaxing massage, leave your mark on our gratitude wall, experience Costa Rica through an immersive AR experience, and much more. (3/7-3/8; 12pm-10pm)
• JonnyPops Sampling Event: Join JohnnyPops on Congress Ave for free samples of JonnyPops organic frozen treats! (3/7; 12pm-10pm)
• The Whataburger Museum of Art: Celebrate Whataburger’s 75th anniversary at the Whataburger Museum of Art (WMOA) during SXSW 2025! What began as an online community fueled by fan creativity and brand love will now be brought to life for the very first time. Explore fan-created art, including pieces in mural, abstract and pop culture styles, enjoy interactive installations like the Day Dot Room and Table Tent Mugshot Wall and indulge in samples of Whataburger’s latest limited-time offer, the Monterey Melt! (3/8-3/9; 11am-6pm)
• Museum of the Future House: From space food to desert-inspired cuisine, Dubai is bringing its innovative vision to SXSW 2025 for the first time. Taste the famous Dubai chocolate bars from TikTok sensation FIX Dessert Chocolatier and authentic chai from Project Chaiwala. (3/7-311; 10am-7pm)

Many events are open to the public, though RSVPs may be required.

For the Drink Enthusiasts and Happy Hour Seekers

And if you’re looking for the booze … here are a few events to check out while you’re at the SXSW 2025 Festival …

• Paramount+ The Lodge: Paramount+’s ‘The Lodge’ is the ultimate fan experience, offering an unforgettable and immersive journey that lets guests engage with hit content, iconic franchises, and beloved characters, including Yellowjackets, 1923, Gladiator II, the upcoming original series Happy Face and more. (3/7; 4pm-12am)
• The Fiji House: Step into a tropical oasis where you’ll enjoy handcrafted island-inspired cocktails, gourmet bites, and live entertainment—all while discovering why Fiji is more than a destination; it’s a feeling. (3/14-3/15; 2pm-2am)
• Scott Evans’ “Guest House” Live w/ Erika Alexander: For the first time ever, Scott Evans is bringing his hit interview series, House Guest, to a live audience at SXSW! Stick around for a CÎROC-powered Happy Hour, where you’ll connect with some of the most exciting creatives in Austin. 21+ Only. (3/7; 2pm-6pm)
• Creative Happy Hour: Convene, connect, and collaborate on new ways to bring creative ease with the SXSW community. Hosted by Keith Powers & Nazanin Mandi. (3/8; 2pm-6pm)
• Drinking Has Evolved: Drinking has evolved, and BRĒZ is leading the way. Sip on feel-good social tonics that bring euphoria, clarity, and relaxation with no hangovers or regrets. Feel better without feeling worse. (3/7; 4:20pm-6pm)
• Film & TV Industry Happy Hour: Join Texas Association of Film Commissions members at the FILM TEXAS Opening Night Happy Hour to network and mingle with film and TV industry professionals, filmmakers, and creatives at SXSW. Complimentary beverages will be served. (3/7; 5pm-7pm)
• Lights, Camera, Cocktails!: Join the MPA for a reception focused on issues at the heart of film, television, and streaming: the state of the industry; the benefits of bringing film production to Texas and other states; and how digital piracy threatens the creative community – and the MPA’s global efforts to counter this threat. (3/7; 5pm-6pm)
• F1 Arcade Activation: Attendees will be able to interact with an AI-powered mocktail-making machine, crafting personalized, non-alcoholic cocktails in under 60 seconds. Each beverage
  will be uniquely customized based on personalized music playlist data, creating an innovative, one-of-a-kind refreshment tailored to individual preferences. (3/8-3/10; 11am-7pm)
• Frontier Whiskey Lounge: Each day of The Stage at SXSW, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey will activate a private bar in the Frontier Whiskey Lounge where guests can get some R&R between sets. The private bar will offer whiskey tastings of the full Bulleit Frontier Whiskey portfolio, as well as custom signature cocktail sessions hosted by local mixologists. (3/13-3/15; 7pm-11pm)

For the Glam Gurus and Beauty-Obsessed

SXSW 2025 features various beauty activations, glam experiences, and self-care pop-ups …

• Bloom A New Day Activation: Lush Cosmetics has created an interactive experience highlighting the urgent need to address one of our nation’s most pressing emergencies: school shootings. You’ll also be able to purchase a limited-edition Lush product at the event, where 75% of the proceeds will be donated to organizations fighting for a future free from gun violence. (3/9-3/10; 12pm-6pm) located at 522 E 6th St in the corner parking lot. 
• AirLight Pro Blowout Bar: L’Oreal Professionnel is offering free dry styling sessions with the AirLight Pro and gifting product samples. Stop by the station at 5^th & Red River to experience the future of hair drying with this revolutionary new device! (3/7 – 3/9; 10am-6pm)
• SheaMoisture Rest Stop: Stop by between panels and performances to give your hair a refresh with quick styling sessions. Plus, enjoy some goodies and try out their newest product drop Curl Stretch Multi-Tasking Volume Cream. (3/7-3/15; 11am-7pm)

Just for Fun

• Electric Joyride: Ride shotgun on the ultimate Electric Joyride. Experience the electrifying on-road and off-road capability of R1 on a closed course with an expert driver. Launch, navigate obstacles and get a first-hand look at what our all-electric adventure vehicles can do. (3/7; 10am-7pm)
• Featured Session: Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson: I’m not sure what this session is about, but I don’t think it matters! Our first lady will be in attendance and that’s enough! (3/13; 1pm-2pm)
• Holey Moley Mini Golf Experience: Holey Moley’s Austin location is offering a special 2-for-1 deal on mini golf, giving attendees the chance to play 18 holes for the price of 9 by simply showing any SXSW badge at the door. With an indulgent food menu, drink specials, and even karaoke rooms, Holey Moley gives SXSW guests one more way to experience the vibrancy of Austin. (3/7-3/15)

And that’s about it! SXSW is always a fun time, but events do overlap, so just pick the ones you like the best and get there EARLY! Oh, and don’t forget to RSVP to the events you really want to attend!

Be sure to follow my Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and Letterboxd accounts for photos, videos, and reviews during SXSW 2025 (and after). And let me know what you attend!!