Beyond the Badge: Experience Black Austin During SXSW 2025

Virtual Assistant
Apr 18
4 min read

February 19, 2025

SXSW 2025 is bringing the world to Austin once again, and we know that Black creatives, educators, entrepreneurs, and tech innovators will be in the mix—looking for spaces that reflect their culture, history, and experiences. While the panels, activations, and networking events are exciting, the conference hustle can also be exhausting. So why not take a break from the usual SXSW grind and connect with Austin’s rich Black history, music, and food?

If you’re coming to Austin for SXSW, don’t just stay inside the convention center or hop from one brand-sponsored event to the next. Explore Austin’s Black cultural assets—places that tell the real story of this city and its people. And the best part? Many of these experiences are within close proximity to downtown, making them easy to fit into your SXSW schedule.

Why Black Austin Matters at SXSW

Austin is often branded as the "Live Music Capital of the World," but did you know that Black musicians were the foundation of the city's music scene? Or that East Austin, once a thriving Black cultural and business hub, still holds the flavors and rhythms that shaped Austin’s identity? Unfortunately, much of this history is often left out of mainstream SXSW programming.

That’s why engaging with Austin’s Black cultural spaces is more than just sightseeing—it’s about recognizing and supporting the communities that helped make this city what it is. From historic landmarks to legendary music venues and Black-owned restaurants, these spaces tell the true story of Austin.

Black Creatives Linking Up on Black Downtown Tour duing SXSW

The Tech Industry & East Austin’s History

East Austin was officially created as the Negro District in 1928. This was because the City of Austin wanted to reserve its "best" areas for white people and develop the technology industry to attract white tech workers—ensuring they stayed in the city without living in close proximity to Black people. Despite this segregationist policy, East Austin became a thriving Black community filled with institutions, many of which had been relocated from what is now downtown Austin, where much of SXSW activity is concentrated today.

By engaging with the cultural assets of East Austin, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the city’s history has shaped its present. Notable places to explore include:

The George Washington Carver Library and Museum – A central hub for Black history and cultural preservation in Austin.
Rogers-Washington Holy Cross Historic District – Austin’s first African American historic neighborhood, built by Black professionals, including the first licensed Black architect in Texas, John Chase (fact check).
Black-Owned Restaurants & Food Trucks – East Austin is home to a thriving Black food scene with must-visit spots like Sam’s BBQ, Community Vegan, Anything Baked Potato, and Mr. Catfish.

Take a Break & Take a Tour: Black Austin Experiences You Need to Book

When you’re ready to step outside the conference walls and experience something different, Black Austin Tours has you covered. Our curated experiences connect you to the city's Black history, food, and music in a way that’s engaging, fun, and meaningful.

1. Tastes & Sounds of the Chitlin Circuit: A Food & Music Experience

If you want to truly experience Austin’s music and food scene, this is the tour for you. We take you through the legacy of the Chitlin Circuit, where legendary Black artists once performed, and show you how their influence still lives on today. You’ll visit historic Black music venues and hear the stories that shaped Austin’s status as a music capital. And, of course, we’ll make sure you leave full—eating your way through some of East Austin’s best Black-owned restaurants.

Perfect for: Black SXSW attendees looking for a break from conference sessions, networking in a laid-back setting, and discovering Austin’s real flavor.

Tour Details:

Small group experience (20 people max)
Stops at historic music venues and local Black-owned restaurants
Conveniently located near Downtown & the Austin Convention Center

2. Black Austin Tours’ Walking Tours

If you love history and storytelling, our Black Austin Walking Tour will take you through the heart of Austin’s Black past and present. Learn about the freedmen communities that built East Austin, the impact of segregation and gentrification, and the cultural figures who shaped this city. Our expert guides will lead you through historic landmarks, sharing stories that often go untold.

Perfect for: Educators, history buffs, and anyone who wants to understand the Black experience in Austin.

Tour Details:

90-minute walking tour
Covers significant Black historical sites in Austin
Located near Downtown & East Austin

More Than a Conference: Make SXSW Meaningful

We know that Black SXSW attendees are always looking for spaces where they feel seen and where the culture is honored. That’s why we encourage you to take time outside of SXSW’s official programming to explore Austin’s Black heritage. These experiences don’t just add to your visit—they transform it, ensuring that when you leave Austin, you’ll truly know the city beyond the corporate activities and pop-up parties.

So, the real question isn’t “Where are the Black people?” but rather, “Did you look for us?” Or were you just caught up in all the activities by the convention center? We’re here to ensure that when you visit Austin, you experience its Black history, present, and future.

So before you pack up and head home, make sure you experience the real Austin. Book a tour with Black Austin Tours and immerse yourself in the city’s Black history, music, and food.