Volunteers Sought For 2019 SXSW Conference And Festivals

AUSTIN, TEXAS — South by Southwest Conference and Festivals officials are seeking volunteers for the 2019 event taking place this coming March.

Local, national and even international volunteers contribute their time and skills while seeing what’s next in the film, music, tech and gaming industries during the festival scheduled March 8-17, officials noted. Moreover, SXSW offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth while fostering a culture of fun and community engagement. Those interested are encouraged to attend one of the SXSW Volunteer Calls that take place on Sunday, Jan. 27 and Sunday, Feb. 10, and Saturday, Feb. 23. Attendees can expect to spend about an hour at the call.

SXSW offers two volunteer types: All Conference and Music Venue. Between those, volunteers choose from over 30 different crews that support the production and operations of the conference and festivals. Crew examples include: Artist Parking Operations, Event Signage, Gaming Expo, Conference Access, SXSW Pitch, Stage Crew, Registration, Sessions and more. Volunteers must be able to contribute a minimum of 24 hours during the event to earn badges to attend. Both day and night positions are available. Volunteer sign ups are open online at http://volunteer.sxsw.com/register.

Crew shift selections will take place at the SXSW Volunteer Calls at the Austin Convention Center on Sunday, Jan. 27 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Ballroom ABC on the First Floor, and Sunday, Feb. 10 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Ballroom DE on the Fourth Floor. A final call will be held on Saturday, Feb. 23 in Ballroom AC on the First Floor from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers are encouraged to attend at their earliest convenience for the widest selection of crews and shifts. Volunteers who are unable to attend the volunteer calls or need additional information about volunteering, can contact SXSW Event Staffing & Resources at volunteer@sxsw.com or 512/467-7979.

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>>> Top image: Iconic salsa singer and composer Rúben Blades (left) was among the luminaries attending the SXSW in 2018, here interviewed by NPR AltLatino host Felix Contreras. Blades was promoting the premiere of a documentary on his life titled "Ruben Blades is Not My Name." Photo by Tony Cantú/Patch staff.