SXSW to begin next Thursday, less than two weeks after downtown shooting; city leaders, police say they are prepared

March 7, 2026

SXSW, one of Austin's major annual events, is set to begin next Thursday, arriving amid heightened attention to safety after a recent mass shooting in the downtown entertainment district. The incident occurred fewer than 14 days before the festival's opening, and it has renewed community concern about large gatherings in the area.

City leaders and Austin Police Department officials have publicly stated they are prepared for the festival and its expected crowds. Officials emphasize coordination with event organizers and multiple city agencies as they work to deliver public safety services during the coming days.

Festival organizers have been meeting with city and law enforcement partners to finalize logistics and crowd management plans. Organizers say they are focused on delivering programming while cooperating with authorities on safety measures, access control and emergency response protocols.

Local leaders acknowledge the recent violence has left residents uneasy, but they stress the importance of maintaining normal operations and the economic and cultural benefits the festival brings. They also note that many emergency services and city departments remain on alert as the event approaches.

Police officials say they will monitor downtown areas closely throughout the festival and maintain an active presence where programming and large crowds concentrate. They have urged festival attendees and residents to remain aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.

Community organizations and businesses around Sixth Street have expressed mixed feelings, balancing concern for safety with the financial boost SXSW provides each year. Some business owners said they will take extra precautions for staff and patrons, while others expressed hope the event will proceed without further incident.

As the festival approaches, city officials, police and event organizers continue to emphasize communication with the public. They plan to share updates and guidance for attendees in the event an issue arises during the course of SXSW, and they encourage festivalgoers to follow official channels for the latest information.