Nearly $100 Million Expected From Music Conference and Festival

Austin's South by Southwest music conference and festival is expected to bring nearly $100 million to the city -- more than double last year's amount.

1 minute read

March 2, 2008, 11:00 AM PST

By Nate Berg

"'Cities that are fun are going to do better economically,' Wynn said, highlighting SXSW's blend of trade show, professional conclave and entertainment provider."

"'There's no other event like it in the United States,' said Angelou Economics chief executive Angelos Angelou."

"Angelou said that in addition to the $95 million in direct revenue, SXSW generated media attention worth $12.8 million."

"Angelou's estimate is more than double the $43.5 million impact estimate from the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau."

"According to the Angelou report, attendees for the March 7-16 events included 21,000 badge holders, 7,300 musicians and 7,600 wristband holders, or nearly 36,000 people. In addition, the report factored in the impact of 87,000 attendees who bought individual tickets or spent money at music showcases, film screenings, the Town Lake Stage free concerts, the Flatstock poster convention and the Screenburn video arcade."

"More than 1,700 bands are expected at this year's SXSW music festival compared with about 1,500 in 2007."

FULL STORY: New study says SXSW worth $95 million to Austin

Thursday, February 28, 2008 in Austin American Statesman

Community / Economic Development Texas Austin South by Southwest Music Festival Conferences View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.