In 1987, South by Southwest Conferences & Festivals started as a small event to introduce the outside world to Austin and all its music scene had to offer. Three decades later, SXSW has grown into a behemoth—bringing thousands of musical acts from all over the world each March—to become more than a music industry event. This year's event takes place March 9-18. The 2018 conferences will feature speakers who will talk about food, design, government, art and health, and the Music festival is now preceded by Interactive, Film and Comedy fests. But music is still a major emphasis during SXSW, and the event's growth is evident in the number of music acts to perform during the annual festival. SXSW organizers have so far announced hundreds of musical acts on SXSW.com and will continue to announce new artists up until the Music festival begins.