In 2020 Austin shut down the day South by Southwest was set to kick off, canceling the festival for the first time since it began in 1987, leaving fans, musicians, and employees questioning when they would be together again.

Two years later, SXSW makes its triumphant return, and local venues such as The Continental Club have been yearning to fill their clubs with eager fans and zealous musicians. 

A small, intimate venue housed on the bustling street of South Congress, The Continental Club opened its doors in 1955 and has endured as an iconic part of Austin music history. Steve Wertheimer, the club's owner, restored the club to its former glory in 1987 when he officially took over ownership. In 1988, Wertheimer integrated the club into the spectacle of the newly created SXSW.

"SXSW was a lifesaver back in the early days of owning the Continental," Wertheimer said. "Each year, we would wait for March to come around." 

The club has featured acts such as Stevie Ray Vaugh, Robert Plant, and The Replacements, but it is renowned for its ability to facilitate great music. Previously of the Wagoneers and currently of the Dangerous Few, Monte Warden got his start at the Continental Club at 15 years old. 

"The Continental Club gave me a chance when I was just a kid, and I will be forever grateful for that," the songwriter said. "It's a privilege to be a part of a club's history."

Lisa Morales, another part of The Continental Club family, has played there since the 90s. 

"The club is intangible. It keeps you wanting to come back." Morales said.

Like most venues, The Continental Club struggled through the pandemic but stayed afloat through grants from the federal government and the city of Austin until it reopened in May 2021. 

"I wanted to protect my employees, the musicians, and the customers. That was important to me,” Wertheimer explained. 

With the return of SXSW, The Continental Club looks to continue its long tradition of being a part of the festival. Damien Llanes, the drummer of je'Texas, who has been playing The Continental since the 90s, will be performing at the venue for the return. 

"Sometimes we forget how historic The Continental is. People would kill to be where we are right now." Llanes said. "But it's like going back home for us. It's like we never left."

The unique, family-like environment that Wertheimer has created has kept the club special for performers, employees, and patrons alike. 

"It feels great when you hang out after your set and see all your friends. I mean, there's nothing like it." Llanes said. 

While the club has changed over the years with different acts, its history and charm keep it an integral part of the Austin music scene. 65 years after its opening, the club was crowned Best Live Music Venue for the 2022 Austin Music Awards. 

Wertheimer gushes, "The Continental is this original OG place, and people don't want to see places like it disappear."