Anyone thats a SXSW newbie should start checking out various sites for RSVP's to official and unofficial parties.
Don't bother scheduling at this time just apply for them all so you have a variety of choices.
If you have a badge the British Music embassy are even throwing a bash on the Tuesday night with The Proclaimers playing in the fairly intimate Lattitude 30 so it should be a good night.
(Mind you I was going to stay in and watch American idol!)

The Levis Fader party should be announced in the next few days.
That's a must RSVP.