South by South West: What to see, eat and do in Sydney
This year, South by Southwest Sydney (SXSW Sydney) will transform the harbour city into a creative playground. Featuring everything from tech and innovation talks to music, games and screen showcases, South by Southwest 2025 is set to bring together thinkers, artists, tastemakers and foodies alike.
Before you start soaking up the sessions, here’s your guide to seeing, eating and exploring Sydney during the festival.
What is SXSW Sydney?
SXSW Sydney is the Asia-Pacific edition of the globally renowned South by Southwest franchise. From 13–19 October 2025, locals and visitors to Sydney can expect a packed schedule of over 1,600 events: conference sessions, film and screen, gaming showcases, music, lifestyle, expo activations and plenty of parties.
It’s a festival that’s about so much more than just about the keynote stages – lots free public installations, local performances and interactive showcases mean even non-ticket holders can get a taste of the action. So get ready for immersive art in pop-ups, innovation expos and so much more – culture and tech will collide in unusual and inspiring ways.
What to see and experience
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Keynotes and panels: Catch global leaders like Hollywood director Paul Feig and renowned podcaster Mo Gawdat amplifying conversations around ethics in tech, creativity and the future of storytelling in both business and entertainment.
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Conference tracks and innovation expo: If you’re interested in new ideas, innovation, sustainability or lifestyle in general, this year’s South by Southwest festival has hands-on learning opportunities and plenty of inspiration at the Innovation Expo.
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Music, screen and games festivals: Showcases and performances across genres – emerging talent and established acts – bring night-time energy. Experience local and international music artists, indie games and film premieres.
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Free and public programming: Some sessions, installations and partner events are free. So it’s a great chance to get out and explore the city, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the local culture without needing every pass.
Where to dine and unwind
While you’re in town for South by Southwest Sydney, you’ll want food and lifestyle experiences that match the buzz. Here are some restaurants and neighbourhood spots to check out:
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Quay: Iconic Sydney fine-dining with harbour vistas. A spectacular choice for a special evening (dress up worthy). (The Rocks)
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Chinatown and Haymarket: For late nights after sessions or shows, the Asian food here is vibrant, with flavours that pack a punch and spaces that celebrate communal dining.
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Spice Alley: An atmospheric spot full of hawker-style stalls, lanterns and authentic eats. Great for casual dinners and exploring local street-food culture. (Chippendale)
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Barangaroo dining precinct: Waterfront spots, upscale bars, modern Australian menus and more. Great for working dinners, cocktails, views and relaxed meals between events.
What to do outside the sessions
Start by wandering through exhibitions and art installations – the Visiting Sydney program should encourage you to explore different neighbourhoods, galleries and pop-ups.
Coffee culture is alive and well in Sydney, so seek out local cafes for startup meetups or simply an injection of energy. Then take a harbour walk from Circular Quay up through The Rocks and then into Barangaroo – it’s an easy walk that will give you both scenic views and stops at hidden bars or seafood joints.
At night time, there’s plenty of evening music and after-parties to experience, whether it’s a musical showcase or late-night gig at venues scattered across the city.
How to plan your SXSW Sydney food and experience
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Book ahead: Top-end restaurants tend to fill up fast during busy festival nights.
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Mix casual and fine: Don’t let premium meals eat up your entire budget. Street food, lunch sets or shared-plate eateries will deliver excellent value.
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Stay near hubs: If your accommodation is in the CBD, Barangaroo, Chippendale or The Rocks, you’ll have an easy walk to both festival venues and great food.
SXSW Sydney is a global conference that also gives you the chance to tour the city’s creative soul and taste its culinary heights. Trust us, you’ll find the unexpected in both tech and taste if you look hard enough. Just make sure you arrive hungry – for inspiration, food and experiences.