Interactive FAQ

What is SXSW Interactive?
The SXSW Interactive Festival offers five days of panels, keynote discussions, trade show and exciting evening events. Attendees benefit from hands-on, how-to training as well as long-term, big-picture analysis in an atmosphere that super-charges creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.

What kind of topics are covered at the event?
Panel topics cover everything from web design to usability to blogging to wireless innovation to new technology business models. For 2006, we are also adding a full track of panels relating to digital convergence.

When will the full programming lineup be announced for 2006?
The bulk of daytime programming for 2006 should be announced by early December 2005. The schedule of evening events will be announced in early February 2006. Everything at SXSW is always subject to change, so you'll want to check back to this site frequently for the most current updates.

Who attends this event?
SXSW Interactive appeals to uber-geeks and digital creatives who push the cutting edge of technological change. More specifically, the event appeals to content developers, web designers, programmers, bloggers, wireless innovators, gamers, tech entrepreneurs, bankers, investors and educators.

How many people typically come to SXSW Interactive?
More than 3300 registrants from around the United States and across the world attended the 2005 SXSW Interactive Festival. We expect this number to increase in 2006.

How long has this event been going on?
The event now known as the SXSW Interactive Festival began in 1994. At that point, it was called the SXSW Film and Multimedia Conference. Film and Multimedia split into two separate events in 1995. The rest is history.

What kind of people have spoken at SXSW Interactive in the past?
Thousands of cutting-edge new media industry experts have spoken at SXSW Interactive over the last 12 years. Some of the bigger names to participate in the event include Danni Ashe, Stewart Brand, Po Bronson, Denise Caruso, Ana Marie Cox, Mark Cuban, Cory Doctorow, Thomas Dolby, Richard Florida, Al Franken, Malcolm Gladwell, Philip Glass, Molly Holzschlag, Meg Hourihan, Steven Johnson, Philip Kaplan, Jaron Lanier, Brenda Laurel, Howard Rheingold, Todd Rundgren, DJ Spooky, Bruce Sterling, Joe Trippi and Jeffrey Zeldman

How is SXSW Interactive different than other tech events?
The wide variety of programming offered at SXSW Interactive helps make it a completely unique event. Also unique is the concurrent presence of SXSW Film and SXSW Music, thereby providing an opportunity for the most creative people in the technology world to connect with the most creative innovators in film and music.

What is new for 2006 at the SXSW Interactive Festival?
For 2006, SXSW Interactive adds four days of programming focusing on new content and business opportunities in the growing field of digital convergence. The 2006 event will also feature a separate space in the Trade Show & Exhibition showcasing the convergent future of devices and content delivery

What happens in the evening?
From the Opening Party on Saturday, March 11 through the Closing Party on Tuesday, March 14, an extensive schedule of exciting evening events helps make the SXSW Interactive Festival special and unique. The informal nature of these evening events make them very conducive for brainstorming new ideas, making new connections, or just relaxing with interesting people who share similar interests.

Can I go to the evening events without buying a registration?
No. Most official evening events are restricted to SXSW Interactive Festival badgeholders.

Can I buy a one-day pass to SXSW Interactive Festival?
We do not sell single day passes to the event. As compared to other comparable tech events, the low registration price of the SXSW Interactive Festival is a tremendous value, even if you are only able to attend one or two days of the event.

Am I able to attend SXSW Film and SXSW Music events with my SXSW Interactive badge?
The SXSW Interactive Festival is part of SXSWeek, which also includes the SXSW Film Conference & Festival as well as the SXSW Music Conference & Festival. If you want to attend both SXSW Interactive and SXSW Film, you will need to purchase a Gold Pass. If you want to attend SXSW Interactive, SXSW Film and SXSW Music, you will need to purchase a Platinum Pass.

What films are playing at SXSW Film and what bands are playing at SXSW Music this year?
Stay tuned to the SXSW Film and SXSW Music websites for complete answers to these questions.

Why should I register for SXSW Interactive today?
The earlier you register for SXSW Interactive, the more you save on the $300 walkup price. Also, room availability during SXSW at downtown area hotels begins to sell out in mid-November. Flights to Austin during March also sell out quickly. In other words, if you wait until the last minute to register . . you may miss out!

Who should I contact about my great idea for a panel at SXSW Interactive?
E-mail your idea to Hugh@sxsw.com. Hurry, the deadline for submitting panel ideas is Friday, September 16.

Can my company buy exhibition space at the SXSW Interactive Festival?
The Interactive / Film (iF!) Trade Show & Exhibition runs Sunday, March 12 through Tuesday, March 14. Contact Katie@sxsw.com for more information on exhibiting.

What other ways can I market my company at SXSW Interactive?
From Program Book advertising to logo placement on the Big Bags, SXSW offers a wide variety of marketing opportunities. For more information, see the Marketing section of the website. Or, for specific marketing questions, contact Katie@sxsw.com.

Help, I am still confused.
E-mail all your questions to inter@sxsw.com.