SXSW News

Thinking about attending SXSW 2009? Well, you should get your badge today, so you save some money.

Registration rates for all SXSW conference and festival badges will increase after today, January 16th. Click over to our Registration page to review your options and register and book your hotel. Please remember that registration fees are non-refundable once processed.

Many of our Registrants, Filmmakers, Panelists, Bands and fans come to Austin from abroad and we appreciate the distance you travel to attend SXSW each year.

As of January 12th 2009, travelers entering the US with passports from Visa Waiver Program countries must obtain advance online travel authorization by visiting the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) website (this online authorization is free).

To kick-start the new year, airlines in the U.S. and around the world have slashed airfares making travel to SXSW ridiculously cheap from lots of places. Airfares under $300 are commonplace online and travel from Los Angeles to Austin can be had for as low as $218. Fare sales like this usually don’t last long so don’t hesitate to make your SXSW plans.

Getting your message into the hands of SXSW registrants has never been easier. Just put a super cool and functional insert into our Conference Big Bags. CD samplers, keychains, sunscreen and lip balms can be customized with your company's information and distributed to our attendees through the commemorative Big Bags.

After the holidays, be on the lookout for your February issue of SXSWorld magazine. The preview edition will be packed with what to expect at SXSW 09. SXSWorld is how to get the edge with the latest announcements before the event and details on already confirmed participants.

When should you book your hotel for SXSW 2009?

It has come to our attention that a company called Expo Guide is sending out misleading mailings. SXSW is in no way affiliated with Expo Guide, nor with Fair Guide, who engages in similar practices. Please read all incoming mailings asking for your data update in exhibitor listings/directories/fair or expo guides etc. very carefully, the small print in particular!

Hats off to Ken Weinstein, President of Big Hassle Media in New York, the lucky winner of five free nights of lodging during SXSW.

Ken is no stranger to our town—he's been a regular at SXSW Music since 1993. Congrats, Ken!

Many of you have already received your November issue of SXSWorld, but there are still some out there that don't know about our magazine. Our publication team produces 5 issues a year, covering topics in the film, interactive and music industries.

Come on -- you know you want to attend SXSW and you know you want to save money. So sign up today today to take advantage of significant savings. Whether you are registering for a Film, Interactive, Music, Gold or Platinum badge, you will save a ton on walkup prices if you make your purchase today. Need even more incentive to buy your badge on November 14?