SXSW 2026 Restructures with Expanded Music Programming and New Venue Strategy
The festival will combine music, film/TV, and interactive events into a single week, adapting to the closure of the Austin Convention Center and evolving attendee preferences.
- SXSW 2026 will run from March 12-18, consolidating its music, film/TV, and interactive portions into a single week for the first time.
- Organizers confirm that the music festival will expand with an additional night of showcases, increasing from six to seven nights.
- The Austin Convention Center's four-year renovation will require SXSW to utilize multiple venues across Austin starting in 2026.
- Participation in the music portion has declined in recent years, but organizers aim to create a more curated and community-focused experience.
- SXSW continues its global expansion, with previous events in Australia and an upcoming debut in London in June 2025.
Variety 
The Hollywood Reporter 
Rolling Stone 
