The best free things to do at SXSW Sydney 2024
Looking to experience the best of SXSW Sydney 2024 without breaking the bank? Here's a list of some fun – and free – things you can do around the precinct.
If you haven't already heard, SXSW Sydney is back again this year and we are absolutely buzzing with energy and excitement for what's in store – think top minds in music, film, gaming, art, tech, innovation and entrepreneurship all in one place. This year, you’ll have the chance to experience groundbreaking technology demos, live performances, film screenings, gaming tournaments, art installations and so much more. Best of all, there's plenty of free activities for everyone to enjoy.
Ready to explore? Here’s a list of the top free events you can check out at SXSW Sydney 2024.
1. Tech and Innovation Showcase
Get up close and personal with robots, rockets and racing cars created by our very own UTS students and researchers at this free event. You'll also have a chance to hear talks from top minds and bright young talent providing insights into the future of innovation and creativity. Whether you want to connect with like-minded people or simply check out what's happening, this needs to be on your list.
Date: 17 October
Location: Tumbalong Park
2. The Dome
Experience a vibrant lineup of talks, meet-and-greets, book signings, demonstrations and surprise performances at The Dome, a new stage right in the heart of Tumbalong Park. This unique space will be buzzing with creativity and innovation, featuring world-class activations from leading brands and ample opportunities to connect directly with individuals in the fields of technology, culture, creativity, entrepreneurship and more.
Date: 14 – 20 October
Location: Tumbalong Park
3. The Endless Summer 60th anniversary screening and afterparty
For a more relaxed atmosphere, attend this free screening of The Endless Summer, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary. This famous surf documentary captures the essence of the sport and is the perfect way to kickstart summer. After the film, there will be an afterparty with live performances by BALTHVS and Touch Sensitive, both from the SXSW Sydney Music Festival lineup.
Date: 19 October 5:30pm
Location: Tumbalong Park
4. +91 Calling: A celebration of India's creative communities
This day-long music festival will bring the energy to the Tumbalong Park main stage thanks to seven acts from India and the Indian diaspora. It's a diverse line-up, with genres spanning hip-hop, pop, R&B, club and indie. Then, cap the night with DJ sets from Chor Bazaar and Manara.
Date: 20 October starting at 12:30pm
Location: Tumbalong Park
5. Music meets tech: Ben Gillies, Johannes Saam and Tushar Apte
Music and technology collide on stage thanks to Ben Gillies, co-founder of Silverchair, futurist Johannes Saam and songwriter/producer Tushar Apte. This trio will showcase how tech is transforming the creation and experience of music, making it the perfect event for both music and tech enthusiasts.
Date: TBD
Location: Tumbalong Park
6. Acer Predator League Fortnite Competition
Gamers, this one's for you! The Acer Predator League Academy will be crowning its first champion at Tumbalong Park at this free event. Two schools from Australia and New Zealand will go head-to-head in the only Fortnite competition designed for high school students. Be prepared for fierce competition and a lot of energy. Plus, esports legends Team PWR, Lachlan and Loserfruit will present the trophy to the winning team.
Date: 19 October (time TBA)
Location: Tumbalong Park
7. Mentorship sessions
Are you looking forward to a career in games development, music or film, but have questions about how to get started? Chat to industry professionals and learn from some of the top creative minds by booking a mentoring session with a games, music or film industry expert.
Book a games mentoring session here.
Book a music mentoring session here.
Book a film mentoring session here.
Spots are first come, first serve and applications close 11 October, so don't delay.
Date: 16 – 18 October at various times
Location: Mentorship sessions are held at various locations around UTS campus and the SXSW Sydney festival precinct.
8. Bush shorts: First Nations films
Discover First Nations narratives with Bush Shorts, a compilation of short films by up-and-coming Indigenous filmmakers. This showcase, which is curated by the Winda Film Festival, provides a forum for distinctive voices from Australia's Indigenous communities stretching from WA to the east coast. These short films explore themes of identity, connection to Country and cultural heritage, offering a profound and moving experience for viewers.
Date: 15 October 7 – 9pm
Location: Tumbalong Park
9. Primeville Sweet Spot
Step inside some of your favourite shows and movies at this free installation. Browse sets and pop-ups, check out costumes and meet stars from shows including The Rings of Power, the Australian The Office, What We Do in the Shadows, It Ends with Us, Last King of the Cross and Despicable Me 4. Even better, every installation is paired with a sweet treat – think banana macarons for Despicable Me and (non-alcoholic) jelly shots for Last King of the Cross. You can also create your own entertainment-themed pick-n-mix, perfect to keep you energised as you check out the rest of SXSW Sydney.
Date: 15 – 20 October
Location: Fratelli Fresh, Darling Harbour
This is just a sample of the exciting events happening around the SXSW Sydney 2024 precinct. Round up your mates, take a breather from study or work, and get ready to bask in the good times and fantastic vibes of this festival. Learn more about free events at SXSW Sydney 2024 here.
