South by Southwest has revealed its first slate of featured sessions and programs for its 40th anniversary event, taking place March 12 through 18, 2026 in Austin.
The sessions announced today cover a wide array of topics, primarily in marketing, tech, and social media. There are a couple of music-focused panels lined up, both of which center around innovative and independent ways of connecting with fans: All-American Rejects will discuss their viral DIY house tour, while indie rapper Russ will discuss his unique rise with Andreea Gleeson, CEO of the distribution company TuneCore.
SXSW 2026 marks the first time that the festival’s varied programming in music, film, and tech will all take place during the same week-long period. There will also be some changes to the festival map around downtown Austin, as the city’s Convention Center — where panels were previously held — is being renovated and won’t reopen until 2029.
To replace the Austin Convention Center, SXSW 2026 will be based around three so-called “clubhouses”: The Innovation Clubhouse at Brazos Hall; the Film and TV Clubhouse at 800 Congress; and the Music Clubhouse at the Downright.
“As we celebrate SXSW’s 40th year, we’re focused on making the experience more rewarding than ever for attendees,” SXSW’s SVP of Programming, Greg Rosenbaum, said in a statement. “The programming we’re unveiling shows the incredible range of conversations that define SXSW — from how AI is reshaping creativity and business, to the future of media and marketing, to bold ideas on human connection. With refreshed badges, a new reservations system, and expanded crossover day, we’re making it easier for attendees to plan ahead, discover new ideas, and spark the kind of unexpected connections that define SXSW.”
Badges for SXSW 2026 are available now. Rolling Stone’s parent company, P-MRC, has held a 50 percent stake in SXSW since 2021, and RS puts on a music showcase there each year.
