SXSW announces online event for 2021

23 September 2020, 11:19 | Written by Cerys Kenneally

(News)

(SXSW)

SXSW has revealed plans to host a virtual event in 2021 following the cancellation of this year's festival due to coronavirus.

The Austin-based festival and conference was one of the first major festivals to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, marking the first time the event has not happened in its 34-year history.

Yesterday (22 September) organisers announced that they're planning to host an online festival in 2021, and revealed some of the events that will take place.

Next year's SXSW will take place from 16-20 March, and is due to host various keynote speeches, conferences, film screenings, showcases and exhibitions.

Roland Swenson, CEO and Co-Founder of SXSW said, "The challenge of building a new future is one that we’re excited to tackle. This has been such a year of change and we, like the entire world, are reshaping our perspective on how we connect. We’re pleased to be working on SXSW Online as part of our program for 2021, and regardless of platform, we will continue to bring together the brightest minds from creative industries worldwide."

Although a physical event in March 2021 is a long shot, organisers revealed on their Instagram announcement that they're "working with the City of Austin and public health authorities on plans for a physical event and will provide updates as more information becomes available."

View this post on Instagram
Today we’re launching #SXSW Online as part of our 2021 offerings. Join us for a digital experience featuring conference keynotes and sessions, screenings, showcases networking, and more March 16 - 20, 2021. We are working with the City of Austin and public health authorities on plans for a physical event and will provide updates as more information becomes available. Follow the link in our bio to learn how you can participate.
A post shared by SXSW (@sxsw) on Sep 22, 2020 at 9:15am PDT

The music festival portion of next year's event won't be decided via their usual showcase application. Instead, programming staff are set to curate a variety of virtual performances, and artists that were due to perform at the 2020 festival will get priority.

Submissions SXSW's panel proposals and the Film Festival opens on 6 October. Find out more at sxsw.com.