Press Credentials for SXSW Interactive

SXSW Interactive is not just a festival, it is the place to find the latest innovators who are pushing the boundaries to produce a brand of unique creativity that you won't find anywhere else. The festival features comprehensive and abstract information that you can enjoy and learn from whether you're a novice or an expert.

If you're looking to apply for music press credentials, you've come to the wrong place! Email Elizabeth Derczo at derczo@sxsw.com.

I. How to Request Press Credentials

How do I gain press credentials for SXSW Interactive?

To find out if you qualify for a SXSW Interactive Press Badge just contact us. Either send a fax request with contact information on the letterhead of your publication to (512) 451-0754 or interpress@sxsw.com. Please be sure to tell us what part of the event you are thinking of covering.

When will I hear if my request for press credentials has been granted?

You will hear back from us within two weeks.

Can I simply show up at the Austin Convention Center if I haven't sent an advance request for a press badge?

We strongly discourage this because if you wait until the day-of it takes about 90 minutes to register you and process the request in our system -- so you'd be missing valuable interactive geek-time! However, if you insist on doing it this way, be sure to bring a letter from your editor on letterhead, a business card, and a sample of your multimedia related writing.

What else should I know about this process?

We only grant press badges to members of the media who intend to cover the event. If your press credentials are granted, we ask that you send us a copy (either snail mail or email) of your coverage of SXSW Interactive.

My boyfriend/girlfriend wants to come too. Can you get him/her credentials as well?

Only members of the media will be considered press!

I've heard great things about SXSW Interactive, but I'm having difficulty convincing my editor that my organization should send me to the event. Can you offer any help on this?

SXSW Interactive brings together the most creative and innovative minds in the new media world, particularly as related to content and design. If your publication wants to cover tomorrow's trends in this industry today before they hit the mainstream, under no circumstances should you miss this event.

II. Picking Up My Press Badge

I just received e-mail notification that I have been granted press credentials to SXSW Interactive. In terms of obtaining my badge, what happens next?

Now all you have to do is bring photo ID to the Austin Convention Center and collect your materials there. Badge pick-up for the 2006 SXSW Interactive Festival will begin at noon on Friday, March 9. You will not receive the badge in the mail!

III. The Event Itself

What are the most interesting aspects of the festival to cover?

There are dozens of stories just waiting to be reported at SXSW. Part of your fun will be to decide which of these aspects are the best fit for your publication and its audience. Some recommendations are the keynote speeches, the iF! Trade Show + Exhibition and the Web Awards, and of course the festival's unique night-life.

I understand there is a "Press Room" at the Austin Convention. What happens there?

The Press Room allows you a little peace and quiet to submit your story, conduct interviews, or just work on your story. The room is equipped with a phone, fax machine, and computers with Internet access. When you pick up your press badge, you will receive more information and the location of the room.

I would like to have some advance interviews with some of the top speakers at this year's event. What is the best way for me to contact these people?

For interview requests, email interpress@sxsw.com with a list of people you would like to interview. If possible, we will put you in touch with the appropriate contact person. However, interview requests will be considered on a case by case basis and we cannot guarantee that you will be able to secure an interview though SXSW Interactive.

IV. History of SXSW Interactive

Can you give me a brief history of SXSW and specifically the SXSW Interactive Festival?

Established in 1987, the festival was originally called the SXSW Music & Media Conference. In 1994, a combined effort from film and multimedia (ie: Interactive) was added to the mix as one part of the festival, and in 1995, film and multimedia were broken into separate entities. The name of the event officially changed to the SXSW Interactive Festival in 1998 and over the years more than 1,500 experts in the new media industry like Michael Wolff, Bruce Sterling, Philip Glass, Todd Rundgren, Craig Newmark, and Mark Cuban have spoken at this event. For a more detailed tale, email Hugh Forrest at hugh@sxsw.com.

V. Credentials for Other SXSW Events

I'm also trying to gain press credentials for SXSW Film or Music. Can you help me with this?

To inquire about getting press credentials for the other parts of the festival (Film or Music), contact Elizabeth Derczo at derczo@sxsw.com.