LGBTQIA+ Programming at SXSW 2025
Austin LGBT Chamber Programming:
The 12th Annual Big Queer Kickoff Party at Rain on 4th is THE official gathering to celebrate Queer Austin & SXSW! What began as an unofficial meetup has become a must-attend event for locals and visitors alike. Expect live entertainment, great music, and an electric atmosphere as we kick off SXSW in true queer fashion. 🌈✨
The Power of Intersectional Queer Storytelling explores how LGBTQ+ voices shape culture, representation, and advocacy.
From media and literature to film and activism, storytelling preserves history, fosters connection, and drives change. 🌈📖
For years, the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce has proudly partnered with SXSW, creating safe, inclusive spaces where the LGBTQ+ community can connect, celebrate, and thrive. From hosting signature events like the Big Queer Kickoff Party to amplifying queer voices in business, tech, and the arts, we are dedicated to ensuring that Austin feels like home for our out-of-town guests. No matter where you’re from, you are welcome, valued, and safe here. 🌈✨
LGBTQIA+ SXSW Programming Highlights:
LGBTQIA+ programming at SXSW 2025 showcases the power of queer storytelling, community, and advocacy through a diverse lineup of events and brand activations.
From the high-energy Big Queer Kickoff Party at Rain on 4th, setting the tone for a vibrant festival experience, to thought-provoking discussions like The Power of Intersectional Queer Storytelling, featuring Emmy®-nominated filmmaker Fiona Dawson, SXSW highlights the impact of LGBTQ+ voices in media, activism, and culture. Attendees can also connect at engaging meetups like Austin’s Queer Showcase Meet Up (Austin’s talented Vylette Ward and our friends at Extragrams) and Queer Women in Advertising, or explore how brands can authentically support the community beyond Pride Month in Pride Campaigns vs. Proud Campaigns.
With live tapings from Kara Swisher, interactive social events, and industry conversations, SXSW continues to be a hub for queer innovation, representation, and celebration.
LGBTQIA+ SXSW Programming Highlights:
Music
Film & TV
+ More
Chamber staff will continue to update this list as we discover more LGBTQIA+ programming at SXSW 2025!