In a world where almost everything comes with a price tag, finding a meaningful, tech-driven event that’s free – and family-friendly – feels like a rare win. That’s why we’re so excited to share that SXSW Sydney Unlocked is happening in 2025 – and this year it’s open to everyone (even if you don’t have the $695 ticket fee)
Whether you’re a student curious about AI, a parent raising a young innovator, or simply someone who wants to dip a toe into the future of tech, media, and creativity – this is the ultimate no-cost entry point to one of the most dynamic festivals in the world.
See the FREE Event Schedule here, and pay special attention to Saturday 18th October where entry to the tech and innovation expo, and gaming expos are totally free. These are not to be missed!
Why I think you should bring your teenagers to SXSW Sydney
Last year, I brought my 14-year-old son along to SXSW Sydney for the first time. I’d had a gig speaking on a panel, and pitched it as a bit of a ‘bring your kid to work day’ experience.
I was curious to see what might spark his interest, from space machines to complex robotics, to gaming comps and the unmissable tech and innovation expo, I knew he’d connect with something at the event.
What happened next blew me away.
By the end of the week, he had:
- Set up his own LinkedIn account (and made 10 connections)
- Sketched out a podcast idea & secured a gig as a teen tech writer
- Made real-world connections with creators and founders
- Realised the value of youth in the busy world of tech and, perhaps most impactfully;
- Sat in with me on an integral panel about teens and social media safety.
This was not your average “tag along with Mum” experience. He was energised, engaged, and deeply inspired. It became a bonding moment neither of us will forget, at a time when conversations about first phones and internet accessibility were actively occurring.
We talked ideas over lunch, compared notes after sessions, and left feeling like we’d both just had a taste of something big. What he missed at regular school, he blitzed with hands-on discovery fuelling entrepreneurial aspirations and big, bold ideas for the future he’s growing into.
I’m beyond excited that the addition of the FREE Family Day at SXSW Unlocked this October 18 makes this event entirely accessible to everyone this year.
What’s Included in SXSW Unlocked?
SXSW Sydney Unlocked is the official free program track open to the public from October 14–20.
It’s not the full event (which is well worth going to if you’re an industry pro) but it’s jam-packed with interactive experiences, live music, emerging tech, creative showcases, and more.
- The BEST VALUE Day to go is October 18 when the Gaming Expo and Tech & Innovation Expo are open to everyone for free. You’ll See AI in action, test gadgets, and explore immersive worlds.
- Alongside Live Music & Creative Installations, there are Food Trucks, Brand Activations & loads of entertaining Chill-Out Spots – A festival vibe, minus the ticket price.
- Attend one of the Hands-On Demos & Workshops, or try your hand at coding, robotics, podcasting, or digital design.
This is not just a wander-around street fair. It’s an immersive, enriching festival experience — with something for every age and interest.
Why It’s the Perfect place to take your Curious Teens
We talk a lot about “getting kids off screens,” but the truth is – tech isn’t the enemy. Disconnection is.
What SXSW Unlocked offers is a way to engage teens in the world of tech, ideas and entrepreneurship – in real life. They’re no longer just watching technology happen on their devices. They’re meeting the creators. Asking questions. Touching and feeling and dreaming up their own ideas.
For parents, it’s a chance to step into their world, not as a supervisor but as a collaborator. You’ll walk away with shared memories and new talking points that go way beyond “how was school today?”
And best of all? It doesn’t have to cost a thing.
Tech That Includes Everyone
In this cost-of-living climate, it’s refreshing to see a festival make accessibility a true priority. Innovation shouldn’t be exclusive, and SXSW Sydney is doing something remarkable: opening the doors to future-focused inspiration for all. So whether you’re raising a future founder, raising your own digital literacy, or just raising your weekend game SXSW Unlocked is a fun, family-friendly way to spend a day immersed in the possibilities of what’s next.
The details
14–20 October 2025 (October 18 is your BEST VALUE Day to attend with the family)
Various venues across Darling Harbour, Haymarket, Ultimo, and more
Completely free. No badge required. Just show up and dive in.
Explore the program and plan your visit here
Pro Tip for Parents:
“Let your teen lead the way. Let them choose the activations they’re curious about. Encourage questions. Ask their opinions. It’s amazing how confidence grows when they feel seen – not just as kids, but as the creators and leaders they’re becoming” ~ Elise
Follow @womenlovetech on Instagram and LinkedIn for our real-time coverage of SXSW Unlocked — and don’t miss our behind-the-scenes look at what inspires the next generation.
Want more tips on family tech, future careers and digital wellness? Visit womenlovetech.com to stay in the know.
