This summer, Shoreditch is the main stage. For the very first time, SXSW is crossing the Atlantic and setting up shop in London — and we’re proud to say The Hoxton is an official partner. If you’ve ever found yourself falling down a rabbit hole of music, film, tech, or culture, SXSW London is your scene.
Running from 2–7 June, the week-long takeover is bringing together icons, innovators and underground talent across dozens of local venues — from the cobbles of Brick Lane to the art-clad walls of Village Underground. With so much happening, we’ve done the hard bit for you and picked the standout moments we’ll be queuing early for.
The Hox Hotlist
STANS Premiere
Kicking things off in cinematic style, STANS — the Eminem-executive-produced deep dive into fandom culture — gets its world premiere as the festival’s opening night film. If you’ve ever been part of a fanbase (or been mildly obsessed with one track), this one’s for you.
Idris Elba at the Mic
Actor, DJ, director, producer — and that’s just Tuesday. Idris Elba will be hitting the stage to talk about creativity, community and what’s next for culture, through the lens of his own multi-hyphenate empire.
Visual Arts That Break the Mould
SXSW London’s arts programme is a first for the global festival — and it’s seriously impressive. Think Beeple’s digital sculptures, Warhol’s immersive films, and new work from Caribbean diaspora artists in the stunning surroundings of Spitalfields Church. (Pro tip: swing by The Truman Brewery for Damien Roach’s trippy AV installation — and a breather from the buzz.)
Katherine Ryan Talk
Need a break from big-think panels? Comedian & presenter, Katherine Ryan’s razor-sharp take on life, work, and staying unapologetically herself is guaranteed to deliver the goods — and a laugh (or five).
Music You’ll Brag About Discovering First
From headline sets to low-key discoveries, the festival’s music programme spans genres, continents and sweaty basement vibes. Catch UK R&B queen Miraa May, GRAMMY-nominated NAO, and the ever-iconic Tems doing her thing at Troxy. Don’t miss the Abbey Road Studios showcase either — part performance, part experience, it’s where music heritage meets future sounds.
More Moments We’re Hyped For
What It Feels Like For a Girl
Based on Paris Lees’ acclaimed memoir, this BBC drama series gets its UK premiere at SXSW London. Expect a tender, rebellious coming-of-age story with proper grit and style — plus a conversation after the screening that’s sure to go deep.
Deepak Chopra on Wellness in the Age of AI
When your screen time’s pushing double digits and your brain’s in scroll mode, this one’s your reset button. Wellness pioneer Deepak Chopra joins Dazed co-founder Jefferson Hack for a conversation on mindfulness, tech, and finding inner calm in a world that’s anything but. Expect brain food, not buzzwords.
The Caribbean Music House at Strongroom
All week long, Strongroom’s courtyard will be pulsing with island rhythms. Expect dancehall, Afrobeats, reggae and a killer line-up including Lila Iké and Seani B’s Bruk Out session. Sunshine optional, good vibes guaranteed.
LOVE & RAGE: Munroe Bergdorf
A documentary that doesn’t just tell a story — it reclaims it. This world premiere follows the activist, author and model’s rise, reckoning and radical self-definition. Big-screen feels with heart, heat and honesty.
Beeple’s ‘Tree of Knowledge’
Digital art meets dystopia in this new generative sculpture from NFT trailblazer Beeple. It’s thought-provoking, future-facing and exclusive to SXSW London — so whether you’re a web3 sceptic or a full-on convert, it’s worth a stop.
See You There?
Whether you’re there to soak up big ideas, dance until 2am, or just discover something (or someone) new, SXSW London is set to be a week-long culture trip right on our doorstep. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, recharge or swap notes over a negroni — The Hoxton, Shoreditch has you covered.
We’re right in the heart of the action, walking distance from all the key venues, and our lobby’s always open to new faces and great conversations. Plus, we’ve got comfy beds, coffee on tap, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
Heading to the festival? Book your stay at The Hoxton, Shoreditch here.
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