SXSW SYDNEY UNLOCKED TURNS KENSINGTON ST INTO THE ULTIMATE FREE BLOCK PARTY FROM 16-17 OCTOBER

October 8, 2025

Get ready — SXSW Sydney Unlocked is transforming Kensington St in Chippendale into a vibrant playground of live music, local flavour, and community energy on Thursday 16 October and Friday 17 October.

The street will pulse with live performances from boundary-pushing artists spanning indie, soul, pop and global sounds. Expect an electrifying mix of local favourites like headliner Babe Rainbow, Lyric and Playlunch and international acts such as The Chairs (TWN), Rashmeet Kaur (IND), and Maki (PHL) lighting up the laneway.

During SXSW Sydney Unlocked Kensington St, wander, taste, and toast your way through The Old Rum Store, Gavroche, Olio, Eastside Bar & Grill, Holy Duck!, Spice Alley Fuel Stop, Str’eats Pasta Bar, Slaps, Andiamo and more — all offering special deals throughout the event. 

To make the most of the experience, we’re encouraging everyone to travel smart and sustainably. Hop on an e-bike and cruise through the city streets, or take the Sydney Metro, train, bus or light rail, all of which connect easily to Central Station. From there, it’s just a short walk to the heart of the action.

The Details

When: Thursday 16 October, 5pm–9pm & Friday 17 October, 12pm–9pm

Where: Kensington St, Chippendale

Cost: Free entry. Just bring your friends, your appetite, and your best dance moves.

EXPLORE THE SXSW SYDNEY UNLOCKED KENSINGTON ST MUSIC LINE UP

Thursday Oct 16, 5pm to 9pm
Lyric

Gordon’s Grandson

Maki

GAZAL

Friday Oct 17, 12pm to 9pm

Babe Rainbow

Playlunch

Rashmeet Kaur

Jamaica Moana

The Chairs

Selve

Munan

Taba Chake

KYARNA

SXSW Sydney Unlocked at Kensington Street is a part of the NSW Government’s Open Streets Program, led by Transport for NSW.