Media release
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne
Councillor Chloe Smith
The Inner West is set to come alive once again as Inner West Council and SXSW Sydney today announced the return of Fest by Inner West for 2025, unveiling a stellar line-up of international and Australian talent.
Returning for its third year on Saturday 18 October 2025, the free all-day festival will transform the Enmore Road Special Entertainment Precinct into a music and cultural playground, with performances across six iconic local venues including The Duke, The Factory Theatre, Vic on The Park, The Trocadero Room, The Warren View and The Enmore Hotel.
This year's first line-up announcement includes:
- Jasmine 4.T. (UK) – acclaimed singer-songwriter making global waves
- Le Boom (Ireland) – high-energy party starters
- Crow (Australia) – alternative rock legends
- Lewis Loves (Australia) – rising country star
- Big Wheels – duo known for their cosmic blend of rock and roll, country and blues.
Further line-up announcements will follow in the coming weeks.
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said the partnership with SXSW strengthens the region's profile as Sydney's nightlife leader.
"The Enmore Road Special Entertainment Precinct has already become a model for Sydney's nightlife revival. By joining forces with SXSW — one of the world's most iconic cultural festivals — we are showcasing the Inner West as Australia's live music capital, putting our venues, our artists and our communities on the global stage," Mayor Byrne said.
The festival is presented by Inner West Council in association with SXSW Sydney, with Council contributing $150,000 towards the 2025 event.
Building on the huge success of last year's festival, which attracted over 6,000 registered attendees, this year's event will continue the unique Fest by Inner West model of pairing international and national headliners with emerging local bands, creating a platform for local talent to reach wider audiences.
"There's nowhere better to enjoy an incredible line-up of local and international artists than at some of the best live music venues in Sydney, here in Enmore and Marrickville. This is a natural partnership between SXSW and Inner West Council and this year's Fest by Inner West will deliver a huge boost to our local artists, businesses, and music lovers," said Inner West Deputy Mayor Chloe Smith.
SXSW Sydney Co-Managing Director Simon Cahill said the partnership is a perfect fit.
"SXSW celebrates innovation, culture and music from across the globe, and the Inner West is home to Sydney's most dynamic creative communities. Together we're delivering a festival that brings international buzz right into the heart of Newtown and Marrickville, while championing the incredible talent already here."
