SXSW Interactive to stage first UK event

South by Southwest Interactive, an annual US technology conference and festival, will be bringing a taste of the event to the UK for the first time in October.

The announcement comes as part of a deal between SXSW and Virtual Worlds Forum Europe, the first European event dedicated to the business of virtual worlds, taking place in London October 23-26.

"We share a fascination with the possibilities of the latest digital and 3D technologies," said Sasha Frieze, executive conference director for Virtual Worlds Forum Europe. "This partnership is about sharing that digital and 3D love - as well as enjoying a drink or two together," she adds.

Virtual Worlds Forum Europe will host SXSW Interactive's first European 'mixer' event, an informal evening of drinks and networking targeted at digital creatives and technology entrepreneurs. The RSVP-only event will be held in London on October 23rd at Departure Bar.

South by Southwest Interactive is a five day festival offering speaker panels, technology showcases, an awards ceremony and evening events held each March in Austin, Texas.