The ability to establish meaningful connections continues as one of the main reasons so many filmmakers and creatives come to SXSW Film each spring. These connections can lead to new ideas, new opportunities and partnerships, a new round of funding, new jobs, new friendships or even a new long-term romantic relationship (it really happens!).

To boost this connection process, SXSW provides several different forums where registrants can meet and mingle. These range from Meet Ups that focus on a specific topic, whether you're trying to find your niche or branch out; multi-day lounges where you can relax and get some work done, and a variety of parties to attend where you can unwind after a full day of programming.

Photo by Lauren Lindley