Something to keep in mind during your SXSW experience is A.B.C. Always. Be. Charging. Your phone, into a crowd of festival goers with your eyes closed, but most importantly, yourself. The most fun you can have out of the sun is in finding popups of your favorite and most anticipated shows of the season. AFM has your guide to the best displays at the conference!
Where-Clive Bar- Rainy Street
Time-2-6pm March 16 & 17
David Lynch’s surreal melodrama returns this spring on Showtime and they’ve pulled out all the stops on their pop up located at Clive Bar on Rainy. Fans can take an animated picture and chomp on a limited recipe donut from Voodoo Donut while they groove to music inspired by Angelo Badalamenti, Julee Cruise and the creator himself, David Lynch. Stop by The Double R Diner on your way out for cherry pie and some damn good coffee provided by Highbrew. It’s sure to get you in the mood to cuddle your log.
Where-5th and Colorado NE Corner
Time- March 10-12
AMC has done several pop ups for the hit series, Better Call Saul, in Brooklyn, Los Angeles and even London. However, the SXSW conference display promises to be the best yet. The hit spinoff prequel follows James Morgan “Jimmy” McGill (Bob Odenkirk), 6 years before his appearance in Breaking Bad. Fans can grub on crispy curly fries while they explore Los Pollos Hermanos, as the new season is poised to reintroduce the character Gus from the show’s predecessor.
Where-800 Congress
When- March 11-13 10 am- 8pm *closing at 5pm Saturday
HBO has never failed to disappoint with offerings for SXSW. This year the network has put together a triumvirate of interactive escape rooms that feature their most popular shows; Silicon Valley, Veep, and of course, Game of Thrones. Bring a group of friends to escape into the hilarious, the awkward and the tragic worlds that HBO created, you might even sneak out with some swag!
Where- 88 ½ Rainey Street
(@ Drafting Room + L’estelle)
When- March 14-16
Search Party, starring Alia Shawcat (Arrested Development), is throwing what might be the biggest bash of them all! Not only are they boasting a delicious array of bites and booze (*ahem Franklins BBQ), they’re also offering leather embossing and a unique hands on jewelry making experience. Come join the cast as you shop and brunch at The Search Party marketplace, where you can discuss the shows intriguing plot points over a mimosa or two!
We probably won't see a white Christmas in Austin, but don't let that ruin your…
The LINE Austin has unveiled their latest concept, Cantero, a bar that takes mixology to…
The demand for sugar free hard candy is on the rise, especially among those managing…
Thanksgiving in Austin is a time for festive feasting, and there’s no shortage of delightful…
Pursuit Farms has become a beacon for discerning palates seeking the finest Wagyu beef available…
New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive,…