Austin, Texas, is no stranger to bold ideas during SXSW, but on March 14, 2025, Fiji Airways took the festival to new heights with their activation at, The Fiji House, acting as a relaxing and exciting South Pacific retreat at The Belmont. The two-day activation kicked off with blended Fijian culture, music, food, and an unforgettable experience.
The Fiji House transported guests far beyond Austin’s city limits. Traditional Meke dancers greeted arrivals with rhythmic movements and vivid costumes, their performance a living postcard of Fijian heritage. Nearby, Fijian warriors presided over an authentic kava ceremony, offering attendees a taste of the island’s signature drink, served in coconut shells. The earthy, grounding flavor paired perfectly with the soulful melodies of InsideOut, a Fijian band whose live set infused the evening with an unmistakable island warmth.
Fiji Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, Akuila Batiweti, was in the house to greet us to the activation. “SXSW attracts explorers and visionaries—people who seek authentic travel,” he told us. “The Fiji House brings that to life, showing that Fiji is more than a destination; it’s an experience.” He highlighted the airline’s expanded U.S. connectivity, including non-stop flights from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and a newly launched Dallas route, making the journey to Fiji more accessible than ever. The excitement peaked when lucky attendees were randomly gifted vacation packages to the islands.
Guests enjoyed Fijian-inspired BBQ bites, complemented by tropical cocktails that made you think of beachside sunsets. A Chill Palm Sounds Rejuvenation Room offered a serene escape, its ambient music and plush seating a welcome respite from the festival’s pace. The culinary and wellness offerings mirrored Fiji’s laid-back luxury, seamlessly integrated into the event’s flow.
Musically, The Fiji House hosted Twin Shadow’s atmospheric indie rock and Aly & AJ’s polished pop harmonies headlined an eclectic Day 1 lineup, captivating the crowd with performances that echoed the activation.
Batiweti shared updates on new flight routes traveling out of Dallas and the west coast, along with their sustainable travel initiatives, positioning the airline as a leader in eco-conscious exploration. The presence of VIPs, industry leaders, and invited influencers made it a buzzworthy SXSW party!