Pop-Culturalist.com

South by Southwest (SXSW) 2025 is officially kicking off today, bringing together over 300,000 attendees from around the world for a week of innovation, creativity, and unforgettable cultural moments. As Austin transforms into a hub of discovery, the festival offers an endless array of experiences—from groundbreaking premieres and exclusive brand activations to live performances, immersive installations, and interactive showcases.

Whether you’re here to celebrate the best in film, TV, and music or looking to explore the cutting edge of storytelling, technology, and entertainment, SXSW has something for everyone. To help you make the most of it, we’ve curated a list of must-attend events and activations, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the excitement.

Audible Presents The Unusual Suspects Live with Kenya Barris, Malcolm Gladwell & Brené Brown

Date & Time: Sunday, March 9 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Location: The Austin Convention Center, Ballroom D

Podcasting has become one of the most engaging ways to tell stories, and Audible is bringing SXSW attendees behind the scenes with a live taping of The Unusual Suspects with Kenya Barris and Malcolm Gladwell, featuring Brené Brown. The hit series explores the unconventional paths of influential figures, and this special episode dives into the twists and turns that shaped Brown’s career.

Past guests have included Jimmy Kimmel, Sue Bird, and Ava DuVernay, and now SXSW audiences will get an exclusive look at how Audible and Barris’ Khalabo Ink Society bring these stories to life. Whether you’re a podcast fan or just love a great conversation, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

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Audible Listening Bar at Fast Company Grill

Date & Time: Saturday, March 8 from 10:00 a.m. – 4:10 p.m.; Sunday, March 9 & Monday, March 10 from 10:00 a.m. – 7:10 p.m.
Location: Fast Company Grill, Cedar Door Patio Bar & Grill, 201 Brazos St.

Can’t make it to the live taping on Sunday? Audible is also taking over the Fast Company Grill, offering another way to experience The Unusual Suspects with Kenya Barris and Malcolm Gladwell. At the Audible Listening Bar, visitors can grab a pair of headphones, sit back, and listen to exclusive excerpts from the hit Audible Original podcast.

Barris and Gladwell dive into the defining moments and unexpected turns that shaped some of the most influential figures in entertainment, sports, business, and politics. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or just a moment to unwind, this is the perfect place to tune in and hear stories that challenge, enlighten, and inspire.

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Cinema Center Returns: The Ultimate SXSW Pop-Up for Film & Culture

The hot spot is back in Austin! Cinema Center returns for its annual three-day, three-night pop-up, bringing together filmmakers, industry insiders, and festival-goers for an unforgettable experience. Sponsored by Bloom Nutrition, Peroni, Hendrick’s Gin, Rendezvous Films, and Collider, this exclusive event is where film, culture, and nightlife collide.

This year, Cinema Center is hosting the premiere party for some of SXSW’s most anticipated films, including The Threesome, The Dutchman, We Are Strorrer, American Sweatshop, We Bury the Dead, and The Surfer. Whether you’re toasting a new project or just looking for the best scene in town, this is where you want to be.

Follow @CinemaCTR for more details and exclusive updates.

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Spotify House: Where Podcasts Drive the Conversation

Date & Time: Saturday, March 8 from 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Location: LZR, 612 W 4th St, Austin, TX 78701

See? We told you—podcasts are shaping the cultural conversation like never before. And what better place to celebrate that than Spotify House, where content, business, and creativity collide. Whether you’re here for thought-provoking discussions or just need to refuel with food and drinks, Spotify House has you covered.

This year’s programming features a diverse array of creators and thought leaders who are redefining the podcasting landscape. From deep-dive interviews to comedic takes on everyday life, these podcasters are set to deliver hot takes, modern wisdom, and plenty of laughs:

• 12:00 PM: Chris Williamson, Host of Modern Wisdom; Sara Foster, Host of The World’s First Podcast; Ira Madison III, Host of Keep It! and Author of Pure Innocent Fun​
• 1:00 PM: Rachel Lindsay, Host of Higher Learning; Morgan Absher, Host of Two Hot Takes​

RSVP today.

One Fiinix Live Showcase: A Must-See SXSW Debut

Date & Time: Wednesday, March 12 from 8:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Location: Empire Control Room, 606 E 7th St. Austin, TX 78701

One Fiinix Live is making its SXSW Austin debut with an electrifying night of performances, bringing together its UK and US teams to showcase an exciting lineup of rising talent.

Founded by Jon Ollier in 2020, One Fiinix Live is a forward-thinking live music agency built to empower artists and embrace innovation in an evolving industry. Named after the phoenix—symbolizing rebirth and resilience—the agency is dedicated to helping musicians reach new audiences and maximize opportunities in the modern live music landscape.

Performances by:

• JC Stewart
• NY Oh
• Finn Forster
• Beth McCarthy
• Princess Superstar

For more on One Fiinix Live, visit onefiinix.com.

Drop in for the Worst Date Ever

Date & Time: Sunday, March 9 from 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Tiger Lilly, 400 Colorado St. Austin TX 78701

Get ready to enter the twisted world of Drop, where cryptic messages draw you into a deadly game of choices. A relentless killer is watching, always a step ahead, forcing you to decide who lives and what you’re willing to sacrifice. The clock is ticking—can you outsmart the unknown?

Experience Prime Video at SXSW 2025

Photo Credit: Robin Marchant / Getty Images for Prime Video
Date & Time: Friday, March 8 from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.; Saturday, March 9 from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Hotel San José, 1316 South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX

Prime Video is taking over Hotel San José with an immersive celebration of women-led storytelling across its hit films and series. Whether you’re up for an action-packed mission, a swoon-worthy romance, or a relaxing escape, there’s a personalized experience waiting for you.

What to Expect:

• The Concierge – Start your journey with a customized itinerary based on your favorite genres. Collect exclusive patches along the way to personalize a Prime Video tote before you leave.
• The Genre Bar & Pool – Sip show-inspired cocktails and snap a photo in a vibrant, poolside-inspired space.
• The Prime Bookstore Café – Relax with coffee, tacos, and pastries while browsing books that inspired Jack Reacher, The Terminal List, and more.
• Cousins Beach Snack Bar – Inspired by The Summer I Turned Pretty, craft a friendship bracelet to show your team pride—Jeremiah, Conrad, or Belly.
• G20 Command Center – Take on a high-stakes spy mission and help Viola Davis’ President Sutton navigate a crisis.
• The Capri Lounge – Enjoy Gin Martinis and lemon gelato in a sun-drenched setting inspired by Another Simple Favor—but watch for hidden secrets.
• Pia’s Photo Studio – Get a stunning new profile picture in a beautifully styled portrait studio from Picture This.
• Étoile Dressing Room – Step into the world of ballet with professional stylists on hand to perfect your bun.
• McLaren Valet – Snap a photo with a sleek orange McLaren Artura, inspired by My Fault: London.
• The Tulip Wall – Pick a tulip for a chance to win exclusive Prime Video giveaways.

From interactive experiences to exclusive photo ops, this must-visit activation brings Prime Video’s most exciting stories to life.

FX Invites Fans to Brave “The Wreckage”

Date & Time: Friday, March 7 from 2:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Saturday, March 8 from 2:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.;
Location: 318 E 5th St

FX is bringing the world of Alien: Earth to life at SXSW with “The Wreckage”, an immersive activation open to the public on March 7-8. Located in the heart of Austin, this chilling experience gives fearless attendees a first look at the highly anticipated series, along with exclusive giveaways and photo opportunities.

Step into the wreckage site and embark on an exploratory mission through the remains of a mysterious ship. Get up close with alien specimens, uncover new details from the series, and stay on high alert—a containment breach has occurred, and hidden dangers lurk within.