These five companies are hosting and sponsoring some of the coolest events during SXSW Interactive. Here are the details and the reasons you need to be at each one — if you can get in.
SXSW Hardware House opening party featuring WigWag
- When: Tonight, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- Where: WeWork, 14th floor [map]
- Access: Interactive Badge, Gold Badge, Platinum Badge
- Why you need to be there: Rub elbows with hardware industry startups, VCs, press, marketers, entrepreneurs, agencies and the executives of some of the world’s best brands to celebrate the start of SXSWi. Connect with the people you want to meet before the long weekend ahead.
SXSWi opening party presented by Bazaarvoice
- When: Tonight, 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
- Where: Mellow Johnny’s [map]
- Access: Interactive Badge, Gold Badge, Platinum Badge
- More info: Learn about the power of consumer generated content while enjoying live music, open bar and special surprises.
- Why you need to be there: It’s the official opening party! Two words: livemusic, openbar.
Umbel SXSWi kickoff: #DataDisco with Bloc Party and Emily Bell
- When: Tonight at 8 p.m.
- Where: ACL Live at The Moody Theater [map]
- More info: RSVPs are closed now, but the general public will be allowed access after SXSW badge holders and preregistered guests, pending capacity.
- Why you need to be there: Leveraging Umbel’s digital genome, guests will interact with beautiful and massive installations to understand how their music preferences compare to the party-goers as a whole.
Handsome’s new office opening party
- When: Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Where: The new Handsome HQ
- Why you need to be there: We’ve been waiting to see this office for months. From the sneak peaks we’ve seen, it’s, well… you know. [map]
- More info: Free RSVPs still open. Check out their new 6th St. office location. Come meet the Handsome team. Beer and light snacks provided as well as wifi & a recharging station.
SXSWi official closing party presented by Media Temple
- When: Tuesday, March 15 at 9 p.m.
- Where: Stubb’s [map]
- More info: Anyone with a SXSW Interactive pass can attend both events and, if you don’t have one, they’ll be giving away a few VIP passes (follow them on Twitter or add “MediaTemple” on Snapchat) throughout the conference. If you’re lucky enough to win a VIP pass, you will have to pick it up at the open house.
- Why you need to be there: Like you need an excuse to go to Stubb’s. Tuesday night, Big Boi headlines.
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