SXSW 2015 Watchlist: Top Events to Look out For
The event of the year that keeps getting bigger and bigger is just starting right now again in Austin. It began in 1987, and has grown more epically and gigantic than any other festival similar to it. The music is the main draw of course, but now interactive events, 9 days of film, and over 2,200 performers in over 100 different venues. Growing from 700 registrants during its early beginnings to now over 12,000, many acts make the trek every year in hopes of being truly discovered, picked up on one of the event's prominent You Tube channels, and planted in front of many of the hippest faces in the nation. John Mayer's performance here 15 years ago led to him being signed with a label, and The Flaming Lips have played a secret show at SXSW that many think was one of the top moments ever in music festival history. This year will no doubt be the biggest yet, so we've rounded up some of the top events that we believe will take the cake.
Quick Summary
The renowned SXSW festival, now entering its largest year, showcases over 2,200 performers across 100 venues, enriched by music, film, and interactive events. This year’s keynote speaker is the iconic Snoop Dogg, an expert in marketing and digital ventures. The festival also features compelling episodic screenings with notable shows like Angie Tribeca and Mr. Robot, alongside exciting free showcases including acts like The Church and Spoon.
Keynote speaker this year: Snoop Dogg
truly a legendary speaker. He has released 12 albums since 1993, has a new album coming out May 12th produced by Pharrell, and is truly a king of hip hop music. Discovered by Dr. Dre and recently converting to the Rastafari movement, he's an expert on documentary making, reality TV, and even coaches a high school football team. The first artist to release a track as a ringtone in 2007, the things any musician or product marketer could learn from him are endless.
Episodics Screenings, Vimeo Theater
Inspired by SXSW programming from previous years, these screenings are going to be packed wall to wall. With informative Q and A sessions after each one with talent, creators and crew members, this year's offerings look way above average. With features Angie Tribeca from Steve and Nancy Carrell, The Comedians from Billy Crystal, Izombie from Rob Thomas, UnREAL from the creators of Mad Men, and USA series with Christian Slater Mr. Robot, this year's offerings will be pure awesome. The same forum that screened Bates Motel and the hit HBO series Girls, these nights are going to be fun, enjoyable, and a peek at some of the hottest programming out there.
Free Spotlight Showcases 2015
Official website: www.sxsw.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should you start planning a corporate event?
For major corporate events, begin planning 6-12 months in advance to secure premium venues and vendors. Smaller events like workshops or networking gatherings need 2-4 months of lead time. Allow extra time during peak seasons when venues and vendors book quickly.
What are the most important elements of successful event management?
Successful events require clear objectives, detailed budgeting, venue selection aligned with brand image, engaging programming, reliable vendor coordination, robust marketing and registration systems, on-site logistics management, and post-event measurement. A dedicated project manager who coordinates all moving parts is essential.
How do you measure the ROI of a corporate event?
Measure event ROI through attendee satisfaction surveys, lead generation numbers, social media engagement, media coverage earned, sponsorship revenue, networking connections made, and follow-up conversion rates. Compare total costs against revenue generated and brand value gained to calculate true return on investment.
What is the typical budget breakdown for a corporate event?
A standard event budget allocates approximately 40-50% to venue and catering, 10-15% to entertainment and programming, 10-15% to technology and AV, 10% to marketing and invitations, 5-10% to décor and design, and 5-10% as a contingency fund. Allocations vary based on event type and goals.
What trends are shaping the future of corporate events?
Key event trends include hybrid formats combining in-person and virtual attendance, sustainability-focused planning, immersive experiential elements using AR/VR technology, personalized attendee experiences driven by data, and increased emphasis on wellness and meaningful networking over traditional presentations.
Related Resources
Calculators
Case Studies
Pricing Guides
Related Articles
Event Management Music: Tips and Strategies
Event management in music is a big part of the overall event-planning world. It's where live music meets strategy to create amazing experiences for audiences and artists. Remember, while this p
Behind the Scenes of Concert Tour Success: Essential Planning Tips
The spectacle and allure witnessed on stage during a concert tour merely scratches the surface of what it takes to orchestrate such an event. Behind the vibrant lights and the seamless execution l
The Art of Music Promotion: How Business Marketing Strategies Can Elevate Your Music
In the modern music industry, the melody of success is not just about talent and creativity; it's can equally be about how well you market your music. The art of music promotion, with robust busin