Our list of the best pop ups happening at SXSW is back! Each year, we highlight our favorite pop ups and this year is no different. This is definitely not a list of ALL the pop ups happening because there are too many to include on our don’t miss list. However, if you’re looking for a complete list, we recommend signing up for The Dirty Team’s Blue Print.
We will be continuously updating as new pop ups are announced that we deem worthy, so make sure to check back for the most up to date information. Now…
Here are the SXSW 2025 pop ups events you won’t want to miss:
Hook ‘Em House
March 7 and 8 | Antone’s, 305 East 5th Street
The Hook ’Em House celebrates all things UT and cutting-edge thought leadership. The two-day event features photo-worthy installations, conversations with world-class academics and entrepreneurs, live music performances and podcast tapings, and more. Entry is free with RSVP but badge holders are prioritized.
SHE Media Co-Lab
March 7, 8 and 9 | 304 E 4th Street | RSVP
Immerse yourself in the science and storytelling of women’s whole life health. Hear from experts, advocates and thought leaders on the latest innovations in health and wellness. Explore how technology is revolutionizing healthcare and celebrate the change makers advancing women’s health. Past health enthusiasts have included Brooke Shields, Judy Greer, Olivia Culpo, and more. In 2025, you can expect SHE Media returning speakers Katie Couric, Sophia Bush and Christy Turlington Burns among many others. You’ll find the full lineup here.
Tennessee House
March 7, 8 and 9 | Electric Shuffle, 91 Red River Street
The fan favorite three-day activation boasts a robust lineup of programming featuring major Tennessee-based companies. Other events include a tribute to Chattanooga’s iconic MoonPie snack and an Elvis lookalike contest pegged to “The King”’s 90th birthday this year. Plus, join in on a late-night line dancing class to mark the Grand Ole Opry’s 100th anniversary year or Hip Hop Karaoke. SXSW badge holders will be given priority entry. Non badge holders can get in by registering for the events. Additionally, guests can apply to gain access to an opening VIP and partner happy hour on March 7 with the theme, “I’m So Tennessee…,” by finishing that brag statement. Get all the details here.
The Pleasing Inn
March 8 through 23 | Austin Motel, 1220 South Congress Avenue
Here’s everything we know so far. Austin Motel’s three poolside suites will be taken over and turned into the Pleasing Inn. Each suite will offer a unique experience like a Valet Service Suite for apparel, including the limited edition Austin exclusives. Meanwhile, the Salon Suite will focus on all things nail, beauty and fragrance. They’ll also be debuting the brand’s new Big Lip + Cheek Tint and other exclusive items that Austin will get first dips on. Lastly, there’s the Bell Hop Suite which is a photo op with a Pleasing twist! More info here.
Escape with Prime
March 8 and 9 | 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Hotel San José, 1316 South Congress Avenue
Prime Video’s immersive pop-up activation will transport SXSW attendees away from the bustle of the festival. Step into the world of the incredible slate of women-led content available on and coming soon to Prime Video. This includes My Fault: London, Picture This, Holland, G20, Another Simple Favor, The Summer I Turned Pretty and Étoile.
Fast Company Grill
March 8, 9 and 10 | Cedar Door, 201 Brazos Street | RSVP
This has been one of our favorite spots for years, though it’s changed over the last decade. The food and drink options may not be as great as they have been in the past, but you can count on Fast Company for some great speakers and panels. Drop in to taste and shape tomorrow through the visions of leaders, entertainers, creators, makers and each other. Bonus: it’s free and open to all who RSVP.
Create and Cultivate Future Summit
March 9 | Assembly Hall, 1121 East 7th Street | RSVP
This one day free event features entrepreneurs, creators and experts who come together to define and discuss what’s next. There are panels, workshops, networking, food and drink. This year’s speakers include some top influencers and girl bosses from Austin and beyond. Check out the lineup here.
Paramount+ The Lodge
March 7 through 10 | Clive Bar, 609 Davis Street
The Lodge is returning to Austin for a third year in a row at Clive Bar. Step inside the worlds of your favorite movies and series on Paramount+. No tickets necessary. As in years past, they will provide interactive experiences, photo ops, food and more. Shows we can expect to be highlighted include: 1923, School Spirits, Yellowjackets, Happy Face and Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.
Whataburger Museum Of Art
March 8 and 9 | Wanderlust Wine Co, 610 N. IH-35
As Whataburger celebrates 75 years, they’ll be bringing fan-created masterpieces to life in an immersive pop-up experience at SXSW. The exhibition transforms downtown Austin’s Wanderlust Wine Co. into an immersive art experience featuring interactive installations, digital displays, and a curated collection that spans murals, sculptures, and digital art. Visitors can even help create new artwork in the Whataburger Day Dot Room or capture a memorable moment at the Table Tent Mugshot Wall. No badge? No problem! This event is open to everyone. Come celebrate Texas’ favorite burger brand through the eyes of its biggest fans.
FX’s Alien: Earth “The Wreckage”
March 7 and 8 | 318 E 5th St. Lot, Austin, TX 78701 (between Copper Tank and The Westin)
Buckle up. FX’s Alien: Earth is rapidly approaching Austin and is expected to make impact at SXSW, launching a series of three immersive experiences that will pop up in the months leading up to the Summer 2025 premiere. On March 7-8, fans can step into a mysterious wreckage site in the heart of Austin to unearth new details from the series, exclusive merch and photo opportunities. Stop by to see if you have what it takes to join the team. FX’s Alien: Earth, an all-new original series, premieres this Summer on Hulu. Open to SXSW badge holders and the public.
Featured photo of Audible’s Sound Experience at SXSW 2024.
