5 Standout Activations That Stole The Show At SXSW

EE News Desk Mar 15, 2024

The SXSW (South by Southwest) music, film and interactive convergence festival takes place annually in Austin, Texas and has become one of the most prestigious and well-attended film festivals in the world. SXSW 2024 saw participation from major brands like Porche, 20th Century Studios and more. Everything Experiential lists the top five activations at the film festival that engaged attendees with unique experiences.

20th Century Studios

At this year's SXSW, attendees encountered a variety of captivating brand experiences that left a lasting impression. One standout activation was 20th Century Studios' ‘The First Omen’, an impromptu stop that caught the attention of passersby. Featuring a mini pop-up chapel with actors portraying a priest and a nun, the activation exuded an aura of mystery and intrigue. Participants entered confessional booths, where they were subjected to sinister warnings and unexpected visuals, creating a memorable and immersive experience.

Porsche

Another highlight of SXSW was Porsche's full-service experience, which took attendees on a road trip-themed journey. Beginning with a Meow Wolf-inspired entrance, the activation featured interactive car vignettes, sensory installations and themed areas inspired by Porsche's iconic vehicles. From gaming stations to in-car driving experiences, the activation offered layers of engagement, showcasing Porsche's innovation and brand essence.

Paramount+

Paramount+ brought its massive ‘The Lodge’ activation back to SXSW for a second year, inviting fans to journey into their favourite Paramount+ content and characters. The three-floor venue was transformed into a classic ski lodge, complete with faux snow scenes, themed photo ops and immersive installations. Attendees could snap photos with costumes and props from popular shows like ‘Halo’ and ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ while enjoying themed cocktails and interactive experiences.

Tide

Tide made a surprising appearance at SXSW with its Tide Evo launch, showcasing the brand's latest eco-friendly detergent innovation. The activation featured an oversized installation of the Tide Evo bottle, along with interactive stations operated by the scientists behind the product. Attendees learned about the technology behind Tide Evo's concentrated tile form and stain-fighting capabilities while immersing themselves in the brand's vivid orange and blue space.

Reddit

Reddit also joined the lineup of SXSW activations, unveiling Reddit Pro, a suite of free tools designed to help businesses connect with Reddit communities. Hosted at Austin's Two Hands restaurant, the activation highlighted Reddit's role as a trusted platform for honest recommendations and community engagement. Through immersive vignettes and themed experiences, Reddit showcased the context of its content and its potential for industry connections.