Sips and Sounds took over Auditorium Shores during the first weekend of SXSW, bringing a star-studded lineup to the heart of Austin. The stacked roster included Khalid, Halsey, AJR, Suki Waterhouse, and Benson Boone, among others—drawing big crowds and even bigger energy.
This one-of-a-kind festival celebrated both music and flavor, with a strong emphasis on Coca-Cola’s latest offerings and the local food scene. Free samples of Coca-Cola’s new Orange Cream Soda were a refreshing highlight—sweet, smooth, creamy, and exactly what the warm spring day called for. Coke created a pop-up market structure that doubled as a drink stand and viewing platform. The second level provided one of the best vantage points of the Coca-Cola Studio Stage, complete with panoramic skyline views.
Cinemark, another major festival partner, brought along a mini movie theater that turned out to be a surprise favorite. Fans cooled off in the cozy, air-conditioned space while snacking on free popcorn and watching a short film—a perfect escape from the midday heat and crowds.
One of the standout performances of the festival was, without a doubt, Khalid. It’s been a while since he’s taken the stage with the same frequency as he once did, so seeing him live again—especially as he ran through hits from his American Teen era—was a wave of pure nostalgia. The crowd sang every word, and for a moment, it felt like we’d time-traveled back to the soundtrack of our late 2010s.
The same could be said for Halsey, who delivered a powerful set after a stretch away from the stage. Her last Austin appearance was back in October, so getting to see her return with that signature intensity felt like a gift—equal parts emotional and electric.
Benson Boone has taken the industry by storm with his breakout hit “Beautiful Things,” and his live performance proves he’s not just a one-hit wonder. His stage presence is electric—impossible to ignore and even harder to forget. We had a good idea of what to expect after seeing him at ACL, and once again, he delivered. His now-signature backflips had the crowd losing it, turning his set into a full-blown spectacle.
Sips and Sounds is a welcome addition to Austin’s ever-growing festival scene—short, sweet, and perfectly timed during one of the best seasons in the city. It fills a unique space in the lineup, offering just the right mix of music, food, and experience. We’re already looking forward to seeing how they top it next year.