Bits & Bytes

In 2008, we introduced Book Readings to the SXSW Interactive stable of content. This programming is back again in 2009 -- and the lineup of confirmed authors looks stellar.

Save $70 on the walkup rate if you register for the 2009 SXSW Interactive Festival before the end of the day on Friday, January 16. Moreover, if you are coming from out of town, buy now to take advantage of the very affordable airfares to Austin. And once you are here you will need a place to stay. Plenty of great rooms are still available via the SXSW Housing Desk.

Want to get even more out of your SXSW experience in 2009? Then purchase a Gold Badge, which also gives you access to four days of SXSW Film panels and 9 days of SXSW Film screenings. The Gold Badge will also allow you to attend the numerous film parties and receptions, thus allowing you to make vital connections with the many film and entertainment industry professionals who attend SXSW.

Thanks to all the Bay Area geeks who came out to Mighty on Monday evening for the first SXSW Interactive networking event of 2009. We had a great experience mingling with the 250 digital creatives in attendance, and we look forward to seeing many of you in Austin this March.

With five days of amazing panel content, the Trade Show, SXSW Accelerator and ScreenBurn (as well as networking opportunities galore and incredible evening events), the SXSW Interactive Festival offers unsurpassed value for cost-conscious industry professionals. Save even more if you register by January 16.

Northern California new media professionals should stop by our fourth annual SXSW Networking Party tonight (Monday, January 12). The get-together goes from 7:00-9:00 pm at Mighty, which is located at 119 Utah Street. Attending tonight's event provides you a great opportunity to get to know event organizers as well as mix with other digital creatives in an informal environment (made all the more appealing by great tunes and free drinks).

What panels and presentations are scheduled when at the 2009 SXSW Interactive Festival?

The SXSW Interactive Festival brings together digital creatives from across the United States and around the world. In particular, the event has enjoyed a large increase in attendance from British-based new media experts over the last few years.

For out-of-towners, getting a good hotel room is an integral part of a successful SXSW experience. While several downtown-area establishments are now sold out in the second week of March, there are still hundreds and hundreds of outstanding rooms available during the event. Most of these rooms are just a short drive (or even a manageable walk) from the Austin Convention Center. Want to book yourself into one of these available rooms?

Hey Bay Area new media professionals. The annual SXSW Interactive Networking Party in San Francisco is scheduled from 7:00-9:00 pm on Monday, January 12 at Mighty (119 Utah Street). This is a great opportunity to meet with event organizers as well as mix with other cool digital creatives in a fun and festive environment. Also, one lucky attendee will win a FREE registration to the 2009 SXSW Interactive Festival. Want to be part of the fun?