Bill and I picked up our badges and guides for South by Southwest (SXSW) this afternoon at the Austin Convention Center. SXSW Interactive and Film begin tomorrow. Music starts later next week.

Based on past experience, we have learned to get our badges and guides on Thursday when the lines are short. Today we received the pocket guides for Interactive, Film, and Comedy. We’ll be able to pick up our Music guides next week.

The Convention Center looks ready for the onslaught of conference goers. Some cafes are open inside the building and several food trucks are parked outside. Advertisements and posters are already sprouting on the cellophane-wrapped poles.

Bill and I strolled around the streets near the Convention Center. As usual, everything within several blocks is covered in cellophane.

Many downtown businesses and restaurants shut down and just rent out their space for SXSW. Workers were busy today: unloading supplies, replacing signs, and repainting entire buildings. We’ve even heard that a wave pool is being installed on Congress Avenue.

Here we come, SXSW 2017!

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