Small Texas Bar Takes Center Stage Hosting McConaughey and Other A-Listers for SXSW Premiere Party
Camila and Matthew McConaughey Photo by Lu Chau // Photagonist.ca
A small Texas bar stood out over the SXSW weekend as dozens of A-list Hollywood celebrities packed Higbie’s Cocktail Bar in exclusive SXSW film premiere parties.
“Out of all the places, I can’t believe they picked us to host this huge event,” said Todd Higbie, owner and partner of Higbie’s.
Hidden in the heart of downtown Austin, Higbie’s is a stylish yet laid-back cocktail bar that offers a versatile setting for events. It’s intimate and inviting atmosphere made it the perfect venue for McConaughey’s private premiere event for the highly anticipated film The Rivals of Amziah King.
Unlike the usual bustling energy of the SXSW festival, this invitation-only event allowed for meaningful conversations and genuine connections between industry insiders, away from the public eye.
The festivities at Higbie’s spanned four days, hosted by Cinema Center, a popular hospitality hub for film festivals. The event, held during the opening weekend of March 7–10, 2025, featured eight red-carpet premiere parties for SXSW’s most talked-about films and was supported by sponsors Bloom Nutrition, Peroni, Hendrick’s Gin, Rendezvous Films, and Collider. The celebration culminated on the final evening with the SXSW world premiere of The Rivals of Amziah King, starring Matthew McConaughey and sponsored by Pantalones Tequila.
Camila and Matthew McConaughey with Todd Higbie Photo by Nitography
Collider’s annual Interview Studio added to the star power, welcoming top filmmakers and actors during their day press circuits. There, they conducted interviews for exclusive content featured on Collider, a leading entertainment site with over 30 million unique visitors each month.
The evening boasted a star-studded guest list, with McConaughey's wife Camila, along with Cole Sprouse and Rob Morgan—both part of the film— spotted sipping on the night’s signature Pantalones Tequila cocktails in a relaxed yet uniquely stylish setting.
Director Michael Bay (Transformers), acclaimed actors Daisy Ridley (Star Wars), Lili Reinhart (Riverdale), Christopher Mintz-Plasse (Superbad), and Aldis Hodge (Black Adam) were also among the A-listers who made appearances throughout the weekend.
Photo by Lu Chau // Photagonist.ca
Beyond the Hollywood buzz, what truly set the event apart was the genuine warmth and hospitality that Texas is known for. From the moment guests walked through the doors, they were greeted with southern charm, impeccable service, and a welcoming atmosphere that made them feel right at home—proving that true Southern hospitality is alive and well in the heart of Austin.
“Austin is a city that thrives on storytelling, creativity, and connection, and tonight is a perfect example of that,” said Higbie. “We’re all about bringing people together to enjoy great moments—and, of course, livin’ your best life.”
To learn more about Higbie’s Cocktail Bar in Austin—including upcoming events, seasonal specials, and how to reserve your next day & night out—visit www.higbies.com or follow them on Instagram @higbiesaustin for a closer look at the vibes, cocktails, and community that make Higbie’s a local favorite. Whether you’re planning a casual happy hour or your next private party, Higbie’s is where Austin comes to sip, savor, and stay awhile.
