Carnival Cruise Line Brought Celebration Key to Life During Billboard’s The STAGE at SXSW

At SXSW 2024, Billboard returned to Moody Amphitheater to host The Stage – 3 nights of concerts spanning 3 different genres. Billboard and Carnival Cruise Line teamed up for the final night to deliver an unforgettable experience for music fans at The Stage. 

Carnival Cruise Line brought a taste of what fans can expect from their exclusive destination on Grand Bahama, welcoming guests in 2025. SXSW attendees were introduced to the unique Celebration Key experiences only Carnival can provide. 

Ranging from custom treats at the Paradise Bar, taking a selfie on the “beachside” swing, to grabbing a tropical popsicle from the Celebration Key cart, Carnival set the scene for a fun night in Austin. 

The night opened with a set from DJ sober, who brought the energy to the Celebration Key DJ Booth. Canadian producer Fairline followed up with a unique DJ set full of remixes featuring his own live guitar solos over many of the tracks he played. 

Ahead of Illenium’s headlining set, fans enjoying Carnival’s Paradise Bar inspired by Celebration Key’s Suncastle, had their tickets upgraded to watch the show up close from the Paradise Zone. 

Around 9:30 pm, the Paradise Zone was packed with eager fans in Illenium jerseys ready to see their favorite artist. The legendary electronic producer and DJ delivered an unforgettable set full of his Billboard-charting hits like “Takeaway” and “Rush Over Me.”

Social media influencer and podcast host Jenna Palek was in attendance to share the Celebration Key experience with her fans on TikTok. 

If you weren’t able to join us in Austin, check out Jenna’s TikTok to see what Celebration Key is all about and stay tuned for more from Billboard at SXSW.