ATA MC&E 2023 | A Taste of Texas with FlowBelow

This October ATA’s Management Conference is returning to our hometown: Austin, TX.

We’d love to connect with you and showcase some of what our beautiful city has to offer.

We’ll be hosting events on Saturday the 14th and Sunday the 15th, and we hope you’ll be available to attend whichever suits you best. Please RSVP as soon as you know your plans, as the venues are not large - and spots may fill up quickly!


Saturday October 14th

6:30 p.m.

Barbeque | Aaron Franklin

Aaron Franklin is the host of BBQ with Franklin and owner and chief firestarter at Austin’s Franklin Barbecue, widely regarded as one of the most influential pitmasters in the U.S. He received the James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Southwest in 2015 and in 2020, was inducted into the American Royal Barbeque Hall of Fame.


Music | Bob Livingston

With an impressive repertoire that seamlessly blends elements of folk, country, and western swing, Bob has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase throughout his illustrious career. He first rose to prominence as a founding member of the iconic Lost Gonzo Band, which also featured the likes of Jerry Jeff Walker and Gary P. Nunn.


Cigars | Ibrahim Ruiz

Ibrahim Ruiz, Master Cigar Roller, was born and raised by a traditional Cuban family in Havana, Cuba. Ibrahim had mastered the art of hand-rolling cigars by the age 19. His grandfather, a well-respected cigar roller, patiently passed his skills to his beloved and very energetic grandson. He is owner and cigar roller for Ruiz Cigars and Rollers (RC&R) and now has over 20 years of experience in the business.

Sunday October 15th

6:45 p.m.

Riverboat | Bat Watching

Enjoy an evening cruise on Lady Bird Lake aboard the Lonestar Riverboat. Take in the picturesque views of Downtown Austin and the spectacular sight of 1.5 million Mexican freetail bats emerging from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. It is the largest urban colony in North America, recognized by National Geographic and The Discovery Channel.


Whiskey Tasting | Treaty Oak 

Savor the essence of the Southwest with a bourbon tasting. These spirits highlight the unique flavor profile of Texan whiskey. The extreme heat and temperature fluctuations often lead to rapid maturation in the barrels, producing a smooth and intense flavor. This is a unique experience you won’t want to miss.


Tex-Mex | Local Favorite

Tex-mex traces its roots back to the late 19th century when the Texas-Mexico border region experienced a cultural blending of Mexican and Texan culinary traditions. Its delicious fusion known for its spices and bold flavors. Austin has some of the best tex-mex around! Why not eat it on a boat with friends?


 

Franklin Barbeque

900 E 11th Street

Austin, TX 78702

1.6 miles from JW Marriot

 

Lone Star Riverboat

208 Barton Springs Road

Austin, TX 78704

0.7 miles from JW Marriot


Transportation

Shuttle

We’ll have shuttles available on both Saturday and Sunday to transport you from the JW Marriot to each location and back. We’ll have signage in the lobby to direct you. Each venue is within 2 miles of the hotel. If you would prefer to take an Uber or hoof it, we’ll see you there!


R.S.V.P.