Southwest Airlines Community

Since 2007, Southwest Airlines has partnered with Kidd’s Kids, which is an organization that supports children facing life-altering conditions and their families by sending them on an all-expenses paid trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth outside of Orlando, Florida. Southwest provides the charter flight to send the Kidd’s Kids and their families on the trip, and the Crews who work the flight volunteer their time. For the families who are selected to go on the trip and live outside of the Dallas area, Southwest provides air travel to get them to Orlando from the nearest Southwest-served airport and the Employees at those airports host celebrations for the Kidd’s Kids.     So many Southwest Employees are passionate about Kidd’s Kids and the work the organization does for these special families. One such Employee is Flight Attendant Kelli, who, in 2008, first volunteered her time with Kidd’s Kids, offering to work the charter aircraft to Orlando. Kelli has continued to champion Kidd’s Kids and the organization holds a special place in her heart.     On one of Kelli’s work flights, she met Carter Large and his family, who was traveling home from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. As she got to know them, she shared with them her work with Kidd’s Kids, and mentioned to them that they could apply for the annual trip. She continued to stay in touch with the Larges in the months after meeting them, even dropping off treats at their home, as they live near to her. When the Larges applied for the Kidd’s Kids trip, they reached out to Kelli, and she wrote them a recommendation letter.   Kelli and the Large family were overjoyed when they received the news that Carter had been selected to go on the 2022 Kidd’s Kids trip!         At Southwest, we are honored to play a small role in the Kidd’s Kids trip as the families travel together and make memories they will always cherish. This organization is dear to our Hearts, and Employees support the organization in many different ways, including volunteering to staff a fundraising telethon; hosting the families at the celebratory send-off; applying the decal to the aircraft; and celebrating the families in the other Southwest cities (besides Dallas) as they travel to Orlando.       ... View more

Since 2006, Southwest Airlines has partnered with Kidd’s Kids to help create magical memories for children who are affected by life-altering conditions by sending them on a trip with their families. Through this trip to the Happiest Place on Earth, these families are able to get away together, enjoy fun experiences, and meet other families who face medical hardships.   A child selected to go on the Kidd’s Kids trip poses in front of a Southwest Airlines aircraft. Southwest provides the charter aircraft for the families to travel to and from Orlando, and the Employees who crew the flight volunteer their time. Kidd’s Kids covers all expenses, including hotel, park passes, meals, transportation, spending money, and souvenirs.  Support comes from individual contributions made by listeners of the Kidd Kraddick Morning Show, corporate donations, special event fundraisers, and generous in-kind donations.   Kidd’s Kids and their families gather before boarding the Southwest Airlines charter flight to Orlando. One family who was selected to go on the 2022 Kidd’s Kids trip is the Large family, and they hold a special place in Southwest’s Heart. Carter is seven years old and has NUBPL Complex 1, Mitochondrial Disorder. He and his family were traveling on Southwest a few years ago and met Flight Attendant Kelli. She got to know the Large family on her flight and shared with them her involvement with Kidd’s Kids and what the organization means to her. She kept in touch with Carter and his family, and encouraged them to apply for the trip—she even wrote a recommendation letter for the family. A few weeks ago, the Large family learned they were accepted for the trip!   Kidd’s Kid, Carter, and his family meet the cast of the Kidd Kraddick Morning Show.       Today, Southwest has a goal of raising $25,000 for Kidd’s Kids to help make the trip possible for these deserving families. To send kids like Carter and his family on the Kidd’s Kids trip, visit the Southwest-dedicated Kidd’s Kids donation page. ... View more

  Lucktoberfest will be held October 28-30, at Willie Nelson’s Luck, Texas, Ranch just outside of Austin. This unique venue—once the set for the film, “Red Headed Stranger”—is now the gathering place for the annual Luck Reunion. Fans from far and wide clamor for the chance to attend Luck Reunion and experience the anti-festival that celebrates music legends and up-and-coming talent alike. Now, with the inaugural Lucktoberfest, fans have the chance to experience Luck while celebrating the state of Texas.     Each day of the three-day festival highlights unique artists. Day one, October 28, kicks off the festival and features Paul Cauthen’s Big Velvet ** and Los Lobos, plus special guests. Fans attending day two can experience a far-west cowboy-themed masquerade ball and fashion show, with headliners Orville Peck and Tanya Tucker.   Lucktoberfest closes out on October 30 with a night of German-influenced entertainment—including polka—plus family-friendly trick-or-treating activities. Alex Meixner and Shinyribs, and additional acts will round out this one-of-a-kind weekend.   Luck Presents is pledging $1 to the Central Texas Food Bank from each Lucktoberfest ticket sold and to work hand in hand with setting a goal to hit at least 100,000 meals ($25,000) with this year's program.   Want to attend the first-ever Lucktoberfest and experience the fun in person? We’re offering you a chance to win! Visit https://southwest.fm/Lucktoberfest to learn more and to enter to win round trip air travel for a winner and a guest to Austin International Airport for the event, a $750 Visa gift card, and two VIP tickets to the 2022 Lucktoberfest celebration*.     To learn more about the event, visit Lucktoberfest.com.   **NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open to legal residents of 50 United States and the District of Columbia (excluding Alaska, Puerto Rico, and Rhode Island) age 21 or older at time of entry. Void where prohibited. Limit one entry per person. All fields must be completed. Approximate retail value of prize: $2,050. For complete details and how to enter, see https://southwest.fm/Lucktoberfest. By submitting this entry, you agree to the Official Rules. By entering, information collected will be used in accordance with Sponsor’s Privacy Policy. Sponsor: Southwest Airlines Co., 2702 Love Field Drive, Dallas, TX 75235. Enter by Oct. 16, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. ... View more

Southwest Airlines is the Official Airline of the Nashville Songwriters Association International, an organization dedicated to songwriters and their craft. Through this partnership, we support the heroes behind the hits—songwriters.     On Sept. 20, 2022, songwriters will be honored at the 5th Annual Nashville Songwriter Awards in Music City. Renowned songwriters will receive awards in categories like the Lifetime Achievement Award, song, songwriter, and songwriter-artist of the year, and the event will celebrate the “10 Songs I Wish I’d Written.” In between awards, some of music’s best songwriters and artists will perform cherished hits from past and present.   Wanna attend in person? We’re hosting a sweepstakes for a winner and a guest to join the celebration with tickets to the awards show, round trip air travel for a winner and a guest to Nashville, hotel accommodations at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel, and a $250 Visa® gift card. Visit southwest.fm/NSAI to read the official rules and enter!*       To learn more about the event and the announced performances, visit nashvillesongwriters.com and follow @NSAIofficial / #songwriterawards on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.   *NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.  A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open to legal residents of 50 United States and the District of Columbia (excluding Alaska and Rhode Island) age 21 or older at time of entry. Void where prohibited. Limit one entry per person. All fields must be completed. Approximate retail value of prize: $1,438. For complete details and how to enter, see https://southwest.fm/NSAI. By submitting this entry, you agree to the Official Rules. By entering, information collected will be used in accordance with Sponsor’s Privacy Policy. Sponsor: Southwest Airlines Co., 2702 Love Field Drive, Dallas, TX 75235.  Enter by Sept. 2, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time. ... View more

Since 2017, Southwest has served as the presenting sponsor of Luck Reunion, underscoring the airline’s commitment to propel Artists On The Rise and support them along their journey.   Over the years, Southwest has found a special place at the festival, offering attendees a unique experience each year. Most recently, the Southwest Concierge welcomed attendees to the Festival, providing helpful information and a spot for guests to grab a coveted Luck Reunion bandana. As festivalgoers enjoyed Luck, they visited the Southwest and Rethreaded General Store, which showcased the partnership between the airline and the organization dedicated to creating choice for survivors of Human Trafficking. Southwest gifted attendees with branded coasters that Rethreaded employees made from upcycled aircraft seat leather.           We are proud to support Rethreaded and their work to empower survivors of human trafficking, and were honored to showcase them at Luck Reunion. For more information about Rethreaded or to purchase a handmade item, visit rethreaded.com. ... View more

Southwest Airlines is excited to announce its return as the Official Airline of Luck Reunion, hosted by Luck Presents. Luck Reunion, an exclusive boutique music festival held at Willie Nelson’s Luck, Texas ranch, is dedicated to creating and celebrating the evolution of American roots music. This year’s event will take place on Thursday, March 17, and Southwest and Luck Presents are offering a few lucky winners a chance to attend the exclusive event.   10 Years of Luck Sweepstakes* Fans have daily opportunities to win two general admission tickets for a winner and one guest to attend the March 17 event (15 daily prizes will be selected). One lucky grand prize winner will get round trip air travel on Southwest Airlines for the winner and one guest (subject to Air Travel Restrictions), as well as two tickets to Potluck and Luck Reunion, and a $250 Visa ® gift card that can be used for car service. Visit https://southwest.fm/luckreunion through March 3, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. CT to enter.    *NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open to legal residents of 50 United States and the District of Columbia (excluding Alaska, Florida, New York, Puerto Rico, and Rhode Island) age 21 or older at time of entry. Void where prohibited. All fields must be completed. Approximate retail value of all prizes: $6,350. For complete details and Official Rules, visit  https://southwest.fm/luckreunion . By submitting this entry, you agree to the Official Rules. By entering, information collected will be used in accordance with Sponsor's Privacy Policy at http://luckreunion.com/privacy-policy . Sponsor: In Luck Banquet, LLC, 1107 S. 8th Street, Austin, Texas 78704. Enter by March 3, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. CT.       Cultivating Musical Opportunities for Artists The continued Southwest Airlines ® and Luck partnership marks both brands' commitment to the music community and elevating Artists On The Rise.   Southwest uses its music platform, Southwest.fm, to support up-and-coming artists through its Artist On The Rise program. In partnership with Luck, Southwest created the “Southwest: On The Rise to Luck” program to highlight music video content and give one rising artist the chance to open at Luck Reunion. In 2020, three artists competed to showcase their unique sound, and fans had the opportunity to vote for their favorite artist to perform on the main stage at Luck Reunion.    After two years without live music due to the pandemic, we are excited about 2020’s “Southwest: Artist On The Rise” winner and fearless rock and roll musician, Ida Mae , to be featured on the main stage of this year’s Luck Reunion. Attendees can also catch former Artist On The Rise Lily Meola at Luck Reunion.   Southwest is the airline with Heart, committed to connecting people to what is important in their lives, including music. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Luck Reunion, supporting our Artist On The Rise Program, and building a community that cultivates rich experiences through music by giving artists the opportunity to bring their passions to life.”      “Although we’ve faced the challenges of two years without live music, Team Luck knows how to rally,” said Luck Presents festival organizers. “We can’t wait to celebrate 10 years of Luck and to see our ‘Luck Family’ return to the stage.”   Impact of Music As a special feature to Luck Reunion, Southwest’s Repurpose with Purpose community partner, Rethreaded, will give each attendee a special item made out of Southwest’s upcycled leather seat coverings, handmade by survivors of human trafficking. Attendees may also purchase additional Rethreaded items.   "Rethreaded is thrilled to be part of the Luck Reunion festival,” said Kristin Keen, Founder and CEO of Rethreaded. “Southwest has been an amazing partner, and we can't wait to share the impact Southwest's upcycle program has had on the lives of survivors of human trafficking. It is an honor to be at the event and be able to share with attendees the impact Southwest is making."   Sites & Sounds—Inspiring Music & Destinations  Tune in to Season Two of Sites & Sounds, presented by Southwest and Luck Presents, on Southwest.fm and onboard Southwest flights via the airline’s Inflight Entertainment Portal. The series celebrates musicians and the destinations that have influenced them and serves as a visual and music-filled love letter to the places that have shaped the creative course of artists. Enjoy the adventures that unfold as each city's host musician guides a guest artist through sights, sounds, and experiences that make their hometown special—incorporating food, culture, and music.   For more information on Artist On The Rise, Repurpose with Purpose, the 10 Years of Luck Sweepstakes, Sites & Sounds, and more, visit https://southwest.fm/luckreunion, and follow our brands on social media at @luckreunion and @southwestair using #sitesandsounds to stay up to date.   ... View more

Since 2015, Southwest Airlines has been the Official Airline of The Bluebird Cafe, one of the country’s most iconic and historic music venues. Since opening its doors in 1982, the Bluebird has been a venue where up-and-coming songwriters and artists rise to fame and build their careers. From the novice to the star, all levels of songwriters are welcomed and supported—sounds a little like our very own airline!   On the wall at the Bluebird hangs a Southwest-branded Taylor Guitar as the house guitar. It’s always in-tune and ready to be played, so any artist performing at the Bluebird is able to strum a few chords on this beautiful instrument.   As we celebrated our 50 th Anniversary this year, Taylor Guitars created another custom guitar to display at the Bluebird, and it was designed by Brianna Juda, a member of the Southwest Airlines Creative Studio. The guitar design features the Southwest Heart in gold as a nod to our “Golden” anniversary with our 50 th Anniversary tagline “50 Years. One Heart.” There are two icons that look like passport stamps for Dallas and Nashville to pay homage to our home airport of Dallas (Love Field) and Nashville, home to the Bluebird and a city that Southwest has served for 35 years.   We’re offering YOU the chance to visit Nashville for the ultimate music-lovers getaway. The prize includes round trip air travel for two on Southwest to Nashville, a $500 Visa® gift card, a visit for two to the Taylor Guitars showroom in Nashville, a Taylor Guitar GS Mini Koa, and two show tickets to The Bluebird Cafe. To enter, visit https://southwest.fm/bluebirdcafe/ through Dec. 31, 2021.     *NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.  A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open to legal residents of 50 United States and the District of Columbia (excluding Alaska) age 21 or older at time of entry.  Void where prohibited. Limit one entry per person. All fields must be completed.  Approximate retail value of prize: $2,599.  For complete details and how to enter, see Official Rules. By submitting this entry, you agree to the Official Rules. By entering, information collected will be used in accordance with Sponsor’s Privacy Policy. Sponsor: Southwest Airlines Co., 2702 Love Field Drive, Dallas, Texas 75235.  Enter by Dec. 31, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. CT ... View more

      For 15 years, Southwest has partnered with Kidd’s Kids to send children facing serious illness and their families on the trip of a lifetime to the Happiest Place on Earth. Since 2015, Southwest Pilot, Keltner, has volunteered at the Kidd’s Kids send-off event and flew the charter flight from Dallas to Orlando in 2019. This year, there were a few extra-special passengers onboard Keltner’s flight to Orlando: his nephew, Gabriel, and his family were selected to go on the 2021 Kidd’s Kids trip.   Southwest Pilot, Keltner, welcomes his nephew, Gabriel, aboard the 2021 Kidd's Kids flight. Keltner has been a Pilot for Southwest for nearly ten years. When he heard about the partnership between Southwest and Kidd’s Kids to send children facing serious illness and their families on the trip of a lifetime, he felt called to help. In 2015, he began volunteering at the annual send-off event, in which families who have been selected to go on the trip gather in Dallas to fly on a charter flight to Orlando. He welcomed the families, helped them get ready to board the flight, and answered questions that the excited travelers had about flying.   For 15 years, Southwest has partnered with Kidd’s Kids to send children facing serious illness and their families on the trip of a lifetime to the Happiest Place on Earth. Each year, the Southwest Pilots, Flight Attendants, and Ground Crew who work the flight donate their time, and Southwest donates the aircraft to help reduce the burden on families and make it truly memorable. In 2019, Keltner had his first opportunity to fly the charter flight from Dallas to Orlando, and jumped at the chance.   Gabriel and his family get ready to fly on the Southwest charter flight with the Kidd's Kids group.   Around this same time, he began to encourage his sister, Wheeler, to apply for the Kidd’s Kids trip. Her son, Gabriel, who is Keltner’s nephew, has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair to get around. “Wheeler and her family have never had a true vacation,” said Keltner. “They do so much for their community and have been through so much as a family, and they are incredibly deserving of this once-in-a-lifetime trip.” Keltner was at Wheeler’s house when a package arrived at the door. Their family had been selected to go on the 2021 Kidd’s Kids trip!   To make the flight to Orlando even more special for Gabriel, Keltner flew this year’s charter flight from Dallas to Orlando. Just as he has in past years, Keltner welcomed all of the families with the warmth and Hospitality that Southwest is known for, and the rest of the Flight Crew and volunteers made the experience for the Kidd’s Kids and their families truly memorable.   Southwest Pilot Keltner flew this year’s charter flight from Dallas to Orlando. We’re grateful for our 15 years of partnership with Kidd’s Kids and congratulate them on their 30th year of making a difference in the lives of these children and their families. ... View more

  In DreamWorks Trolls World Tour, Poppy and her pals are back, discovering there’s a whole world out there with different kingdoms of Trolls and amazing genres of music. Now, get ready to take a journey with the filmmakers as they’re inspired by all the musical kingdoms across the USA!  From the pop-sound of Los Angeles, to the hard-rockers in Cleveland, to the classical sounds of New York and more, we'll take flight on a musical adventure that spans from the Trolls world to our world!       Want to experience these musical kingdoms for yourself? Head over to Southwest.fm/TWT to create your very own music journey and explore these musical lands, all from the comfort of your home.   Trolls World Tour now at home on demand. Visit Watchtrolls.com. ... View more

  At Southwest®, we are inspired by the destinations we serve. And each destination has its own culture, history, people and heart, giving visitors their very own unique experience. Through traveling to new places, you learn a little more about yourself while expanding your horizons and discover that, around the world, people are united together by common themes.   Southwest is proud to partner with DreamWorks Animation on their latest film, Trolls World Tour, an all-star sequel to the 2016 Trolls musical hit. In an adventure that will take them well beyond what they’ve known before, Trolls Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin Timberlake) discover that they are but one of six different Trolls tribes scattered over six different lands and devoted to six different kinds of music: Funk, Country, Techno, Classical, Pop, and Rock. Their world is about to get a lot bigger and a whole lot louder.   “In Trolls World Tour, the Trolls discover that the music of their world is much more diverse than they ever imagined,” said Walt Dohrn, director of Trolls World Tour. “Just like the many music-filled cities of our human world, they are on this incredible trip of discovery, uncovering new and exciting sounds that propel them on this heartfelt journey.”     In creating Trolls World Tour, the filmmakers drew their own creative inspiration from destinations they came across in their travels. Nashville, with its strong local music community, helped provide the inspiration for Lonesome Flats, the home of the film’s country music Trolls; and the filmmakers drew upon the palm trees, sunshine, and glitter of Los Angeles to create Pop Trolls Village, home to Poppy, Branch and their pals.    “We came to the realization that there are these different musical kingdoms in our own world,” said Gina Shay, producer of Trolls World Tour. “New York City and classical music have this symbiotic relationship. You can hear classical music all over the city.”     At Southwest, we aim to connect People to what matters most in their lives, as well as helping them discover new passions, new destinations.   Southwest wants to send you and three of your friends to the World Premiere of Trolls World Tour in Los Angeles. Head to Southwest.fm/trolls-premiere-sweeps/ to enter for a chance to win a package that includes round trip air travel for four, a two-night stay in Los Angeles, a $500 gift card and exclusive Trolls World Tour giveaways.   Get ready to ROCK! ... View more

November 21 is the Kidd’s Kids send-off day, and for one of our Southwest family members, it will be an especially memorable day.   Nicole, who is a Dallas-based Flight Attendant and has been a part of the Southwest family for 20 years, will travel on the Kidd’s Kids trip to Disney World in Orlando, along with her husband, Paul, and daughter, Khloe, who was diagnosed with leukemia in December 2018.   Earlier this year, Nicole submitted an application to Kidd’s Kids to be considered to go on this special trip. Kidd’s Kids, founded by the late radio personality Kidd Kraddick, is an organization that strives to make a difference in the lives of children and their families and sends them on the trip of a lifetime to the happiest place on earth. This past summer, representatives from the Kidd’s Kids organization surprised Nicole, Paul, and Khloe with the news that they had been selected as a family to go on the Kidd’s Kids trip.   Since they found out that they were selected to go on the Kidd’s Kids trip, Nicole, Paul, and Khloe have been counting down the days until their flight takes off and they are Disney bound. For them, this trip will be a time when they can travel as a family, experience joy together, and leave their worries at the Disney World gates as they visit the park and focus on fun, rather than medical bills and treatments.         Southwest has been the Official Airline of Kidd’s Kids for the past 13 years. Through this Partnership, we donate a charter aircraft for the families to travel from Dallas to Orlando, and for Kidd’s Kids families who live outside of the Dallas area, our Employees host special send-off celebrations for them at the airport as they journey to Disney World. Leading up to the send-off, Southwest hosts a telethon, which is staffed by Southwest Employees and raises funds to be able to send the families on this amazing trip.   Tune in as Nicole, Paul, and Khloe share a little more about how they are preparing for their trip, and stay tuned on November 21 to see all of the fun as we send the Kidd’s Kids families to Orlando with a joyful celebration! ... View more

Since 2017, Southwest has been a Partner of Musicians On Call (MOC), a nonprofit organization that brings live and recorded music to patients bedsides in healthcare facilities across the country. Through this partnership, we’re able to help bring the healing power of music to those who need it most.   Through our partnership, we’ve hosted several visits at hospitals that are a part of the Southwest Medical Transportation Grant Program in Denver, Los Angeles, Nashville, New York City, Phoenix, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C. Following the tragic events in Las Vegas on October 1, 2017, we worked with MOC to pull together last-minute flights to Las Vegas so musicians could visit victims recovering in the Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center, and perform for the patients, nurses, and doctors, bringing a much-needed respite to those dealing with the tragedy.   “Southwest Airlines has been an incredible partner of Musicians On Call and given us opportunities to bring our Volunteers across the country,” said Pete Griffin, President & CEO. “As we celebrate 20 years delivering the healing power of music, Southwest has allowed us to reach even more patients, families and caregivers than ever before.”   This year, we brought our partnership to new heights – literally! Earlier this month, we welcomed Curb Records Recording Artist and MOC Celebrity Supporter Filmore to perform both Live at 35 on his way to California and in patients’ rooms at Good Samaritan Hospital in San Jose, where MOC just set up a new volunteer musician program. Check out the video to see Filmore as he surprised Customers on a flight and brought smiles to hospital patients.         To learn more about our work with Musicians On Call and to see past Live at 35 concerts, visit Southwest.fm. ... View more

This past Sunday, we began our service from Oakland to Kahului, Maui, and our inaugural flight was nothing short of special. Through our Employees who are from Hawaii and our Partners, we have learned so much about the beautiful culture of the Islands and we have enjoyed celebrating their rich history. As we began our first flights, we wanted to celebrate the rich music community that is on Maui.  We invited Lily Meola, an artist born and raised in Maui, to perform Live at 35 (a live performance at 35,000 feet) to be among the first to welcome our Customers to her hometown.     At Southwest Airlines, our Purpose is to connect People to what’s important in their lives. We know our Customers and Employees are passionate about music, and we love to support up-and-coming musicians throughout their journeys. We combine these passions through Live at 35, our inflight concert series that brings artists onboard to perform live.   Lily is a local favorite in Maui and often plays shows at Charley’s Bar in Paia to serenade the crowd with her powerful vocals. She has been performing since the age of 11 and had steady gigs by the age of 16. Lily has even performed at the Luck Reunion, which Southwest is the presenting sponsor, and she’s considered part of the Luck Reunion family. Her music is inspired by stories of the people around her and stories from her life. She will even release her debut album on Interscope Records later this year.   The inaugural OAK-OGG flight was filled with excited Customers ready to begin their trip to Maui. Shortly into the flight, Lily and her band performed “Daydream” and “Give Me That” at the front of the aircraft. Our Customers onboard enjoyed the surprise performance, clapped along, and recorded the moment to show off to friends to share their special flight experience.   We also hosted a Community Appreciation event at Charley’s Bar in Paia, Lily’s neighborhood, to celebrate and connect with our Customers and the community. There were giveaways and drink specials, and Lily performed in front of a packed house. The night was full of music and laughter, and we were honored to be welcomed by this amazing community.     You can visit Southwest.fm to view additional photos and videos from Lily Meola’s performance, as well as past Live at 35 performances.   ... View more

At Southwest Airlines, our Purpose is to connect People to what’s important in their lives. We know our Customers and Employees are passionate about music, and we love to support up-and-coming musicians throughout their journeys. We combine these passions through Live at 35, our inflight concert series that brings artists onboard to perform live at 35,000 feet.   Photo by Devon Lancaster Our most recent Live at 35 performer was Australian-born rising country artist Morgan Evans, who is a regular Southwest flier. He already has a top 10 hit on country radio with “Kiss Somebody”—his debut U.S. single with Warner Music Nashville. The track has surpassed 34 million on-demand streams. Evans kicked off his 10 In 10 Tour on June 21, but first he joined us onboard a flight from Nashville (BNA) to Los Angeles (LAX) for a special performance.   Evans sang two of his singles, “Day Drunk” and “Kiss Somebody,” for Customers onboard the aircraft. Our Passengers loved the concert, and many had the opportunity to get autographs from Evans after his performance.   Photo by Devon Lancaster It’s not every day you get to experience a live concert in an airplane, let alone while cruising at 35,000 feet!  Southwest builds relationships with some of today’s most talented upcoming musicians, and we’ll continue to bring these artists to a sky near you as we support them along the way. We hope to see you onboard soon!   You can visit Southwest.fm to view additional photos and videos from Evans’ performance, as well as past Live at 35 performances. ... View more

      Country Artist Drake White “Southwest opens up options. You can buy back some time with family and friends.”                                                                                    — Drake White , Musician   Drake White’s passion has always been music, and he uses it to drive his sense of adventure. A country artist, Drake spends about 200 days of the year on the road. For some, that would be challenging, but for Drake, that’s where Southwest’s Rapid Rewards program comes in. His Companion Pass and Rapid Rewards points allow his wife to be a part of the magic with him. Through his points, Drake can have his family join him on the road, where they create new memories that can spark inspiration for his music. Southwest makes it easier for him to maintain a work–life balance while allowing him to stay grounded to his musical roots. We’re so glad to be a part of your journey, Drake!    The Right Notes “Music has always been the thing I couldn’t walk away from—its gravitational pull is too much. I’m not happy unless I’m creating music, growing it, and sharing it.”   Small Wonders “The true magic is in smaller cities. Get out of the limelight and learn new cultures.”   Hit the Road “I’m currently on my first U.S. headlining tour, The Spark Tour, through the summer. I hope to give everyone an experience worth remembering!”   ... View more

For the past ten years, Southwest has proudly provided complimentary air travel to benefit medical patients and their families that must travel for life-saving or life-changing medical care through Southwest Airlines Medical Transportation Grant Program (MTGP). We have been honored to work with a network of nonprofit hospitals and medical organizations nationwide that support this mission.  In celebration of this milestone tenth anniversary, we will donate 10,000 roundtrip flights this year to families who need to travel for specialized medical care.   We also are extending a healing hand through a partnership with Musicians On Call (MOC), which is a nonprofit that brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities. Through our partnership with MOC, musicians will have the opportunity to connect with patients through the healing power of music—truly medicine for the soul. As part of the celebration of our new partnership announcement, yesterday we hosted in-airport concerts at three locations: Kenli Mattus and Maggie Szabo in Los Angeles (LAX), Aubrey Wollett in Nashville (BNA), and Tim Campbell and Steven Derrick in Atlanta (ATL).   Musicians On Call volunteer musician Aubrey Wollett performs for Customers at the Nashville Airport.   Later this year, we will partner with Musicians On Call to bring music into the hospitals that are recipients of the MTGP.     Since we began the Southwest Airlines Medical Transportation Grant Program in 2007, we have donated more than 59,000 complimentary roundtrips—valued at more than $23 million—to 109 nonprofit hospitals and medical organizations in 28 states. Visit https://www.southwest.com/medicalgrant/ to view a full list of participating partners and for more information about Musicians On Call, visit www.musiciansoncall.org. ... View more

This is a guest blog post from Denver resident Brittany Borgard, who is among a group of winners who won a radio promotion from Live in the Vineyard and Southwest Airlines to attend a Live at 35 inflight concert with NEEDTOBREATHE and attend the band’s dress rehearsal for the second leg of their tour. On my drive home from work, I received a phone call from a local radio station with some great news! I won a trip to LA to see NEEDTOBREATHE rehearse for their new tour AND see them perform on a Southwest Airlines flight for a Live at 35 experience! What. Is. Life?! For quite some time, I’ve seen Live in the Vineyard teaming up with Southwest Airlines to do concerts in the air. It seemed almost too good to be true until I got the opportunity. Not only would I see a Live at 35 concert, but I would also see the incredibly talented NEEDTOBREATHE perform. I started the morning by heading to the airport with my roommate, Laney, getting our boarding passes, and meeting NEEDTOBREATHE! WHAT?! They came right up to us and introduced themselves (of course we already knew who they were!) Bo, Bear, Josh, and Seth were all incredibly down to earth. Walking throughout the airport with NEEDTOBREATHE was unreal. I’m still having a difficult time believing I had so many casual and fun conversations with one of my favorite bands. After boarding the plane with the other radio winners and the band, we were off! Laney and I eagerly awaited the concert at 35,000 feet and about 30 minutes into the flight, it began. NEEDTOBREATHE stood in front of the curious passengers and performed “The Heart” and the one and only, “Brother”! They got all the passengers to clap, sway, and sing along, making our flight an upbeat and unique ride! The next day, we got to meet up with NEEDTOBREATHE as they rehearsed for the next leg of their tour. We went into a sound studio and watched as they ran through part of their set list. It was like being front row at their concert. I have a huge passion for music and I loved seeing the “behind-the-scenes” part of a tour! Never in a million years did I think I’d see a concert at 35,000 feet in the air, or even meet NEEDTOBREATHE! I’m so thankful for my local radio station, Live in the Vineyard, and Southwest Airlines for such an amazing opportunity. Hopefully I’ll get lucky again. ;) ... View more

Recently we had special guests, O.A.R., with us at the Baltimore/Washington Airport.  Marc Roberge, Jerry Depizzo, and Richard On traded in their guitars for boarding passes and received a round of applause from our Customers and Employees.  Customers were excited to see the guys assist Southwest Employees with taking Customer tickets and marshaling in an aircraft; they then boarded their flight to Orlando where they performed our next installment of Live at 35® with “Live In The Vineyard!” Once flight #3782 departed and reached the altitude of 35,000 feet, O.A.R. performed Live at 35®singing “Shattered” and their new single “Peace.” ... View more

Wow … what A Great Big surprise for Southwest Customers at Chicago Midway and the Passengers onboard a recent flight from Chicago to Vegas.  The band, A Great Big World, traveled from the ir hometown of New York to Las Vegas for an event to bring in the New Year. Customers passing through Chicago Midway's Terminal B were stunned to hear the amazing voices of I an Axel and Chad Vaccarino warming up for their Live at 35® concert.  While en route to Vegas, more than 140 unsuspecting Customers experienced a live music performance by AGBW that included “Say Something” and “Shorty Don’t Wait,” both singles included in AGBW’s debut album, Is There Anybody Out There?, being released next week on January 21.  Another BIG surprise came when AGBW selected two Passengers to attend their concert while in Vegas! It is A Great Big World out there so keep exploring and maybe you’ll find a Live at 35 on your next Southwest Airlines flight! ... View more

At Southwest, we LUV surprising our Customers with live entertainment at 35,000 feet and who knows where we’ll show up next year ... maybe on your flight!  Here’s a look at our favorite Live at 35 moments from 2013: 1)  Gavin DeGraw flew with us Aug. 21 from Phoenix to Los Angeles and it was one of the Best Times WE Ever Had!   2)  Plain White T’s spent time with our crew in Burbank before boarding for their Live at 35 to Oakland on Nov. 1   3)  It was Christmas in July when acclaimed a cappella group, Straight No Chaser, serenaded Customers at 35,000 feet from Nashville to New York.   4)  This past May, Taylor Hicks performed live from Las Vegas to Denver with a custom Southwest Airlines Taylor guitar. To see video footage of these five moments and a year full of jet-setting performances visit, www.southwest.com/entertainment.  This year’s Live at 35’s included performances by (in chronological order): ZZ Ward Vicci Martinez Youngblood Hawke Parmalee The Farm Vintage Trouble Good Ole War Taylor Hicks Easton Corbin Straight No Chaser Gavin DeGraw Lee DeWyze Bronze Radio Return Atlas Genius Plain White T’s American Authors And to wrap up the year, stay tuned December 29 for a great BIG finale to our 2013 Live at 35s! ... View more

After a fall calendar full of Live at 35 performances on Southwest aircraft, Live In The Vineyard once again produced an incredible event in the foothills of California's famed wine country.  Watch the video for behind-the-scenes access to some of the great artists who performed in these fun venues! Unforgettable performances from emerging artists and fan favorites rocked the beautiful Uptown Theatre Napa this fall, and what was even more special was the intimate setting and performances in the vineyard at Peju Province Winery for Southwest's Rapid Rewards Members who bid points to go on the trip.  The artists’ stripped-down sets made way for storytelling, favorite moments, and smash hits! Live In The Vineyard gives attendees exclusive access to rare events, where they get to experience artists’ acoustic talents, and taste sips and snacks from top-tier wine makers and world-renowned chefs during a three-day event. This spring, don't miss your chance to be included in this total immersion of music, wine, and food. Follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook to stay up to date on your opportunities to attend!   ... View more

http://youtu.be/VcSfKSJzJEE Southwest Airlines hosted Live In The Vineyard alumni, Five for Fighting, on a beautiful September afternoon, just a day after releasing the sixth album, Bookmarks.  What better venue to perform live the hit new release, “What If,” than from the Southwest Porch at Bryant Park?  John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting was one of Live In The Vineyard’s first headlining artists and returns again this fall to the event in Napa for an intimate acoustic performance at Sutter Home Winery for Live In The Vineyard contest winners. The Live In The Vineyard sweepstakes and contests have ended and the winners selected, but be sure to “bookmark” www.southwest.com/entertainment for a variety of entertainment with Southwest Airlines! ... View more

Southwest Airlines is kicking off another season as the Official Airline of “Live In The Vineyard.” Held twice a year in Napa Valley, “Live In The Vineyard” is a private, once-in-a-lifetime, three-day festival filled with music, food, and wine.  The event spotlights both emerging recording artists and established marquee bands.  Tickets for this special event can’t be purchased; in fact, attendees can only win access through radio giveaways or online sweepstakes.  As the Official Airline of “Live In The Vineyard,” we’re proud to give our Customers the chance to win a “Live In The Vineyard” All-Access package, including: Two VIP tickets to “Live In The Vineyard” events in Napa, CA (November 1-4, 2013) Three-night hotel accommodations at The Westin Verasa, Napa, CA Roundtrip air travel for two to San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport See official rules at www.southwest.com/liveinthevineyard “Live In The Vineyard” attendees are introduced to Napa wineries, amazing food in intimate settings throughout the wine country, and acoustic performances from some of today’s top emerging artists.  The Fall line-up of artists includes: American Authors, Andrew Ripp, Atlas Genius, Delta Rae, Five for Fighting, Gavin DeGraw, James Blunt, Kevin Rudolf, Lee DeWyze, and many more! Live at 35® has also taken off with this season’s inaugural inflight concert with Gavin DeGraw.  Gavin surprised 143 unsuspecting Customers with a performance they’re sure to never forget, as he signed autographs, took photos with the passengers, and sang his new single, “Best I Ever Had.” Taking the sky on Monday, Sept. 10 will be American Idol winner Lee DeWyze, flying Dallas to Albuquerque.  Our decaled Boeing 737 aircraft is the stage for these surprise inflight concerts at 35,000 feet so don’t be surprised if live music fills the cabin onboard your next Southwest Airlines flight! Visit www.southwest.com/liveinthevineyard to enter to win--cheers! ... View more