What better way to kick off the Batman 80th anniversary than watching the largest bat colony in North America take flight! DC Comics was at SXSW on Friday to start the celebration with the unveiling of a one-of-a kind Batman mural created by one of Austin’s most popular graffiti artists, Mez Data. The mural is located at the Native Hostel at 807 E. 4th Street for those who want to see this amazing piece of artwork in person.
The Batman 80th Anniversary Celebration Kickoff
The celebration continued at the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge to witness the bats of Austin Texas take flight. DC Comics handed out light-up bat-shaped glasses and photo props to the crowd for photo opportunities. The bridge was packed in anticipation for the nightly departure of the bats.
Holy Long John Silver! The Batlogo
Not only was the bridge packed, but the ground and water were packed with observers patiently awaiting as well. There was even a light-up batlogo brought out to the water to firmly place Batman’s stamp on the event.
The Bats Take Flight
Finally, the time everyone was waiting for arrived! The bats emerged from under the bridge to take flight in the Austin skyline. If you never have seen the bats in Austin Texas, this is definitely something that needs to be witnessed! As they departed, you could hear them making sounds almost as if they were saying happy birthday to the caped crusader.
DC will honor #LongLiveTheBat throughout 2019, including Batman’s 80th anniversary on March 30 and Batman Day on September 21. As part of this yearlong celebration, there are many ways fans can participate. Check out DC Comics official website for more information.
DC will also celebrate Batman’s 80th anniversary with panels at major conventions, including a dedicated “Happy Birthday, Batman!” panel at WonderCon in Anaheim on the actual anniversary, March 30. We hope to bring you coverage of that event as well. In the meantime, enjoy the galleries of the kickoff and #longlivethebat!
The Celebration Photo Gallery
