SXSW festival endures bad traffic, weather

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AUSTIN, Texas, March 21 (UPI) -- The 2010 South by Southwest Festival endured cold temperatures and clogged traffic this year in Austin, Texas, attendees said.

Attorney Mark McCrimmon, who has attended all 24 South by Southwest Festivals to date, suggested the annual music event may want to limit its expansion in Austin's downtown area as traffic was terrible at this year's gathering, the Austin (Texas) American-Statesman said Sunday.

"It's gotten out of control," McCrimmon said. "I think they need to ramp it down a little. It took me 20 minutes just to drive five blocks."

Cold temperatures and rainy weather also threatened to ruin the March 17-21 festival Saturday, canceling or shorting certain events.

While some festival attendees sought comfort at indoor events, actor Matthew McConaughey attempted to encourage fans of Mishka while introducing the singer.

"The sun might be up there behind the clouds, but onstage, it's a warm 72 degrees and s-s-s-sunny," McConaughey said.