make an appearance
To go to an event solely to be seen there; usually one's stay at such event is short in duration.
Guy 1: "Yo man, what are you up to tonight?"
Guy 2: "I have to make an appearance at some douchebag's birthday party, but after that I should be free."
Guy 2: "I have to make an appearance at some douchebag's birthday party, but after that I should be free."