So, what are 3 hot event trends for 2025?
If you’re running events this year, then rest assured, you’re in for an exciting time! Why?
Not only is fast evolving technology set to drive change, but your attendees will have an increased expectation that you will do more than just make a nod to sustainability or make a half-hearted attempt to engage their attention. And fair enough too.
What can you expect then? Let’s talk about technology first (because it’s a biggie).
1. AI is going to be sizzling hot
I know we’re all being bombarded with news about how AI (artificial intelligence) is going to change the world. And for event organisers, this will definitely be the case!
Not only can we expect to see AI make events a better attendee experience through customised content, but it can also enhance their ability to get more value through tailored networking opportunities and even personalise scheduling.
So, what does that actually mean? Imagine this. AI algorithms can suggest sessions to attendees based on their profile, interests, and past behaviour. Or match them with potential connections based on their professional backgrounds and mutual interests. And if they want real-time help or answers during the event, they can ask an AI-powered chatbot.
It won’t be just your attendees that will benefit though. AI can lift your content engagement game by generating engaging event descriptions, social media posts, and speaker bios. You’ll also be able to use AI-powered features like polls, Q&A sessions, and live feedback mechanisms during presentations – for instant feedback on attendee sentiment!
As for those time consuming tasks like registration and venue optimisation? Well, with AI-powered forms and data validation, and the power to analyse room capacity and schedule session times to avoid congestion, you’ve just got rid of a significant amount of event organiser stress!
And afterwards, you can set AI to work on collating and analysing detailed feedback from your attendees using AI-powered surveys so you know where and how you can improve your next event. Then, task it with identifying high-quality leads from your list of event attendees and draw up a list of prioritised follow-up actions. Nice!
2. Sustainability will be ultra cool
As we all become more aware of (and impacted by) climate change and the surrounding environmental issues, being eco-friendly is good for your brand – and the world!
We will see attendees increasingly favouring events that demonstrate their alignment with (not just pay lip service to) sustainability values. This includes strategies such as embracing green technologies, minimising waste and power wastage, to choosing venues with a reputation for sustainable practices.
Should you care about this trend? Absolutely. Not only are CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives critically important if you value your reputation (and who doesn’t?), but the Australian local government is actively encouraging you to carefully consider the social impact of your event – from transport to waste management.
And another reason to care is that reducing waste and making the most of resources can lead to cost savings – which is always a win!
3. Hybrid events will be the hype
Are hybrid events still on the rise? Yes – if you have the budget! And they will showcase an even stronger integration of digital realities with the physical. In other words, be prepared to see more use of VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) as well as dynamic in-person interactions through attendees’ smart devices via interactive applications.
A hybrid approach will enable you to leverage new technologies, support sustainability objectives, and engage strong with attendees.
Event immersion will be a huge focus. Think: audio, visual, and sensory appeal. From interactive floors to 360-degree videos, and holographic technology – this is the year to create a lasting impression.
What can stop these trends dead in their tracks?
Several things, actually. 1. Money 2. Technology.
Global researcher Forrester reported mid-2024 that “…a majority of marketers are struggling with declining or flat event budgets. Although inflation is down from 2022 to 2023 highs, the cost of hosting an attendee at an in-person event is still predicted to increase by 3.8% in 2024. As a result, only the 23% of leaders surveyed whose budgets increase at least 5% will experience a real-term increase in 2024. These budget pressures impact decisions about the event mix, priorities, and approaches to technology.”
If that sounds familiar and hybrid in particular is looking scary due to cost, the good news is that according to Forrester, the fastest growing event type are the smaller hosted in-person ones (aka micro-events), and webinars are the fastest growing virtual event type. But regardless of what you can or can’t afford, it’s all about ROI. The financial return on a lacklustre and unengaging event will always be dismal.
When it comes to technology, says Forrester, its “use is up, but integration remains a challenge. Although event tech use has increased, too few marketers are prioritising integrating their event platforms into their wider ecosystems.”
Where does this leave you?
As with any event forever, what you (and your attendees, stakeholders, and speakers) get out of it is only going to be as good as the effort, experience, and expertise invested. And that means using event partners you can trust to maximise your budget with innovative ideas, and critically, get everything right on the night.
Yes, we’re mad about technology – although we can’t help you with your event platform – sorry! We’re also very proud of what we can help you to achieve – and that includes being a trendsetter in 2025.
But above all, we’re proud to be trusted by so many local businesses and organisations to make their event dreams come true by delivering a seamless experience. So, give us a call.