8 Emerging Event Trends You Need to Know About

Stay ahead with the latest event trends as we approach the new year! The event industry continues to adapt. With changes in how events are booked, planned, and executed, 2024 will be an exciting year for planning and hosting events whether you are a restaurant, hotel, or unique venue. We’ve put together the top event trends that can help all industry professionals be in a position to get the most out of 2024.

Event Trends to Watch for

1. Experiential Events

As we have seen this trend over the past few years, people will continue to seek out event experiences to remember this year more than ever. Events will increasingly focus on creating immersive and memorable moments for attendees. Rather than passive participation, attendees will actively seek opportunities to engage with the event content and environment. Expect planners to desire more interactive experiences. Some examples are workshops, hands-on activities, and multi-sensory experiences that leave a lasting impact.

2. Hybrid Events

Hybrid events blend in-person and virtual components and are here to stay. In 2024 these events will become even more sophisticated, offering seamless integration between physical and digital experiences. Hybrid events provide flexibility, allowing attendees to choose their preferred mode of participation, whether they attend in person or virtually. Whether you are a restaurant, hotel, or venue, consider virtual options that complement your in-person events provide additional content, and bring in more attendees.

3. AI and Personalization

2024 will continue to be all about Artificial Intelligence (AI). We’ve been witnessing this technology revolutionizing event planning. This trend will continue to help personalize experiences for event attendees through AI algorithms that analyze attendee data and preferences. We’ll see tailored event schedules, sessions, networking opportunities, and a level of personalization that enhances engagement. AI will also help to create human-like text for event marketing and when used properly, will help save time and money in event management.

4. Immersive Technologies

Technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) will play a significant role in 2024 events. From virtual site visits and product demonstrations to creating interactive, 3D event environments, AR and VR will elevate the event experience to new heights, both in-person and online.

5. Advanced-Data Analytics

Event planners and venues will increasingly rely on data analytics to optimize their events. They’ll gather insights into behavior, preferences, and engagement metrics to fine-tune event content, schedules, and marketing strategies. This data-driven approach will lead to more efficient and successful events in 2024.

6. Sustainability Remains a Priority

The commitment to sustainability in event planning will continue to grow in 2024. Event organizers will prioritize eco-friendly practices, from reducing waste and carbon emissions to sourcing local and sustainable materials. Attendees will appreciate events that take environmental responsibility seriously, and this trend will likely lead to more sustainable event venues and practices.

There are many examples we’ve seen of environmentally-friendly values transcending into the event scene including:

• Reduced paper use (such as switching to digital contracts, menus, and promotions)
• Reduced water use
• Going plastic-free
• Greener food and beverage (more plant-based and organic menu options)
• Donating leftovers
• LED lighting 
• Reusable decor
• Outdoor events
• Providing usable, eco-friendly swag

7. Focus on Health and Wellness 

Health is at the top of everyone’s minds, and we see that in event trends. Here are some ideas that venues can do to provide health and wellness options:

• Healthy food and bev options such as low or no-alcohol cocktails and plant-based dishes
• Outdoor spaces
• Opportunities for exercise or movement
• Break-out areas for mindfulness

8. Diverse and Inclusive Events

Diversity and inclusivity will remain at the forefront of event planning. Organizers will strive to create welcoming environments that cater to all attendees. Diverse speaker lineups, gender-neutral facilities, and accessibility features will remain essential elements of inclusive events.

Make Your Events Streamlined

As we head towards the next quarter of the year, it’s great to keep these new event trends in mind. If you’re not a Tripleseat customer and you’re interested in learning more about Tripleseat’s event management tools and CRM features, schedule a demo at your convenience to take a closer look.