Over the years, we’ve seen event trends ebb and flow. From the move to virtual and hybrid events a few years ago to the desire to travel to unique destinations and venues for incentive programs, every year welcomes a new evolution of event planning and design that is meant to impress attendees and enhance their experience.
Why Event Trends Matter
Event trends give us insight into what’s important to our clients and attendees. Identifying and prioritizing those values informs everything from venue and food and beverage options to scheduling, activities, and entertainment.
As event planners and hosts, tapping into these trends demonstrates an understanding of our audience that not only helps us create memorable events but also fosters the kind of connection and understanding event guests are seeking.
But how do planners anticipate and adapt to trends effectively? A key strategy is listening to the most important voices: the attendees. After all, events should be designed to align with attendees’ preferences, and that information is commonly pulled from post-event surveys. In fact, event organizers find feedback extremely influential when it comes to planning events.
In an industry as dynamic as events, keeping a pulse on event trends allows planners to design experiences that resonate with attendees, align with corporate goals, and leverage emerging technologies or practices. As a result, organizers can ensure their events remain engaging, relevant, and memorable, which is exactly what we want to accomplish in 2025 and beyond.
Which Event Trends Stood Out in 2024?
Before diving into what’s ahead, let’s take a quick step back. Last year’s trends were some that contributed to truly memorable and successful events. In fact, we’re expecting to see some of those trends carry over and continue to enhance event experiences.
Artificial Intelligence
At the top of the list, the use of AI stands out among the trends we saw in 2024. If you’re not already familiar with AI and what it can do, let us provide a quick overview of how this tool transformed the way organizers plan, execute, and analyze events.
One of the most impactful uses of AI in 2024 has been in personalization. Applications powered by AI analyze attendee data to create tailored experiences, from personalized event agendas to targeted networking activities. Additionally, AI has supported event analysis, providing actionable insights through advanced data analytics, enabling planners to refine future strategies effectively.
Lastly, the integration of AI in event technology, such as AI chat features on event websites and mobile apps, has enhanced accessibility and attendee satisfaction. As AI technologies continue to evolve, they are expected to play an even larger role in 2025, further redefining the way events are experienced.
Personalization
Events in 2024 focused on ways to make events feel more like curated journeys rather than one-size-fits-all gatherings. Personalization enhances engagement, fosters deeper connections, and leaves a lasting impression, making it a vital strategy for successful events.
One notable aspect of this trend is personalized gifting. We all know how much attendees love a good swag bag. Personalization goes beyond the basics, tailoring content to attendee interests based on collected data. By using these attendee insights, you make gifting personal and memorable.
Another stand-out feature of personalization is offering attendees choices in how they engage with the event. In fact, one of the best ways to personalize your program is to let your attendees make decisions regarding how they want to experience the event. Giving choices on gifts, meals, and activities can make an event feel special and unique for each attendee.
Health and Wellness
2024 also placed an emphasis on a holistic experience, meaning health and wellness were just as important as networking and improving job skills. As people increasingly prioritize their physical and mental well-being, event organizers have adapted by incorporating wellness-focused elements that go beyond traditional programming.
One way this trend manifested was through wellness spaces and activities integrated into event agendas. Dedicated areas for yoga, meditation, or stretching breaks became common, offering attendees opportunities to recharge. Plus, menus often focused on nutritious, whole foods and provided options for several dietary preferences.
In addition, organizers addressed work-life balance by designing less intensive schedules or including wellness-themed keynote speakers. This emphasis on mental health acknowledged the pressures attendees often face and created a more inclusive, supportive environment.
Sustainability
Sustainability remained a central focus in event planning throughout 2024, driven by growing attendee expectations, corporate social responsibility commitments, and an industry-wide push toward reducing environmental impact. Sustainable practices are no longer optional; they are a defining characteristic of modern, responsible event design. Event organizers are embracing innovative solutions to reduce waste (we loved the event badges that were made without plastic at IMEX 2024), lower carbon footprints, and promote eco-friendly practices without compromising the attendee experience.
Top Four Event Trends for 2025
As 2024 came to an end, we gained clearer insights into the event trends likely to shape 2025, along with trends from last year that we expect to stick around.
1. Expansion of AI
As mentioned, AI’s adoption rapidly increased last year, but that doesn't mean everyone welcomed it with open arms. This year, however, artificial intelligence is expected to be used for a wide range of applications, ultimately strengthening the attendee experience. One survey reports that in 2025 50% of meeting professionals plan on using AI.
That includes AI algorithms to navigate attendee data to curate personalized recommendations and to identify event trends to help organizers make the most out of events using data-driven insights, as well as the use of chatbots for simplified customer service.
2. Increased Focus on Experiences
According to one report, 64% of attendees prefer immersive experiences. For truly memorable experiences, upcoming events won’t just be attended; instead, they will be felt by everyone present. Attendees now prioritize the overall journey of an event – the sights, sounds, interactions, and surprises – over traditional elements like static presentations or generic networking sessions.
Another aspect of this trend is the use of custom-designed spaces that evolve throughout the event. Adaptive spaces – such as lounges that transition from collaborative hubs during the day to vibrant networking spots in the evening – allow attendees to experience the event differently depending on the time or activity. These dynamic environments keep the experience fresh and exciting while catering to diverse attendee preferences.
In 2025, the increased focus on experiences signals a clear demand for events to go beyond logistics and content delivery. By crafting dynamic, sensory-rich environments and interactive opportunities, planners can deliver unforgettable events that captivate and inspire.
3. Genuine Engagement
Alongside immersive experiences, event organizers are also committed to promoting deeper engagement. As audiences seek more than just passive participation, events are being designed to foster active involvement, personal resonance, and lasting impressions.
Emotional engagement is at the heart of this trend. Events that connect with attendees on an emotional level are more likely to leave a lasting impact. Storytelling, immersive environments, and shared experiences are powerful tools for creating such connections. For instance, a corporate event might include a moving keynote that highlights personal stories of success tied to the company’s mission, or an incentive program might feature a cultural immersion activity that fosters a sense of wonder and connection to the destination.
Beyond emotional resonance, fostering a sense of community and belonging is key. Events should provide ample opportunities for attendees to connect with each other, whether through structured networking activities, interactive workshops, or informal social gatherings. This sense of connection extends beyond the event into the workplace, fostering stronger bonds among colleagues. By creating shared experiences and encouraging interaction, events can contribute to a more positive and collaborative work environment.
4. Consolidation in the Industry
In 2025, the events industry is expected to see continued consolidation as companies seek to streamline operations, expand service offerings, and strengthen their market positions. This trend is driven by the need to adapt to rising costs, increased demand for integrated solutions, and the ongoing evolution of client expectations. Mergers and acquisitions are creating larger, more versatile agencies that can handle everything from planning and production to technology and sustainability under one roof.
While this shift offers clients the convenience of a one-stop shop, it also raises questions about competition, innovation, and personalized service in a rapidly changing landscape. Balancing the benefits of consolidation with these potential drawbacks will be a critical challenge for the industry moving forward.
Simply tapping into current trends can make your event even more memorable, but finding new and interesting ways to include these trends will truly delight your guests. Bishop-McCann prides itself on our ability to be creative in designing and executing event experiences.
If you want to start planning your next corporate event, we’re ready to help you explore these trends and more. Get in touch with our team today, and let’s start planning!
