Event Formats & Audiences
Explore the diverse landscape of event types, from mega-events and trade shows to cultural celebrations and business festivals. This topic also delves into understanding and engaging specific demographics like Gen Z, and the role of hospitality in different event settings at Skift Meetings Forum 2025.
Viral Moments
19
New generation, new events!
Beyond event logistics
Beyond Four Walls
Are you a participant?
Know your audience!
Remembering vs. Experiencing
Less is more?
Amazing people, great crowd!
Decades of Distributed Expertise
Feel seen and heard!
Feel seen and heard!
Experience the excitement!
Micro-Events Rising
Yoga at conferences? Yes!
Future of Events
Public event as R&D!
International fleets unite!
It's always political!
13,000 volunteers!
Key Quotes
4
“I think Southby is not Southby without Austin, and Austin is not Austin without Southby, right? like the two just go hand in hand and and Tiffany said it too, it's just in both of our DNA.”
“We can only control what we can control. And what we mean by that is if you want to come to New York, New Jersey, we promise you we will do our best to keep you safe to get you to where you want to go to have, if you want to go to a fan engagement event, it will be spectacular and that you all will do what you normally do when the world comes to New York, New Jersey.”
“People want to feel part of something different and community, right? And when you look at these events, they have a much higher return on um higher return on the meeting satisfaction scores.”
“If you approach business from a very transactional lens, the best thing you will get is a transaction selling something. If you approach it from a relationship building lens, then you might discover a business partner, a new idea, partnership, an investor, a new employee.”
Chapters
22
Articles
4
Austin, Texas, a city synonymous with innovation and vibrant culture, is embarking on a transformative journey for its event industry. With the Austin Convention Center slated for a four-year renovation starting in April 2025, the city is not just adapting but actively reimagining how large-scale events can thrive by utilizing the entire destination as a dynamic venue.
The world's gaze will soon turn to New York and New Jersey as they prepare to host two monumental events: the FIFA World Cup 2026 and Sail4th250, celebrating America's 250th anniversary. This session delved into the colossal undertaking of planning, securing, and executing these mega-events, revealing the intricate dance of logistics, politics, and community engagement required to pull off a global spectacle.
In an era where attendees, particularly the rising Gen Z, crave more than just standard conference programming, event planners are challenged to innovate. The focus is shifting from traditional setups to creating deeply memorable and culturally immersive experiences. This session explores how unexpected moments and places can profoundly elevate attendee satisfaction and foster stronger community connections.
C2 Montreal has carved a unique niche in the global event landscape, transforming traditional conferences into vibrant business festivals where creativity fuels commerce. With a philosophy centered on human connection, C2 designs immersive experiences that break down barriers and foster meaningful relationships, proving that business thrives when people truly connect.
Sessions
6
