2021 Event Trends to Watch

2020 was certainly a difficult year – it has been hard on all of us. The good news is, it’s over and a new year is here. If you are like most people you’re back in the office and planning the year ahead. You are also probably wondering what 2021 has in store for us, especially for the events industry.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 did have a bright side. The bloom of virtual events and online streaming services like OnAir showcased that going virtual was not the watered-down version of physical events – it is the next big thing.

So what’s next?

The truth is, fortune-telling is a rare skill. We simply can’t forecast the future. But if you’ve been following the events industry closely, you would notice a few trends that’s sure to reveal what to expect in the future.

Here are four event trends to keep an eye on in 2021

1. Hybrid events

In-person conferences and events are slowly becoming a thing of the past. Nowadays, hybrid events are becoming the new normal.

Aside from the regular seating spaces, conference and event centres are slowly integrating hybrid-meeting studios. This way, delegates from all corners of the globe get to attend the event without being physically present.

2. Virtual events

Before the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual events were seen as an alternative to live events. Well, things have changed – and if you’re in search of a cost-effective way of hosting an event, virtual events are a great option.

The problem is, most people sponsoring these events and those delivering content lack experience on these types of platforms. That’s where the services of a Digital Event Management Specialist can help bring your event to the spotlight.

3. More outdoor events

Outdoor events are able to accommodate large groups of people and can offer a comfortable safe distance between delegates.

We believe more and more events will be held outdoors in 2021. We are lucky here in Australia to have amazing weather and event spaces already set up for large gatherings like weddings and parties which makes it easy for event managers to utilise these spaces for conferences and exhibitions.

A number of large exhibitions and events in Australia have already moved to outdoor spaces to ensure delegate safety and adhere to changes in restrictions.

4. Increased Safety

2020 saw an increased awareness of sanitation practices worldwide. And we believe it is our new normal for public spaces including events. Safety will be a critical component of your event planning.

For example, face masks should be offered to event delegates to wear and event spaces should have hand sanitizing stations in multiple areas including upon entry and exit to the venue.

A good tip is to provide clear name tags for people to wear in order to make introductions easier rather than handshaking and other physical touching between delegates.

Now is the perfect time to start preparing for your next event, meeting or webinar.

Nectar Creative Communications can help you connect to your audience like never before via live, hybrid, and virtual events.

Our services include: