New year, new trends: 4 event planning trends to watch in 2025

The landscape of events is ever-changing, so as we step into 2025 let’s explore the 4 event planning trends to watch for in 2025.

Imagine a world where AI curates your perfect event experience, sustainability is at the heart of every decision, and immersive experiences captivate attendees like never before. Whether you are an event planner, an attendee, or someone who loves to stay ahead of the curve, these trends are set to redefine how we plan, connect, and innovate.

AI: Revolutionising event planning and execution

AI is revolutionising various industries by optimising workflows and allowing employees to dedicate more time to strategic and creative endeavours instead of mundane admin tasks. For event planners, this translates to less time spent on scheduling and responding to FAQs, and more time devoted to designing unique event experiences.

Many people enter the events industry to create memorable experiences and foster engagement, but they often face a significant amount of admin work. By automating these tasks, we allow our teams to focus on the creative and meaningful aspects that drew them to this field.

Some ways you can incorporate AI into your work are:

“The integration of AI is playing a crucial role in driving innovation and efficiency within events, offering new ways to streamline operations and enhance attendee engagement.”

There are several AI event platforms out there that suggest personalised sessions, activities, and networking activities to create custom agendas. The use of AI can also personalise the event experience through facial recognition. Platforms such as Premagic use AI facial recognition to distribute photos taken during the event to individuals in the photo.

  • Marketing: Anyone who has spent time marketing an event knows the hours it takes to put together the marketing plan. AI can handle some of the administrative tasks and free up time for more creative efforts. For more information on how you can utilise AI within your marketing strategy, take a look at our blog here.
  • Insights and analytics: There are AI tools that can easily analyse post-event survey responses, identify trends, and provide actionable insights to improve future events. Popular survey platforms such as Qualtrics and SurveyMonkey use AI and machine learning to provide deep insights into supporter, exhibitor, and attendee survey feedback.

Are you fascinated by the world of AI in events? Take a look at our blog on how AI will transform events.

Sustainability takes centre stage

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s a core principle of event planning. In 2025, expect to see a stronger focus on eco-friendly practices that reduce the environmental impact of events.

According to The International Congress and Convention Association International Sustainability Report, based on 2023 data, 71% of respondents cited sustainability as “extremely important” or “very important.” Additionally, 25% of respondents also reported a “significant increase” in attendees requesting more sustainable options or initiatives in live events.

Here are a few ways you can make your events more sustainable:

  • Digital solutions: Say goodbye to printed schedules, show guides and plastic badges. Digital badges and app-based schedules will minimise waste and enhance the attendee experience.
  • Eco-friendly catering: Choose locally sourced food and beverage options. Not only are you supporting local businesses, but you are also reducing your carbon footprint.
  • Zero waste: Aim for zero-waste events and embrace reusable and recyclable materials, from signage to stage sets.

We also created a handy blog with ideas for being more sustainable when planning an event, take a look here.

Multi-channel communication

In 2025, effective communication will involve leveraging multiple platforms to engage with diverse audiences. Different generations use the internet in unique ways, and event planners need to adapt.

  • Platform diversity: From social media to email marketing, using a variety of platforms will ensure you reach your audience where they are most active.
  • Real-time updates: Digital signage and app notifications will keep attendees informed and engaged throughout the event.
  • Data-driven insights: Tracking engagement across channels will provide valuable insights into attendee behaviour, helping to refine strategies.
Focus on event experience

The demand for enriching and valuable event experiences is higher than ever. In 2025, simply gathering delegates together in a nice venue is not enough — attendees want an immersive environment, something that gets your attendees talking.

Events are no longer just about delivering content; they are about crafting memorable moments that engage all the senses.

This focus on experiential events means planners are incorporating interactive elements, immersive technologies and personalised touches to make each event unique and impactful.

2025 promises to be an exciting year for event planning, with these trends leading the way. AI is revolutionising event design and execution, sustainability is becoming a core principle, multi-channel communication is enhancing engagement, and immersive experiences are taking centre stage.

These trends are redefining how we connect, engage, and inspire. Embrace these innovations to ensure your events are memorable and impactful!