Outdated Event Trends? Say Goodbye to What No Longer Works

Ah, 2025—a fresh start and the perfect time to rethink how we approach events. But before jumping into new ideas, let’s address a key issue: some event practices are long overdue for retirement.

We’re talking about the beige ballrooms, generic schedules, and events that feel stuck in 2015. The world has moved on, and so should your events. Attendees want creativity, personalization, and less waste—it’s time to evolve.

Here are six outdated event trends to ditch, along with ideas on how to elevate your events in 2025.

1. Traditional Ballrooms and Generic Venues

Beige carpets, harsh lights, and hard-to-see stages? No thanks. Today’s attendees crave unique and visually captivating spaces.

Consider unconventional venues like rooftops, art galleries, botanical gardens, or immersive pop-up spaces. Think industrial warehouses with holographic displays or vineyard dinners under fairy lights. Bonus points if the venue adds to the event’s narrative.

2. Skipping Sustainability

Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s a must. Single-use plastics, disposable banners, and non-recyclable lanyards will leave a bad impression on attendees.

Switch to green solutions: digital swag bags, plant-based menus, reusable materials, and on-site composting or recycling stations. Showcase your sustainability efforts through dedicated “Green Zones” and eco-friendly giveaways like reusable water bottles or seed packets.

3. One-Size-Fits-All Event Formats

Cookie-cutter schedules don’t cut it anymore. Attendees quickly lose interest when sessions don’t match their needs.

Let them personalize their experience with flexible agendas and AI-powered recommendations for sessions and networking. Provide an event app that acts as a personal concierge, and consider using smart matchmaking to connect like-minded attendees.

4. All-In-Person Events Are Limiting

The pandemic reshaped the event landscape, and hybrid events are here to stay. Ignoring virtual attendees means losing out on larger audiences and greater engagement.

Create seamless hybrid experiences with interactive live streams, virtual networking, and exclusive online content. Add gamified leaderboards to foster engagement between virtual and on-site attendees.

5. Overpacked Schedules

Back-to-back sessions might look impressive, but they lead to burnout. Attendees don’t want to feel overwhelmed.

Incorporate rest and wellness into the schedule. Offer mindfulness breaks, guided meditations, and wellness zones with massage chairs or hydration stations. Shorter, focused sessions will leave attendees energized, not drained.

6. Overlooking Gen Z Engagement

Gen Z expects dynamic, digital-first experiences. Static presentations and traditional formats just won’t cut it.

Engage them with gamification, influencer-led content, and short-form videos. Add scavenger hunts using QR codes for prizes or special access. Set up TikTok lounges with branded backdrops and challenges to keep things exciting.

Final Thoughts

2025 is the year to leave outdated practices behind and embrace creativity, personalization, and sustainability.

Ready to explore what’s next? Stay tuned on our latest blogs