If you’re hungry for new event ideas, you don’t need another list regurgitating all the event forms you’re thoroughly familiar with, like basic networking mixers. While these old guard ideas have their merits, they can sometimes feel predictable and fail to ignite excitement. To truly captivate your audience, members, employees or what have you, it’s essential to explore fresh concepts and innovative twists on established formats.
In this article, we’ll present a range of innovative event ideas that breathe new life into your gatherings. We won’t exclusively focus on the kinds of events that require months of planning; we’ll also offer ample suggestions for simpler and more intimate events which may have less lead time, or offer a reprieve from the routine of traditional conferences.
These more snack-sized events also have the potential to be used within a larger event like your annual conferences. If your members/prospective attendees are scattered across the country, you clearly can’t convene them for all the things listed below, but you can include the ones you like as a session at your next conference. So let’s explore the possibilities!
1. Innovation Marathons
Organize an innovation marathon, inviting teams to brainstorm solutions for industry challenges within a limited timeframe. This promotes collaboration and creative thinking while producing actionable ideas that attendees can truly benefit from.
2. Themed Trivia
Host a trivia session with themes relevant to your association/business’ focus. This not only provides entertainment, but also encourages teamwork and camaraderie as members form teams to compete. Consider incorporating fun prizes to increase participation and excitement.
3. Community Service Projects
Organizing community service projects allows members to give back while strengthening their bonds. Whether it’s a local clean-up day or volunteering at a food bank, these activities foster a sense of purpose and shared values among participants.
4. Virtual Happy Hours
Incorporate virtual hangouts into your event calendar, especially for geographically dispersed members. These informal gatherings can take the form of coffee chats or happy hours, providing a platform for casual interaction and relationship-building without the need for travel.
5. Industry Innovation Showcase
Host an industry innovation showcase where members can present their latest projects or ideas. This not only highlights member achievements, but also encourages collaboration and feedback within the community, fostering an environment of innovation.
6. Comedy Night
A Comedy Night can be a refreshing break from routine events. Invite local comedians or even talented members to perform. Laughter is a great way to relieve stress and build camaraderie among participants, making this a fun addition to your event lineup.
7. Skill Development Workshops
Offer Skill Development Workshops tailored to the interests of your members. These could cover professional skills such as public speaking or digital marketing, providing practical knowledge that attendees can apply in their careers.
8. Awards Night
An Awards Night is an excellent way to recognize member achievements and contributions. Celebrate milestones within your association while fostering motivation among members through awards that acknowledge their hard work.
9. Book Clubs
Starting a Book Club focused on industry-related literature can stimulate discussion and provide insights into current trends and practices within your field. This creates an ongoing engagement opportunity for members beyond single events.
11. Cooking Classes
Organizing Cooking Classes where members learn new recipes together can be both educational and enjoyable. This interactive experience promotes teamwork and offers a delicious reward at the end!
12. Panel Discussions
Arrange Panel Discussions featuring experts from your industry who can address pressing issues or emerging trends. This format encourages dialogue between panelists and attendees, enriching the learning experience.
13. Field Trips
If you have the time, organize sign up’s for a local field trip.
Consider organizing Field Trips related to your industry—visiting relevant businesses or organizations can provide valuable insights while promoting networking opportunities among members.
14. Interactive Art Installations
Set up Interactive Art Installations where members can contribute to a collective artwork throughout the event. This could involve painting, sculpture, or digital art, allowing participants to express creativity while collaborating with others.
15. Outdoor Adventure Days
Organize an Outdoor Adventure Day featuring activities like hiking, kayaking, or rock climbing. This not only promotes physical wellness but also strengthens bonds among members as they tackle challenges together in a natural setting.
16. Tech Demos and Workshops
Create opportunities for Tech Demos and Workshops where members can explore the latest innovations relevant to your field. This could include hands-on experiences with new software, gadgets, or techniques that enhance professional skills.
19. Live Podcast Recordings
Invite industry experts to participate in Live Podcast Recordings during your event. Attendees can engage with the speakers in real-time, ask questions, and gain insights into relevant topics while enjoying an entertaining format.
21. Charity Auctions/Galas
Host a Charity Auction, where members can bid on items donated by local businesses or fellow members. Proceeds can go towards a cause that resonates with your association’s mission, creating a sense of purpose among participants.
22. Virtual Reality Experiences
Incorporate Virtual Reality Experiences into your events, allowing members to immerse themselves in simulations related to your field or industry trends. This innovative approach can spark interest and engagement among tech-savvy participants.
23. Storytelling Nights
Hold Storytelling Nights, where members share personal anecdotes related to their professional journeys or experiences within the association. This promotes vulnerability and connection while providing valuable insights into different perspectives.
24. Outdoor Movie Nights
Set up an Outdoor Movie Night, screening films relevant to your industry or inspiring documentaries under the stars. Provide popcorn and refreshments for a casual yet engaging atmosphere that encourages socialization.
The viability and applicability of each event will depend greatly on the structure and goals of your organization. However, many of these ideas can greatly enrich the quality and break up the routine of annual conferences.
But remember, it’s not just about the content of your event, it’s about the seamlessness with which you execute it. An event mobile app is one of the best ways to ensure your attendees have all the details of the event in the palm of their hand. They’ll never miss an exciting session or a speaker they showed up for. Setting up an event app all begins with a simple demo request.
