Top 6 Event Trends for 2025
Date
January 8, 2025
Ready to elevate your 2025 event? The hospitality industry is embracing fresh trends designed to transform and enhance attendee experiences.
These trends focus on creating personalized interactions and one-of-a-kind experiences. Drawing on their expertise, the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau Destination Services team shares key insights into the trends shaping meetings and events in 2025—and how Philadelphia is uniquely positioned to deliver on these expectations.
1. Family-Oriented Destinations
As work and leisure continue to overlap, demand for a family-friendly destination grows. Attendees are increasingly drawn to destinations that accommodate their families, turning business trips into opportunities for memorable vacations. Cities with attractions such as museums, parks, and iconic landmarks offer the perfect backdrop for attendees looking to combine a professional trip with quality family time.
“Philadelphia is plentiful with family friendly activities including one of my favorites, The Franklin Institute,” says Jamie Huckleberry, director, Destination Services. “There’s so much for kids and parents to experience together, including an immersive space exhibition and a giant heart you can walk through.”
Body Odyssey at The Franklin Institute
2. Sustainable Venues
Sustainability has become a key priority for meeting planners aiming to host efficient, eco-conscious events. Choosing venues that align with sustainability goals reduces environmental impact and shows a commitment to responsible event planning that resonates with attendees..
“More frequently, our customers come to us inquiring about sustainable venues,” says Chris Cozzan, senior destination services manager. “For the 2024 Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the Pennsylvania Convention Center’s LEED Silver certification and its ongoing sustainability efforts were key factors in making it the ideal venue. Hosting at an eco-focused venue not only aligns with the values of Greenbuild but also reinforces the growing importance of sustainability in shaping impactful, responsible meetings.”
Greenbuild Expo 2024
3. Health-Conscious and Plant Based Offerings
Plant-based menus are becoming a cornerstone of sustainable event planning, aligning with attendees’ growing commitment to eco-friendly practices. By prioritizing locally sourced foods, plant-based catering accommodates dietary preferences and minimizes events’ environmental footprint. This shift demonstrates how thoughtful menu design can support sustainability while delivering a memorable dining experience unique to the event.
“Plant-based menus are becoming a cornerstone of sustainable event planning,” says Caryn Mousley, destination services manager. “For the Society of Behavioral Medicine’s 2024 annual meeting in Philadelphia, a plant-based day was introduced to align with their sustainability goals. The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown constructed a creative, locally sourced plant-based menu, that impressed even the most skeptical attendees and left everyone feeling recharged.”
4. Wellness as a Priority
As wellness becomes a pillar of lifestyle and business culture, event organizers are integrating health-focused activities into their programs. Guided mindfulness sessions, physical activity, and nature-based experiences are woven into event schedules to help attendees recharge and stay engaged.
“One of the biggest 2025 event trends is incorporating wellness into meetings. Whether it’s a 5K Rocky Run through the streets of Philly or an afternoon yoga session to stretch away the stress, wellness activities bring a burst of energy to any event,” says Mariya Brewer, senior destination services manager. “These experiences are a fun and engaging way to recharge, stay active, and create lasting memories for attendees!”
Group yoga in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art
5. Data Privacy and Security
The growing role of technology in large-scale events brings an increased need for robust data protection. Planners must prioritize secure systems and transparent practices to maintain trust and ensure compliance in an evolving digital landscape.
“As technology plays an increasingly central role in events, ensuring secure and reliable connectivity becomes paramount,” says Huckleberry. “The Pennsylvania Convention Center’s new Wi-Fi 6E infrastructure supports high-performance needs and provides the robust security required to protect sensitive data. By collaborating with the venue’s IT team and identifying confidential needs early in the planning phase, potential risks can be mitigated, preventing system breaches during events.”
6. Post-Event Gifts
The guest experience doesn’t end when the event concludes. Planners are elevating post-event engagement by offering thoughtful gifts that reflect the meeting’s location. This creates a lasting connection to the event and destination. These locally inspired tokens leave attendees with a meaningful memento of their experience while reinforcing positive memories of the event.
“We love sending attendees home with a piece of Philadelphia that captures the essence of the city,” says Brooke Lazizi, senior destination services ,anager. “Whether it’s a handmade chocolate from Lore’s Chocolates or a custom wine label from Mural City Cellars, locally sourced gifts create lasting memories and connect your event to the vibrant spirit of Philadelphia. Thoughtful, locally sourced souvenirs are a perfect way to keep the event’s positive energy alive long after it’s over.”
LOVE statues at Xenos Gifts
Submit your RFP to host your next event in Philadelphia and take advantage of our world-class venues and services. Contact our Destination Services team to help you incorporate these trends into your next event.
