We speak with event pros about creating "goosebump moments," being creative on a budget and the ongoing shift from content design to experience design.
September 2026
Event professionals are more optimistic about business conditions and live attendance for the year ahead, while premium-experience costs and intentional event design continue to shape planning decisions.
Costs are up, attendance optimism is down and "favorable" budgets still don't quite feel like relief. This landscape is forcing event professionals to focus on value and the experience while defending what makes in-person indispensable.