Eventex 2026: the top trends shaping the future of events

# tags: Eventex Awards , Trends , Events

The Eventex 2026 Events Industry Trends Report reveals the forces reshaping global events in 2026.

Based on insights from the Eventex Awards 2026 jury members the report identifies the top industry trends that will define next year’s experiences. Three themes rise to the top: Artificial Intelligence (AI), Community-Building, and Connection.

Surrounding them is a broader landscape of evolving expectations around hyperpersonalization, local experiences, invisible technology, micro events, purpose-driven experiences, data, and sustainability.

AI leads for the third year

AI (17,5%) is again the number-one events industry trend. The report highlights a shift from curiosity to mastery—AI is no longer future tech, but an integrated driver of creativity, design, and delivery.

AI is set to reshape attendee journeys and to become an operational backbone behind the scenes: AI-powered surveys will provide instant feedback loops; more intuitive and responsive journeys; more productivity; predictive insights that will help organizers forecast attendee reactions and improve program design.

Community-Building: fostering belonging

With 14,3%, community-building emerges as a major new trend. As AI streamlines operations, event professionals are shifting their focus from gathering people to fostering belonging.

Events will increasingly build culture-driven communities rooted in shared values; prioritize inclusivity and emotional resonance, not just attendance numbers; and create environments where people feel welcomed, represented, and connected. This community-first approach is also cost-effective, driving ongoing engagement and organic promotion long after the event ends.

From participation to true connection

The third major trend (11,1%) is the rise of connection as the next stage of engagement. With the continued return of live events, organizers are creating moments that resonate on a deeper emotional level – human experiences that matter.

Key strategies include leveraging face-to-face interactions to strengthen interpersonal bonds; incorporating sensory elements and immersive environments to increase emotional impact; encouraging co-creation, transforming attendees from passive participants into active contributors; and others.

More key events industry trends to watch in 2026

Hyperpersonalization. Personalization evolves into hyperpersonalization, powered by data across every touchpoint: agendas, networking, food, and beverages become tailored to individual needs; AI enables real-time adjustments, delivering uniquely relevant experiences for every attendee.

Local Experiences. Attendees are turning toward the local. Familiar local culture, partners, flavors, and environments take center stage, and authenticity becomes essential as organizers infuse events with local identity.

Invisible Technology. Technology moves backstage—powerful yet discreet: strong infrastructure (WiFi, streaming) keeps events running smoothly, and tools like sensors, ambient intelligence, and spatial audio deliver intuitive, immersive interactions without overwhelming attendees.

Micro Events. Smaller, high-quality gatherings gain traction. Micro events allow participants to both speak and be heard, improving networking quality. They are also cost-effective, easier to personalize, and ideal as standalones or add-ons to larger events.

Events with Purpose. Attendees want events with authentic meaning, not just impressive design, and the purpose must be clear before, during, and after the event. Impact is expected to extend beyond the experience itself.

Data. Data becomes a strategic imperative: it guides both real-time decision-making and long-term planning; powers personalization and hyperpersonalization; and helps project outcomes, calculate missed-opportunity costs, and refine future strategies.

Sustainability. Sustainability is now the rule, not the exception: local sourcing supports reduced carbon footprints; ESG-aligned solutions and responsible products become standard expectations; and attendees take sustainable practices as a given.

A human-centered, tech-enabled future

“The events industry is heading into 2026 with a renewed focus on connection, community, and purpose, supported by the continued rise of AI, data, and intentional design. As experiences become more hyperpersonal, more local, and more meaningful, event professionals will be navigating a landscape that blends technological innovation with human-centered creativity”, the report says.

You can find the Eventex 2026 Events Industry Trends Report here.