Outdoor events are a great way to draw the attention of people walking by and drive foot-traffic to your event. Festivals have become increasingly popular as of late. With restrictions on indoor gatherings, organizing events outdoors has become a welcomed alternative.
However, outdoor events are comparatively new to the scene, and there are unique challenges when planning these events. That is why you need to think of new strategies that make people want to stop by and attend.
Location is Key
Want to host a teeming outdoor event? Location is extremely critical to determining its success. Your event must be well-equipped with the necessary infrastructure (like power, sanitation, restrooms, and more). Ask yourself, “can attendees easily reach the event venue?”
In case of a drive-in event, you need to plan the layout to accommodate the expected number of vehicles. There should also be enough space between each car and provisions for emergency entrances and exits for vehicles.
Go All Out On Social Media
Social media is one of the easiest tools to promote your event to a large audience. Share behind-the-scenes shots and the wild preparations on social media without giving away the core content of your event. Build suspense and interest through regular posts on Instagram or Facebook.
Event listings are a great tool to advertise your event to the public. People can share the event listings and RSVP to them. You can also communicate important details to the attendees via the listings. Lastly, use hashtags so that even your audience can promote your event.
Go Big On Banners
Banners may seem like old-school advertisements, but they can drive maximum traffic to your event. You need to ensure that your event gets noticed by all passing by. Banners, window signs, and street signs are advertisements that stay on people’s minds even hours after seeing them.
Excellent quality images are a prerequisite for banners, as they speak volumes about the content of your event. Well-made banners with beautiful graphics, high-quality images, and compelling text will convey to the audience that your event is worth attending. Even simple banners with your logo, event venue, date, and time can go a long way to spread the word.
Cater to Your Target Audience
Keep in mind the target audience of your event. If it’s a drive-in event, you need to plan activities that entertain your guests even when in their cars. You can plan short film screenings in between your events and arrange for food to be served inside their vehicles.
You’ll also need to make sure there’s ample parking space for all visiting vehicles. To make their lives easier, you must have straightforward parking signs to guide them. You can also offer valet services to your esteemed guests, which will surely be a perk to visitors.
Make Your Event Appealing
You could increase the sales of your event tickets by offering special discounts or promotions for the first 100 people who purchase. These early bird offers help track ticket sales while giving you an idea of the expected turnout.
If you own a business, and your event is about a product or service launch, you could consider giving out freebies or PR packages with your brand logo to the attendees. However, your freebies must be tailored to your target audience. For example, if you’re a skincare brand, give out samples of your bestselling cream and let your top-quality products convince your audience.
Invite Influencers and Create FOMO
Influencers are known to create hype and excitement around products and brands. Send invites and PR packages to influencers, convincing them to attend your event. The influencers must align with your brand and your target audience. You can also integrate an influencer as your brand ambassador; this tactic will entice their loyal fans to your event.
Let the influencers share background stories and videos of the event to build FOMO and excitement among the audience. Use promotions, early-bird offers, and limited seats to urge people to take action before it is too late!
