Q3 2025 Event Planning Trends: Meeting Insights from Across the U.S.

This summer was a busy season for association meetings, with AMC Source supporting events in Washington, D.C., Ann Arbor, National Harbor, Denver, Philadelphia, Chicago, Baltimore, New York City, West Palm Beach, Savannah, San Diego, and Newport Beach. From large national conferences to leadership gatherings, the quarter highlighted the continued importance of thoughtful design, seamless execution, and the right mix of technology and personal connection.

As part of our quarterly recap, we are sharing the Q3 event planning trends that are shaping how associations convene today. These insights are designed to help meeting planners anticipate shifts, make informed choices, and deliver impactful experiences for their attendees.

Key Event Planning Trends in Q3 2025

1. Multi-city strategies are gaining traction

Many associations are testing ways to expand their reach by adding satellite or regional events alongside annual conferences. These city-to-city engagement models meet members where they are to engage broader audiences.

2. AI remains front and center

From keynote stages to breakout discussions, artificial intelligence was a recurring theme this quarter. Attendees are eager to understand how AI will transform workforce development, member engagement, and event design. Planners are also leveraging AI for speaker management, data analysis, and personalized content delivery.

3. Wellness is becoming an expectation

More events are weaving in wellness activities, whether through dedicated breaks, mindfulness sessions, or even curated local experiences. Attendees increasingly look for opportunities to recharge as part of the overall conference experience.

4. Experience-rich venues are on the rise

Destinations like San Diego, Savannah, and Newport Beach underscored the appeal of unique settings that combine strong meeting infrastructure with memorable local culture. Attendees value when events feel like more than a series of sessions, but also a chance to connect with people and place.

5. Sustainability is moving from trend to baseline

Conversations around reducing waste, rethinking giveaways, and selecting eco-conscious venues are becoming more prominent. Associations are taking active steps to align meetings with organizational sustainability goals.

6. Every-other-year conference models are emerging

More associations are exploring hybrid scheduling by alternating between large in-person conferences and remote or virtual events every other year. This approach is driven by both budget consciousness and member accessibility, ensuring organizations can still deliver value while managing costs.

Looking Ahead

The breadth of Q3 demonstrated that associations are not only gathering members, they are rethinking how, where, and why they convene. As technology continues to evolve and attendee expectations rise, the role of thoughtful planning has never been more critical. AMC Source remains committed to helping associations navigate this changing landscape and deliver events that inspire, engage, and succeed.