EPIC Entertainment Group, a producer of themed entertainment, live events, and immersive environments, has announced the top five trends for themed entertainment, live events and festivals, determined by closely tracking shifts and trends within the high-demand industry and the firm’s experience in hosting successful events for more than a decade.
“Reflecting back on the 2022 event year, the industry remains competitive and the demand for immersive and unique experiences continues to grow,” said EPIC Entertainment Group partner Steve Sheldon. “We pride ourselves on suggesting fresh, revolutionary ideas for our clients. This year, we predict experiences that are meaningful, sustainable, community-driven, or tech-heavy will bring in the largest audiences and ticket sales.”
#1: Eighties and nineties vibes
Retro-themed activities, games, music, fashion, and activations are becoming increasingly popular with audiences of all ages, especially millennials. According to EPIC Entertainment Group, audiences of all ages will be drawn to events with well-executed electrifying colours, energising settings, and timeless treasures. In 2023, Sheldon and managing partner Charity Hill predict that audiences throughout the US will see a large number of events that make reference to vintage and retro themes.
#2: Social opportunities
According to EPIC Entertainment Group, attendees at events will still long for a sense of belonging and the chance to interact with other people who share their interests.
“We anticipate community-centred events will thrive in 2023 through themed events, crowd favourite venues, and engaging experience types,” says Hill.
“These styles of experiences provide great avenues for attendees in a fun setting – generating a communal feel as well as driving brand affinity.”
#3: Curated experiences
The award-winning business observed an increase in specially curated experiences in 2022, and they forecast this trend will continue in 2023. Customized installations and activations make each event guest feel special while simultaneously drawing larger crowds. In 2023, EPIC Entertainment Group believes that more companies and significant events will continue to push the boundaries of exclusive, individualised, and uniquely immersive experiences.
#4: Thinking green
More than ever, Generation Z is driving the sustainability movement. Future eventgoers will reportedly notice more socially responsible choices made by brands, according to EPIC Entertainment Group.
Hill adds: “In 2022, both event industry pros and attendees became more cognizant of the environmental impact of in-person events, such as food waste and travel-related carbon emissions. We at EPIC predict this trend will continue in 2023 with an increase of events that are socially conscious and sustainable.”
#5: Trending technologies
Live experiences and events are embracing cutting-edge technology, including augmented reality, Instagrammable content, interactive projection and displays, that enable every audience to participate as a micro-influencer. EPIC Entertainment Group believes that in 2023, experiences utilising this cutting-edge technology within events will flourish as investments in virtual and hybrid event platforms increase.
EPIC Entertainment Group is a multifaceted live production company which has collaborated with renowned brands including Crayola, Hotel Del Coronado and Miami’s NightGarden, whilst also managing daily operations of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden.
Photo: EPIC Entertainment Group
