Creative Sparks to Gather Again...

It’s impressive to see how pro sports leagues, the entertainment industry and performing arts organizations are pivoting and adapting to keep creating experiences for fans and followers. The meetings industry can take cues from these ideas, be it tailgating concerts or the revival of drive-in theaters.

 A company called Beyond Cinema will bring their Floating Cinema pop-up concept to San Diego in September. Attendees can book one of the 24 mini-boats, which will be properly spaced out and can each accommodate up to eight passengers. It’s an aquatic twist on the drive-in concept and we think it’s genius. Though some racing fans in Poland may have one-upped it. They were so hungry for live action, they rented cranes to get a bird’s eye view of motorbikers competing on the track below—all the while respecting social distance.

 More specific to our industry, a company called Social Bands came out with a line of bracelets that indicate if someone prefers no contact, is okay with an elbow tap or high five. It’s reminiscent of the color-coded wristbands used at a music festivals. Meeting hosts can offer these so guests can communicate their social distance preferences and note other’s comfort level. Ideas like these address any social awkwardness head on and can help ensure people feel comfortable mixing and mingling with others.