2025 Trends to watch in 2026

But here's the catch: trends are not blueprints. What’s hot in Brussels might not be right for your audience, goals or mission. Let’s unpack what's rising and how to make it yours.

Formats Gaining Ground

In-person with purpose

The majority of 2025’s high-impact events were in-person. But not just "sit and listen." These events designed experiential content: exhibitions, networking zones, co-creation labs. Being in the room matters, but how you use the room matters more.

Interactive takes the stage

From policy workshops to world-cafés on social innovation, interactivity is no longer a sideshow. Brussels events are embracing workshop-style, co-creative formats even in institutional settings.

Hybrid = reach x relevance

Hybrid isn’t dead. Smart organizers offer webstreams (like Agri-Food Days’ no-login livestream) or hybrid panels with curated online engagement. When done right, hybrid extends reach without diluting impact.

Cross-sector & cross-level networking

Events are increasingly designed for policymakers, NGOs, researchers, and youth leaders to meet as equals. Formats that build structured but organic networking time (like thematic breakout sessions or informal receptions) are rising.

But format follows function

We believe good event design starts with goals, not trends. Do you want policy impact, community ownership, press visibility, strategic alignment? That will drive whether you host a curated roundtable or a multi-day participatory forum.

Trends can inspire. They should not dictate. Use what works. Rework what doesn’t. Make formats fit your story, not the other way around.

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