Planning a great event is only half the battle—getting people to show up and engage is the real challenge. That’s where social media marketing comes in. Whether you’re promoting a conference, concert, product launch, fundraiser, or community gathering, smart use of social platforms can generate buzz, boost attendance, and keep the energy going even after the event ends.
In this blog, we’ll share creative and proven social media marketing ideas for events that will help you build hype before, during, and after your event.
Before the Event: Build Awareness & Anticipation
1. Create a Branded Hashtag
Come up with a short, catchy, and unique hashtag for your event (e.g., #TechFest2025 or #TasteOfDenver). Use it in every post, and encourage speakers, vendors, and attendees to do the same.
Tip: Make sure no one else is using the hashtag already.
2. Countdown Posts & Teasers
Create anticipation with countdowns: “Only 10 days left!” or teaser posts that hint at big reveals (e.g., surprise guest, giveaway, speaker).
Format Ideas:
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Instagram Stories countdown sticker
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Reels showing past event highlights
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Text-based posts with mystery announcements
3. Behind-the-Scenes Content
People love to see the planning process—setup, rehearsals, sneak peeks of swag, etc.
Post Example:
“Here’s a sneak peek at the stage setup—can you guess who’s performing first?
4. Promote Key Participants
Feature speakers, performers, vendors, or sponsors in dedicated posts.
Format Ideas:
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Short video interviews
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“Meet the Speaker” carousel
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Sponsor shoutouts with tagged profiles
5. Run Social Giveaways
Encourage early buzz and sharing by running a contest.
Example:
“Win 2 VIP passes to [Event Name]! To enter: Like this post, follow us, and tag a friend you’d bring!”
During the Event: Engage in Real Time
6. Go Live
Stream key moments on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn Live.
Live Ideas:
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Opening remarks
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Q&A with a speaker
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Crowd shots or behind-the-scenes during intermission
7. Use Stories to Capture the Vibe
Instagram and Facebook Stories are great for capturing real-time moments.
Tips:
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Post short videos and boomerangs of speakers, attendees, and venue highlights.
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Use polls and question stickers to engage viewers (“What session are you at?”)
8. Create a Selfie Station or Hashtag Wall
Encourage attendees to take and share photos with a branded backdrop or photo booth.
Boost engagement by:
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Offering prizes for the best post using your hashtag
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Reposting user-generated content to your own Stories
9. Post Real-Time Highlights
Not everyone can attend every part of the event. Post quick updates or highlight reels.
Post Example:
“Couldn’t make it to Session 2? Here’s what you missed in 60 seconds!”
After the Event: Keep the Momentum Going
10. Post a Thank You Message
Show gratitude to attendees, sponsors, and speakers. It humanizes your brand and keeps you top-of-mind.
Post Example:
“Thanks to everyone who made [Event Name] unforgettable! We couldn’t have done it without YOU. 💙 #EventHashtag”
11. Share a Recap Reel or Blog Post
Turn event highlights into an engaging recap.
Formats:
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60-second highlight reel
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Blog post with photos and key takeaways
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Photo album on Facebook or LinkedIn
12. Ask for Feedback (and Show It)
Engage your audience after the event with polls or feedback forms.
Social Tip:
Use Instagram Stories questions: “What was your favorite moment from the event?”
13. Keep the Community Alive
Don’t go silent after the event. Use your momentum to keep engaging.
Ideas:
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Tease future events
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Share testimonials or quotes from attendees
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Post “throwback” highlights every few weeks
Final Thoughts
Social media can turn a good event into a buzz-worthy experience—before, during, and after it happens. The key is to plan your content in phases, use a consistent voice, and engage actively with your audience. Whether you’re hosting 50 people or 5,000, these social media strategies will help you grow your reach, build hype, and create memorable experiences.
- ragu
- ragu320809@gmail.com