As the UK begins to open up on its path out of lockdown, you might be looking to host in-person events again. Although there are the likes of social distancing and face coverings to consider, organising a COVID-secure gathering doesn’t need to be a daunting process for events professionals. Get some inspiration for creative event planning ideas from some of Eventbrite’s most innovative creators.

Summertime Live is keeping its attendees informed

When lockdown finishes and in-person events resume, some people may still feel wary about mixing with others. So it’s a good idea to let attendees know what measures will be in place to help make your event COVID-secure.

Summertime Live is hosting six open-air concerts across the UK this summer, with live music, entertainment, and street food vendors. In terms of safety, the event has a page on its website dedicated to keeping attendees informed of COVID-19 updates. It lets attendees know that if the event is postponed, tickets will be automatically rolled over to the rescheduled date. The organisers have also used capacity restrictions to boost ticket sales by emphasising the event’s limited availability.

Ecstatic Dance UK is connecting with nature

One way of making sure your event complies with COVID-19 regulations is by holding it outdoors. Conscious dance events company Ecstatic Dance UK is doing just that with its summer retreats. The four-day eco retreats will be held in a 50-acre valley on the edge of Dartmoor National Park and will be intimate gatherings of fewer than 35 participants to minimise the risk of transmission.

On their website, the event creators have reassured attendees that they will be following the venue’s advice on social distancing. For instance, they will be spending as much time outdoors as possible, all communal spaces will be cleaned regularly, attendees will be asked to track and trace when they arrive, and overnight stays will be in single occupancy tents.

Adventure Cinema is going paperless

To help ensure your event is COVID-friendly, it’s worth considering having electronic tickets and contactless payments. Take Adventure Cinema as an example. It’s organising a new film and food festival at 15 locations across the UK this summer, in addition to its seasonal outdoor movie screenings. When attendees arrive, they will have their electronic tickets scanned to reduce queuing times and minimise interactions. Guests will then be directed by stewards to the viewing area, where they can set up their space at a safe distance from other groups. Other measures include PPE for staff, distanced toilet facilities, and clearly marked queueing points.

Preloved Vintage Wholesale is operating timed slots

If your in-person event is going to be indoors, there are plenty of precautions you can take to mitigate coronavirus health and safety risks. Preloved Vintage Wholesale is taking its clothing kilo store to 12 pop-up spots over the next few months. If capacity is reached, the event creators say they will operate timed slots during peak demand or a one in, one out policy, which staff will explain on entry.

The retro retail company has information on its website about how it will follow government guidelines, including not having any fitting rooms open and cleaning high-contact areas frequently. It will also ask attendees to wear face coverings and encourage them to stay two metres apart from other shoppers at all times.

The Women’s Business Conference is holding hybrid events

You might want to look at organising hybrid events to get the best of both worlds like the Women’s Business Club UK, which arranges business networking events for women. Held in four locations across England in December, the Women’s Business Conference will connect professionals for a day of networking, exhibiting, and inspiring talks. As well as being held in person, the events will be livestreamed online for those who can’t travel to the venue or don’t feel comfortable going. (Having an online hosting strategy also makes for a great backup plan if restrictions change.)

To plan a great hybrid event, think about which livestreaming platform you’ll use, ensure you have tested the technology involved, and consider having an assistant to help you stream on the day.

Here to help

In these unprecedented times, there are many ways Eventbrite can support you in your return to in-person events. Whether you’re wondering about flexible refund policies or how to maintain a strong relationship with attendees, we’ve put together a whole host of handy tips to help. Take a look at our COVID-19 resource hub.