ShowFest Conference – Education Session Highlights
Join us at the ShowFest Conference...Expert-led sessions designed specifically for festival and event professionals.
WEATHER PREPAREDNESS FOR FESTIVALS & EVENTS
Brad Panovich, Meteorologist
Weather can make or break an event. Learn how proactive planning, clear communication, and expert forecasting help keep events safe and successful.
MEASURING THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF FESTIVALS & EVENTSGreg Fuson, Chandler ThinksLearn what data to collect, how to communicate your event's impact, and why it matters for funding, sponsorships, and community support.
STATE OF THE FESTIVAL INDUSTRY: 2025 INSIGHTS & 2026 TRENDS
Jennifer Williams, Eventeny
Drawing from data on 50,000+ events, this session explores revenue trends, vendor and sponsor relationships, and how top organizers are adapting to tighter margins.
CURIOSITY & CREATIVE THINKING
Robert Krumbine, CSEP Charlotte Center City Partners, Chief Creative Officer & Senior VP, Programs & Events
Discover how curiosity fuels creativity, innovation, and stronger event leadership.
SPONSORSHIP STRATEGY & REVENUE GROWTH
Stephanie McIntyre, Staircase Event & Sponsorship Consulting
Learn practical strategies to strengthen sponsorships, increase revenue, and build long-term partner relationships.
SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY, TOPICS & TRENDS
Liz Hynes, 57 Marketing
Stay ahead of what’s working now in social media, including trends, content ideas, and engagement strategies for festivals and events.
LEADERSHIP FOR FESTIVAL & EVENT PROFESSIONALS
Dr. Brianna S. Clark, Chair, Department of Event & Hospitality Management, High Point University
Explore leadership strategies focused on team development, decision-making, and leading effectively in fast-paced event environments.
SAFE & RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL
Charlie Fuller, Vice President, Alcohol Management
Understand North Carolina alcohol laws, compliance requirements, and training tools for vendors and volunteers.
TOURISM TRENDS & VISITOR INSIGHTS
Marlise Taylor, Director of Tourism Research, Visit North Carolina
Gain insight into tourism trends and visitor behavior to better understand audiences and strengthen community impact.
LOGISTICS: THE DEVIL’S IN THE DETAILS
Theresa Mathis, North Carolina Whirligig Festival
Great events are built on the details. Learn practical, behind-the-scenes logistics tips to avoid common pitfalls and keep operations running smoothly.
Additional topics include:
• Recruiting & Managing Volunteers
• Working with Interns
• Collaborating with Vendors
• Insurance & Risk Management
• And more
REGISTER FOR SHOWFEST
Join us at ShowFest—let’s learn together!