Changes in Resident Events and Community Engagement for 2025

Have resident event trends changed heading into 2025?  Yes!  They have changed and shifted.  We are finding new ways to engage community residents through new activities.  If you are planning to use the trends of 2020, you may find that your events will fall flat.

In this blog, we will share the new direction that resident events for multifamily, student, and active 55+ housing will be heading.

Evolving Trends in Resident Events

Resident events in 2025 have become more innovative and personalized than ever before. Communities are focusing on creating unique experiences that foster stronger connections among residents. Modern technology and data-driven insights reshape how these events are planned and executed.

Over the past few years, we have seen marketplace innovations and changes in resident expectations.  These changes require us to shift how we approach engagement.  Sticking out donut boxes as a “Grab & Go” will not produce the same results.  Here are a few trends that are shifting.

Personalization: The New Standard

Gone are the days of generic gatherings. Personalized events tailored to residents’ preferences are now the norm. Surveys and engagement metrics help organizers identify activities that resonate most with the community, leading to higher participation and satisfaction.

In the past, community engagement only focused on food and drinks.  Your community demographics are evolving into a dynamic space.  Surveys can help determine a strategy to rotate different event types based on your resident’s interests. 

Technology Integration in Events

Technology is playing a pivotal role in transforming resident events. Virtual and augmented reality experiences are becoming commonplace, offering unique entertainment options. Mobile apps streamline event registrations, provide real-time updates, and foster interaction during events.

One opportunity to integrate technology into your events can be capturing live event information from your residents.  We can fall victim to only getting verbal feedback.  Finding a way to collect data can ensure you are finding out more helpful information about your community. 

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity for community events. Organizers prioritize eco-friendly practices to align with residents’ values and global environmental goals.  Residents are requesting more options, from dietary requests to social impact topics.

Green Event Planning

From reusable decorations to digital invitations, sustainable practices are incorporated into every event planning aspect. Communities also encourage residents to participate in green initiatives, such as tree-planting drives or recycling programs during events.

Check out Holiday Insights for unique holidays that align with eco-friendly initiatives.  You can find unique ways to incorporate eco-friendly events quarters or create a community club.  If there is enough interest, you never know how things can evolve.

Local Sourcing and Support

Supporting local businesses has become a key focus. Resident events now feature locally sourced food, crafts, and entertainment, fostering community while reducing carbon footprints.

LuxeGiving helps with bridging the gap between local businesses and the community.  Our reusable tote bag painting event has been highly successful.  Residents are not throwing away the canvas paintings; instead, they are using their reusable totes.

Focus on Inclusivity and Accessibility

Communities are striving to make events more inclusive and accessible. This approach ensures that all residents feel welcome and can participate fully in community activities.

Diverse Programming

Event planners are designing programs catering to various cultural, age, and interest groups. This diversity strengthens community bonds and encourages cross-cultural interactions. Cultural celebrations, family-friendly activities, and hobby-based workshops are being introduced to ensure everyone finds something interesting. For example, communities might host events celebrating various cultural holidays, allowing residents to learn about and appreciate different traditions. Additionally, multi-generational activities ensure that young and older adults feel equally included and valued.

Accessibility Enhancements

Events now prioritize wheelchair accessibility, sign language interpreters, and sensory-friendly spaces. These considerations ensure that no one is left out. For instance, ramps and accessible seating arrangements make physical spaces more inclusive, while live captioning and translation services ensure that language barriers do not hinder participation. Sensory-friendly zones, designed to reduce noise and bright lights, cater to individuals with sensory sensitivities, making the environment more comfortable. By adopting these practices, communities are setting new standards for inclusivity and demonstrating a commitment to ensuring that every resident can engage meaningfully in their activities.

Hybrid Events: Bridging Physical and Virtual

Hybrid events are bridging the gap between in-person and online experiences. This trend allows residents to participate in events regardless of their physical location or schedule constraints.

Expanding Reach with Virtual Options

Virtual participation options enable more residents to join events, particularly those with mobility challenges or live in remote locations. Livestreaming and interactive online platforms enhance engagement. These platforms often include chat features, live polls, and Q&A sessions, ensuring virtual attendees can actively participate rather than passively observe. Additionally, event recordings can be made available on-demand, allowing residents to engage at a time that suits them best.

Enhanced Networking Opportunities

Hybrid events provide unique networking opportunities, allowing residents to connect in-person and online. This dual approach fosters a more cohesive community. Online breakout rooms and virtual lounges complement face-to-face interactions, creating more avenues for meaningful connections. For instance, a virtual attendee can engage in discussions with in-person participants through real-time chat or video calls, breaking down barriers between physical and digital attendees. Hybrid formats also facilitate cross-community collaboration, enabling residents from different locations to share ideas and build relationships.

Seamless Integration of Technologies

The success of hybrid events relies heavily on seamless technology integration. Communities are investing in high-quality streaming equipment, user-friendly platforms, and reliable internet connections to ensure a smooth experience for all participants. Training sessions for both organizers and attendees help maximize the effectiveness of these tools, ensuring everyone can easily navigate the hybrid environment. By leveraging these technological advancements, communities can create events that feel unified, engaging, and accessible to all residents.

Data-Driven Planning for Maximum Impact

Data analytics in event planning has revolutionized how community engagement is managed. Insights derived from residents’ feedback and participation trends guide future event strategies.

Feedback Loops for Continuous Improvement

Surveys and feedback forms post-event are critical tools for measuring success. These insights help refine future events to meet residents’ expectations better. By gathering data on what residents enjoyed or found lacking, organizers can adjust their approach and continuously improve the quality of events. For instance, a post-event survey might reveal that residents prefer weekday evening events over weekend mornings, prompting a scheduling change that boosts participation.

Predictive Analytics for Engagement

Predictive analytics allow organizers to anticipate participation rates and preferences, enabling them to plan more effectively and allocate resources efficiently. Planners can forecast future event outcomes by analyzing historical data, such as attendance trends and activity popularity. This enables better budgeting, more precise marketing strategies, and tailored programming that aligns with residents’ interests. For example, if data indicates a rising interest in wellness activities, planners can prioritize yoga sessions or mental health workshops in upcoming events.

Customized Resident Experiences

Data-driven approaches also allow for personalized experiences. Organizers can create targeted invitations and event reminders based on residents’ past attendance and preferences. For example, a resident who frequently participates in art workshops might receive a special invitation to an upcoming painting class. This level of personalization increases engagement and makes residents feel valued and understood. By leveraging data insights, communities can ensure their events are impactful, inclusive, and aligned with the evolving needs of their residents.

Conclusion

Resident events and community engagement in 2025 are marked by personalization, sustainability, inclusivity, and technological advancements. These changes are creating stronger, more connected communities. By embracing these trends, organizers can deliver memorable experiences that align with residents’ evolving needs and preferences.