Category Descriptions

Awarded for an outstanding virtual event that promotes cultural awareness. Submissions should showcase how the event helped connect and inform the community through storytelling, food, dance, art, or other unique cultural experiences.

Awarded for an outstanding performance or series of performances that contributed to the success of a virtual, in-person, or hybrid event and how it fit the event or meeting design and concept. Submissions should highlight how the entertainment aligned with the messaging and goal of the event or meeting.

Awarded to the most original and effective promotion, stunt, giveaway, street-team initiative, or other type of guerilla marketing to generate sales, press, or buzz for a product or brand.

Awarded for the most innovative or effective virtual, in-person, or hybrid event created for social media influencers. Entries should describe the concept, strategy, and goals for the event as well as the results of the event, as measured by social media reach or other metrics. Submissions will be judged on the effectiveness, creativity, and originality of the event.

Awarded for an outstanding virtual and in-person gathering for social or business networking. Submissions should showcase icebreakers, activities, or other interactive elements that allowed for one-on-one or group networking between virtual and in-person attendees.

Awarded for an outstanding virtual, in-person, or hybrid event showcasing athletic activity requiring skill or physical prowess, or an experience related to a sporting event. Submissions may be from marathons, races, team sports, or other competitive events, as well as team drafts and other related experiences; and should include activations or other strategies that engaged fans/spectators.

Awarded for an outstanding gift experience for a virtual event or meeting. Submissions should include items gifted to attendees before, during, or after an event; as well as ways the items were delivered to attendees.

Awarded for an outstanding virtual program celebrating award winners, honorees, and/or special guests. Submissions should highlight the people/brands honored, event programming, and how the ceremony was different from traditional awards celebrations.

Awarded for the most original and creative virtual experience that brought a brand to life. Submissions should highlight how the experience encouraged the audience to explore its product and/or services in an online format.

Awarded for an outstanding virtual event that promotes cultural awareness. Submissions should showcase how the event helped connect and inform the community through storytelling, food, dance, art, or other unique cultural experiences.

Awarded for exceptional design or a virtual environment for an awards presentation, conference, trade show, or other experience. Submissions should highlight how the technology, attendee experience, and overall design reflected the messaging, identity, and goals of the event and/or host organization.

Awarded to an exceptional digital platform for events, meetings, expos, webinars, or other virtual experiences. Submissions should showcase live streaming and presentation capabilities, networking features, Q&A and polling functionality, exhibitor booths, and other interactive elements.

Awarded for the most innovative or effective event created for social media influencers. Entries should describe the concept, strategy, and goals for the event as well as the results of the event, as measured by social media reach or other metrics. Submissions will be judged on the effectiveness, creativity, and originality of the event.

Awarded for an outstanding virtual event series taking place over more than one day. Submissions should highlight the technology used for the multi-day event, programming and agenda, and how the event messaging and branding stayed consistent throughout each day.

Awarded for the most innovative or effective virtual trade show with smart or unusual ideas for event design, branding, marketing strategy, and content. Entries may include how an established show was revamped or a creative concept for an entirely new expo. Submissions should highlight how the concept reflected the messaging and goal of the trade show.

Awarded for an outstanding gift experience for an event or meeting. Submissions should include items gifted to attendees before, during, or after an event, as well as ways the items were delivered or displayed to attendees.

Awarded for the best execution of an award show or ceremony, wherein the focus of the event is to give out awards. Submissions should highlight the unique ways in which the event celebrated outstanding people and/or accomplishments.

Awarded for the most engaging and innovative experience that increases the awareness and presence of the beauty brand. This category celebrates the art of engaging directly with consumers and building a loyal brand community. Submissions can include all kinds of products and services related to the beauty industry and both in-person and online formats are accepted.

Awarded for the most creative event hosted by more than one brand in collaboration with each other. Submissions should showcase how the brands came together to execute an experience that seamlessly places both brands in the spotlight with innovative aspects.

Awarded for the most innovative or effective live or virtual event to introduce a new brand, product, or service. Entries must be from an in-person event and may include additional campaign elements such as content/competitions developed for social media, digital, broadcast, or print platforms. Submissions will be judged on the effectiveness, creativity, and originality of the launch concept and how it was delivered.

Awarded for the most original and creative brand activation at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Brands showcase creativity and strategic thinking, seamlessly integrating offerings into the festival's vibrant atmosphere and creating a memorable experience for attendees. Submissions are judged on executional excellence, convenience, and unique features that elevate the brand's presence.

Awarded for the most innovative and engaging brand activation at the renowned Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Brands competing in this category demonstrate unparalleled creativity, seamlessly integrating their offerings into the cutting-edge environment of CES. Submissions are judged on executional excellence, audience engagement, and the ability to showcase products or services in a memorable and impactful way, setting a new standard for brand experiences in the realm of technology and innovation.

Awarded for creating exceptional activations that redefine the Coachella experience, showcasing unparalleled creativity and seamless integration with the cultural tapestry of the event. Submissions are judged on excellence in execution, convenience, and the incorporation of unique features or experiential offerings that elevate the brand's presence at Coachella, setting a new standard for immersive brand experiences.

Awarded for the effective and creative planning of a conference or meeting. Judging is based on effectiveness and originality of content, relevance to event/subject matter, choice of speaker(s), methods of delivering content, integration of technology and/or social media, audience interaction, and learning environment. Submissions should highlight how these elements reflected the messaging and goal of the conference or meeting.

Awarded for the most innovative and effective theme/concept for an event planned by or for a corporation. Submissions may include a new theme for an established annual event or a creative concept for a new event, and highlight how this was executed through aspects such as catering, entertainment, decor, technology and/or social media integration, and guest interaction. Submissions should highlight how the concept reflected the messaging and goal of the event.

Awarded for an outstanding event that promotes cultural awareness. Submissions should showcase how the event helped connect and inform the community through storytelling, food, dance, art, or other unique cultural experiences.

Awarded to the event app that provides the most comprehensive, user-friendly, and impactful experience for attendees. Entries will be judged on the app's functionality, design, ease of use, and ability to enhance engagement and productivity before, during, and after the event. The winning app will set a new standard for excellence in event technology, seamlessly connecting participants with essential information, networking opportunities, and interactive features to optimize their event experience.

Awarded for outstanding creation of an effective, attractive environment at a corporate, association, or nonprofit event. Submissions may include a mix of decor, lighting, staging, entertainment, tabletop items, special effects, signage, or other elements used to create visuals that communicated the message of the event and/or its host.

Awarded to the most innovative and effective event technology solution, including but not limited to apps, audience response systems, management system, or other interactive technology designed for events or meetings. Entries in this category should demonstrate how the technology can be used to improve or enhance the attendee experience and/or help event planners create effective events. Submissions do not need to be from a specific event but can describe how the solution was used at a particular event.

Awarded for the most creative and outstanding experience that generates awareness and engagement with the fashion brand. Submissions in this category should include the unique and effective ways that their brand activation increased consumer engagement and sought to build a loyal brand community.

Awarded for the most ingenious and effective financial brand activation that increases consumer engagement and builds a loyal brand community. Submissions should highlight the inventive and compelling methods used to attract the attention and loyalty of the consumer. Submissions can be from a wide range of financial brands such as banks, insurance, credit cards, pension plans, investments, and related online services.

Awarded for ingenuity in floral event design, including concepts for centerpieces or larger installations for a corporate, nonprofit, association, or social event or meeting. Entries should highlight how the construction, materials used, containers, and/or overall display reflected the event’s messaging or style objectives.

Awarded for the most innovative or effective environment that captivates the audience’s five basic senses and engages them in a sensory experience. Submissions should include how technology—including virtual reality, augmented reality, holograms, or other creative solutions—enhanced the attendee experience. Submissions should also highlight the use of outstanding lighting design and overall production execution at an event or meeting.

Awarded for establishing a strong relationship with influencers and creating a positive experience for influencers. Maintaining good influencer experiences is essential, as an endorsement from an influencer can work wonders to elevate brand awareness and increase sales. Submissions should highlight how influencers were afforded competitive compensation, creative freedom, and opportunities that align with both their own personal interests and that of their audience. Influencers can denote a wide range of people who use their fame or social standing to promote a product or brand; this includes, but is not limited to, celebrities, social media stars, journalists, or industry experts.

Awarded for the most successful execution of an event that encompassed exclusivity and prestige with the result of creating an experience that effectively and lavishly delivered the intended purpose of the event. Submissions should highlight how the ideal audience was targeted and showcase any distinctive features that elevated the exclusive event.

Awarded for the most original and creative event designed for Millennials and/or Gen Z. Submissions should share strategies on how the experience engaged the generation(s) through social media or other targeted platforms/campaigns.

Awarded for an outstanding series of events hosted in various locations throughout a state, country, or the world. Submissions should highlight the importance of each location, and how each location impacted the experience.

Awarded for the most effective new product or service that aids an event professional in the planning process or execution of an event. Submissions should showcase unique features, a cohesive design, originality, and ways it has helped an event professional succeed.

Awarded for the most innovative and effective theme/concept for an event planned by or for a nonprofit organization. Submissions may include a new theme for an established annual event or a creative concept for a new event and should clearly state how it helped drive the final fund-raising outcome, mission, and goal of the nonprofit organization.

Awarded for the most original and creative experience that brought a brand to life. Submissions should highlight how the experience encouraged the audience to explore its product and/or services.

Awarded for the most exceptional effective experience that generates awareness and enthusiastic engagement with the festival. Entries should highlight how the experience was innovative and conducive to building the festival’s image. Submissions will be judged on creativity, originality, and efficacy of the festival activation.

Awarded for the most masterfully planned and executed impromptu events or unexpected gatherings. Submissions should highlight the creative aspects of the event including elements such as food and beverage, art installs, and creative build-outs and explain how the spontaneous experience impacted the brand.

Awarded for the most impactful and effective event that was hosted largely with the media in mind. Submissions may be from press conferences, media previews, FAM trips, or other experiences and/or activities; and should highlight post-event coverage and media impressions.

Awarded for an outstanding and impactful pride event that celebrates LGBT+ rights while maintaining a commitment to continued advocacy and allegiance to the community. Submissions should highlight how the event demonstrated meaningful support in an engaging and powerful way. Moreover, submissions may include examples of how the event displayed a commitment to amplifying LGBT+ voices and encouraging both inclusivity and intersectionality.

Awarded for the most original and creative event transformation. Submissions should highlight how organizers were impacted by current events of the world and how the event was reworked to thrive in its new environment.

Awarded for establishing the most engaging and extraordinary retail experience. A high-quality retail experience can be an essential factor in establishing a competitive and successful brand. Submissions will be judged upon the executional excellence and convenience of their retail experience. Moreover, they will be judged for any unique features or specific experiential offerings.

Awarded for brands who host creative experiences that are centered around a holiday, cultural event, or season. Submissions should show how their use of tapping into the particular seasons helped to drive results for their brand.

Awarded for the most innovative and effective concept planned for a social event (e.g. weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, anniversaries, and birthdays). Submissions should highlight how the planning reflected the desired direction from the event’s host.

This category celebrates the spirits brand that delivers the most creative and captivating activation, engaging audiences with innovative experiences. From immersive tastings to interactive installations, brands showcase unparalleled creativity, seamlessly blending mixology with experiential marketing. Submissions will be judged based on their creativity, innovation, and ability to engage audiences in unique and memorable experiences.

Awarded for the most original and effective activation for a sponsor of a conference, trade show, benefit, festival, or other type of in-person event, with smart or unusual ideas for event design, branding, marketing strategy, and content. Submissions may include a mix of on-site initiatives and off-site promotions, and should highlight the effectiveness of the activation and how it reflected the identity, messaging, and goals of the sponsor as well as how it aligned with the overall event.

Awarded for exceptional design of a stage or set for an award presentation, conference’s general session, fashion show, concert, or other similar type of event. Submissions should highlight how the construction, materials used, integration of technology, speaker interaction, and/or overall design reflected the messaging, identity, and goals of the event and/or host organization.

Awarded for the innovative and effective use of eco-friendly or CSR practices at a corporate, association, or nonprofit event or meeting. Entries may include a mix of decor, technology, catering, production, and any other pre- or post-event sustainable initiatives and CSR applications (e.g. involvement or partnerships with local communities/organizations). Submissions should include information explaining the effectiveness of the initiatives/program and how it aligned with the event or meeting’s overall objectives.

Awarded for crafting the most captivating and innovative brand activation at SXSW, this category celebrates brands that excel in delivering unforgettable experiences. In the fast-paced world of SXSW, where creativity reigns supreme, finalists are recognized for seamlessly blending their offerings into the festival's dynamic landscape. Submissions are judged on executional excellence, convenience, and the incorporation of unique features or experiential offerings that elevate the brand's presence at the festival.

Awarded for the most innovative or effective team-building activity designed for groups. Submissions should describe what makes the activity unique, how it brings people together, and ways it can be customized or adapted for an individual group’s needs. The activity can come from a specific event, either as a standalone experience or part of a meeting or conference, or be an overall successful team building concept.

Awarded for the most impactful and innovative technology brand activation that increases consumer engagement. Submissions should highlight the unique and effective ways that the brand activation attracted the attention of consumers and encouraged brand loyalty. Submissions can be from a wide range of technology from computers, mobile devices, and robots to software and operating systems.

Awarded for the most innovative or effective trade show with smart or unusual ideas for event design, branding, marketing strategy, and content. Entries may include how an established show was revamped or a creative concept for an entirely new expo. Submissions should highlight how the concept reflected the messaging and goal of the trade show.

Awarded for exceptional or most effective booth created for a trade show. Submissions should highlight how the construction, materials used, integration of technology, visitor experience/interaction, and/or overall design reflected the organization’s identity, messaging, and goals.

Awarded for the best execution of a TV or film premiere that is ambitious and stands out from the crowd. Submissions will be judged on their ability to celebrate the work and embody the mood of the project; they should highlight how the premiere was able to provide an opportunity for viewers to grasp its essence before the release and build anticipation for the film or TV show.

Awarded for the best execution of a gathering at the start of and important advertising sales periods, held by television network executives and attended by major advertisers and the media.

Awarded to the most innovative and seamless integration of artificial intelligence at an event, showcasing the transformative power of AI in enhancing attendee experiences. Entries will highlight creative applications that leverage AI to personalize interactions, streamline operations, and create unforgettable moments. Judged on creativity, effectiveness, and the ability to elevate the event experience, this award sets a new standard for harnessing AI technology in event planning and execution.

This award recognizes the innovative integration of onsite event technology that enhances attendee engagement, efficiency, and overall experience. Entries will highlight the seamless incorporation of technology solutions such as interactive displays, RFID/NFC systems, augmented reality experiences, or other cutting-edge tools that elevate the event environment. Judged on creativity, effectiveness, and impact, this award celebrates the use of onsite event technology to create memorable and immersive experiences for attendees.

This award highlights the most remarkable transformation of a venue for an event, showcasing the creativity and ingenuity of event planners. Whether through innovative décor, immersive branding, or clever space utilization, the winning transformation will have captivated attendees and elevated the overall event experience. From blank canvases to historic landmarks, this award celebrates the power of design to create unforgettable moments.