Let’s be real—no one wants a cookie-cutter event that feels like it could happen anywhere. Communities crave experiences that reflect their identity, honor their traditions, and amplify their voices. So, if you're still planning events in a vacuum without tapping into the heartbeat of the people you're serving, it's time for a rethink.
At Foundry, we don’t just throw events for communities—we build them with communities. Here’s how to ensure your event strategy is authentic, inclusive, and impactful—and not just another generic gathering with a food truck lineup.
Start with Active Community Engagement (No, Really!)
Tossing out a survey or hosting a public forum isn’t enough. True engagement means shifting from "inform and consult" to "collaborate and co-create" (shoutout to the Spectrum of Community Engagement to Ownership model for laying this out).
💡 How to do it right:
Partner with equity-deserving groups early—Indigenous leaders, local artists, grassroots organizations.
Host listening sessions with real incentives (yes, that means paying people for their time).
Go beyond who usually shows up—target outreach to marginalized voices.
Pro tip: If your event doesn’t reflect the people who live, work, and play in the area, it’s not a community event—it’s a vanity project.
Design WITH, Not FOR, Your Community
You wouldn’t plan a wedding without asking the couple what they want—so why do it with a community event? Move beyond token consultation and let the community shape the programming, storytelling, and vendors.
💡 Ways to co-create:
Advisory committees led by local changemakers.
Interactive planning workshops where residents shape themes & activities.
Crowdsourced programming, letting the public vote on speakers, performers, or activities.
Real-world impact: Events like Downtown Spark and Winterval thrive because they integrate local artists, businesses, and community-driven storytelling.
Amplify Local Talent & Vendors
Your event should boost the local economy and celebrate regional culture—not just bring in outside talent and call it a day.
💡 How to embed local culture:
Feature local musicians, performers, and storytellers.
Prioritize BIPOC, Queer and women-owned businesses in vendor selection.
Offer affordable booth spaces for emerging entrepreneurs.
Example: The Downtown Farmers’ Market gave 90+ small businesses a high-visibility platform, proving that events can be a launchpad for local economic success.
Prioritize Accessibility & Inclusion (Not as an Afterthought)
A truly community-driven event is one where everyone feels welcome. That means going beyond ADA compliance and actually breaking down barriers to participation.
💡 Make it accessible by:
Offering multilingual programming & ASL interpreters.
Ensuring physical accessibility—think wheelchair-friendly pathways, quiet zones for neurodivergent attendees.
Providing low/no-cost ticketing options for underserved communities.
The reality: If people can’t physically, financially, or culturally access your event, it wasn’t built for them. Do better.
Embed Sustainability & Long-Term Impact
A good event lasts a weekend. A great event leaves a lasting impact. How does your event feed into long-term community goals?
💡 Think beyond the event day:
Invest in year-round engagement efforts (not just annual check-ins).
Align with local initiatives—sustainability, social equity, or small business growth.
Fund community-led projects as part of your event’s legacy.
Example: The Jasper Wildfire Benefit Concert didn’t just bring people together for one night—it raised $255,000+ for real community rebuilding efforts.
The Bottom Line? Co-Creation Is the Future.
If your event strategy isn’t deeply rooted in the community, it’s missing the mark. By engaging meaningfully, elevating local voices, and designing for real impact, you don’t just plan events—you create movements.
Your next move: Ready to build an event that actually matters? Let’s make it happen—together.
