The Lasting Impact of Event Legacy

In the world of event planning, the concept of "event legacy" has emerged as a pivotal factor in evaluating the success of an event. This concept extends beyond the immediate outcomes and focuses on the long-term benefits and changes an event can impart to its host city, local community and participants. This article delves into the various facets of event legacy, offering insights and strategies for creating a meaningful and lasting impact.

Defining event legacy: beyond immediate impact

Event legacy encompasses the sustained positive impacts that an event can have on various stakeholders. Unlike the immediate "impact" of an event, which might include increased foot traffic or immediate economic boosts, legacy refers to the enduring benefits that persist long after the event concludes. These benefits can be broadly classified into several categories:

• Economic Legacy: Events often act as catalysts for economic growth, providing a boost to local businesses, increasing tourism, and creating job opportunities. This can support long-term economic revitalisation in the host area.
• Social Legacy: Events can strengthen social cohesion by bringing diverse groups together, fostering a sense of community, and increasing volunteerism. They can also improve the quality of life through initiatives like community programmes and public spaces.
• Environmental Legacy: With a growing focus on sustainability, events can lead to long-term environmental benefits, such as reduced carbon footprints and the promotion of eco-friendly practices.
• Professional Legacy: Events provide valuable platforms for professional development, networking and skill enhancement, benefiting attendees and organisers alike.
• Cultural Legacy: Events can enrich the cultural landscape by preserving local traditions, promoting cultural diversity and increasing participation in the arts.

Crafting a sustainable event legacy

Creating a successful event legacy requires strategic planning and a focus on long-term outcomes. Here are key steps to consider:

1. Set Clear Legacy Goals: Define specific, measurable legacy objectives that align with both the event’s purpose and the host city's broader goals. This might include economic, social or environmental targets.
2. Develop a Comprehensive Strategy: Outline the initiatives, resources, and timelines necessary to achieve the desired legacy outcomes. This plan should detail how the event will contribute to lasting positive change.
3. Engage with Local Stakeholders: Partner with local organisations, government bodies and community groups to leverage local knowledge and resources. This collaboration can enhance the relevance and sustainability of legacy initiatives.
4. Implement Sustainability Practices: Integrate sustainability principles into all aspects of event planning and execution, from reducing waste to promoting local and eco-friendly products.
5. Monitor and Adapt: Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of legacy initiatives and be prepared to adapt strategies as needed to overcome challenges and maximise benefits.
6. Promote Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Encourage sponsors and partners to engage in CSR activities, such as community projects or charitable donations, which can enhance the event's positive impact.

Case Studies: real-world event legacies

To illustrate the power of event legacy, consider some recent examples from events delivered by the Outsourced Events team:

• BNA Festival of Neuroscience: This event integrated public engagement programmes, including beach clean-ups and school involvement, highlighting its commitment to both environmental stewardship and community education.
• BMFMS Annual Conference: Through musical bingo, played during the gala dinner, the event raised funds for a local babies charity, demonstrating how events can leverage entertainment for a greater cause.
• Major Tech Client: Rather than giving away merchandise, delegates were encouraged to choose from three nominate charities to receive a donation. 

These examples show how thoughtful planning and strategic partnerships can transform events into powerful catalysts for long-term positive change.

Conclusion: The future of event legacy

As the event industry evolves, the emphasis on creating a lasting legacy continues to grow. By focusing on sustainable practices, engaging local communities and setting clear goals, event planners can ensure their events leave a meaningful and positive mark. In doing so, they not only enhance the value of the event but also contribute to a more sustainable and connected world.

Want to learn more about event legacy?

Download our recent webinar on “The Power of Event Legacy: CSR Strategies and Member Benefits for Associations”. Director of Associations, Sue Frye, was joined by a panel of distinguished experts for an insightful webinar on the concept of "event legacy" and its impact on the future of event planning.

The panel featured:

- Louise Tratt, Head of Meetings & Events, British Neuroscience Association (BNA)
- Lyndsey Rafferty Senior Association Manager at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC)
- Jac Callan, Sustainability & Impact Manager, Visit Belfast

In this dynamic one-hour session, the experts explored the importance of creating lasting legacies in event management and how it shapes the industry. Download the webinar now to gain valuable insights!

Click here to view the webinar.