Neon Supply - Resources & Tools

Best Platforms To Promote Small Events

Written by Jeff Hostetter | Jan 27, 2025 1:58:33 PM
Promoting small events on social media is one of the most effective and budget-friendly strategies. Each platform offers unique features that can help you target your audience, build buzz, and drive attendance. Here’s how to make the most of each:

1. Facebook

Why Use It?
  • Ideal for all age groups and community-oriented events.
  • Event-specific features like RSVP tracking and reminders.
 
Key Features:
  • Facebook Events: Create an event page with all the details, including date, time, location, and ticketing links.
  • Targeted Ads: Boost event posts to reach specific demographics based on interests, location, and behaviours.
  • Community Groups: Share your event in relevant local or niche groups.
 
Tips:
  • Post regular updates, including countdowns and behind-the-scenes content.
  • Encourage attendees to mark themselves as “Going” or “Interested” to increase visibility.
 

2. Instagram

Why Use It?
  • Perfect for visual storytelling and engaging younger audiences.
 
Key Features:
  • Stories and Highlights: Use Stories to create urgency with countdown stickers, polls, and Q&A.
  • Reels: Share creative short videos showcasing event highlights or sneak peeks.
  • Carousel Posts: Highlight key event details in swipeable posts.
  • Link in Bio: Use tools like Linktree to direct users to the event page.
 
Tips:
  • Use hashtags like #LocalEvents, #ThingsToDo, or event-specific tags.
  • Collaborate with influencers or partners to amplify your reach.
  • Post user-generated content to build excitement and trust.

 

3. TikTok

Why Use It?
  • Great for reaching Gen Z and Millennials with creative and viral content.
 
Key Features:
  • Short-Form Videos: Create fun, engaging videos using trending sounds and challenges.
  • Event Teasers: Share quick highlights, behind-the-scenes clips, or team introductions.
  • Hashtag Challenges: Encourage attendees to participate in a branded hashtag challenge.
 
Tips:
  • Focus on storytelling and humour to connect with the TikTok audience.
  • Use captions and trending hashtags to improve discoverability.
  • Partner with TikTok influencers for event promotion.
 

4. LinkedIn (For Professional or Industry Events)

Why Use It?
 
Key Features:
  • LinkedIn Events: Create a professional event page and invite connections.
  • Groups: Share your event in industry-specific LinkedIn groups.
  • Sponsored Posts: Use paid ads to target professionals in your niche.
 
Tips:
  • Post updates about event speakers, agendas, or key benefits.
  • Encourage attendees to share the event with their networks.
 

5. Twitter

Why Use It?
  • Ideal for real-time updates and creating buzz.
 
Key Features:
  • Live Tweeting: Share updates or announcements leading up to and during the event.
  • Event Hashtags: Create a unique hashtag for event branding and engagement.
  • Polls and Threads: Use polls to engage your audience or threads to provide detailed event info.
 
Tips:
  • Tweet regularly and engage with followers using your event hashtag.
  • Retweet mentions or RSVPs to build excitement.
  • Use Twitter Ads to boost visibility among your target audience.
 

6. Pinterest

Why Use It?
  • Great for visually-driven events like craft fairs, weddings, or workshops.
 
Key Features:
  • Pins: Create boards for your event with themes, decor ideas, or sneak peeks.
  • Rich Pins: Use these to add extra details like pricing or ticket links.
 
Tips:
  • Design visually appealing pins that link directly to your event page.
  • Collaborate with local creators to generate buzz.
 

7. YouTube

Why Use It?
  • Perfect for in-depth event previews, tutorials, or recaps.
 
Key Features:
  • Event Previews: Create short videos highlighting what attendees can expect.
  • Live Streaming: Host live Q&A sessions or behind-the-scenes tours.
  • Community Posts: Share updates, countdowns, or reminders with your subscribers.
 
Tips:
  • Use SEO-friendly titles and descriptions to reach a broader audience.
  • Share your YouTube videos on other platforms to drive cross-platform engagement.
 

8. Snapchat (For Local Events)

Why Use It?
  • Ideal for targeting younger audiences in a specific location.
 
Key Features:
  • Geofilters: Create custom filters attendees can use during the event.
  • Stories: Share short, engaging updates or behind-the-scenes moments.
 
Tips:
  • Use geo-targeted ads to reach local users.
  • Encourage attendees to share Snaps using your custom filter.
 

9. Reddit

Why Use It?
  • Excellent for niche events with active online communities.
 
Key Features:
  • Subreddits: Share your event in relevant local or interest-based subreddits.
  • Ask Me Anything (AMA): Host an AMA session to generate interest and answer questions.
 
Tips:
  • Follow subreddit rules and engage authentically with the community.
  • Use creative, non-promotional language to spark interest.
 

10. WhatsApp and Messenger

Why Use It?
  • Ideal for smaller, intimate events or group promotions.
 
Key Features:
  • Broadcast Lists: Share event details with contacts en masse.
  • Groups: Create exclusive event groups for attendees to network.
 
Tips:
  • Use personalized messages to invite participants.
  • Share multimedia content like event posters, videos, or links.
View full post