Stadiums and arenas are hitting a home run with unique spaces, state-of-the-art amenities, and built-in excitement for unforgettable corporate events
When I was a kid, I would often go to Mets games at Shea Stadium with my friends. We’d buy seats in the upper deck and then as the game progressed gradually sneak down into the field level seats. We’d often get caught by the ushers and shoo’d away. But if I tried that today at Citi Field, where the Mets now play, I’d get arrested for grand larceny because those seats cost so much.
But on the night of October 20th, the final game of the National League Championship Series between the Mets and the Dodgers, there I was with three of my friends sitting in row one at field level right behind the visitor’s dugout on the third base side. We didn’t even have to sneak down. We paid for the tickets, and, they only cost $10 a piece.
That’s because the Mets and Dodgers were playing in Los Angeles and my friends and I plus about 30,000 other Mets fans were attending a “watch party” at Citi Field viewing the game on the big screen.
Sports stadiums and arenas are increasingly tapping into the corporate event market. In fact, at the recent IMEX America, nine major league teams held a press conference to let the attendees aware of their new initiative to introduce their venues to the corporate market.
Renting a vacant sports venue for your next corporate event can be a real home run! Here are some key benefits:
Wow Factor and Unique Atmosphere: Unforgettable Setting: Imagine your event on a field surrounded by towering stands, or courtside with championship banners hanging overhead. It creates a memorable experience that attendees won’t soon forget.
Branding Opportunities: Leverage the venue’s existing branding and incorporate your own for a powerful impact. Project your logo on the jumbotron or use team colors in your décor.
Built-in Excitement: Sports venues have an inherent energy and excitement that can energize your event.
Space and Versatility: Sports venues offer vast, open spaces to accommodate large groups, elaborate setups, and a variety of activities.
Flexible Configurations: From intimate gatherings in luxury suites to large-scale conferences on the field, these venues can adapt to your needs.
Breakout Options: Many venues have multiple spaces like meeting rooms, lounges, and concourses that can be used for breakout sessions or team-building activities.
Top-notch AV: Most sports venues boast cutting-edge audiovisual systems, including giant screens, high-quality sound, and lighting capabilities.
Connectivity: Expect excellent Wi-Fi and internet infrastructure to support presentations, live streaming, and attendee connectivity.
On-site Support: Venues often have experienced technical staff to assist with your AV and logistical needs.
Convenience and Accessibility: Sports venues are typically located in easily accessible areas with ample parking and public transportation options.
On-site Catering: Many venues have in-house catering teams that can handle everything from basic meals to gourmet experiences.
Accessibility Features: Modern sports venues are designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring all attendees can participate comfortably.
Team-Building Opportunities: Incorporate fun, sports-themed activities into your event, like friendly competitions on the field or tours of the facility.
Shared Experience: Being in a space associated with teamwork and competition can foster camaraderie and collaboration among attendees.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
