Hybrid events, which blend in-person and virtual components, have been on the rise in recent years as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for social distancing. However, as the world starts to adjust to the new normal and the integration of technology in events, it is becoming clear that hybrid events are no longer a separate category, but rather a new norm in the event industry.

The concept of hybrid events is not new. Even before the pandemic, events were already incorporating virtual elements such as live streaming, webinars, and virtual reality experiences. However, the pandemic accelerated the adoption of hybrid events as a necessary solution for continuing to hold events while also keeping attendees safe.

Now, as the world starts to recover from the pandemic, it is clear that hybrid events are here to stay. The integration of virtual elements in events provides a multitude of benefits that were not possible before. For example, hybrid events allow for a larger audience reach and greater accessibility for attendees who may not be able to physically attend an event due to geographical, financial, or health reasons. Additionally, hybrid events enable organizers to reduce costs, increase engagement, and gather valuable data on attendee behavior.

One of the most notable advantages of hybrid events is the ability to reach a global audience. Attendees can join the event from anywhere in the world, providing an opportunity for organizers to tap into new markets and expand their reach. This is particularly useful for B2B events, where attendees are often spread out across different countries. Moreover, it allows attendees to join the events that they would otherwise miss out due to geographical limitations.

Another advantage of hybrid events is the ability to increase engagement and interaction among attendees. Virtual elements such as live streaming, webinars, and interactive polls provide opportunities for attendees to participate in real-time and connect with each other, regardless of their location. Additionally, virtual elements such as chat rooms and breakout sessions enable attendees to network and collaborate in a way that was not possible before.

Hybrid events also provide organizers with valuable data on attendee behavior, which can be used to improve future events. For example, data on attendee engagement, audience demographics, and session attendance can be used to create more personalized and targeted event experiences. Furthermore, by recording sessions and making them available on-demand, organizers can extend the life of their events and continue to engage with attendees long after the event has ended.

The result of all these advantages, it is clear that elements of hybrid events are now considered part of the norm in the event industry. Organizers are now incorporating virtual elements such as live streaming and virtual reality experiences in their events, regardless of whether the event is in-person or virtual. Furthermore, attendees now expect virtual components to be a part of events and are more likely to attend an event if virtual options are available.

As the events industry evolves, it is becoming apparent that hybrid events, which blend in-person and virtual components, will simply be considered as "events". The integration of virtual elements in events is no longer an option, but rather a standard that is here to stay.