Summer Events Don’t Have to Suffer—Here’s How to Boost Engagement When the Sun’s Out 

Photo Credit: Leah Martin Photography / Baypath WLC / Baypath Women's Conference 2025

Let’s face it—summer events are tough. People are distracted. Out-of-office replies are endless. But with the right strategy, summer can actually be your event’s secret weapon. 

Here’s how to beat the summer slump and turn warm weather into a warm welcome—straight from the team at MassMutual Center in Springfield, MA. 

1. Make It Walkable & Worth It
Attendees love events that feel effortless. Hosting in a compact, walkable city like Springfield means less time commuting and more time connecting. At MassMutual Center, guests can explore restaurants, parks, museums, and even a casino—without needing a car.
• Summer Bonus: From outdoor concerts and food truck festivals to riverfront yoga, brewery patios, and Six Flags New England just 15 minutes away, there’s no shortage of summer fun steps from your event.

2. Embrace Seasonal Energy 

 Lean into what makes summer fun. Add local ice cream vendors to your expo hall, host a patio mixer, or schedule breaks for outdoor walks. Your attendees won’t just stay engaged—they’ll thank you for it. 

3. Keep It Cool (Literally) 

Comfort affects focus. Make sure your venue offers strong climate control and modern A/V so your programming runs smoothly, even when the temps spike. At MassMutual Center, we combine cool interiors with hot hospitality. 

4. Focus on Micro-Moments 

 Summer attention spans are shorter—so your content should be tighter. Plan sessions in digestible blocks, include movement or music, and offer plenty of chances to connect over coffee, games, or giveaways. 

5. Choose a Partner, Not Just a Venue 

Success comes down to the people behind the scenes. When you work with a team like ours at MassMutual Center, you get support at every step—from planning logistics to day-of energy boosts. 

In short: Summer events don’t have to feel like a slog. With the right location, thoughtful programming, and a little seasonal magic, your summer gathering can be the most memorable one of the year. 

Ready to bring your event to life? Let's talk: Submit an RFP