Current trends show people getting out and taking advantage of every opportunity – which is good news for event planners! As people crave new experiences, seek to live in the moment, and make the most out of each day, events are getting booked up, and this looks to continue into 2025.
9 Event access control trends
1.    Mobile-first event access
Smartphones are your means of communication, calendar, bank, camera, streaming device, and so much more – so why not leverage this for event access? In 2025, we can expect to see mobile technology advancing beyond ticket scanning to self-service check-in and real-time updates on events. Event organisers will also use mobile apps for crowd management and event logistics as up-to-the-minute data can inform decisions.
2.    Self-service event access
Events in 2025 will incorporate self-service kiosks and access points as a way to minimise bottlenecks at entry points. These smart kiosks will support cashless payments and multilingual support, while ensuring that attendees can easily navigate the event. The lack of paper in self-service kiosks also makes the event that much more sustainable.
3.    RFID wristbands
RFID – Radio Frequency Identification – wristbands are another event access trend for 2025. These high-tech wristbands allow for contactless entry and can be linked to cashless payment systems to simplify transactions. With RFID, attendees can leave wallets and phones behind, creating a hassle-free, secure experience.
4.    Biometric wristbands
For high-profile events where security is paramount, we will see more biometric wristbands being. These allow the wearer to use fingerprint or facial recognition so there is absolutely no risk of swapping wristbands.
5.    Eco-friendly wristbands
With sustainability a must in all event planning, we can expect more eco-friendly wristband options such as recyclable, biodegradable, and reusable wristbands. These will be crafted out of sustainable materials like bamboo, organic cotton, and biodegradable plastics.
6.    Smart LED Wristbands
While LED wristbands have been around for a while, it’s likely that we will see more of this trend going into 2025 as the visual effects are impressive and potential for social media marketing and visibility are extensive. These wristbands can sync with music or lights, programmed to change colour to match the beat, making them ideal for large-scale music concerts.
7.    Multi-day wristbands
For events lasting weekends or longer, we will continue to see fabric and Tyvek wristbands dominating as these are durable, non-transferable, and cost-effective. They can be worn for several days without discomfort, and are also customisable for the event. Businesses can custom designs, brand colours, and logos onto these wristbands, extending their marketing reach and making these a standout accessory.
8.    QR codes
Expect to see more incorporation of QR code scanning in event access next year with these codes added to tickets and wristbands for easy access. These also allow attendees to digitally connect, access event information, and stream content, making this a powerful engagement tool.
9.    AR and VR tools
Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools will continue to become more commonplace at events – both for access as well as experience. These technologies will work incredibly well in seminars, workshops, and product presentations as they allow the user to have an immersive and interactive experience
While a few innovative event access trends are set to evolve in 2025, wristbands, such as stripped Tyvek wristbands, are likely to remain the preferred method of event access, with the level of technology differing depending on the event security and budget. IDC Wristbands is excited to be at the forefront of these trends, delivering wristbands that keep attendees connected, engaged, and coming back for more.
