Your Ultimate Guide to Hosting an Unforgettable GIS Day Event
So, you did it - you’ve registered to host your GIS Day event! First of all, congrats! You’ve taken an exciting step to join a global movement celebrating the power of GIS. The initial thrill is amazing, but it’s often followed by a big question: “Okay, what do I do now?”
Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. Hosting a successful event is all about planning, and to help you out, I've put together a list of resources and ideas from the official GIS Day website, broken down into what you can do before, during, and after your event.
Phase 1: Before the Event - Laying the Groundwork for Success
This is where the magic begins. A little preparation goes a long way in creating a smooth and impactful event.
- Craft Your Message: Your first step is to get the word out, and you don't have to start from scratch. The GIS Day media kit is your go-to tool, offering a treasure trove of themed posters, social media templates, and official logos to give your event a professional polish.
- Plan Your Mission: Who do you want to reach? The beauty of GIS Day is its versatility. The website offers a fantastic activities section with curated ideas for every age group—from map coloring for kids to deep dives into climate change for adults. Tailor your agenda to your audience to ensure everyone leaves inspired.
- Gather Your Goodies: Everyone loves swag! The digital swag page has fun, downloadable materials that can add a memorable touch to your celebration.
- Post Your Event Details: Spread the word! Post your GIS Day event to the GIS Day 2025 Forum and include any details, questions or advice on GIS Day that others can benefit from.
Phase 2: During the Event - Creating an Unforgettable Experience
When the big day arrives, your goal is to create an environment of discovery and excitement.
- Engage Your Audience: The best events are interactive. Get your attendees involved with hands-on lessons that let them experience GIS firsthand. Whether it’s building a story map or analyzing real-world data, participation is key.
- Showcase the Power of Maps: Maps are at the heart of GIS. Curate a collection of stunning and informative maps to display. Need inspo? The Virtual Map Gallery is filled with incredible examples from folks all around the world.
- Capture the Magic: Be sure to take plenty of photos and videos! These aren't just for memories; they're powerful tools for showing the impact of your event. Encourage attendees to share their experiences on Esri Community and social media using this year's event hashtag #GISDay2025.
Phase 3: After the Event - Keeping the Momentum Going
The event might be over, but continuing to celebrate the power of GIS is just the beginning.
- Share Your Story: Post your favorite moments on social media and consider writing a recap on the GIS Day 2025 Forum. Your story could be the spark that inspires next year’s hosts. Check out last year's GIS Day posts to get some inspo for your post.
- Acknowledge Everyone: A simple thank you goes a long way. Sending out official certificates of participation is a wonderful gesture that makes your attendees feel valued and appreciated. You can download your free certificates here.
- Look to the Future: The world of GIS is always evolving. Keep the learning going by exploring recordings from past GIS Day events. You’ll find fresh ideas and inspiration for your next event.
Hosting a GIS Day event can be a journey, but it’s one that's certainly rewarding. Remember, the goal is to share your passion, inspire curiosity, and have fun. You’re now part of a global tradition, and you’re going to do great!
