Safety concerns are reshaping how people view large conventions. Recent shootings and threats have forced creators, brands, and fans to reconsider whether the benefits of massive events outweigh the risks.
Many top streamers have already pulled back from attending well-known cons. The esports shooting in Jacksonville prompted Twitch to overhaul its policies. They added bag checks, re-entry limits, and a stronger law enforcement presence. Despite these changes, the fear of high-profile security incidents lingers.
Event planners also face new challenges. Large gatherings attract disruptive behavior, public protests, and increased security threats. Venues that once felt safe now need extensive coordination with local authorities, private security, and strict entry rules. These measures raise costs and can make the attendee experience less enjoyable.
Because of these concerns, smaller gatherings are emerging as a strong alternative. Instead of thousands of attendees in one convention hall, more creators and businesses are exploring events with 50 to 100 guests. Streamer retreats, corporate offsites, and private gatherings create a safer and more personal atmosphere. Guests often enjoy more direct interaction with hosts, better networking, and less stress about crowd safety.
For this shift to work, venues must meet specific needs:
- Multiple bedrooms for overnight stays
- Meeting and office spaces
- High speed internet strong enough for streaming
- Basic security such as access control and guest vetting
Our own property already provides many of these features, but we still have improvements to make. Even so, it is clear the trend is moving away from giant conventions toward smaller, more controlled events. Safety, personal connection, and reliability are becoming the new priorities.
Would you attend a small venue retreat instead of a big convention?
