TL;DR
Don't overlook: quality reusable cups (save money, reduce waste), sustainability credentials, consistent branding, atmosphere building, and memorable souvenirs. These details make or break your festival.
Organising a successful festival involves juggling countless details. Here are five crucial elements that often get overlooked but can make or break your event:
1. The Right Cups
Cheap disposables create litter and frustration. Quality reusable cups enhance the experience and reduce waste management costs.
The choice of drinkware might seem minor, but it affects everything from the attendee experience to your environmental footprint to your bottom line. Reusable cups with a deposit system actually save money compared to single-use alternatives, while creating a more sustainable event.
2. Sustainability Credentials
Today's festival-goers care about environmental impact. Make sustainable choices and communicate them clearly.
Sustainability isn't just good for the planet - it's good for business. Attendees increasingly choose events based on their environmental practices. Be transparent about your efforts and make sustainability part of your story.
3. Consistent Branding
Every element should reinforce your festival's identity, from signage to merchandise to drinkware.
Inconsistent branding creates a disjointed experience. When every touchpoint feels part of the same world, you strengthen emotional connection and create a more immersive experience.
4. Atmosphere Building
It's the small details that create magic. Consider how every touchpoint contributes to the overall vibe.
From the lighting to the decorations, from the music between sets to the design of the food stalls - everything contributes to atmosphere. Pay attention to the small details that transform a gathering into an experience.
5. Memorable Souvenirs
Give attendees something to remember you by. Branded cups double as both a practical item and a lasting keepsake.
People love tangible reminders of great experiences. A quality branded cup isn't just functional during the event - it becomes a treasured memento that keeps your festival top of mind all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are reusable cups really more cost-effective than disposables?
Yes, when you factor in reduced waste collection costs, lower cleanup staffing, and revenue from unreturned deposits. Many organisers find reusables pay for themselves.
How do I communicate sustainability efforts to attendees?
Use signage at entry points, social media announcements, website content, and on-site messaging. Explain your cup deposit system and recycling initiatives clearly.
What makes a cup design 'memorable' enough to keep?
High print quality, unique artwork, and connection to a positive experience. Limited edition designs, year-specific artwork, and premium materials all encourage keeping rather than returning.
