As the event industry continues to evolve, we at Huddle are excited to bring you the latest news and developments that are shaping the future of corporate events and meetings. From wellness initiatives to sustainable venues and cutting-edge entertainment facilities, here’s a rundown of the most recent and noteworthy happenings in our industry.
Caesars Entertainment Expands Wellness Offerings to Atlantic City
Caesars Entertainment, a hospitality giant that generated $11.5 billion in revenue in 2023, is doubling down on wellness for corporate events. After successfully launching in Las Vegas in January 2024, the company has now expanded its wellness program to Atlantic City, New Jersey. This expansion covers three major properties: Caesars Atlantic City, Harrah’s Atlantic City, and Tropicana Atlantic City.
The wellness menu, designed for meeting planners and event organizers, offers a curated selection of wellness keynote speakers, workshops, activities, and nutrient-rich F&B offerings. This initiative reflects a growing trend in the corporate event space, where wellness and health-conscious options are becoming increasingly important to attendees and organizers alike. Event planners looking to incorporate these elements into their Atlantic City events can now access Caesars’ new Atlantic City Catering Menu, which is available online.
New Luxury Meetings Venue in Downtown Indianapolis
Corporate event planners will soon have a new option for hosting events in Indianapolis. The InterContinental Indianapolis, set to open this winter, promises to be a standout venue in the heart of downtown. This luxury hotel boasts 170 rooms and is situated near Monument Circle, featuring a contemporary entrance canopy, grand staircase, lobby bar, and an impressive eight-story atrium. Guests and event attendees will have access to two restaurants, a rooftop bar, and a 24-hour fitness center.
The hotel’s event facilities are particularly noteworthy, offering 4,800 square feet of flexible space equipped with the latest technology. The centerpiece is a 2,473-square-foot ballroom, complemented by two 500-square-foot meeting rooms and a 420-square-foot executive boardroom that can accommodate 16 guests. For more intimate gatherings, there’s a 305-square-foot lounge. Larger events can take advantage of the 2,059-square-foot banquet room, while 488 square feet of pre-function space provides ample room for networking and registration.
Additionally, the Astrea Rooftop Bar offers flexible dining spaces that can be booked for private events, providing a unique setting with potentially stunning views of the Indianapolis skyline. This combination of luxury accommodations and versatile event spaces makes the InterContinental Indianapolis an exciting new option for planners looking to host memorable events in the Midwest.
Nation’s First All-Electric Conference Center Opens in Upstate New York
In a significant step towards sustainable events, ASM Global has unveiled the country’s first fully electric conference center in Ithaca, New York. The Ithaca Downtown Conference Center (IDCC) sets a new standard for eco-
friendly venues, running entirely on the New York State electric grid, which draws from various renewable sources including hydroelectric, nuclear, solar, and wind power.
Located in the picturesque Finger Lakes region, the IDCC offers over 15,000 square feet of flexible space across three stories. The venue’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operations, from its all-electric kitchen to its energy-efficient lighting and comprehensive recycling program. The center features a grand ballroom spanning 10,620 square feet, a junior ballroom of 3,814 square feet, and an intimate 580-square-foot executive boardroom. Up to 12 flexible bi-level meeting rooms provide additional options for breakout sessions and smaller gatherings. The pre-function space is adorned with a nature-inspired decor, featuring murals of the local scenery.
The IDCC’s sustainability features are comprehensive and innovative. The building utilizes air-source heat pumps for heating, cooling, and hot water, while a composting system and extensive recycling program minimize waste. Attendees are encouraged to use reusable water bottle refill stations, and the catering menu includes at least 35% plant-based options. Single-use items have been eliminated, and grab-and-go food items come in biodegradable packaging. Leftover prepared food finds new life in the venue’s “Green on the Go” retail store, further reducing waste. Even the fryer oil is repurposed as fuel. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
The IDCC’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its operations to its location. Situated steps away from the vibrant Ithaca Commons pedestrian mall, the center encourages attendees to explore local shops, restaurants, and entertainment, further reducing the carbon footprint of events.
Abu Dhabi Sphere: A New Entertainment Venue on the Horizon
Sphere Entertainment, known for its groundbreaking Las Vegas venue, has confirmed plans for a second location in Abu Dhabi. This announcement comes after securing multiple trademarks in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, signaling potential expansion in the Middle East.
While details are limited, we know that the Abu Dhabi Sphere will be similar in scale to the Las Vegas original, with an expected capacity of around 20,000 seats. The project is a joint venture between Sphere Entertainment and the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi, with DCT Abu Dhabi set to pay an annual fee to Sphere for the use of the venue.
This development follows a previously unsuccessful attempt to build a Sphere in London, suggesting that the company is pivoting its expansion plans towards the Middle East. The Abu Dhabi Sphere promises to bring a unique and immersive entertainment experience to the region, potentially transforming the landscape for large-scale events and performances.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, the event industry is experiencing exciting developments across various fronts. From Caesars Entertainment’s focus on wellness to the opening of sustainable venues like the IDCC, and from luxury urban hotels to futuristic entertainment spheres, the options for event planners are expanding and diversifying.
These trends reflect a growing emphasis on attendee well-being, sustainability, and immersive experiences. As we at Huddle continue to monitor these developments, we’re excited about the possibilities they present for creating memorable and impactful events.
Stay tuned to Huddle’s Event Venue News for more updates on the latest trends and innovations in the event industry. Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, a product launch, or a team-building retreat, these new venues and initiatives offer fresh opportunities to elevate your next event.
