10 Unmissable Media and Marketing events in the first half of 2024

Things move fast in our world of media, marketing and adtech. 

As 2023 disappears into the rearview mirror, the shape of 2024 is becoming clearer by the day. In the coming months, a series of highly anticipated events promise to bring together industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts. 

From thought-provoking discussions about the future of marketing, to the recognition of outstanding achievements in Business Development, these gatherings are set to shape the narrative of our industry for the upcoming year. 

Here’s a brief overview of the must-attend events on the horizon.

March

1. SXSW, Austin, Texas (8th-16th March):

Nestled in the heart of Texas, the South by Southwest (SXSW) has become an essential destination for creatives across the globe. The Festival features music and comedy showcases, film and television screenings, world-class exhibitions, professional development and networking opportunities, tech competitions, awards ceremonies, and much more. 

From emerging technologies to groundbreaking films, SXSW is a melting pot of creativity and innovation. You can attend talks on a wide range of topics from advertising, brand experience, design and XR, to AI. 

Look out for UK House @ SXSW hosted by UKAEG / UK Advertising featuring 30 official talks and 93 speakers, plus 2 networking events with the American Advertising Federation. 

Link: https://www.sxsw.com/about/ 

2. Connect TV World Summit, London (12th-13th March):

Focused on the fast-evolving world of television, the Connect TV World Summit brings together professionals and experts to discuss the latest trends and strategies shaping the industry. Attendees can expect deep insights into the future of television and its impact on the broader media landscape.

Link: https://www.adwantedevents.com/ctvws/4552311 

April

3. POSSIBLE, Miami (15th-17th April):

Sunshine and marketing thought leaders. Name a better combination? 

Held in Fontaine Bleu (where Goldfinger was filmed), POSSIBLE has a reputation for delivering stellar line ups of distinguished, disruptive leaders in marketing and featured Elon Musk as a speaker in its first year. While details about Possible are still under wraps, the mere mention of its name sparks curiosity. Set for mid-April, this event is generating buzz for its potential to bring fresh perspectives and insights to the forefront of the marketing and media sectors. 

Link: https://possibleevent.com/ 

May

4. ALF Awards featuring The BD100, London (1st May):

The ALF Awards, featuring The BD100, is a celebration of Business Development excellence in advertising, media, and marketing. This event not only recognizes outstanding achievements but also provides a platform for networking with the best and brightest in the industry.

Link: https://www.alfawards.com/bd100-event-registration 

5. OMR, Hamburg (7th-8th May):

Taking place in Hamburg, OMR, or Online Marketing Rockstars, is a two-day event that brings together marketing professionals from various backgrounds. With a focus on digital marketing, OMR promises inspiring keynotes, hands-on workshops, and ample networking opportunities.

Link: https://omr.com/en 

6. Advertising Week London, London (14th-16th May):

A highlight on the global marketing calendar, Advertising Week London gathers industry leaders, creative minds, and technology innovators. This event provides a platform for sharing ideas, fostering collaboration, and exploring the latest advancements in advertising.

This year is the 10th live edition of Advertising Week and will be moving to a new location this year, taking place at 180 Studios, London – located below 180 Soho House meaning lucky members can go for a morning swim before the event! This will include new themed zones, multiple networking lounges, community meetups, a bookable clubhouse for meetings, a co-working garden and other bespoke events.

Link: https://advertisingweek.com/event/advertising-week-europe-2024/ 

7. Campaign Media 360, London (21st-22nd May):

Focused on media strategy, Campaign Media 360 is a two-day event offering a comprehensive view of the media landscape. Attendees can gain valuable insights into effective media planning, audience engagement, and the future of media consumption.

Link: https://media360.campaignlive.co.uk/ 

June

8. Drum Marketing Awards EMEA, London (13th June):

Recognizing and celebrating marketing excellence, the Drum Marketing Awards EMEA is a prestigious event that highlights the most innovative and effective marketing campaigns across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

Link: https://www.thedrummarketingawards.com/emea 

9. Cannes Lions, Cannes (17th-21st June):

Cannes comes around fast. 

A cornerstone of the creative calendar, Cannes Lions is the ultimate gathering for the global advertising and creative communications industry. Expect a week filled with inspiration, networking, and the celebration of creativity in all its forms. Awards. Cannes Lions 2024 hosts a vast array of free fringe events, panels, presentations, roundtable discussions and parties taking place throughout the week, alongside the main official talks taking place in the Palais.

The Propeller team will be in Cannes throughout the week with our clients helping them activate across a range of panels, events and meet ups. Get in touch if you’d like any help with your own Cannes plans and watch out for Propeller’s annual Fringe Events and Parties List, which has become the definitive industry guide to daily fringe events and parties, open invite events and exclusive guest list gatherings.

Link: https://www.canneslions.com/ 

July

10. MADFest, London (2nd-4th July):

Closing the first half of the year, MADFest (Marketing, Advertising, and Design Festival) puts a focus on the intersection of creativity and technology, giving attendees a comprehensive sense of the trends shaping marketing. Located in the Truman Brewery, Shoreditch, the MAD//FEST team have taken on a bigger space to deliver on the increased popularity of the event which led to BIG queues last year.

Fortune favours the bold. MAD//Fest London 2024 will focus on the global brands, challengers + entrepreneurs who are boldly going where others haven’t been before. You’ll hear from the pioneers who have been brave enough to step up, take calculated risks + put their reputations on the line. You’ll discover creative + innovative work that turns heads. You’ll learn how to take your own marketing to dizzying new heights + push the possibilities of what it can achieve. 

Link: https://www.madfestlondon.com/ 

As we look ahead to these events, marketers, advertisers, and media professionals can anticipate a whirlwind of insights, innovation, and collaboration. In person events are powerful forges for sparking connections and crafting opportunities. 

Whether you’re seeking to stay abreast of industry trends or connect with like-minded professionals, these events offer unparalleled opportunities to elevate your knowledge and expertise in the dynamic world of marketing and media. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the cutting edge of the industry. 

Want to learn more about these events and what you can expect from each? Click here to get in touch.