The recent unrest in Baltimore, MD forced the cancellation of a number of large conferences as well as many smaller events. For our GovEvents audience the most significant cancellation was the AFCEA Defensive Cyber Operations Symposium. The event has now been rescheduled for June 16-18 in Baltimore.
Now that the city is in a more stable place, we wanted to take a look at what these cancellations mean for event planners, attendees, and the city itself.Overcoming Charm City Challenges: The effect on event planners, attendees, and Baltimore. #GovEventsBlog Click To Tweet
For attendees there is the rearranging of schedules and the disappointment of not being able to attend the conference. Typically in these situations refunds will be given by conferences and hotels and should always be asked for. If refunds are granted, attendees can show their understanding and appreciation by re-registering for rescheduled events and patronizing (if possible) the hotel and other facilities that have waived any financial commitment.
Planners are likely looking at the force majeure language in their contracts that cover "acts of God" and situations out of their direct control. This article provides some perspective on contract language. Once planners have caught their breath and finished tying up the immediate loose ends, they need to look at their options. Deciding if a reschedule is feasible means coordinating with the venue, key vendors, and speakers. If they can get a majority on board for a new date, a reschedule makes sense and should have minimal impact on planned revenue and attendance.
For Baltimore, there is an obvious hit to revenue and reputation. 2015 was shaping up to be a record year for citywide conventions. The Convention and Visitors Bureau will have to work to build up a level of trust to attract new meetings to the city as well as work closely with already booked events to ensure they and their attendees have a level of comfort with the ongoing stability of the city and venues.
The city is already bouncing back with a successful free last minute concert with Prince. The Orioles are back in town and looking forward to playing to a packed house. The city is also gearing up to host the Preakness horse race, the second stop in the triple crown.
We'd encourage those of you looking for event locations to work with the officials and the venues in Baltimore to see if the city may be a fit for your next event. Building the economic base of the city through tourism and business can help create more programs and opportunities for the underserved communities in and around Baltimore.
