A virtual event is an online gathering where attendees interact in an online environment instead of meeting in person.  

Virtual events, aka webinars,  gained their popularity  during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since most people couldn’t leave the house,  virtual events became the new normal for many. From family and friends hosting quiz nights on Zoom to B2B brands organising virtual summits and trade expos online.

Now that the COVID pandemic is far behind us, naturally, many marketers are questioning the future of webinars. Are people tired of virtual meetings and prefer face-to-face events? Or did webinars become the new norm, where everyone chooses to attend events from the comfort of their home? In this blog post, we’ll discuss the future of virtual events in 2026.  

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The Future of Virtual Events in 2026

Virtual events saw a growth of 1000% since 2020, but many thought the hype would fade away after 78% of event organisers showed an interest of returning to in-person events in 2022. As of 2025, we have no doubt that the influence of virtual events will continue to grow throughout 2026.  

Business Research Industry reports that the Global Virtual Events market size is expected to rise from £124.08 billion in 2025 to £145.59 billion in 2026, eventually reaching around £541.13 billion by 2034, progressing at a CAGR of 17.3% between 2025 and 2034.  

Not only that, according to Demand Sage, 73% of B2B Marketing and Sales leaders consider webinars to be the most effective method for generating high-quality leads.

Virtual events have gained significant traction due to several key factors that are driving their growth in 2026. One of the most prominent factors is the unprecedented reach they provide.  

Unlike traditional in-person events, virtual gatherings can accommodate participants from all corners of the globe, breaking down physical barriers and enabling a truly global audience.  

This expanded reach not only increases the potential for engagement and networking but also opens new opportunities for businesses to expand their reach and tap into international markets.

Another factor contributing to the growth of virtual events is the advancement in technology. With the widespread availability of high-speed internet and sophisticated virtual event platforms, hosting and participating in virtual events has become seamless and user-friendly. The emergence of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies has further enhanced the immersive experience of virtual events, making them even more appealing to attendees.

Finally, with climate concerns and growing awareness of sustainability, webinars are truly a sustainable way to host an event. It doesn’t require unnecessary travel, doesn’t leave a ton of food waste after the event, etc.

To sum up, virtual events are far from dead in 2026. Their market value is growing, and they are a preferred type of event format among many B2B marketers.

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Overview of Key Technologies Shaping 2026 Virtual Events

With the rapid pace of technological innovation, key technologies are shaping the future of virtual events and transforming the way we connect and engage with one another. One such technology is augmented reality (AR), which is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the virtual event experience.  

AR enables participants to interact with virtual objects and environments in real-time, creating a more immersive and engaging experience. This technology has the potential to revolutionise the way virtual events are conducted, allowing for more interactive presentations, product demonstrations, and networking opportunities.

A key technology shaping virtual events in 2026 is artificial intelligence (AI). AI has already made significant strides in various industries, and its impact on virtual events is expected to be no different. AI-powered chatbots, for example, can provide personalised assistance and support to attendees, answering their questions and guiding them through the event. AI can also be used to analyse attendee data and generate valuable insights, helping event organisers design their offerings to meet the specific needs and preferences of their audience.

Looking ahead, AI’s role is expected to become more autonomous by 2026. Forrester Research predicts that AI will shift from “hype to hard-hat" work, meaning practical, ROI-driven applications will dominate.  

Furthermore, virtual reality (VR) is another technology that will continue to shape virtual events in 2026. Around 91% of businesses have already adopted or plan to adopt VR and AR technologies.  

VR allows participants to fully immerse themselves in a virtual environment, creating a sense of presence and realism. This technology can be used to create virtual trade show booths, networking lounges, and immersive experiences that mimic the feel of an in-person event. With VR, attendees can explore virtual spaces, interact with exhibitors, and engage in meaningful conversations with other participants.

The year 2026 will witness the integration of key technologies that will shape the future of virtual events. AR, AI, and VR are just a few examples of the innovative technologies that are set to enhance the virtual event experience.

These technologies have the potential to create more immersive and engaging environments, provide personalised assistance to attendees, and generate valuable insights for event organisers. As we move towards a more digital and connected world, these key technologies will play a vital role in redefining how we plan, host, and participate in virtual events.

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📖 Useful read: Webinar Best Practices: A B2B Marketer’s Blueprint  

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Advantages of Virtual Events in 2025

One of the key benefits of virtual events is their sustainability - around 96% of marketers report supporting DEI and sustainability goals. By eliminating the need for attendees to travel to a physical location, virtual events significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation. This aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility.  

Additionally, virtual events require minimal cost compared to traditional in-person events. Organisers can save over £30,000 per event on venue fees, catering expenses, and other logistical costs, making it a more affordable option for both small and large-scale events.

One benefit of virtual events is the abundance of data that can be collected and analysed. Through various analytics tools, organisers can gather valuable insights into attendee behaviour, engagement levels, and preferences. This data can be used to improve future events, tailor content to specific audiences, and enhance the overall attendee experience. It also provides valuable feedback for sponsors and exhibitors, allowing them to better understand the impact of their participation.

In 2025, when the world is still grappling with uncertainties and risks associated with large gatherings, virtual events offer a reduced-risk alternative. By eliminating the physical presence of attendees, organisers can ensure the safety and well-being of participants. This is particularly important in times of public health crises or other unforeseen circumstances that may pose a threat to public gatherings. Virtual events allow for seamless communication and interaction between attendees, speakers, and exhibitors without compromising safety.

So virtual events in 2025 offer numerous advantages that make them an attractive option for event organisers. They contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing carbon emissions associated with transportation, they are cost-effective compared to traditional events, they provide valuable data that can be used for improvement, and they minimise risks associated with large gatherings. As technology continues to advance and virtual event platforms become more sophisticated, 78% of companies plan to keep or grow their budgets in 2026.  

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📖 You might also like: Virtual Event Marketing Strategies for Modern B2B

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Overcoming Virtual Event Challenges in 2026

Virtual events have allowed for greater accessibility and convenience, and it has also brought about a new set of challenges that event organisers need to overcome. One such challenge is preventing virtual fatigue among attendees. With back-to-back online meetings and events, it is easy for participants to feel overwhelmed and lose interest. To address this, event organisers can incorporate interactive elements into their virtual events, such as live polls, Q&A sessions, and breakout rooms. These activities help to keep attendees engaged and prevent virtual fatigue.

Also, organisers should consider trimming the length of their virtual events from 60 minutes to 30 or 45 minutes in 2026. At the same time, longer events should be broken down into 10, 15 or 20-minute segments.  

Security is a concern that arises with virtual event planning. With the increase in online activities, there is a higher risk of cyber threats and data breaches. Event organisers have to take the necessary measures to ensure the security and privacy of their attendees.  

This can be done by using secure platforms for hosting virtual events, implementing multi-factor authentication for participants, and regularly updating security protocols. Moreover, organisers should educate attendees on best practices for online security, such as using strong passwords and avoiding sharing sensitive information over unsecured networks.  

By prioritising security concerns, event organisers can build trust with their attendees and create a safe environment for virtual events.

While virtual events are staying popular in 2026, they come with their own set of challenges. Preventing virtual fatigue and addressing security concerns are two important aspects in 2026 that event organisers need to focus on.  

By incorporating interactive elements and breaking up events into shorter sessions, organisers can keep attendees engaged and prevent virtual fatigue.

Additionally, implementing secure platforms and educating attendees on online security practices can mitigate the risk of cyber threats and protect the privacy of participants. Overcoming these challenges will not only enhance the virtual event experience but also ensure the success of future online gatherings.

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Conclusion

The trajectory of virtual events in 2026 is one of continued growth, propelled by technological advancements, sustainability benefits, and adaptability to current global challenges. While challenges persist, proactive measures in addressing virtual fatigue and security concerns will be instrumental in ensuring the ongoing success and evolution of virtual events. As we navigate this digital landscape, virtual events emerge not only as a response to necessity but as a cornerstone in the future of event experiences.

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The Future of Virtual Events with MyOutreach  

Whatever tech or SaaS insights you have to share with your audience, MyOutreach helps you stay ahead in the future of virtual events. We provide virtual event production and webinar hosting services backed by a performance guarantee to deliver the registration numbers you need for success - and in certain cases, we can guarantee attendance, too.  

With MyOutreach as your virtual event and webinar production partner, looking after all the logistics and promotion, you have the space to focus on building relationships and driving conversions, with peace of mind knowing your online engagement strategy is in great hands. Learn more.

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FAQs

Q1: Will virtual events still be popular in 2026?

Absolutely. Industry forecasts show that the global virtual events market is expected to reach £145.59 billion in 2026 and continue expanding through 2034. Instead of fading after the pandemic, virtual events have become an essential part of corporate and B2B marketing strategies.

Q2: How do AR, VR, and AI improve the virtual event experience?

These technologies enhance immersion and personalisation. AR and VR create interactive, realistic environments for networking and product demos, while AI delivers personalised experiences by analysing attendee data, automating engagement, and providing real-time support.

Q3: How much money can businesses save by going virtual?

On average, organisations save over £30,000 per event by avoiding venue, travel, and catering expenses. Virtual events also extend global reach, so companies get higher ROI for less financial and environmental cost.

Q4: How can organisers combat virtual fatigue?

Keep sessions short and dynamic, lasting 30-45 minutes and include polls, Q&A, and breakout rooms. Interactive features and segmented agendas keep energy levels high and audiences engaged.

Q5: Are virtual events safe from cyber threats?

Yes, if managed properly. Event organisers should use secure platforms, enable multi-factor authentication, and educate attendees on online safety.  

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