YouTube is the go-to place for just about anything these days and it’s only getting bigger as time goes on. For those outside the phenomenon, the video platform is not just a website, it’s a community of millions around the world. Hence YouTube Events.
VidCon
Vidcon is the biggest and best of the YouTube events. Originally started in 2010 by the vlogbrothers (real life names: Hank and John Green), VidCon gets tens of thousands of attendees today. It’s got all the hallmarks of a traditional conference — talks, meet and greets, keynotes, workshops and so on — while celebrating some very untraditional things. It’s been called the “heart” of YouTube and is truly a great place to get to know the ins and outs of digital video and YouTube. 2017 sees it expanding to Europe and Australia for the first time ever.
YouTube Fan Fest
This event not a convention, but rather a live show that travels around the world. The YouTube Fan Fest travelled from India to Canada to Australia to Brazil in just a few months in 2016, so keep an eye out for one happening near you in 2017! Each edition is tailored to what local audiences are into so they can see their favourite stars in action in real time rather than via video.
Playlist Live
Playlist Live is a multi-day event was created by AKT Enterprises with the aim of helping fans to meet their favorite online stars in real life. It started out being held once a year but has since expanded due to its popularity. There are always plenty of interactive activities on the schedule and lots of talented online stars to meet.
Streamy Awards
The Streamys are the Oscars – well, more like the VMA’s of YouTube. This awards show celebrates the very best in online video, which includes sites like Vine (RIP) on top of YouTube. The show was even aired on live television in 2015 on VH1. There are always plenty of famous YouTubers on hand, as well as an increasing number of stars from mainstream media. You might just see the next big thing getting an award here!
Summer in the City
As you might guess, this event is actually held in summer! (The city is London). This event usually gets pretty packed with fans and followers who are desperate just to see online stars in real life. They might get the chance to do this at a meet and greet or a live performance, or maybe even a panel session. Summer in the City is also famous for its merch hall, which is full of all kinds of souvenirs and things to take home as a memento.
Buffer Festival
If The Sreamys are the VMA’s then The Buffer Festival is the Cannes of Youtube events. It is a special occasion where you’ll be treated to debuts of quality content. Even better? You’ll get to see them on the big screen. Of course, as this is a film festival, you’ll also get the full red carpet show, discussion sessions and exclusive presentations.
Vlogger Fair
Are all vloggers YouTubers? Are all YouTubers vloggers? The answers to those questions are no and we’re not sure — but either way, you’ll want to check out this event dedicated to all things vlogs. 2016 saw the fourth year of the festival, so we can’t wait to see what they have in store for their fifth anniversary. There are events geared both towards industry professionals and also to fans so they can meet their favorite vloggers.
