When planning an event, one of the first and most crucial decisions you'll make is whether to schedule it during the week or on the weekend. Each option offers distinct advantages depending on your event’s goals, the type of attendees you’re targeting, and your overall budget. As you plan your next conference, trade show, or corporate gathering, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each choice to ensure maximum impact.

Cost Considerations: Weekdays Offer Savings

One of the biggest advantages of hosting an event during the week is the cost savings. Weekday venue rental rates are often significantly more affordable than weekend rates, and the same applies to catering, accommodations, and many other vendor services. Additionally, because weekday slots are less in demand, vendors may offer better pricing and more flexible terms.

Attendance and Accessibility: Weekends Offer Flexibility

While weekdays can be cost-effective, weekend events tend to offer more flexibility for attendees. Many people prefer events on weekends as they don’t conflict with their work schedules, which can be especially beneficial for larger conferences, trade shows, or social gatherings. For attendees traveling from afar, weekends provide additional time to attend without work-related pressure.

However, weekday events still have their place—especially when targeting industry professionals who are accustomed to scheduling events during the business week. Weekdays can also be ideal for more local gatherings, where attendees are already within close proximity.

Vendor Availability: Weekdays Provide More Options

Another significant advantage of hosting an event on a weekday is the availability of high-quality vendors. With fewer events scheduled during the week, you may find it easier to secure top-tier service providers, whether you need AV equipment, catering, or entertainment. Additionally, with less demand on weekdays, you’re likely to receive more personalized service from vendors and event staff.

Competition: Weekdays Offer Less Overlap

When you host an event on the weekend, it’s often competing with other major events, such as trade shows, conferences, and social gatherings. Weekday events generally face less competition for attention, allowing your event to stand out and attract a larger share of your target audience. With fewer competing events, you can maximize your marketing efforts and increase your event's visibility.

Networking Opportunities: Weekdays Foster Focused Interaction

Weekday events are typically more work-focused and structured. Attendees at weekday events are often there for professional development and networking, which leads to more focused interactions and greater opportunities for collaboration. These events also tend to encourage attendees to stay for the full duration, knowing that their primary objective is to enhance their business or industry knowledge.

Attendee Experience: Weekends Provide a Relaxed Atmosphere

Weekend events often carry a more relaxed and social atmosphere. With fewer work obligations, attendees have more time to explore the venue, take part in leisure activities, or visit local attractions. This makes weekends particularly appealing for events that blend business with leisure, such as corporate retreats, product launches, or networking socials.

Choosing the Right Time: Aligning with Your Goals

 

• Weekdays are ideal if you want: Lower costs, professional networking, focused business events, and less competition from other events.
• Weekends are perfect if you want: Flexibility for attendees, a more relaxed atmosphere, opportunities for leisure, and events that cater to a broader audience.

Take Advantage of the MassMutual Center Planner Incentive

As you plan your next event, consider booking with the MassMutual Center in Springfield. We’re offering an exclusive event planner incentive deal with 35% off room rentals for select dates in 2025, along with two complimentary perks to elevate your event:

• Complimentary Small Meeting Package: Includes essential AV equipment, such as a fast fold screen, Pro Class LCD, Shure BLX microphone, and more.
• VIP Amenity: Receive a complimentary VIP amenity from Explore Western Mass, valued up to $50.

For more information and to lock in your incentive deal, submit an RFP.

Takeaway:

The best time to schedule your event depends on your goals, audience, and budget. With the added benefit of the MassMutual Center’s flexible spaces and our planner incentive offer, you can rest assured that your event will make a lasting impact—no matter when you choose to host it.