Promoting an event is more than just getting people through the door; it's about building excitement and encouraging engagement before, during, and after the event. Smart promotion can make the difference between a few attendees and a packed house. It’s not just what you say but how and where you get the message out.

By using free, yet powerful, promotion channels effectively, you can increase attendance, build buzz, and create lasting impressions—without burning a hole in your budget. Whether you're pushing an in-person event, a virtual webinar, or anything in between, adopting the right strategies can drive attendance while amplifying your brand's reach. From tapping into everyday social media platforms to partnering with local influencers, there are countless ways to spread the word in 2024 without spending a dime.

Let's explore the 38 best ways to market your event for free!

Social Media Platforms

If you're not using social media to promote your event, you're leaving a lot on the table. These platforms are not only free but give you instant access to a massive audience. Here's how you can leverage the big players:

1. Facebook Events: Create an event page on Facebook. It’s easy to set up, and users can RSVP with one click. Remember to invite people directly and encourage your attendees to share the event. According to Hootsuite, over 70% of U.S. adults use Facebook, making it a no-brainer for promotion.

2. Instagram Stories: Use Instagram to build excitement in the weeks leading up to your event. Tease behind-the-scenes content, countdowns, and speaker reveals using Stories, which are easily shareable and highly engaging. Swipe-up links (for accounts with >10k followers) make it even easier for users to register.

3. Twitter Hashtags: Create a unique hashtag for your event and encourage attendees to use it when tweeting or sharing content. This builds buzz and makes it easier to track and engage with conversations surrounding your event. Tools like Hashtags.org can help optimize hashtag choices and visibility.

Community Boards

4. Local Forums

Local forums and community boards can be treasure troves for event promotion. Whether it’s a city-specific website, a neighborhood bulletin board, or a forum dedicated to a local interest group, get your event in front of the right crowd. Not only are these platforms hyper-local, but they also attract people genuinely interested in community happenings. Platforms like Nextdoor or even specialty forums, like hiking groups for outdoor events, can provide free exposure. Posting in these spaces lets you tap directly into niche audiences. Just make sure you abide by the community guidelines to avoid looking spammy!

5. Reddit Communities

Reddit can be a goldmine for event promotion – if you use it wisely. Subreddits (topic-specific forums on Reddit) can help you reach highly targeted audiences for your event. Whether it’s a city-based subreddit like r/newyork or an interest-based one like r/concerts, there’s likely a community that aligns with your event. The key here is authenticity and engagement: simply dropping event information without engaging can get you flagged as a self-promoter. Instead, be part of the conversation and share your event as a valuable opportunity.

Email Marketing

6. Newsletter Announcements

Leverage your existing email newsletter to spread the word about your event—it's one of the most cost-effective methods. Include event details in your weekly or monthly update. For a more targeted approach, segment your list based on interest or location, ensuring the right people hear about it. Tools like Mailchimp or Substack can help you manage these campaigns effortlessly. Remember, a well-timed reminder in the days leading up to the event can help boost attendance.

7. Personal Email Outreach

Sometimes, the personal touch makes all the difference. Compile a list of key contacts who would genuinely benefit from your event and reach out to them directly. Craft a simple, personable message explaining why you think they should join. This method is particularly effective for smaller, more niche events where personal relationships matter. By showing genuine interest in these individuals, you can increase the likelihood they’ll RSVP and spread the word to their own network. Think of it as a form of grassroots marketing that costs nothing but your time.

Event Listing Websites

8. Eventbrite

Eventbrite is one of the most popular platforms for promoting events of all kinds. It allows you to list both free and paid events, making it a go-to for organizers worldwide. The platform is known for its built-in audience and SEO capabilities, which help boost your event’s visibility in search engines. Plus, you can sell tickets directly through Eventbrite, making the process seamless for potential attendees. Check out Eventbrite to get started.

9. Meetup

Meetup is perfect for niche events. It helps bring like-minded people together based on shared interests and hobbies. Whether your event is focused on business networking or crafting workshops, Meetup makes it incredibly easy for people to discover and join. Even better? You can list events for free, significantly broadening your reach. Learn more at Meetup.

10. Craigslist Events

Don’t overlook Craigslist’s free events section. While not as flashy as other platforms, Craigslist is still a valuable tool for local events. It caters to a wide variety of interests. For grassroots, local gatherings or workshops, Craigslist can offer a surprising amount of visibility. Visit Craigslist to submit your event today.

Use EventX in Event

Promoting an event is much easier when you’ve got the right tools to handle logistics like ticketing, registration, and finding leads. That’s where EventX comes in. They’ve got a suite of features designed to streamline event promotion.

11. Event Registration Systems - Create a seamless registration process for your attendees. With tools like customizable sign-up forms and automatic confirmation emails, EventX.io helps reduce drop-off rates and encourages more sign-ups.

12. Event Ticketing Platforms - Take the hassle out of ticketing. EventX.io gives you the tools to sell tickets online, track sales, and even offer discounts or early-bird specials to boost interest.

13. Lead Finder - One of the hardest things about promoting an event is finding the right audience. EventX's Lead Finder helps you identify potential attendees, giving you a head start on tailoring your outreach to the right crowd. 

These tools will help you stay organized and make a bigger impact—without wasting time or resources. Start integrating smart tools like these to up your event promotion game.

Collaborate with Influencers

14. Social Media Influencers

Teaming up with social media influencers can massively boost your event's visibility, especially when you’re working on a tight budget. Find influencers with a loyal, engaged following that matches your event’s target audience. Offer them free tickets, VIP treatment, or other perks in exchange for promoting your event on their platforms. Influence is all about relevance, not follower count, so even micro-influencers (those with 10,000-50,000 followers) can be incredibly effective in getting your event noticed. For example, an Instagram influencer sharing stories about your event or a YouTuber mentioning it in their vlog can generate buzz without costing a dime.

15. Local Celebrities

Local celebrities, like radio hosts, news anchors, or popular restaurant owners, often have a strong connection with your community. Their endorsement can be particularly valuable for local events. Reach out to them via email or social media and offer them something special in return—free admission, a shoutout at the event, etc. You'd be surprised how supportive local icons can be when you ask nicely, and in many cases, they’ll be happy to promote a local happening that benefits the community.

Content Marketing

16. Blog Posts

Writing blog posts is a simple but effective way to promote your event while boosting your website's SEO. By creating content that highlights the value of your event, you can engage potential attendees while improving your site's Google ranking. For instance, write a detailed post discussing what makes your event unique, or share behind-the-scenes interviews with speakers or performers. Doing this creates a story people want to follow. Regular updates can help keep your event in readers' minds.

17. Guest Blogging

Leverage the power of guest blogging by partnering with other websites or publications that reach your target audience. Write engaging articles about your event or industry-related topics and mention your event naturally. It’s a great way to tap into existing communities that might not have heard about your event yet. Sites like Medium and HubSpot frequently accept guest submissions.

18. SEO Optimization

Don’t forget about SEO. Use relevant keywords like “best events 2024” or “free events near me” to ensure your content ranks. Tools like Google Trends or Ubersuggest help identify trending keywords that can bring organic traffic to your event page. Good SEO ensures your event gets the visibility it deserves.

Public Relations

19. Press Releases

A well-crafted press release can still do wonders. Even though we live in an age of tweets and TikToks, media outlets appreciate a clear, concise announcement about your event. Make sure your release answers all the key questions – the who, what, where, when, and why – while also highlighting what makes your event unique. If you’re introducing new, limited-time content or uniquely featuring local exhibitors, say it upfront. Distribute it to local newspapers, online news sites, and industry blogs. A simple email pitch with a clear subject line can get your press release to the right place. For a broader reach, platforms like PR Newswire or PRWeb can distribute your release nationwide. Though paid, these services often have free options which can be useful depending on your event's niche.

Pro Tip: Target local news outlets and community blogs. They’re always looking for fresh, local content, and your event could be just what they need. Here's a guide on How To Write A Perfect Press Release that'll help get your event the attention it deserves.

Partner with Local Businesses

20. Joint Promotions

Teaming up with local businesses is one of the fastest ways to spread the word about your event. Think cross-promotion—partner with cafés, retail stores, or gyms that align with your event’s theme. They can promote your event to their customer base, in exchange for a shout-out during your event or a special offer post-event. For example, if you’re hosting a fitness event, collab with a local gym for mutual shout-outs. They could offer a small discount for event attendees, and you give them some spotlight in your promo materials. Everyone wins when you amplify each other’s reach.

21. In-store Flyers

Old-school, but effective. Posting event flyers or brochures in local shops—especially in high-foot-traffic areas like grocery stores and coffee shops—gets you eyeballs from potential attendees who are already out and about in your area. Plus, the business benefits from supporting community activities. Just ask the store manager for their permission, many are surprisingly open to helping promote local events.

Free Listings on Event Sites

Listing your event on event-specific platforms is an easy, no-cost way to get in front of a broad audience. Here are three top platforms to consider:

22. 10times

10times is a well-known platform for discovering events, especially for trade shows and conferences. It enables your event to get international visibility. You can add your event for free, making it an excellent option for reaching professionals around the globe. 

23. AllEvents.in

If you’re aiming for a more community-based audience, AllEvents.in is perfect. Whether it’s a local workshop or a concert, this platform lets you list your event without any fee. You’re also able to gain traction through their app, which makes it easy for users to find your event when they're on the go. 

24. Eventful

Eventful, a popular site for both virtual and in-person events, is another solid choice. It's particularly useful for entertainment and lifestyle-related events. Their global reach ensures your listing gets noticed by a diverse audience. 

These platforms help you promote your event to an already engaged audience at zero cost, so don't sleep on them!

Virtual Event Platforms

25. Host Webinars

Webinars are a powerful promotional tool. They allow you to engage with your audience directly and build credibility. It's also a great way to preview your event content. Platforms like Zoom or Google Meet offer free options for hosting webinars, so you don't have to spend a dime upfront. Take advantage of your social and email audiences to drive registrations, and keep the content valuable. For example, if your event is about digital marketing, you could host a free webinar explaining "5 Cutting-Edge SEO Strategies for 2024." Once attendees get a glimpse of your quality, they’ll be more likely to attend your main event. Here’s a guide to webinar marketing.

26. Live Streaming

Live streaming creates the buzz you need to promote your event fast and effectively. Going live on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or even LinkedIn helps showcase behind-the-scenes moments and sparks curiosity.

Utilize Your Website

27. Landing Pages

Creating a dedicated landing page for your event is a must. It provides a central location where people can find all key details, like dates, venue, and how to register. Keep it simple but impactful, focusing on compelling imagery, clear call-to-action buttons (like "Reserve Your Spot") and prominent social sharing options. You can always use templates if you’re strapped for time—platforms like Wix and WordPress have plenty of event-focused designs. 

28. Pop-ups and Banners

Banners and pop-ups can make a big splash on your site if they’re used well. They grab visitors' attention immediately and direct them to your event webpage. Just be cautious of overuse; no one likes aggressive pop-ups. A well-timed pop-up encouraging users to “Join Us” or “Get Tickets” can work wonders, especially on event-related content pages. 

29. Event Calendar

If you regularly run events, an event calendar on your website is a good way to keep your audience informed. It shows what's coming up next, including event details and registration links. Tools like Google Calendar or Event Calendar Pro can simplify integration. 

Word of Mouth

30. Encourage Attendees to Share

Word of mouth is one of the most powerful—and free—ways to market your event. Encourage your attendees to spread the word by making it easy for them. Create shareable content like social media graphics, event hashtags, or short URLs they can post with minimal effort. If they had a great time at previous events, they’ll likely want to tell others. You can even prompt them with phrases like, “Excited for our event? Help us get the word out!” Offering some light incentives, like a chance to win free swag or a discount to future events, can also motivate people to share. According to a Nielsen report, 92% of people trust recommendations from friends, making each share a potential ticket sale. 

31. Referral Programs

Create a referral program to give attendees a reason to bring others on board. For example, offer discounted tickets when someone successfully refers a few friends. You'll effectively get free promotion by turning your existing audience into ambassadors. Referral programs don’t have to be complicated; platforms like Eventbrite make it simple to set one up.

Online Communities

32. Facebook Groups

Facebook Groups are a treasure trove for event promotion—if you use them right. Many local groups revolve around specific interests, whether that's running, tech, or local business. Find groups related to your event's theme or audience, and get actively involved. Post in a way that's helpful, not spammy. For instance, if you’re hosting a fitness workshop, share value-packed content or respond to others’ questions before dropping your event link. Just make sure to follow group rules—it can be more beneficial to ask permission before sharing promotions.

33. LinkedIn Groups

For more professional events like networking mixers or industry-specific conferences, LinkedIn Groups can be gold. Start by engaging in current conversations, offering insights related to your industry. Once you’ve made a connection with the group, share your event as a helpful resource, not just a promotional push. Be sure to participate in groups genuinely; building a reputation can increase the likelihood of users paying attention to your posts. If your event brings value to the group conversation, they’ll be much more receptive.

In both cases, the key is to contribute meaningfully to build trust before promoting.

Visual Promotions

34. Infographics

People love visuals, and infographics are a great way to grab attention. Think of them as a quick, engaging way to communicate key details about your event. Break down complex event information like the schedule, speakers, or even your event’s theme into bite-sized, digestible pieces. Tools like Canva or Piktochart can help you create professional-looking infographics without any design experience.

Share your infographic on social media platforms, embed it in an email campaign, or include it in a blog post. According to Hubspot, infographics are liked and shared on social media 3 times more than other content, so it's a no-brainer for event promotion. You can even create variations for different platforms to maximize engagement.

35. Event Posters

Old school still works. A well-designed event poster can make a big splash, especially if shared digitally. Create one using a design tool like Adobe Spark or Crello. Once done, share it on your website, in email newsletters, and across social media platforms.

Interactive posters with QR codes can also boost engagement. Scanning the code could lead viewers straight to your event registration page, making it a seamless experience to sign up.

Networking

36. Attend Other Events

One of the easiest ways to build awareness for your own event is by attending other people’s events. It’s a great opportunity to meet attendees who are interested in similar types of gatherings. You don’t have to hard-sell your event—just get talking, exchange ideas, and mention it naturally when appropriate. A casual conversation can go a long way. For example, if you’re promoting a tech conference, attending local meetups for startups or tech workshops could be perfect for finding folks who’d be interested. Plus, your presence alone shows that you’re actively engaged in that community.

37. Join Networking Groups

Joining a networking group—whether it’s local chambers of commerce or industry-specific clubs—can be a powerful way to spread the word about your event. Not only do you have an opportunity to pitch your event to like-minded individuals regularly, but you’ll also build valuable connections that could support your future events. Consider online groups, too, such as LinkedIn industry groups, for extending your reach and event visibility. The best part? Many of these meetups or groups are free to join or offer low-cost entry, making it a budget-friendly strategy. 

Conclusion

Promoting your event effectively means tapping into a variety of channels – those we've covered here are just the beginning. By combining strategies like social media, local partnerships, and content marketing, you can reach a much wider audience without overspending. Timing is everything, so start early and keep the momentum going by regularly engaging with your audience through different touchpoints.

Consistency is key, but so is adaptability. If one strategy isn’t working, don’t be afraid to pivot. Experiment with what works best for your event's unique style and audience. Remember, creating meaningful connections with attendees before, during, and after your event is what leaves a lasting impression.

Finally, don’t hesitate to leverage tools designed to make event management easier. Platforms like EventX.io offer a range of features to boost your promotional efforts, from registration systems to lead generation tools. Streamlining these tasks lets you focus on what really matters – creating an unforgettable experience.