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Communications conferences are a great excuse to go touch grass - ideally on your employer's dime.

You get to hang out with other communication professionals and colleagues, talk shop, learn new tricks of the trade, and pretend you have the best ChatGPT prompt for generating a press release.

So, here's my list of the best communication conferences for touching grass happening in 2025.

Plus: Attending these top marketing conferences is a fantastic way to network and learn from industry leaders.

A Shortlist of the Best Communications Conferences in 2025

Think of this as the ultimate IRL marketing resource shortlist of communication conferences:

  1. PRDECODED: Comms at a Crossroads -  New York City, NY  (February 4. 2025)
  2. PRWeek Crisis Communications - London, UK (February 12, 2025)
  3. Corporate Communications: Driving the Business Forward - Brooklyn, NY (March 6-7, 2025)
  4. CONNECTIONS 2025: CPRS Conference & Expo - Sacramento, CA (March 18-21, 2025)
  5. Social Media Conference - Lake Buena Vista, FL (March 19-21, 2025)
  6. PRWeek Crisis Comms Conference - Washington, D.C. (April 8, 2025)
  7. PRWeek PR360 - Brighton, UK (May 20-21, 2025)
  8. PR Daily Conference - Washington, D.C. (May 21-23, 2025)
  9. IABC World Conference - British Columbia, Canada (June 8-11, 2025)
  10. IEEE ICC - Montreal, Canada (June 8-12, 2025)
  11. IoIC Festival 2025 - Tewinbury, UK (June 18-19, 2025)
  12. Women's Business Summit and Retreat for Communicators and Marketers - Newport Beach, CA (September 17-18, 2025)
  13. Comms Connect Melbourne - Melbourne, Australia (October 15-16, 2025)
  14. Communications Week - Austin, TX (November 10-14, 2025)

Find more details about each conference below.

Overview of the Best Communications Conferences of 2025

Below are my summaries of the best communications conferences that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a look at each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offerings.

1. PRDECODED: Comms at a Crossroads - New York City, NY (February 4, 2025)

PRDECODED: Comms at a Crossroads Conference website page screenshot
PRDECODED: Comms at a Crossroads Conference

Overview:
PRDECODED: Comms at a Crossroads brings PR leaders, C-suite advisors, and industry professionals together to explore key challenges and opportunities in public relations. Established as a leading communications conference, it covers themes like AI, DE&I, and ESG while addressing the role of PR in business strategy. Past editions have attracted prominent experts and diverse perspectives.

Why you should attend:
This conference examines the strategic transformation of PR and offers insights into managing AI-driven innovation, economic shifts, and stakeholder engagement. Sessions include trends in healthcare PR and the rising influence of private equity on the industry.

With practical discussions and real-world applications, it’s designed for marketing leaders and communications teams looking to navigate challenges and drive meaningful outcomes.

2. PRWeek Crisis Communications - London, UK (February 12, 2025)

Screenshot of the PRWeek Crisis Communications website, a communication conference
The PRWeek Crisis Communications Conference

Overview:
PRWeek Crisis Communications focuses on strategies for managing high-stakes scenarios and controlling the narrative during public crises. This annual event brings together PR professionals, media relations managers, and crisis strategists to share insights through case studies and discussions.

Why you should attend:
This event explores practical approaches to crisis management in today’s reality. You’ll gain actionable insights from real-world case studies and industry leaders on managing social media storms and navigating misinformation. Designed for comms professionals, it also offers networking opportunities to connect with peers and build alliances that support long-term success in crisis communications.

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3. Corporate Communications: Driving the Business Forward - Brooklyn, NY (March 6-7, 2025)

Corporate Communications: Driving the Business Forward Conference landing page screenshot
Corporate Communications: Driving the Business Forward Conference

Overview:
Put on by The Conference Board, Corporate Communications: Driving the Business Forward will address the evolving challenges and opportunities for communications leaders, from misinformation to AI's impact on comms teams.

The event brings together high-profile speakers, including Allyson Park, Chief Communications Officer at Walmart, Teresa Rasmussen, CEO of Thrivent, and Beatriz Perez, EVP and Global Chief Communications of Coca-Cola.

Why you should attend:
This gathering explores the role of corporate communications in navigating complex issues like AI integration, social impact storytelling, and employee communication strategies. You’ll gain practical insights into managing polarized audiences and responding to emerging trends in media and sustainability. The event also features structured networking sessions to build connections with peers and industry leaders and help you drive your communication strategy forward.

4. CONNECTIONS 2025: CPRS Conference & Expo - Sacramento, CA (March 18-21, 2025)

CONNECTIONS 2025: CPRS Conference & Expo page screenshot
The CPRS Conference & Expo

Overview:
CONNECTIONS 2025: CPRS Conference & Expo gathers professionals in public relations and marketing to discuss innovations in communication strategies. This event offers opportunities to explore trends in the field and network with peers. Past editions have featured industry leaders sharing insights on marketing leadership and community engagement.

Why you should attend:
This conference is an opportunity to deepen your understanding of cutting-edge communications trends and tools. Sessions will focus on effective strategies for outreach, collaboration, and storytelling. With tailored workshops and industry experts, it provides practical insights to elevate your organization’s communication efforts.

5. Social Media Conference - Lake Buena Vista, FL (March 19-21, 2025)

The Social Media Conference page screenshot
The Social Media Conference

Overview:
Ragan and PR Daily’s Social Media Conference focuses on strategies for leveraging social platforms to enhance engagement and build brand presence. Designed for marketing leaders and communication professionals, it explores trends in content marketing and social media management.

The conference features influential speakers like Tulani André, Vice President of Social Media at National Geographic, Brandy Peacock, Public Affairs, External Communications at Chick-fil-A, Inc., and Santi Pochat, VP of Brand Marketing at LinkedIn. 

Why you should attend:
This event provides actionable tips and case studies from industry leaders on elevating social media strategies. You’ll learn to use emerging tools to drive engagement and boost ROI. With sessions tailored for marketing leaders, the conference offers unique opportunities to network with other professionals and exchange ideas in an interactive environment.

6. PRWeek Crisis Comms Conference - Washington, D.C. (April 8, 2025)

Website page screenshot of PRWeek Crisis Comms Conference
The PRWeek Crisis Comms Conference

Overview:
The PRWeek Crisis Comms Conference focuses on equipping communication leaders across industries, including nonprofit organizations, with practical tools for managing crises. It brings together top experts who share real-life case studies and insights to help attendees refine their crisis communication strategies. 

This one-day event hosts notable speakers from top industries who will provide insights into crisis preparedness and response, such as Katie Hill,
Senior Vice President of Communications for the NFL, and Josh Morton, VP and Head of Corporate Communications at Nestlé North America.

Why you should attend:
Gain essential crisis communication skills from leading experts. This conference offers strategies for effectively handling public relations crises, ensuring you're prepared for any situation. Network with industry professionals and engage in discussions crucial for facing today's communication challenges.

7.  PRWeek PR360 - Brighton, UK (May 20-21, 2025)

Landing page of PRWeek PR360 Conference
The PRWeek PR360 Conference

Overview:
PRWeek PR360 brings communications professionals and marketing leaders together to discuss strategies for navigating change and driving innovation. This event focuses on digital transformation, reputation management, and employee experience trends. Past conferences have featured insights from industry leaders shaping the future of public relations. 

Why you should attend:
This conference provides an in-depth look at the latest trends in PR and communications, from reputation management to strategies for improving employee engagement. You’ll learn from expert panels and case studies while connecting with industry peers. It’s an opportunity to explore new tools and strategies, helping you stay one step ahead.

8. PR Daily Conference - Washington, D.C. (May 21-23, 2025)

The PR Daily Conference landing page screenshot
The PR Daily Conference

Overview:
The PR Daily Conference focuses on essential strategies for media relations, storytelling, and navigating the communications landscape. It includes sessions on AI integration, crafting compelling pitches, and strengthening crisis communication frameworks.

Why you should attend:
This PR conference provides practical techniques for managing media interactions, building brand narratives, and leveraging data for impactful communication strategies. Workshops and interactive sessions explore topics like AI tools, social media campaigns, and the metrics that matter most to leadership.

9. IABC World Conference - BC, Canada (June 8-11, 2025)

The International Association Business Communications World Conference landing page screenshot
The International Association Business Communications World Conference

Overview:
The International Association of Business Communications (IABC) World Conference is a global event for communication professionals. It provides a platform for learning and networking and has hosted notable speakers from various industries in the past.

Why you should attend:
Engage in sessions led by industry leaders on cutting-edge communication strategies and network with a diverse group of professionals from around the world, enhancing your industry connections. The conference offers insights into emerging trends and tools that can transform how your team communicates and connects with audiences.

10. IEEE ICC - Montreal, Canada (June 8-12, 2025)

IEEE International Conference on Communication (ICC) webpage screenshot
The IEEE International Conference on Communication (ICC)

Overview:
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) International Conference on Communications (ICC) brings together global experts to discuss advancements in communications technologies and their societal impact. This conference features keynotes, panel discussions, and sessions on initiatives shaping the future of connectivity and public safety. It attracts academics, industry leaders, and policymakers to exchange ideas and explore the latest developments

Why you should attend:
This annual conference offers a comprehensive look at the future of communications technologies through keynote speeches, interactive panels, and demonstrations. Sessions highlight practical applications like AI integration, public safety solutions, and telecom advancements. It’s ideal for marketing leaders seeking insights into global communication trends and emerging opportunities.

11. IoIC Festival 2025 - Tewinbury, UK (June 18-19, 2025)

The IoIC Festival 2025 page screenshot
The IoIC Festival 2025

Overview:
The Institute of Internal Communication (IoIC) Festival 2025 is a two-day gathering focused on internal communication and its role in shaping organizations. Held in the Hertfordshire countryside, it features over 60 speakers and diverse learning zones for professionals to explore new strategies and share experiences.

Why you should attend:
This conference offers an interactive environment to explore how internal communication supports organizational change and employee engagement. Sessions address trends like AI, sustainability, and purpose-driven work, with practical insights for guiding leadership decisions. It’s an opportunity to connect with peers, gain CPD points, and bring fresh ideas to your team.

12. Women's Business Summit and Retreat for Communicators and Marketers - Newport Beach, CA (September 17-19, 2025)

Women's Business Summit and Retreat for Communicators and Marketers page screenshot
The Women's Business Summit and Retreat for Communicators and Marketers

Overview:
The Women's Business Summit and Retreat for Communicators and Marketers is an event put on by Ragan, designed for women with 10+ years of experience in communications, public relations, marketing, or social media. It offers an intimate setting to explore professional development and C-suite comms strategies, with curated sessions and opportunities to share insights among peers.

Why you should attend:
This retreat focuses on empowering women in communications through practical sessions on internal communications, talent retention, and negotiation skills. With a blend of workshopping, networking, and problem-solving, you'll gain actionable strategies to bring back to your team while connecting with like-minded professionals in a supportive environment.

13. Comms Connect Melbourne - Melbourne, Australia (October 15-16, 2025)

Website screenshot of Comms Connect Melbourne Conference
The Comms Connect Melbourne Conference

Overview:
Comms Connect Melbourne is an established event for critical communications and public safety professionals. It features hundreds of industry experts, exhibitors, and speakers, and has been a key networking and knowledge-sharing platform since its inception over 15 years ago.

Why you should attend:
Engage with industry peers and explore the latest trends in critical communications. Benefit from sessions led by notable speakers and access insights from exhibitors. This conference provides a comprehensive view of the industry's future, making it essential for those looking to innovate and stay ahead.

14. Communications Week - Austin, TX (November 10-14, 2025)

Communications Week Conference webpage screenshot
The Communications Week Conference

Overview:
Another event put on by Ragan, Communications Week is a global event series designed for public relations, internal communications, and media relations professionals. Hosted as an in-person and virtual conference, it features sessions on topics like generative AI, social media strategies, and the evolving role of communicators.

Why you should attend:
This gathering combines education, networking, and technology learning to address key challenges in communications. You’ll explore emerging trends, engage in mentorship opportunities, and gain actionable insights to improve your team’s impact.

Which Conference Are You Signing Up For?

If you're looking to learn about the fusion of social and comms, Social Media Conference is your best bet. If you are all about crisis management, the PRWeek Crisis Communication conferences are great options - depending on where you live.

The point is there are a ton of good options on the list. You only need to decide which fits your budget, industry needs, or specific challenges. Now let's get to making a choice, shall we?

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Dozie Anyaegbunam

Dozie Anyaegbunam is the Senior Editor of The CMO Club, a digital media publication that helps SaaS marketing leaders win at work. He has several years of core brand marketing experience across various verticals, from edu-tech, to food and beverages, to SaaS. He's also led marketing teams at B2B SaaS startups, global multinationals, and the public sector. Dozie is the Founder & Host of The Newcomers, a media publication that explores what it means to be an immigrant.