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Career Development
12 min read

16 Social Media Conferences to Learn Industry Trends in 2024

By Dozie Anyaegbunam

Social media conferences are a great place to network. But they are also a melting pot of insights and industry trends. Think of them as a must-have marketing resource.

For any social media pro looking to stay ahead of the curve, or pick up a new tactic they can use to optimize their next social campaign, these are the 16 best social media conferences to attend in 2024.

Best Social Media Conferences 2024 Shortlist

Here's my shortlist. Bookmark each or make a note somewhere in your journal so you don't forget: 

  1. Social Media Marketing World - San Diego, CA (February 2024)
  2. Social Media Strategies Summit - Virtual Events and Multiple Dates
  3. Social Media Conference - Orlando, FL (March 2024)
  4. Social Media Week - New York, NY (April 2024)
  5. Government Social Media Conference - Palm Springs, CA (April 2024)
  6. Social Next 2024 - Ontario, Canada (April 2024)
  7. VidCon - Multiple Locations and Dates
  8. Social Day - London, UK (May 2024)
  9. Influencer Marketing Show USA - New York, NY (June 2024)
  10. SocialWest 2024 - Downtown Calgary, Canada (June 2024)
  11. Social Media Day Halifax 2024 - Dartmouth, Canada (June 2024)
  12. Social Media Week Lima 2024 - Lima, OH (June 2024)
  13. State of Social '24 - Perth, Australia (August 2024)
  14. VidSummit 2024 - Dallas, TX (September 2024)
  15. Utterly Content Global - Virtual Event (March 2024)
  16. Content Marketing World 2024 - San Diego, CA (October 2024)

Find more details about each conference below.

1. Social Media Marketing World - San Diego, CA (February 2024)

Attendees at Social Media Marketing World enjoy the food while talking to each other
Social Media Marketing World

Overview:

The Social Media Marketing World conference targets professionals looking to harness the power of social media. It covers various topics such as content marketing, trending social media management software, and social analytics. Speakers include top industry leaders and domain experts who share real-world insights and strategies.

Why You Should Attend:

AI is the hottest topic at the moment. And the conference organizers have got Ann Handley, a Wall Street Journal best selling author and Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs as one of the keynote speakers who'll be talking about writing and AI.

Paul Roetzer, founder of the Marketing AI Institute and Marketing AI conference will also be speaking on how to power your marketing with generative AI.

2. Social Media Strategies Summit - Virtual Events and Multiple Dates

A presenter at the Social Media Strategies Summit shares insights with other attendees
The Social Media Strategies Summit in-person conference

Overview:

This virtual conference is perfect for those who prefer virtual events to IRL events. The summit covers social media strategies with a focus on content creation, ROI measurement, and digital strategy for your social media marketing plans.

Social Media Strategies Summit: Virtual Events and Dates

Virtual EventsDates
Social Media Strategies Virtual ConferenceFebruary 28–29, 2024
Social Media Strategies for First Responders Virtual Conference April 10–11, 2024
Social Media for Government Virtual ConferenceMay 15–16, 2024
Social Media Strategies Virtual ConferenceJune 11–14, 2024
Higher Ed Virtual ConferenceOctober 21–23, 2024
Social Media for Government Virtual ConferenceDecember 11–12, 2024

Why You Should Attend:

Convenience without compromising knowledge. Plus, you get practical strategies and case studies you can implement immediately. A must-register if you're looking to update your digital marketing toolbox from the comfort of your home.

3. Social Media Conference - Orlando, FL (March 2024)

A large audience at the Social Media Conference
The Social Media Conference

Overview:

This social media event focuses on the latest in social media, content marketing trends, and brand storytelling. Attendees learn from leading brand experts about building stronger social media manager strategies and producing engaging content.

Why You Should Attend:

This social media conference is renowned for its emphasis on storytelling and brand communication (so much that it could also double as a conference for communications professionals), crucial elements in today’s content-saturated market.

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4. Social Media Week - New York, NY (April 2024)

Participants at the Social Media Week shares exciting moment
The Social Media Week Conference

Overview:

This conference offers insights into the intersection of media, marketing, and technology. It’s a hub for forward-thinking professionals to explore social media's evolution, latest cultural trends, and the overall social zeitgeist.

Why You Should Attend:

Oh, you have to plan to attend this one. On day one, you get Brandon Blackwood's keynote on building a cult brand. On day two, various social media experts will participate in a roundtable to unpack the social media trends of 2024.

Day two also has Arinze Emeagwali of Instagram talking about building diverse campaigns for cultural moments. The fun continues till Thursday, April 11th and ends with a meet and greet cocktail reception with ADWeek editors.

5. Government Social Media Conference 2024 - Palm Springs, CA (April 2024)

Team poses at the Government Social Media Conference 2024
Government Social Media Conference

Overview:

This conference caters to government social media professionals. It addresses public sector-specific challenges and opportunities in digital engagement.

Why You Should Attend:

GSMCON 2024 in Palm Springs, CA, is tailored for government social media professionals. If that's you, this social media event offers an unmatched opportunity to explore public sector-specific social media growth strategies.

Jon-Stephen Stansel, a seasoned social media strategist, will be talking about the growing influence of social media roles and what that means for individuals in the public sector.

AI isn't left out. They've got a breakout session on AI as a productivity partner, moderated by Zack Seipert of the Central Utah Water Conservancy District. There are a ton of other insight-loaded workshops on topics such as the intersection of social science and social media or how to tell a good story.

This is a must-attend for anyone involved in public sector social media.

6. Social Next 2024 - Ontario, Canada (April 2024)

Attendees at Social Next 2024 conference
The Social Next conference

Overview:

SocialNext is a one-day intensive, with its primary audience being social media marketing professionals. It offers insights into emerging platforms, content strategies, and the integration of AI in social media.

Why You Should Attend:

Social Next 2024 in Ontario, Canada, is a must-attend if you're looking to get a sense of where social media marketing is headed.

Jessica Schnabel, Managing Director at Meltwater, will be talking about transforming your marketing communication campaigns using generative AI. They've also got Diana Luu, Managing Director at LinkedIn Canada, talking about the B2B AI opportunity.

7. VidCon - Multiple Locations and Dates

Content creators and fans at the VidCon venue
VidCon
  • Dates: Multiple dates (see table below)
  • Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
  • Pricing: See the registration page for current pricing
  • Website: VidCon

Overview:

VidCon caters to both creators and marketers in the video content creation and marketing realm. It covers everything from video production to platform-specific strategies for YouTube, TikTok, and more.

VidCon 2024: Multiple Locations and Dates

LocationsDates
VidCon Anaheim | Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CAJune 26-29, 2024
VidCon Mexico | Centro Citibanamex, Mexico City, MXAugust 9 – 11, 2024
VidCon Baltimore | Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore MD September 26-29, 2024

Why You Should Attend:

VidCon the premier event for video content creators and marketers, offering unparalleled insights into the world of video marketing.

8. Social Day - London, UK (May 2024)

Audience participates with joy at Social Day conference
The Social Day Conference

Overview:

This conference is focused on the UK's social media scene but topics discussed are globally relevant. Topics include platform algorithms, content strategy, and influencer marketing.

Why You Should Attend:

Its localized focus paired with global relevance makes it a standout for professionals looking to understand social media trends in the UK and beyond.

9. Influencer Marketing Show USA - New York, NY (June 2024)

Attendees at the Influencer Marketing Show USA gather at the rooftop venue
Influencer Marketing Show USA

Overview:

Dedicated to the growing field of influencer marketing, this show covers strategy, compliance, and measurement. They also share tips on effectively collaborating with influencers.

Why You Should Attend:

The Influencer Marketing Show USA in New York is a window into the current and future state of influencer marketing. They've over 14 insightful sessions covering topics from navigating the creator economy plus the chance to network with over 500+ conference delegates.

10. SocialWest 2024- Downtown Calgary, Canada (June 2024)

A room full of excitement at Social West 2024
The SocialWest conference

Overview:

SocialWest is the largest digital marketing conference in Western Canada. It focuses on advanced social media management practices, digital marketing, and strategy.

Why You Should Attend:

Social West 2024, set in downtown Calgary, Canada, is the go-to digital and social media conference for social pros working in Western Canada and beyond.

Miki Agrawal, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Tushy, will be taking the stage to talk about differentiation in a crowded marketplace. They've also got other renowned industry experts sharing insights on topics such as the power of niche audiences, email marketing, community commerce on TikTok, and more.

11. Social Media Day Halifax - Dartmouth, Canada (June 2024)

Sponsors at Social Media Day Halifax
Social Media Day Halifax Conference

Overview:

This one-day social event is the Atlantic Canada's way of celebrating Social Media Day. They have local social media experts come share strategies and tactics that have worked for them in Atlantic Canada.

Why You Should Attend:

If you operate out of Atlantic Canada, this is a great place to learn contextual strategies, network with fellow social media pros, and get inspired.

12. Social Media Week Lima 2024 - Lima, OH (June 2024)

A speaker takes a selfie with the crowd at Social Media Week Lima
Social Media Week Lima

Overview:

Focused on small to medium-sized businesses, this social conference is a great place to learn about affordable and effective social media marketing strategies.

Why You Should Attend:

It’s particularly valuable for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) looking for cost-effective ways to boost their social media presence.

13. State of Social ‘24 - Perth, Australia (August 2024)

Audience at State of Social '24 shows their appreciation towards the speaker
State of Social Conference

Overview:

This Australian conference focuses on emerging trends and the future of social media. It's known for its innovative content and thought leadership in the digital marketing world.

Why You Should Attend:

It provides a unique perspective on social media trends and strategies from the Australian viewpoint, but its also beneficial for global marketers.

14. VidSummit 2024 - Dallas, TX (September 2024)

Content creators share the moment with the audience at VidSummit 2024
A panel discussion at the last VidSummit

Overview:

VidSummit is where video creators and marketers come to learn from the best in the industry. It focuses on strategies to grow your audience and revenue with video content.

Why You Should Attend:

VidSummit 2024 in Dallas, TX, is the ultimate gathering for video content creators and marketers, offering an exclusive look into the strategies that drive success on platforms like YouTube.

The 2023 conference speakers included Jimmy Donaldson, better known as "Mr.Beast," Zach King, a visionary content creator, and Hayden Hillier-Smith, a renowned YouTube editor. So you can be sure to expect a quality lineup this year.

15. Utterly Content Global - Virtual Event (March 2024)

Presenters at Utterly Content Global connect with a global audience through an interactive online session
Utterly Content Global
  • Dates: March 20-21, 2024
  • Location: Virtual
  • Pricing: Starts at £159.00
  • Website: Utterly Content
  • Social Media: X

Overview:

Utterly Content focuses on content strategy, creation, and marketing. It's designed for content creators, marketers, and strategists looking to dive deep into the art and science of content in the digital age. This is one of those events that can also double as a conference for content strategists.

Why You Should Attend:

Utterly Content 2024 is as a premier event for professionals passionate about elevating their content strategy and storytelling capabilities. 2024 speakers include Alisa Bonsignore, Founder and Strategist at Clarifying Complex Ideas, Chika Nwakanma, Junior Content Designer at Co-op, and Nicole Michaelis, Head of Content Design, Doordash/Wolt.

They and other speakers will be exploring topics such as content and the environment, writing for humans, the art of interviewing, and more.

16. Content Marketing World 2024 - San Diego, CA (October 2024)

A casual dialogue between participants at Content Marketing World 2024
Content Marketing World

Overview:

Content Marketing World is the premier conference for content marketers globally. It covers a wide range of topics, from strategy and planning to creation, distribution, and measurement. The event features some of the most recognized names in content marketing.

Why You Should Attend:

Content Marketing World 2024 is an unparalleled opportunity for content marketers aiming to enhance their craft and impact. Expect the speaker lineup to be released closer to the event date, but I can guarantee it'll be one that'll have you hanging onto their every word.

Which Social Media Conference are you Bookmarking?

Ready, set, scroll back up and pick one or two social media events you'll be attending. Remember to put a reminder in your calendar and kick off the approval process if your employer will be funding your registration fees.

Pro tip? You can file this under personal development. But I'm sure you knew that already.

And if you're looking for other opportunities to grow, subscribe to our newsletter for future and current marketing leaders. And get the latest tips, resources, and guides from our community straight to your inbox.

By Dozie Anyaegbunam

Dozie Anyaegbunam is the Senior Editor of The CMO, digital marketing firepower for SaaS pioneers. He's a marketing strategist with years of experience in Marketing, Communications, Ecommerce, and SEO. And has worked across verticals ranging from software to edu-tech, apparel, and F&B, leading teams at B2B SaaS startups, global multinationals, and the public sector. He’s the Founder & Host of The Newcomer’s Podcast featuring immigrants and their stories of moving to a new country, and he’s currently producing a documentary on the immigrant’s experience.

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