As technology and artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly redefine how we connect, the most impactful meetings and events continue to be anchored in authentic, in-person moments that digital platforms can’t replicate. Hilton introduces the Why We Gather Report, a new special section of its 2026 Trends Report, which explores the behavioral, emotional, and cultural shifts redefining how people are planning to connect in 2026 through meetings and events.

Grounded in the belief that why we gather is just as important as how we gather, the global report captures the key human drivers reshaping business gatherings and highlights what attendees are seeking from every shared experience. One of the strongest signals: 84% of attendees say they love to bring their “authentic selves” to work events.

Why We Gather builds on Hilton’s World’s Most Welcoming Events platform and the launch of The Meetings Maximizer Report last year, which leveraged proprietary research and tested solutions to reimagine how meetings and events can be more welcoming across generations. The new report marks the next evolution of this movement – shifting the focus from how we design welcoming events to understanding the motivations driving connection itself.

Commissioned by Hilton and conducted in partnership with Ipsos, the research provides a global perspective of the meetings and events experience, with insights stemming from a survey of more than 3,000 adults across the U.S., U.K. and India who plan to attend an in-person work meeting or event over the next two years. Key global trend highlights include:

IRL 2.0: The new code of connection

In an increasingly digital world, attendees crave in-person experiences that reset the mind and foster genuine human connection. Technology now works quietly in the background, streamlining logistics and freeing people to be fully present, while the real value of events lies in meaningful moments, local culture and thoughtful service that can’t be replicated online.

Nearly half (49%) of respondents say meeting new people and bonding with their team will be the main reason they attend work events in 2026.
67% agree that AI assistance during work events helps them to maximize the event experience by saving them time and effort that can be spent doing other things that are more important to them.
84% of people agree that experiencing a local culture is a big perk of attending work-related events.

The blueprint: A new era of ambition

Meetings and events have become launchpads for personal and professional growth, with attendees showing up intentionally to advance their careers, build networks and express their ambitions. Success is about more than just appearances, as participants seek environments that support their goals and offer opportunities for authentic connection.

83% of people are highly conscious of looking productive during meetings or structured programming.
71% admit to mirroring the actions of leaders whose careers they aspire to.
Over half of people (57%) globally have changed outfits multiple times a day to ensure they’re dressed appropriately for the occasion.

The wellness agenda: “Fit for Your Carry-On"

Wellness is now a core expectation, with attendees seeking events that help them recalibrate, recharge and return refreshed both during and after the experience. The best gatherings integrate wellness seamlessly into every aspect, from thoughtful breaks and healthy amenities to opportunities for solo downtime and meaningful give-back activities, ensuring attendees leave feeling balanced and inspired.

Two-thirds (67%) say they feel less engaged during events if they don’t get downtime, with 55% skipping event sessions to decompress if there are no planned breaks.
While 76% enjoy leaning into work-organized wellness activities, 38% prefer to spend their free time recharging on their own.
81% of parents agree that getting some alone time away from the pressures of parenting is an underrated benefit of work events.

Hilton continues to lead the industry in providing the tools for designing unforgettable, inclusive meetings and events that leave a lasting impression on every attendee. Through thoughtfully designed spaces around the world coupled with a host of planner resources – including the World’s Most Welcoming Events Playbook within Hilton’s EventReady Playbook, Hilton meeting packages, the Hilton Incentive Collaborative, the Hilton Honors Event Planner Program and the Meet with Purpose program – Hilton makes it easy to plan seamlessly and connect meaningfully.

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