Ways to Engage Visitors at Street Festivals

Downtown Kingston events are renowned for attracting visitors from across Ontario and beyond, even drawing attention from across the US border. These events are not only a lot of fun but also bring a significant boost in foot traffic to the downtown core. Our signature events consistently generate some of the highest pedestrian counts for the year. Many businesses have shared success stories of record sales during events.

So, how can you ensure your business stands out? Creating a unique and engaging experience that captures attention and draws visitors in is key to maximizing your success during events. To help spark ideas, we’ve highlighted 6 standout visitor engagement strategies below. Get creative, be bold, and focus on making visitors feel welcome and happy. Even if they don’t make a purchase on the day, a memorable experience increases the likelihood they’ll return in the future.

Some of our favourite ideas

15 Creative engagement ideas:

  • Contests (use data to keep in touch)

  • Games to win a prize 

  • Musicians or performers (theatre, Elvis impersonator, Karaoke) 

  • Face painter/Balloon guy

  • Caricature Painter 

  • Live Artist 

  • Virtual reality experience 

  • Team up with other businesses, offer group prizing 

  • Ask suppliers for free samples/handouts (works well for salons and spas) 

  • wheel of fortune 

  • Selfie Frame or set, costumes 

  • Refreshments from ice cream, smoothies, juices, cocktails, tea, coffee, chocolates, sweets and popcorn - the more creative the better and more memorable! 

  • create a place to relax by building a lounge area complete with beanbags and soft furnishings. 

  • Think about how you can ensure your visitors convert on the day instead of heading off home to “think about it”.
    What incentives can you offer for on-the-day sign ups? Any special offers or discounts? 

  • Show off your skills and expertise and place yourself as an expert - making visitors more likely to head over to listen

Be sure to sign up for events and let us know what your business is doing to engage with customers. We will promote your planned activities prior to the event if you let us know in advance.