Planning Public Events That Tell a Story

Over the years, I’ve helped plan a wide range of city events—from multiple State of the City addresses to community celebrations like Reno’s 1980s-themed downtown party in May 2018. What I’ve learned is that truly memorable public events do more than follow a schedule; they tell a story.

A colorful mural that reflects community values and creativity.

Leadership Events

For leadership events, that story often centers on progress, challenges, and vision. My role has included shaping key messages, developing speeches, coordinating visuals, and ensuring the run-of-show supports a clear, engaging narrative for residents and stakeholders. As an example, I helped coordinate the Community Forum on Immigration (Oct. 16, 2019) and the 2019 and 2022 Symposium on Community and Policing. These events were successful in allowing community members a forum to engage with their local law enforcement officials.

Community Celebrations

Community celebrations bring a different type of storytelling. The ‘80s downtown event was a great example: music, visuals, theme, and atmosphere worked together to create a shared experience that connected people to both the city and each other. Good logistics matter, but so does creativity.

Conclusion

No matter the format, successful public events combine strong planning, purposeful messaging, and a focus on the people you’re trying to reach. When those pieces align, an event becomes more than a moment—it becomes a memory that strengthens community engagement and trust.