2023 Wrapped: DCi’s Top Event Highlights From This Year
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unny skies year-round, pristine beaches, and world-class attractions are just a few reasons Florida should top your list of event settings. Each city has its own special flair, from Miami’s vibrant art scene to Orlando’s theme parks that draw tens of millions of people every year. Around the state, there are several major convention centers, upscale properties, and unique venues to suit every type of event.
DCi has planned and executed a wide array of events against Florida’s coastal backdrop, from a steampunk, underwater-themed incentive trip in Boca Raton to a two-wave program on stunning Marco Island. Along the way, we’ve remained on top of the must-do local activities and experiences that showcase the best of The Sunshine State. Below, we’re sharing 11 fresh experiences to weave into your next Florida conference or retreat, from Key West to Amelia Island and plenty of exciting destinations in between.
1. The Other Kind of Splash Zone
Orlando is best-known for its top-rated theme parks, but there’s so much more to do when staying in this central Florida city — including exploring one of the state’s natural water wonders. Give your group the chance to experience the wild beauty of the Wekiva River and get up close and personal with the island’s local wildlife on a guided cruise.
2. Culinary Workshops
The best way to get to know Florida’s multicultural food scene: a hands-on culinary workshop that walks guests through how to make some of the state’s best-loved meals. For example, teach your guests how to make a traditional Spanish rice dish by planning a paella-making class. If you’re looking for a team-building experience, give your group the chance to go head-to-head in a taco-making battle (with a little assistance from a pro chef).
3. Immersive Art Activities
While you’ll find an impressive collection of world-class art museums to visit in Florida, consider bringing immersive art experiences directly to your group instead. For previous events, DCi has planned activities such as live mural painting and interactive art installations to keep attendees engaged. We’ve also drawn design inspiration from Miami’s iconic Wynwood Walls, leveraging eye-catching colors to capture the essence of the city’s arts district.
4. Retro Pool Party
Florida’s balmy temperatures make it the perfect setting for a laid-back, retro-inspired poolside bash. Channeling the throwback charm of classic Florida pop culture — from the pastel‑soaked glamour seen in shows like Miami Vice to the vintage resort vibes captured on screen — this experience brings nostalgia to life. For a past DCi pool party, live music from a yacht rock band, colorful beach balls, and plenty of tropical touches set the tone for a sun- and fun-filled experience.
5. Shark Tooth Hunting
Amelia Island, the northernmost barrier island on Florida’s Atlantic coast, holds a fascinating, 4,000-year history — and plenty of fossil shark teeth to boot. Take your guests on a shark-tooth-finding mission on one of the state’s vast, white-sand beaches. A local guide can educate them about shark ecology and Florida’s natural history along the way.
6. Yacht Life
Treat your group to a taste of the yacht life aboard one of Miami’s luxury yacht rentals. On a fully crewed charter, passengers will get to sail away to the outer sandbars and islands off Miami Beach, like the oft-frequented Haulover Sandbar, for an afternoon of swimming and soaking up the Florida sun.
7. Shopping in Style
Lined with colorful storefronts and featuring eye-catching Mediterranean architecture, Worth Avenue in Palm Springs is well worth a visit for anyone who appreciates chic, upscale shopping. A casual stroll along the al fresco shopping area can be elevated with the help of a local stylist who can point your group toward a few items they’ll want to bring home.
8. Underwater-Themed Experiences
A strong theme can really set your next Florida event up for success and engage your guests. One of our favorite themes from a past Boca Raton incentive trip: fully submerged. The DCi team reimagined several ballrooms as a steampunk-inspired underwater fantasy world, complete with a live video feed from the Great Barrier Reef and jellyfish-inspired decor.
9. Wine Tastings
Give your guests a taste of the unexpected! Invite them to a wine tasting to experience The Sunshine State’s distinctly Floridian style of winemaking (think: tropical, exotic pours made from fruits like mango and guava).
10. Sunset Sips
Create your own nighttime hot spot by treating your guests to a custom bar. For a two-wave program on Marco Island, our DCi team transformed a slice of the beach into a chic bar that served as the centerpiece to the whole event. The double-decker container bar afforded guests front-row views of the Gulf Coast sunset while they sipped specialty cocktails. (Curious to know more about how DCi designs bespoke bars? Check out a few past custom setups.)
11. Coastal Cleanup
After enjoying Florida’s picturesque coast, consider a team give-back activity to help preserve and protect the local environment. From beach cleanups to dune restoration, there are several ways to lend a hand and help support the community.
Need expert support creating an event in Florida (or beyond)? Reach out to our team, and we’ll bring your vision to life.
