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DREAMFORCE 2024 – YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE BIGGEST SALESFORCE EVENT

Aug 30, 2024 08:11 AM

Dreamforce is one of the largest tech conferences globally, hosted annually by Salesforce in San Francisco. With over 170,000 attendees, this event completely takes over the city for a few days each year in the second half of the year. The event features more than 2,700 sessions and workshops, with keynotes delivered by top leaders from renowned companies. It's a gathering point for Salesforce trailblazers worldwide, making it a must-attend experience.

The event brings together a diverse group, including Salesforce Consultants, Developers, Admins, Project Managers, Business Analysts, Technical Architects, Customers, Companies, App Builders, Visionaries, Partners, and Salesforce MVPs. Dreamforce has evolved beyond a typical conference into an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

According to a survey of 2,537 attendees from Dreamforce 2022, the impact of the event is significant:

  • 93% of attendees found solutions to business challenges through insights gained at Dreamforce.

  • 93% learned something that helped their businesses save time and money.

  • 90% discovered new tools and products to enhance customer engagement and connection.

While preparing for Dreamforce, especially if it's your first time, can be daunting, the experience is incredibly rewarding. For Dreamforce 2024, make sure you are well-prepared to take full advantage of the opportunities this event offers.

Dreamforce 2024

Dreamforce 2024 Date & Location

Save the date for Dreamforce 2024! The largest Salesforce conference is set to take place from September 17-19, 2024, in San Francisco.

For those who can't attend in person, Salesforce will likely offer digital experiences through the Salesforce+ video streaming platform, allowing trailblazers to join the event from anywhere.

Pricing & Registration for Dreamforce 2024

When registration opens, you can secure your spot here: Dreamforce 2024 Registration

Tickets for Dreamforce 2024 are available at different rates:

  • Early Bird: USD $1,499

  • Standard Rate: USD $1,999

  • Last Chance: USD $2,499

The Full Conference pass, valid from September 17–19, 2024, includes access to:

  • Keynote speeches

  • Breakout and theater sessions

  • Hands-on workshops

  • Roundtable discussions

  • Networking opportunities

  • The Welcome Reception

  • A certification opportunity

  • Dreamfest

Your pass also covers morning and afternoon refreshments and lunch.

Stay updated with the latest announcements by signing up on the website. Join the conversation on social media using the official hashtag #DF24.

In 2022, Dreamforce hosted around 30,000 in-person attendees, the largest since 2019, with approximately 120,000 joining online.

For a taste of Dreamforce 2023, check out the Salesforce+ platform. Membership is free and open to everyone.

Agenda & Speakers

Dreamforce 2024 is set to be the largest and most influential AI event globally, focusing specifically on AI Enterprise. While Dreamforce 2023 highlighted the integration of AI, data, and CRM, Dreamforce 2024 promises to build on this by showcasing cutting-edge AI innovations.

In 2023, the conference featured over 1,500 sessions covering AI-powered advancements, faster data-driven decisions, and smarter CRM solutions. For Dreamforce 2024, Salesforce is expected to deliver an even more impressive lineup, with 115+ visionary speakers, over 1,500 learning sessions, and more than 11,000 product experts in attendance. Notable speakers include David Kirk (Former Chief Scientist at NVIDIA), Raj Subramaniam (President & CEO of FedEx), Matthew McConaughey (Academy Award-winning actor and Salesforce Brand Partner), and Bob Sternfels (Global Managing Partner at McKinsey & Company).

Previous Dreamforce events have featured an array of high-profile speakers:

  • 2019: Marc Benioff, Tim Cook, Barack Obama, Emilia Clarke, Arianna Huffington

  • 2020: Jeff McElfresh (CEO of AT&T Communications), Adrian Hallmark (Chairman & CEO of Bentley Motors), Bret Taylor (President & COO of Salesforce)

  • 2021: Marc Benioff, Will Smith, Ola Källenius (CEO of Daimler & Mercedes-Benz)

  • 2022: Salesforce Co-CEOs Marc Benioff and Bret Taylor, Matthew McConaughey, Bono, Jennifer Hudson

  • Dreamforce 2023 saw major announcements like the launch of Einstein 1 Platform, Copilot Studio, and new features for Data Cloud and Tableau, along with innovations in Slack.

Keep an eye on the Dreamforce 2024 website for the latest updates on the agenda. As always, Dreamfest promises to be a highlight, supporting UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals. This year, the event will feature a spectacular performance by headliners P!nk and Imagine Dragons.

Venue

Dreamforce is usually hosted in downtown San Francisco, with the Moscone Center as the primary venue. For Dreamforce 2024, it’s expected that the event will continue to be held at this iconic location, despite some speculation about potential changes due to security concerns in the city.

The event campus typically features several distinct zones:

  • Admin Zone: Offers mini-sessions, Trailhead challenges, and demos tailored for Salesforce admins and newcomers.

  • Dev Zone: Focuses on development, providing resources and sessions for developers and coding enthusiasts.

  • Partner Expo: Home to over 400 Salesforce partners showcasing their apps, including Inspire Planner, a project management app native to Salesforce.

  • DreamPark: A space for relaxation and networking.

Hotels & Accommodation for Dreamforce 2024

Several hotels in the vicinity of the Moscone Center have special rates for Dreamforce attendees. When you register for the event, you will find a list of recommended hotels offering discounted rates. It's a good idea to book your accommodations early, as hotels tend to fill up quickly.

For additional options, you can use hotel comparison websites such as Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, or Kayak to find potentially lower-priced accommodations.

Airbnb and hostels are also good alternatives within the city. If you're looking for budget-friendly options, consider staying outside San Francisco and using the BART train system, which connects to the Moscone Center within about 30 minutes.

Why Attend Dreamforce 2024 – What’s in it for YOU?

Learn: Dreamforce 2024 is packed with opportunities to explore the latest products, get inspired, and dive into the future of technology. With thousands of demos, solutions from Salesforce and its partners, and insights from industry experts, the learning opportunities are endless.

  • Connect: Meet and network with trailblazers from across the industry. Dreamforce offers unlimited chances to connect with new people, build professional relationships, and get inspired. Even a casual lunch could spark a career-changing connection.

  • Charity: Dreamforce has a strong focus on philanthropy. By attending, you're contributing to meaningful causes. Salesforce has raised over $83 million to support various community initiatives. For example, Dreamforce To You 2020 saw Salesforce donate $5 million to address issues like economic hardship and hunger. In 2021, Salesforce donated $1 million to organizations fighting climate change. Your participation supports these charitable efforts, making a positive impact on the world.

  • Party: No Dreamforce experience is complete without the festivities of Dreamfest. This week-long celebration includes parties and happy hours around the city, culminating in Dreamfest—a standout event featuring top performers. Past headliners include Metallica, U2, Bruno Mars, Alicia Keys, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Dreamforce 2023 saw Foo Fighters take the stage, and Dreamforce 2024 will feature performances by P!nk and Imagine Dragons. Plus, all proceeds from Dreamfest go to UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals.

  • ROI: Attendees often see a significant boost in ROI, with improvements of over 20% in areas like sales productivity, customer retention, and lead volume. If you need to convince your employer to let you attend Dreamforce 2024, Salesforce even provides a draft email to help make your case.

Don’t miss out on this chance to learn, connect, support important causes, and enjoy world-class entertainment!

Dos & Don’ts at Dreamforce

Dreamforce can be an intense experience with its four busy days filled with activities. To make the most of it, proper planning is essential. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through Dreamforce 2024:

Packing Tips

Here’s what you should bring to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

  • Smartphone: Your phone will be your best friend. Install essential apps like Salesforce Events (for your event guide), Twitter (for updates and networking), Maps (Google Maps or similar), Taxi Apps (Uber, Lyft, etc.), Payments Apps (Google Pay, Apple Pay), and Docs Apps (Google Drive, Quip). Download the Dreamforce Jetpack app when it's available. Make sure you have plenty of storage for photos and videos to capture your Dreamforce 2024 moments.

  • Multi-Port USB Charger: Bring a charger with multiple ports to keep all your devices powered up. Don’t forget extra cables and your laptop charger, and make sure everything is portable.

  • Business Cards: Bring plenty of business cards. You’ll be meeting a lot of people, and this is a great way to make connections.

  • Walking Shoes: Expect a lot of walking, as Dreamforce sessions are spread across various venues. Wear comfortable shoes that can handle a lot of steps.

  • Business Casual Attire: The dress code for Dreamforce is business casual. Aim for a smart look that isn’t too formal or too casual.

  • Warm Jacket: Dreamforce takes place in late September, so be prepared for cooler temperatures.

  • Umbrella: San Francisco weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to have an umbrella handy.

  • Backpack: Salesforce usually gives a small backpack at badge collection. This should be enough for carrying your essentials and any swag you pick up.

  • Printed Schedule: In case your phone runs out of battery, a printed schedule can come in handy.

  • Pen and Notebook: If your phone dies again, a pen and notebook will be useful for jotting down important notes.

  • Snacks and Water: Keep some light snacks and a water bottle with you to stay hydrated and energized. Salesforce provides free lunches at various campus locations.

  • Enthusiasm: Finally, bring plenty of excitement and energy! Dreamforce is a unique experience, and your enthusiasm will help you make the most of it.

Travel Tips

If you're staying outside San Francisco, use the BART subway system to travel to and from the Moscone Center.

Take advantage of late-night events, especially those hosted by partners, as they offer excellent networking opportunities.

Plan any city tours around San Francisco for the weekends before or after Dreamforce to keep your conference days focused on Dreamforce activities.

Consider joining bike tours to popular spots like the Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39, and Fisherman’s Wharf with fellow Dreamforce attendees.

Pack an extra suitcase for the swag you'll collect—there’s always a lot!

Preparation Tips for a Virtual Dreamforce 2024

If you’re attending Dreamforce 2024 virtually, here’s how to prepare for a smooth and engaging online experience:

  • Right Attitude: Approach the virtual event with the same enthusiasm as an in-person one. Schedule your time to attend key sessions, engage actively, and use conference hashtags (#Dreamforce, #DF24, #Dreamforce2024) along with Twitter, live chats, and Slack channels to connect with other trailblazers.

  • Limit Distractions: Choose a quiet space to minimize interruptions and consider turning off notifications to stay focused.

  • Test Your Technology: Ensure your tech is ready for a seamless experience. Check your internet speed and have a backup plan, like a personal hotspot, in case of connectivity issues.

  • Smartphone: Keep your phone handy with essential apps like Salesforce Events (for session details), Twitter (for updates), and Notes (Notion, Google Drive). Download the Dreamforce Jetpack app when available.

  • Chargers and Cables: Prepare chargers and extra cables for your devices. You don’t want to run out of battery in the middle of a session.

  • Business Casual Attire: Even though you’re attending from home, dress in business casual. It’s a good way to stay professional, especially if you’re connecting with others online.

  • Printed Schedule: Have a printed schedule on hand to keep track of sessions and activities without constantly switching screens.

  • Pen and Notebook: Keep a pen and notebook nearby in case your devices run out of battery or you need to jot down important notes.

  • Virtual Background: If you’re using video conferencing, consider setting up a virtual background to showcase your Salesforce certifications or add a professional touch.

  • Snacks and Water: Keep some snacks and a water bottle within reach so you can stay refreshed without missing any sessions.

  • Enthusiasm: Finally, bring your excitement and energy! Enjoy the virtual Dreamforce experience as much as you would an in-person event.

Session Booking Tips

Plan Your Schedule: Spread out your session bookings over the three days of Dreamforce. Don’t try to cram too many sessions into one day, especially on the first day, as you might feel overwhelmed.

  • Avoid Overbooking on Day 1: It’s tempting to sign up for everything on the first day, but remember that many attendees feel exhausted by the end of it. Give yourself some breathing room.

  • Consider Venue Distances: Sessions are held in different hotels, so there will be a short walk of about 5 to 10 minutes between them. Check the distances to avoid rushing from one session to another.

  • Opening Keynote Tips: The queue for the Opening Keynote starts 90 minutes before the event begins, and it can take 30 minutes to exit afterward. Make sure not to schedule other sessions during this time.

  • Popular Sessions: Some sessions are very popular and fill up quickly. To get a spot, register and arrive 15 to 20 minutes early. Avoid booking back-to-back sessions to ensure you have time to get to each one.

Dreamforce 2024 Parties

Here’s a list of parties happening during Dreamforce 2024. Mark your calendars!

Monday, September 16th

Tequity and SF Ben Executive Reception
7pm – 9pm, Invite Only

CIO For Good Summit

1pm – 5pm, followed by dinner at Shack15, Ferry Building 1

Gearset’s Salesforce Sunshine Stroll with Jack McCurdy

4pm – 5pm, 149 New Montgomery Street

Blazer Fest by Party Blazers

4:30pm – 6:30pm, Pink Elephant, 142 Minna Street

Rookie Rondevous by Gearset

5pm – 8pm, House of Shields, 39 New Montgomery Street

Dreamforce Happy Hour by GRAX and OutSystems

5pm – 7pm, The Harlequin, 68 4th Street

Kickoff Event about Clean Data by Elements.cloud and Validity Inc

5:30pm, followed by a wine and chocolate tasting at Elements Retreat, Floor 2 Werqwise, 149 New Montgomery Street

2024 Dreamforce Charity Poker for The Michael J. Fox Foundation

5:30pm for dinner, poker starts at 7pm sharp, Hyatt Regency San Francisco Downtown Soma, 50 3rd Street

Marketer’s Meetup by Sercante, Trilliad, Stensul, and Bynder

6pm – 9pm, Yerba Buena Bar, 141 2nd Street

Tuesday, September 17th

DF24 Newbie Reunion “Bacon” Breakfast

6:30am – 8:30am, Sears Fine Food, 439 Powell Street

SF Ben Dreamforce Hub

8am – 8pm, Tuesday and Wednesday, Fly Trap, 606 Folsom Street

Dreamforce Keynote Watch Party by Coastal

9:45am, INSPIRE Lounge, 201 3rd Street

Healthcare & Life Sciences Dreamforce Happy Hour

3pm – 5pm, The Social Restaurant at the Canopy Hotel (across from Moscone), 250 4th Street

Women in Finance Panel and Cocktail Hour

4pm – 5pm, Zenn Sky Lounge, 3rd Street

Networking Event by Copado and EPAM

4pm – 6pm, Trellis Coworking Space, 981 Mission Street

DevHops Afterparty

4pm – 8pm, Sandbox VR, 767 B Market Street

Cocktails at House of Shields by Acxiom, R1, MRM, and FCB

4:30pm – 7pm, House of Shields, 39 New Montgomery Street

Happy Hour by Gerent

5pm – 7pm, Buena Vida Cantina, 860 Folsom Street

Happy Hour by Globant

5pm – 7pm, 875 Howard Street, Suite 320

Impact Sector Social: Kick Off Dreamforce with Cloud for Good

5pm – 8pm, Monarch SF, 101 6th Street

Dreamforce Data Cloud Party by Thunder, Scalewith, and egen

5pm – 8pm, The Lounge, 201 3rd Street

The RevOps Dream Team Happy Hour by Traction Complete

5pm – 9pm, Soma Eats on Second, 168 2nd Street

Dreamforce Happy Hour by Apps Associates

5:30pm – 7:30pm, W San Francisco, 181 3rd Street

Coastal’s Sunset Soiree

5:30pm, INSPIRE Lounge, 201 3rd Street

Sunset Cruise with Salesforce by Copado

6pm – 9pm, Pier 3 San Francisco

House of Cloud by Salesforce Ben

7pm – late, The Grand, 520 4th Street

“In The Clouds” After Party by Sercante, Trilliad, and Stensul

7pm – 12am, 715 Harrison Street

Starry Night Soirée by Atrium

8pm, Temple Nightclub, 540 Howard Street

Hustle and Flow 2024 Revenue Cloud Dreamforce Party

8pm, Hawthorn SF Nightclub and Lounge, 46 Geary Street

Wednesday, September 18th

Dreamfest (with P!nk and Imagine Dragons as the headlining performers)

6pm – 9:30pm, The Giants Ballpark, 24 Willie Mays Plaza (Included with your Dreamforce Full Conference badge and government ID)

Dreamforce Community Fun Run

6am – 7:30am, Ferry Building Marketplace, 1 Ferry Building

Financial Services Community Appreciation Cocktail Hour

4pm – 5pm, Zenn Sky Lounge, 3rd Street

Happy Hour by Copado and Own

4pm – 6pm, Trellis Coworking Space, 981 Mission Street

Outreachella Happy Hour: The Happy Hour

4pm – 6pm, Joyride Pizza, Yerba Buena Gardens

The Ultimate Pregame

4pm – 7pm, Victory Hall, 360 Ritch Street

Vonage Dreamfest Pre-Party: Raise Your Glass

4:30pm – 6:30pm, Hyatt Regency SOMA, 2nd floor

Rocketman Rendezvous: Pre-Concert Happy Hour

5pm, INSPIRE Lounge, 201 3rd Street

The Engagement Party 2024 by Idealist Consulting

8pm – late, Monarch Night Club, 101 6th Street

Thursday, September 19th

Happy Hour by Copado

2pm – 4pm, Trellis Coworking Space

Elements Wine Down

5pm – 9pm, Elements.cloud Retreat, 149 New Montgomery Street

12th Annual michaelforce.org Cigar Shindig

6pm – late, Cigar Bar and Grill, 850 Montgomery Street

Networking Tips at Dreamforce

Prioritize Networking: Don’t try to attend every session. Many will be available online later. Make time for networking, whether you're attending in person or virtually. Meeting people can be just as valuable as attending sessions.

  • Schedule Meetings in Advance: If you want to connect with specific people, customers, or partners, reach out ahead of time to arrange meetings. With virtual options, it might be easier to set up these meetings.

  • Prepare Your Elevator Pitch: Be ready with a quick and compelling introduction about yourself. You never know who you might meet.

  • Follow Up: Remember to catch up with the people you planned to connect with.


Plan Your Dreamforce Experience

Dreamforce can be both thrilling and overwhelming. To make the most of it, proper planning is essential. Here’s how to prepare:

  • Plan Ahead: Register for sessions early and plan your schedule carefully. Spread out your sessions to avoid burnout and make time for important meetings.

  • Schedule Meetings: Reach out to people in advance to set up meetings. Whether you're attending in person or virtually, having a plan will help you maximize your time.

  • Network and Socialize: Use Dreamforce as an opportunity to meet new people and make connections. Enjoy the experience, make new friends, and have fun!

Good luck at Dreamforce 2024!

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