Recent years have seen dramatic changes to the events industry. The influence of social media and global communications technology, increased focus on environmental sustainably and social responsibility, and changes to the economic and cultural landscape have driven rapid expansion and increased competition.

Special Events: Creating and Sustaining a New World for Celebration has been the event planner's essential guide for three decades, providing comprehensive coverage of the theory, concepts and practice of event management. The new Eighth Edition continues to be the definitive guide for creating, organizing, promoting, and managing special events of all kinds. Authors, Seungwon "Shawn" Lee and Joe Goldblatt, internationally-recognized leaders and educators in the industry, guide readers through all the aspects of professional event planning with their broad understanding of diverse cultures and business sectors. This definitive resource enables current and future event leaders to stretch the boundaries of the profession and meaningfully impact individuals, organizations, and cultures around the globe. Global case studies of high-profile events, such as the PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games and Norway's Constitution Day annual event, complement discussions of contemporary issues surrounding safety, security, and risk management. Each chapter includes "Ecologic," "Techview," and/or "Secureview," mini-case studies, a glossary of terms, plentiful charts, graphs, and illustrations, and links to additional online resources.