Behind the Curtain: What It Takes to Host a Cannes Lions Event

A Cannes Lions event may last just a few hours, but the work that goes into making it unforgettable? That starts months and sometimes years in advance. At Leo-Q, we've produced events across every corner of Cannes. And while the cocktails and sunsets steal the spotlight, it's the behind-the-scenes orchestration that truly sets great events apart.

Let's walk you through what it really takes to create a show-stopping brand experience at Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity. From the nitty-gritty of logistics to the wow-factor that makes guests remember your name.

Phase 1: Planning With Purpose

Before a single render is made or a venue is booked, our Leo-Q like to clarify:

Define Your Event Goals

Create a detailed brief outlining your KPIs, target metrics, and desired outcomes. Use the SMART framework to ensure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Identify Your Target Audience

Conduct thorough audience research, analyze past Cannes Lions attendee data, and create detailed persona profiles to understand your ideal guests' preferences and behaviors.

Design the Guest Experience

Map out the complete attendee journey from invitation to follow-up, identifying key touchpoints and emotional highlights that will create lasting impressions.

Phase 2: Locking the Right Location

Location is everything. At Leo-Q, we:

Identify Brand-Aligned Spaces

We carefully select venues that not only meet practical requirements but also align with your brand identity and event objectives. Leo-Q secured a beachfront venue during Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, reflecting its relaxed and vibrant image.

Early Permit Securing

Navigating Cannes' complex permitting process requires early action and local expertise. We handle all necessary documentation months in advance to ensure smooth operations.

Venue Compatibility Assessment

Our team evaluates each potential venue's technical capabilities, from power requirements to load-in access, ensuring it can support your event's full scope. Leo-Q assessed and modified a historic venue to accommodate a client's high-tech installations.

Phase 3: Designing the Space

Design isn't just decor—it's functionality, flow, and feeling.

Comprehensive Space Planning

Our detailed floorplans and 3D renders help visualize the space utilization and ensure optimal traffic flow throughout your event.

Time-Based Design Transitions

We plan how your space will transform from day to night, considering lighting, atmosphere, and functionality changes throughout the event. Leo-Q produced a seamless transition from a daytime conference to an evening gala for a media agency.

Strategic Brand Integration

Your brand elements are thoughtfully incorporated into the design, creating authentic touchpoints that enhance the guest experience. Leo-Q integrates your brand or product into the decor, allowing guests to interact organically.

Phase 4: Handling the Logistics

This is where most brands get overwhelmed. But it's where we thrive.

Local Resource Management

Working with local suppliers and materials eliminates shipping delays and customs issues while supporting the local economy.

Timeline Optimization

We create precise scheduling plans that maximize efficiency within Cannes' strict build windows and event regulations. Leo-Q coordinates a tight setup schedule, ensuring timely completion.

Technical Infrastructure Coordination

Our team handles all technical requirements, ensuring seamless integration of utilities and compliance with local regulations.

Phase 5: Booking Talent and Curating Content

Programming sets the tone. Whether you're hosting industry panels or a beach party with a surprise headliner, your schedule matters.

Strategic Talent Selection

We identify and secure speakers and performers who align with your brand values and can deliver meaningful content to your audience.

Innovative Format Development

Our team develops unique presentation and interaction formats that keep your audience engaged and differentiate your event. Leo-Q introduced interactive workshops during a client's event, creating deeper engagement.

Schedule Optimization

We create perfectly paced programs that maintain energy and interest while allowing for meaningful connections.

Phase 6: Creating Seamless Hospitality

Every Cannes Lions guest is busy, discerning, and very used to being impressed. That's why hospitality makes or breaks your event.

Expert Staffing Solutions

Leo-Q provides highly trained staff who can communicate effectively and represent your brand with sophistication and warmth.

Efficient Registration Process

Our streamlined check-in systems minimize wait times and create a positive first impression for your guests.

Premium Guest Experience

Every comfort detail is considered and provided, from climate control to refreshments, ensuring guest satisfaction throughout the event.

Phase 7: Live Production Management

Now it’s go-time. This is where flawless execution is non-negotiable and where Leo-Q delivers.

Technical Production Management

Our experienced team coordinates all technical elements, ensuring smooth transitions and professional presentation throughout. Leo-Q handled full production for a media agency’s Cannes yacht event, delivering cinema-quality sound and visuals on water.

Real-Time Problem Solving

We anticipate and quickly address any challenges that arise, from weather contingencies to capacity management.

Client Support

Our handling of operational details allows your team to focus on meaningful interactions with guests and key stakeholders. Leo-Q’s onsite producer worked side-by-side with a brand’s CMO during the event, allowing them to focus on press and partnerships instead of logistics.

Phase 8: Strike, Cleanup & Reporting

When your guests head home, our work continues—so your brand leaves a lasting impression.

Efficient Breakdown Operations

We manage a systematic teardown process that ensures all equipment and materials are properly handled and returned. Leo-Q dismantles a multi-structure pop-up overnight, readying the space for reopening the next day.

Environmental Responsibility

Our team works closely with local authorities to ensure the venue is restored to its original condition, following all environmental guidelines.

Comprehensive Event Analysis

We provide detailed post-event reporting that includes key metrics, achievements, and insights for future improvements. Leo-Q delivered a data-rich report to a global creative agency, showing ROI, engagement rates, and qualitative feedback from VIPs.

Let’s make your next event one that sets
a new standard.

Anyone can throw a party. But at Cannes Lions, brands don’t just need a party—they need performance. They need strategy, style, and a team that knows how to bring both to life under pressure.

Leo-Q isn’t just an event production company. We’re your on-the-ground partner, from strategic planning through to clean-up and insights. We know Cannes inside out—from the tight venue permitting timelines to the best local suppliers to the right lighting for sunset shots that actually get posted.

If you're a creative brand or media agency preparing for your next big Cannes Lions moment, see how our global production services work or get in touch with our team.