YOUR DAY-OF PLAYBOOK
Make the room feel like everyone matters.
The best Demo Day is not a show people watch at a distance. It is an experience they enter: greeting, demonstration, understanding, participation, and a memory worth carrying home.
A SAMPLE 90-MINUTE SESSION
A simple rhythm. Real discovery.
Welcome people
Arrival, access needs, introductions, clear photo preferences, an accessible route, and how questions will work.
Open the day
A local host explains the simple principle: real work, voluntary participation, maker credit, and curiosity.
See things work
Two or three short demonstrations with room for hands-on exploration only where safe, clear and consented.
Ask and connect
Let people ask the maker why, what failed, what was learned, and where to learn more.
Close with an invitation
Thank the demonstrators and venue, share one concrete next step, and explain how people can connect afterward.
WHO MAKES IT WORK
Give every responsibility a person, not a pile of assumptions.
Local convener
Own the welcome and coordinate with Dreamstep; do not imply a formal title without written confirmation.
Venue point person
Know the space, occupancy, access, exits, electrical needs and the venue's rules.
Demonstration lead
Confirm what is working, safe to demonstrate, and needs extra time or support.
Access and safety point
Check accessible routes and participation, safe materials, emergency procedures, and alternative ways to participate.
Media and consent point
Ask before photographs, quotes and interviews; make the no-photo path practical and visible.
Closing steward
Thank people, capture only consented learning, preserve maker credits, and share legitimate next steps.
READY TO OPEN THE DOORS?
The checks that protect the experience.
Confirmed approval, event title, organizer and official Luma listing before public promotion.
Venue capacity, exits, accessible route, restrooms, seating and quiet area checked.
Electrical, moving parts, tools and demonstrations assessed for hazards by competent responsible people.
Minors have appropriate school/guardian arrangements and supervision.
Everyone knows when media recording is occurring; no one is pressured to appear.
Demonstrators approve use of their names, images, demonstrations and credits.
Weather/backup and emergency contacts are agreed with the venue.
One person can answer participant questions and correct event information promptly.
AFTER THE DAY
Ask three simple questions: What did people see work? What did they learn? Who wants to show the next thing? Keep a short factual account with corrections, not inflated claims about impact or attendance.
Send a thoughtful thank-you →