Instagram has become a powerhouse for event promotion. With over 2 billion active users, 70% of whom regularly follow brands, Instagram offers a uniquely visual, highly engaging platform to build momentum before your event even begins.
Why Instagram Ads Work So Well for Events
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58% of users say they become more interested in an event or brand after seeing it in Instagram Stories.
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Instagram's algorithm prioritizes content with engagement, making it ideal for promotions tied to excitement, exclusivity, and interaction.
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With placements across Reels, Stories, Feed, and Explore, your ad can appear where users are actively discovering new content.
Instagram Stories Boost Event Interest: Over half of users say Stories increase their likelihood to attend
Best Types of Instagram Ads for Events
1. Stories Ads
Use countdown stickers, polls, and swipe-up CTAs to build urgency and direct users to register.
2. Reels Ads
Quick, authentic, and optimized for attention. Use them for teaser videos, behind-the-scenes clips, or influencer shoutouts.
3. Carousel Ads
Perfect for multi-day events or showcasing different speakers, venues, or event highlights.
4. Explore Page Ads
Capture the attention of users browsing new content and trends. Great for festivals, pop-ups, and live experiences.
Popular Instagram Ad Formats for Event Promotion: Use each one strategically to increase engagement and RSVPs
How to Set Up an Instagram Ad Campaign for Events
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Go to Facebook Ads Manager (Meta Business Suite)
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Choose your campaign objective: Event Responses, Engagement, or Conversions
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Set your audience (use lookalikes, custom audiences, or retargeting)
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Select Manual Placements and choose Instagram-only, or let Advantage+ handle cross-platform delivery
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Use vertical formats (9:16), high-energy visuals, and event-relevant CTAs like “RSVP Now” or “Join the Countdown”
Keywords to Boost Performance
Use these high-performing interest and audience-based keywords in your targeting and ad copy:
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"event near me"
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"live music fans"
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"upcoming webinars"
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"free networking event"
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"local social event"
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"RSVP now"
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"pop-up experience"
Instagram Ad Tips for Better Engagement
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Add interactive features (polls, sliders, questions) in Stories to boost reach
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Feature user-generated content from past events for credibility
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Use early bird deadlines and exclusive access CTAs to increase urgency
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Launch a multi-day reminder sequence leading up to the event
Final Thoughts
Instagram Ads are a natural fit for modern event promotion. They're immersive, mobile-first, and designed for sharing. Pair them with smart targeting and full-funnel remarketing through LeadEnforce to ensure your event doesn't just get seen—it gets packed.
