If you’re planning to attend Dreamforce 2025, Salesforce’s legendary annual event taking place from October 14-16 in San Francisco, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re brand new to the Salesforce ecosystem or a fresh face at Dreamforce, the scale and energy can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. To help you make the most of every moment, here are the top seven must-do activities all first-time attendees should prioritize.
1. Attend the Dreamforce Keynote
Why It’s Essential: The opening keynote sets the tone for Dreamforce 2025, unveiling Salesforce’s latest innovations and the company’s vision for the coming year. Two of the most visionary leaders—Sundar Pichai (CEO, Google & Alphabet) and Marc Benioff (Chair, CEO & Co-Founder, Salesforce) will share the stage in a rare joint keynote to discuss how AI agents are driving innovation, productivity, and business impact. This must-watch session promises visionary insights that could reshape the future of AI and enterprise success.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot and soak in the excitement—this is where the action starts, and the community gathers in full force.
2. Explore Customer Success Expo (Campground)
Why It’s Essential: The Expo, often called the “Campground,” is the beating heart of Dreamforce. Here, you’ll discover hands-on demonstrations, live product showcases, solutions from dozens of AppExchange partners, and interactive zones.
What Not to Miss:
- Hands-on demos of upcoming Salesforce features.
- Partner booths for swag and real-time solutions to your business challenges.
- Networking lounges to meet users from around the globe.
3. Participate in the Dreamforce Hackathon
Why It’s essential: The Dreamforce Hackathon is more than just a competition—it’s a platform to showcase your innovation on a global stage. By leveraging Agentforce and Slack, you can pioneer how businesses collaborate and interact in real time. It’s also an unparalleled opportunity to network with innovators, gain visibility, and potentially secure the $100,000 grand prize along with recognition at Dreamforce.
Pro Tip: Come prepared with a clear idea that solves a real-world business challenge. Build a small but impactful prototype that demonstrates value quickly. Focus on creativity, practical application, and how your solution enhances collaboration in Slack—this will help your pitch stand out to the judges.
4. Join Hands-on Training & Certification Opportunities
Why It’s Essential: Dreamforce offers exclusive, instructor-led training sessions and expedited paths to certification. These workshops are invaluable for Salesforce admins, developers, and professionals looking to sharpen their skills and boost their credentials.
Pro Tip: Spots fill up quickly, so register for sessions in advance. Don’t forget to visit the Trailhead Zone for fun, guided learning missions and the chance to earn new badges!
5. Attend Community-led Sessions and Circles of Success
Why It’s Essential: Learning from real users—your peers in the Salesforce ecosystem—offers perspectives and practical tips you won’t find anywhere else. These smaller sessions encourage open dialogue, Q&A, and solution-sharing based on real-world challenges.
Don’t Miss:
- Success Circles focused on hot topics (AI, automation, industry solutions).
- User group meetups for admins, developers, marketers, and more.
6. Don’t Skip Dreamfest & Evening Events
Why It’s essential: Dreamfest is more than just a concert—it’s a chance to experience the heart of Dreamforce’s community spirit. With legendary acts like Metallica and rising stars like Benson Boone, the event combines entertainment with impact, as proceeds go to UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals. It’s also one of the best networking opportunities in a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere where meaningful connections happen outside the session rooms.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, wear comfortable shoes (you’ll be on your feet a lot), and don’t miss the chance to mingle—some of the most valuable conversations often happen during these after-hours events.
7. Book Executive and Expert 1:1 Sessions
Why It’s Essential: Don’t miss the chance to schedule personalized sessions with Salesforce product experts, solution architects, or strategic advisors. These one-on-one consultations are tailored to your unique business needs—whether you’re facing a specific challenge or mapping out your Salesforce roadmap, expert insights can make all the difference.
How to Book: Secure your slot now – Book Your 1:1 Session
8. Dive Into Philanthropy at Dreamforce
Why It’s Essential: Giving back is a cornerstone of Salesforce culture, and Dreamforce features multiple opportunities to make a difference, from volunteer events to onsite activities supporting local causes.
Get Involved:
- Participate in onsite volunteer drives.
- Donate or contribute at the dedicated philanthropy booths.
Bonus Tips for First-Timers
- Plan Ahead: Review the agenda and use the Salesforce Events app to customize your schedule.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot!
- Pack Light & Stay Charged: Bring portable chargers and keep your bag light for all the swag and handouts you’ll collect.
[For a complete checklist of what to bring, check out the full Dreamforce 2025 packing guide here.]
- Talk to Everyone: Networking happens everywhere – waiting in line, at coffee stands, and during sessions.
Final Thoughts
Dreamforce 2025 in San Francisco is more than just a tech conference—it’s a celebration of innovation, community, and limitless possibility. By focusing on these seven activities, you’ll unlock an incredible experience, build career-changing connections, and return home energized to take on new Salesforce challenges. Enjoy your first Dreamforce—you’ll be back for more!
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Nilamani Das
Nilamani is a thought leader who champions the integration of AI, Data, CRM and Trust to craft impactful marketing strategies. He carries 25+ years of expertise in the technology industry with expertise in Go-to-Market Strategy, Marketing, Digital Transformation, Vision Development and Business Innovation.
