Cannes Lions 2025: Top tips from veterans
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity kicks off on Monday, so The Media Leader has put together some top tips from seasoned attendees.
From global networking to insights from industry powerhouses, there’s plenty to look forward to at this year’s event for the advertising and media community.
Whether it’s concerns about scheduling or what the right shoes are, have a read to keep you cool among the chaos.
Kirsty Giordani, executive director, IAA UK
“Each year I go to Cannes with clearly defined objectives in my mind. I stay focused on those objectives and review them on the last day — for example, this year I want to meet new people with fresh ideas and challenging viewpoints to bring back to the IAA UK community.
“Stay focused, don’t over-commit and avoid wandering too much.”
Alexander Igelsböck, CEO, Adverity
“Staying well-rested and hydrated is essential, as is having strategic windows to recharge and recuperate.
“Your willingness to step back when needed and having a personal ‘no list’ might also prove as valuable as any scheduled meeting.
“And, for first-time attendees, confidence and planning will go a long way to ensuring your experience is both successful and enjoyable.”
Karin Seymour, client and marketing director, Sky Media
“There are talks, panels, lunches and parties everywhere you turn. But one of my biggest bits of advice? Don’t try to do it all — leave space for serendipity.
“Some of the best moments happen in between the big events — unplanned conversations on the Croisette, bumping into someone over breakfast or catching a spark of an idea in a completely unexpected setting.
“Make those unexpected connections, whether that’s personal or creative, because they make all the difference.”
Simon Akers, founder and partner, Archmon; member, The Future 100 Club
“A combination of the scale of the Croisette with the human traffic, some of which will stop to chat to you, will render you late for meetings.
“Also, I’ll pass the same advice I was passed on my first trip: dress lightly comfortably.
“There’s a weird idea we must all dress like linen-clad oligarchs on a yacht, but the truth is you will burn to death. Wear a T-shirt and shorts if you wish and sacrifice the espadrilles for comfortable trainers.”
Victoria Usher, CEO and founder, GingerMay
“Booking ahead is key. Things get busy fast and even casual coffees can disappear into packed calendars.
“When you land, take a little time to get your bearings. There’s a rhythm to Cannes that’s easier to enjoy when you know where things are.
“Base yourself near the Croisette if you can – it keeps everything walkable and saves your energy for the important stuff.
“And don’t forget, a lot of the real action happens outside the Palais. Enjoy it — it’s work, but it’s also one of the best weeks of the year to have a good time.”
Will Spence, CEO, Initiative UK
“Don’t ask what someone does; ask who invited them — it’s the fastest way to find out who’s legit, who’s blagging and who just came for the Spotify party and free tote bags.
“Also, wear clothes you can dance, pitch and sweat mildly/wildly in. You’ll go from a 10am panel on neurodivergent media strategy to a barefoot sunset party with someone who may or may not be the founder of a unicorn startup. Be ready for both.
“And embrace it! At some point, you’ll be offered something weird, salty or niche — whether it’s a dish, a talk or a new acquaintance. Try it.”
James Townsend, EMEA CEO, Stagwell
“Attending Cannes should be an opportunity to ask questions and learn from incredible leaders across different parts of the industry.
“Cannes serves as the global forum for not only creativity but innovation, so try to see as much as possible across craft and new tech.
“And avoid the Gutter Bar — nothing kills curiosity more than a hangover.”
Bryan Scott, chief marketing officer, Ozone
“The most important thing to remember is that it’s an immense privilege to be among your peers at one of the world’s biggest industry gatherings.
“As I’m representing my colleagues, it is my priority to make sure that I conduct myself in a manner that would make them proud.
“I would also advise taking full advantage of the queues. We know that a big draw of the festival is the huge networking opportunity, so make sure you say hello to your line buddies.
“I like to use the LinkedIn business card feature for making new connections. Simply open the LinkedIn app, tap the QR code in the search bar and use that to connect — you can even save it in your photos to have it closer to hand.”
Katie Secret, EVP, global marketing and GTM strategy, Teads
“Cannes Lions is absurdly busy, so prep is key.
“I make it a point to plan out my schedule methodically, with travel time between locations baked in — remember that the commute from yacht row to the Martinez can take upwards of 30 minutes when navigating crowds and spontaneous run-ins.
“And top tip for this year particularly: carry cash! Recent power cuts across Europe mean that cash might not only be helpful for staff tipping but it might just be essential to eat and drink, if everything goes dark.”
Lucas Wesney, head of strategy, Nike EMEA, Initiative
“Decide early if you’re chasing world-class creative, game-changing talks, high-stakes networking or sunrise parties. The key is to own your experience.
“Walking into the festival without a clear goal is the quickest way to walk out thinking ‘Maybe Cannes just isn’t for me’. It’s like doing Glastonbury with no setlist: you’ll wander around, miss the magic and be left asking what all the fuss was about.”
Nick Waters, CEO, Northern Europe, Making Science
“Hold time to visit the Palais — go and see the work and plan the speaker sessions you want to attend. If it’s an A-list session, get in the queue early or you’ll miss out.”