What makes geocaching Events so amazing?

For Michigan reviewer and Event host, allenite, it’s all about the people. Read his advice on hosting an unforgettable Event.

What’s in a name?
While you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, it may give you some clues about what to expect. Similarly, your Event name helps set the tone. Event names like GeoCoinFest or Popsicles in the Park set expectations for attendees.

Event host allenite shares the meaning behind this annual Event, which started as a Community Celebration Event in 2020. “The naming of the Event goes off the unofficial nickname for Hillsdale itself, so when combined with the idea of a community celebration, “It’s the People – A Community Celebration Weekend” was born.”

Since 2020, this series of Events has drawn geocachers to Hillsdale County for a weekend of geocaching, friends, and fun.

Location, location location

“When you go to hide a geocache, think of the reason you are bringing people to that spot. If the only reason is for the geocache, then find a better spot.” —briansnat

The same advice can be applied to Events!

Through his Events, allenite and his “coalition of hiders” try to find new ways to showcase all that Hillsdale County geocaching has to offer. Poker runs, puzzles, and CITOs in the park challenge cachers (and even allenite himself) to explore new parts of the county; “while trying to locate areas for hides and poker run stops, we have been amazed at some spots we have found in the area.”

Mingle and mix
As the title implies, this Event isn’t just for geocaching, it’s for the people! “I like activities that encourage people to interact with each other and meet new people,” allenite shares. “Of course, I’m also almost always up for a good meal… You will never go wrong if it has good social elements. That is what ultimately binds the community and keeps many of us coming back to Events.”

Allenite recommends making sure there is enough time, space, and seating for socializing. “I have met some great friends from around the world just by plopping down in a seat and sharing some stories back and forth.”

Something for everyone
Through this Event, allenite and other geocachers have forged even stronger bonds with their community. Some of allenite’s favorite memories are of the community (both geocachers and non-players) coming together to help one another, especially through Events like the annual CITO at the county park. “…seeing some of the cachers interact with some of our youngest attendees was amazing to see teaching them how to do some stuff with tools.”

It’s the People! is a shining example of how camaraderie and community are the backbone of any successful geocaching Event. Through the efforts of allenite and his friends, they have created a welcoming and inviting space for geocachers to celebrate the hobby that brings them together. “It is important… to find ways to facilitate experienced cachers inviting and partnering with newer cachers to help them feel like a part of the community.”

2025 marks the 25th anniversary of geocaching. We’re excited to share this milestone with the global geocaching community through Community Celebration Events!

Are you hosting an Event or Community Celebration Event in 2025? We want to hear about it! Share your plans in the comments below.