When a one-day gathering in San Francisco in 2003 welcomed just 1,300 attendees (with 52 sessions at the Westin St. Francis), no one could have predicted the juggernaut it would become. Today, Dreamforce draws well over 180,000 trailblazers from every corner of the globe, mixing product reveals, networking, philanthropic efforts, and rock-star concerts. It’s hosted annually by Salesforce and stages in San Francisco’s Moscone Center, with hybrid reach via Salesforce+ for virtual attendees.
With that magnitude and diversity, Dreamforce can feel overwhelming, but with the right mindset and strategy, it becomes one of the richest learning and connection experiences you’ll ever attend. In this post, we’ll walk you through how rookies (first-timers) and veterans (returning Dreamforcers) can plan smart, pace themselves, and squeeze maximum ROI from every moment, plus universal tips (snacks, shoes, layering) you’ll thank yourself for later.
Rookie Trailblazers (First-Timers)
Sessions = Pokémon. Catch a few, not all.
There are so many simultaneous tracks that trying to attend everything leads to burn-out. Pick a “hero track” (like AI, Flow, Commerce Cloud) as your anchor, and leave buffer slots. The most unexpected insights often come from a short theater session you wander into between marquee keynotes.
Stream when you can.
Keynotes often sell out. Instead of fighting for seats, remember most will be available later via Salesforce+. Let the crowd clear, recharge, then binge the highlights with clear eyes.
Own the after-hours.
Parties, rooftop mixers, brand events; this is where real relationship magic happens. Wear your Trailblazer hoodie, RSVP early, and talk to strangers (in a good way).
Rookie survival tips
Wear broken-in, comfortable shoes (you’ll rack up miles)
Pack energy-boosting snacks and a refillable water bottle (hydration + quick fuel)
Bring a light sweater or layer (conference rooms run icy cold)
Download the Dreamforce app early and mark sessions you don’t want to miss
Seasoned Dreamforcers (Veterans)
Don’t chase every session. Go deep.
You know how to zigzag Moscone. This year, skip the broad overviews and aim for executive briefings, roadmap reveals, or advanced deep dives. Let rookies fill up on foundation content; your edge is in nuance, not breadth.
Use your backstage pass.
Executive receptions and sponsor dinners are more than schmooze opportunities, they’re where product managers drop hints and Fortune 500 execs reveal real pain points. Use your network to get in.
Nightlife = more than fun.
Even if you’ve seen Dreamfest before, go again. And don’t miss unofficial partner events at nearby hotels. But pace yourself; a burned-out veteran is no help to anyone.
Veteran smart moves
Bring a high-capacity portable charger (your phone is your map, schedule, contacts)
Carry business cards or have a digital contact QR/code ready
Block “white space” slots (rest, snack, reflect) momentum isn’t everything
Tips That Apply to Everyone
Hydration is nonnegotiable. The Bay fog + long days = you’ll forget.
Dress in layers. San Francisco mornings, sunny afternoons, freezing theaters at night; your sweater, jacket, scarf = daily MVPs.
Chunk your schedule wisely. Leave 10–15 minute buffers; walking between venues, surprises, bathroom, coffee.
Be open to the unplanned. The best conversations often happen in line or between sessions.
Mind your energy. Take micro breaks. Sit in the lounge, walk outside, restore.
Final Thought
Dreamforce has grown from humble beginnings to a global phenomenon, but the secret to success is timeless: plan with intention, pace with wisdom, and stay open to magic in the margins. Whether this is your first or tenth Dreamforce, the most valuable moments rarely come from checklists, they come from curiosity, presence, and unexpected connections. And to make your experience even nicer, make sure you connect with the Kasama team; email us to see get together at Dreamforce: hello@kasamadigital.com
