Qualified's ultimate guide to Dreamforce

Whether it's your first or twentieth Dreamforce, there's a lot to keep in mind when planning and packing. Luckily, we're Dreamforce experts.

Shelly Weaver
Shelly Weaver
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August 19, 2022
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min read
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Dreamforce is the world’s biggest tech conference, and it’s just around the corner! After a few years of virtual and hybrid events, Dreamforce is back in full swing this year in San Francisco, celebrating 20 its 20th anniversary. Thousands of Salesforce Trailblazers from all over the world, plus millions streaming via Salesforce+, will attend the conference. There’s a lot of planning and organization that goes into getting the most out of your Dreamforce experience. 

Consider this your ultimate guide to all things Dreamforce, from what to bring, to what sessions to prioritize. We’ll see you at the campground!

What is Dreamforce?

Dreamforce is Salesforce’s annual conference, gathering thousands and thousands of the world’s greatest minds in software to learn, grow, and network. Featuring speakers like Matthew McConaughey and Allyson Felix, Dreamforce seeks to inspire attendees to think big and engage in once-in-a-lifetime experiences. 

2022 is the 20th year of Dreamforce and promises to be the biggest event yet, taking over several venues in San Francisco from September 20th to the 22nd. This year, Dreamforce is both coming home to San Francisco for in-person sessions and streaming virtual sessions on Salesforce+, ensuring more attendees than ever can experience the magic of Dreamforce and see the future of software. Come for the product launches, exciting keynotes, musical performances, and inspiring speakers–stay for the career-changing experiences you can’t get anywhere else. 

Registration is now open, don’t miss out! 

Who should attend Dreamforce?

Dreamforce is built for anyone working within the Salesforce ecosystem–from admins to sales pros, to marketers and executives. If you’re part of a team that uses Salesforce, you can learn and grow at Dreamforce. 

Where should I stay for Dreamforce?

Hotels book quickly for Dreamforce–learn from the attendees of 2015’s conference when hotels sold out and Dreamforce had to charter a cruise liner to house everyone. When you register for the event, you’ll have access to hotels that Dreamforce recommends. Booking everything at once can help you avoid last-minute travel stress, but if hotels are sold out, or you aren’t quite interested in the ones on Dreamforce’s list, here are a few other options to consider.

If you’re traveling with a larger group, renting an entire property might be more up your alley. Airbnb, VRBO, and FlipKey are all great options to check out for your group. 

A great budget option to get on your radar is a hostel. HI Hostel San Francisco is just a few minutes away from the Moscone where Dreamforse takes place, and it offers dormitory-style lodgings as well as private rooms. 

Will I need my proof of vaccination to attend Dreamforce 2022?

As of right now, Dreamforce is not requiring proof of Covid-19 vaccinations or negative tests to attend the conference, however, safety is a huge priority for the Dreamforce team and this is subject to change closer to the event.

What should I pack for Dreamforce?

Dreamforce can be a whirlwind, but our Senior Director of Events and Programs, Amy Clausing, knows a thing or two about being prepared. Follow her suggestions and you’re sure to cruise through Dreamforce without any hiccups. 

Pack your Dreamforce bag with Amy

Fresh kicks

Dreamforce is a marathon, and without the right footwear, you’re going to be dragging by Day Two. Amy buys a brand new pair of On Running’s every year to make sure she’s prepared to clock 12 miles’ worth of steps a day. 

First aid

A little overboard? Only until you need it. Aspirin, bandaids, and Neosporin are all handy to have on you in case of a minor injury or some aches and pains. Don’t forget extra hair ties, bobby pins, deodorant, etc. to make sure all that networking leaves a good first impression.

Water bottle

The name of the game is hydration, but make is sustainable. You’re doing so much all day at Dreamforce–you need a good water bottle to ensure you’re staying hydrated without ripping through single-use plastic bottles. 

Backup power

Phone chargers, or better yet, reserve power packs are a must for Dreamforce. The days are long, and you need to stay updated on the latest events, sessions, and parties happening. While we’re on it–check out some recommended apps for Dreamforce. 

A roomy bag

You’ll need a great bag to fit all of your essentials–make sure that you can easily access your electronics, some gum or mints, and chapstick. There’s a lot of catching up and connecting between sessions. Make sure there’s some room for swag, too! 

What Dreamforce sessions should I attend?

As you build your Dreamforce agenda, keep in mind all the different kinds of sessions you can attend.

Main keynotes

There are many high-profile speakers at Dreamforce, and we know that this year’s lineup is looking pretty stellar. These are the main draw for Dreamforce attendees, so you need to plan around them. Pro tip with Amy–line up for Marc Benioff’s keynote much earlier than you think you need to. 

Fireside chats

Expect to attend some inspiring interviews and chats with notable speakers. Think Barack Obama notable. 

Dreamfest

Dreamforce isn’t just learning–there’s a lot of fun, too. Dreamfest takes place at the baseball stadium and has included musical performances in the past like the Foo Fighters, U2, Stevie Wonder, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, to name a few. 

True to the Core

If you’ve got a question for senior Salesforce executives, these Q&A sessions are for you. Hear what the panels have to say about the future of Salesforce.  

External events

There are tons of events put on throughout the conference by Salesforce and AppExchange partners in the San Francisco area. Make sure you keep an eye out for the parties–that Dreamforce pass will get you everywhere. 

Qualified sessions

Come see us speak, or swing by our booth in the Marketing section of the campground. We’ll be hosting sessions to help you generate more pipeline than ever. Check our scheduled sessions out here.

So… what do I do while I wait for Dreamforce ‘22?

We know. It’s hard to wait! While you’re counting down the days, we have plenty of Dreamforce content to keep your brain buzzing with exciting ideas to bring to campgrounds. 

Plan how to spend your precious downtime! [We’ve got just the guide for that]. Explore San Francisco with our team’s favorite things to do and eat in the city. 

Still unsure if you’re ready to register? See why our CRO, Robert Zimmerman, thinks Dreamforce is such a valuable experience. 

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