10 Tips for Dreamforce 2025 from the Experts at Canvas Cloud
Dreamforce 2025 isn’t just another Salesforce conference—it’s the ultimate experience for the global Salesforce Ohana. With more than 50,000 Trailblazers, Admins, Consultants, and Partners gathering in San Francisco this October 14–16, it can feel overwhelming if you don’t plan ahead.
To help you navigate the keynotes, sessions, networking, and nonstop energy, we asked the Canvas Cloud team to share their top advice. Here are 10 expert tips for Dreamforce attendees from Ben Dolar, CEO of Canvas Cloud; Danny Rodriguez, Director of Services; and Sarah M. Capps, Senior Salesforce Consultant.
TIP #1 – Step One: Shoes
“Dreamforce covers a lot of ground — literally — so wear comfortable shoes! Sessions are spread out, so try to group ones that are close together.”
With tens of thousands of attendees and sessions across multiple city blocks, logistics matter. Keep an eye on the bus schedule, leave extra time in the mornings, and plan sessions by location. Smart planning saves you from long sprints (not the two-week kind!) and keeps your energy for the experiences that matter most.
TIP #2 – Get to the Keynote Early
“Never miss the keynote! Whether you’re brand new or a repeat attendee, this is where the energy kicks off. It sets the tone for the whole week.”
The keynote is more than a presentation, it’s Dreamforce’s pep rally, the kickoff moment that brings everyone together. You’ll hear big announcements, see new product innovations, and get inspired by stories from across the Salesforce community. Be sure to get there early so you’re in the room where it happens, not just watching the live stream.
TIP #3 – Choose Your Sessions, but Stay Flexible
“Sometimes the best value comes from the unexpected sessions or conversations you stumble into. Leave space for those and don’t overcommit.”
Dreamforce offers hundreds of sessions, and the agenda builder fills up quickly. It’s smart to book the topics that matter most to you, but don’t get discouraged if you can’t snag every session you want. Sometimes the real magic happens off the schedule.
TIP #4 – Don’t Get Tagged as a Tourist
“When you step out of the conference, leave the Dreamforce gear behind. Without the badge and branded swag, you’ll be able to experience the city more comfortably and a lot more authentically.”
San Francisco is a vibrant city, and you’ll enjoy it more if you blend in with the locals. Heading out with your Dreamforce badge or Salesforce backpack makes it obvious you’re part of the conference crowd and can draw unwanted attention. Dress casually, explore a neighborhood, and give yourself the chance to experience the city beyond Moscone.
TIP #5 – Swag Smarter, Not Harder
“Be strategic with your swag. There will be a lot of things given out, from stuffed animals to t-shirts to socks. If you take everything you’re offered, you have to take it back home! Do you really need 50 drink koozies?”
With hundreds of vendors and thousands of giveaways, it’s easy to overdo it. The trick is to be selective: grab the items you’ll actually use, choose quality over quantity, and keep in mind that every extra trinket has to fit in your suitcase. Curate what you collect so it feels special.
✨ Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to track down Daniel “Doodle” Dibble in his signature blue beret. He’ll have Canvas Cloud’s limited-edition Dreamforce buttons: custom collectibles that are way more memorable than another pen.
TIP #6 – Build Connections, Not Just Contacts
“Talk to as many people as you can. Ask them what they’re building, what they’ve overcome. Some of my favorite Dreamforce memories are from swapping stories with other Salesforce Admins.”
The expo floor and networking events can feel overwhelming, but they’re also where some of the best opportunities happen. Don’t just collect business cards, take the time to have real conversations. Ask people about their challenges and share your own experiences. Those authentic exchanges often turn into the insights, partnerships, and friendships that last far beyond Dreamforce week.
TIP #7 – Mix Business with Fun
“I’ve been lucky enough to experience performances by Bruno Mars, Alicia Keys, Lenny Kravitz, Metallica, Beck, and Janet Jackson at Dreamforce. Whether it’s your thing or not, the main concerts (and even the occasional side concerts) are part of the #DF25 magic, so be sure to check them out.”
Dreamforce is about learning, but it’s also about creating unforgettable memories. The evening concerts have become legendary, with surprise guests from every genre making appearances over the years. They’re a chance to unwind after a packed day, celebrate with your peers, and experience the community in a whole new way. Don’t skip them because these moments are often what people talk about long after the sessions are over.
TIP #8 – Make Time to Recharge
“Get away from the craziness for a while. Even grabbing a coffee at a quiet spot nearby can reset your energy for the next big session.”
With so much happening, it’s easy to go nonstop from sunup to sundown. But Dreamforce is a marathon, not a sprint, and you’ll get more out of it if you pace yourself. Find a quiet spot, grab a coffee, or even take a short walk to reset your energy before diving back in. Two nearby favorites are Cafe Shoji (for creative matcha drinks and calm café vibes) and Blue Bottle Coffee (for reliable, strong coffee and a clean, modern space). If you prefer to recharge with something stronger, Shelby’s Rooftop offers panoramic views and craft cocktails, while The Harlequin delivers stylish drinks and New American dining just steps away.
TIP #9 – Don’t Miss the After Parties
“Many vendors will have private events, such as happy hours where you can get a great meal, but also sometimes private concerts! Try to get on the invite list for an even more unique experience!”
After parties are more than just fun, they’re some of the best networking opportunities at Dreamforce. Vendors often use them to showcase their communities, introduce customers, and bring together partners in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a chance to meet people you may not cross paths with during the day, and those casual conversations can spark long-term connections. Keep an eye out for RSVP links in advance, and don’t be afraid to ask around once you’re onsite.
TIP #10 – Expand Your Perspective
“Use Dreamforce to stretch your thinking. Go with your strategy in mind, but be open to the creativity you’ll see everywhere. As Dwight D. Eisenhower said, ‘Plans are worthless, but planning is everything.”
At Canvas Cloud, we believe in turning creative ideas into strategic impact. Dreamforce is the perfect place to see that in action, whether it’s an innovative nonprofit solution or a bold business integration. The best plans evolve when strategy meets imagination.
Whether it’s your first Dreamforce or your fifteenth, these tips from the team at Canvas Cloud will help you balance learning, networking, and enjoying the unique experience that only Dreamforce delivers.
Daniel Dibble, President of Canvas Cloud, will be at Dreamforce 2025 sporting his signature blue beret in character as Daniel Doodle. If you spot him, don’t miss your chance to grab a limited-edition custom Dreamforce collectible button, a little creative flair to remember the week.
Want to schedule a time to connect at Dreamforce? Send us an email at connect@canvascloud.com.
