Problem → Solution

Free Event Registration Software - Manage Free Events at Zero Cost

A practical guide for event organizers — with real options and a clear path to fix it.

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The problem

Many 'free' event platforms aren't actually free. They charge hidden fees, display competitor ads on your event page, limit attendee counts, or require credit card info even for free events. Some platforms like Eventbrite only let you run 25 free events per year, or limit free events to 100 attendees. Others are technically free but provide such a poor experience (no customization, basic features only, intrusive branding) that they damage your event's credibility. Organizers running community meetups, nonprofit events, or webinar series need truly free registration without compromises.

Why this happens

Platforms need to monetize somehow, and free events don't generate direct revenue. So they either: (1) show ads on your event page to earn referral fees from competitors, (2) use free events as lead generation to upsell paid features, (3) limit free event capacity to push you toward paid plans, or (4) provide intentionally degraded experiences to incentivize upgrades. Additionally, some platforms charge for essential features like custom branding or more than X free events per year, making 'free' misleading.
Your options

Common ways organizers try to solve it

Not every fix fits every event. Here's a clear overview of the tradeoffs.

Option 1

Use platforms with genuinely unlimited free event hosting like SwarmTix

Option 2

Avoid platforms that show competitor ads on your free event pages

Option 3

Look for free tiers that include essential features (custom branding, attendee management, email notifications)

Option 4

Read the fine print on attendee limits and annual event caps

Option 5

Test the platform with a free event before committing to paid events

Tip: if you’re comparing platforms, check payout timing (cash flow) and whether the platform shows competing events to your attendees.

✓ Recommended Solution

How SwarmTix solves this

Built specifically to address this challenge for event organizers.

The SwarmTix approach

SwarmTix is 100% free for free events - and we mean it. Unlimited free events, unlimited attendees, no credit card required, no ads, no branding requirements (use your own logo and colors). You get the same professional features as paid events: custom event pages, attendee management, automated email confirmations, QR code check-in, custom registration questions, and analytics. Run weekly community meetups, monthly webinars, or annual nonprofit galas - all free as long as tickets are free. No bait-and-switch, no hidden fees. When you're ready to sell tickets, you simply pay the low 1.5% + $0.99 rate on paid tickets only.
$0.99 + 1.5%
Per paid ticket
Instant
Payouts via Stripe
100% Free
For free events
Start for free See pricing details

FAQ

Is SwarmTix really free for free events?
Yes, completely free. No setup fees, no monthly charges, no per-attendee costs for free events. You can run unlimited free events with unlimited attendees forever. We only charge when you sell paid tickets (1.5% + $0.99 per ticket).
Do you show ads on free event pages?
Never. Your event page is 100% yours with no competitor ads, no 'similar events' sections, and no distractions. We don't make money by sending your attendees to other events.
What features are included in free event registration?
Everything: custom event pages, your branding (logo, colors), unlimited ticket types, discount codes, custom registration questions, automated emails, attendee management, QR check-in, waitlists, analytics, and more. Free events get the same features as paid events.
Are there limits on attendee count for free events?
No limits. Host a 20-person workshop or a 2,000-person webinar - both are completely free on SwarmTix. No artificial caps or upgrade prompts.
Why is SwarmTix free when others charge?
We believe free events should be free. Our business model is simple: we make money from paid ticket fees (1.5% + $0.99 per ticket), not from charging organizers monthly subscriptions or showing ads. When your events succeed and grow, you naturally sell more paid tickets, and we grow too. No tricks, no upsells.

Ready to fix this for your next event?

Lower fees, instant payouts, and a platform built for tech events.

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No credit card required. No monthly fees.