Adding Events vs Calendar Subscribers: Understanding the Difference
When sharing calendar content with AddCal, you have two main options: adding individual events or subscribing to entire calendars. Understanding the key differences between these approaches will help you choose the best method for your specific needs.
Adding Individual Events
Individual events are static, one-time additions to someone's calendar. When a person clicks an "Add to Calendar" link for a specific event, they're downloading a snapshot of that event's details at that moment in time.
Key Characteristics:
Write-once only: Once added to someone's calendar, the event cannot be updated or changed remotely
Static information: Event details remain exactly as they were when first added
No ongoing connection: There's no link between the original event and the copy in the recipient's calendar
Individual control: Recipients can modify or delete the event in their personal calendar without affecting others
Best Use Cases:
One-time events (conferences, workshops, parties)
Events with finalized details that won't change
Situations where you want attendees to have full control over their calendar entry
Important Consideration:
Since individual events cannot be updated after they're added to someone's calendar, we strongly recommend using AddCal's RSVP feature for events that might change. This allows you to:
Collect attendee email addresses
Send direct notifications about time changes, cancellations, or updates
Maintain communication with your audience even after they've added the event
Calendar Subscribers
Calendar subscription creates a dynamic, ongoing connection between your AddCal calendar and your subscribers' calendars. When someone subscribes to your calendar, they're essentially creating a live feed of your events.
Key Characteristics:
Always in sync: Subscribers automatically receive all current and future non-draft events
Real-time updates: Changes to events (time, location, details) automatically appear in subscribers' calendars
Comprehensive coverage: Subscribers get every public event on your calendar, not just individual ones
Automatic additions: New events you create will automatically appear in subscribers' calendars
Best Use Cases:
Ongoing event series (weekly meetings, monthly webinars, seasonal activities)
Organizations with regular programming
Situations where event details may change frequently
When you want to ensure your audience always has the most current information
Update Timing:
Calendar updates typically sync within 24 hours, though this can vary depending on the subscriber's calendar application. For more details about sync timing, see our article on Calendar Subscriber Update Delays.
Choosing the Right Method
Use Individual Events When:
Your event details are completely finalized
You're hosting a one-time occurrence
You want attendees to have full control over their calendar entry
You don't anticipate needing to communicate changes
Use Calendar Subscription When:
You host regular or recurring events
Event details might change (time, location, format)
You want to ensure your audience always has current information
You're building an ongoing relationship with your audience
You want to streamline the process of sharing multiple events
Getting Started
Ready to create your first calendar? Check out our guide on Creating and Sharing Your First Calendar to begin building your event schedule.
Both methods have their place in effective event management. Consider your specific needs, the nature of your events, and your relationship with your audience when deciding which approach works best for your situation.
Still need help? Contact our support team and we'll help you choose the best approach for your specific needs.