Minnesota event planners are hard at work creating events that are brimming with hands-on attendee participation. These four events took planners into uncharted territory as they navigated other cultures and vied to keep their clients coming back for more.

Where can you don an apron and get a behind-the-scenes look at how local chefs create a new dish? What company plans an incentive trip that is as much about giving back to the community as it is rewarding top sellers? And who creates an immersive environment that gives video-game buyers a first glimpse of the newest releases? Read on to find out.

—Katie Westfall

Securian 2009 Leaders Conference

Securian 2009 Leaders Conference

Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town, South Africa; Royal Livingstone International Hotel, Livingstone, Zambia

Cuisine Art

Cuisine Art

Walker Art Center

Electronic Arts Tech Lounge

Electronic Arts Tech Lounge

Westin Edina Galleria

Eurand Networking Event

Eurand Networking Event

Hilton Minneapolis