QR code for events and invitations
An event QR contains iCalendar information: title, start, end and location. Some readers may offer to add it to a calendar; this depends on the phone and its app. Test your guests’ devices. For broader compatibility, choose a link QR pointing to a page describing your event. Content is generated in your browser, with no file expiry date.
Customize QR
A QR code carries redundancy: the reader rebuilds modules that are stained, creased or hidden. The higher the level, the more damage it takes, but the bigger the code gets. At the same print size, each module therefore becomes smaller.
- L · 7 %
- screen, long content
- M · 15 %
- default, everyday printing
- Q · 25 %
- kitchen, workshop, outdoors
- H · 30 %
- center logo, exposed label
Fill in the form to generate your QR code.
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1. Fill in the event details
Enter the title, start date and time, end date and time, and location. Make the title explicit: 'Sarah & James Wedding' rather than a cryptic abbreviation. The location can be a full street address, which map apps will parse automatically.
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2. Print on your invitation or program
Include the QR in your printed invitation or event program. A minimum size of 1.2×1.2 inches is recommended for a standard invitation. Add a short label: 'Scan to add this event to your calendar.' Test the print before running the full batch.
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3. Test on iOS AND Android
Reading and calendar import depend on the app. Test the file and a printed copy on iOS and Android. If the format is not recognized, use a link to your event page.
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4. Combine with an RSVP link if needed
An event QR adds the date to the calendar but doesn't handle RSVPs. For attendance confirmation, create a separate URL QR pointing to your RSVP form (Google Forms, Eventbrite, or a dedicated site). Both QR codes can appear on the same invitation.
Can this event QR code expire before the event date?
No. The iCalendar event is encoded entirely within the QR: it points to no server. It will work until the event date and beyond. Some 'free' QR generators create dynamic QRs that expire after their trial period; here, no server is involved at all.
Is the iCalendar format compatible with all phones?
Many calendars use iCalendar, but not every QR reader imports it automatically. Check the intended phones or use a link QR to a broadly accessible page.
Can I use this QR for a multi-date or recurring event?
A single event QR encodes one VEVENT. For recurring or multi-date events, generate one QR per date, or use a URL QR pointing to a webpage listing all the dates.
What if I need to change the date or venue after printing?
The event is encoded statically: a date or venue change requires regenerating and reprinting the QR. For events where details may still be finalized, use a URL QR pointing to a web page you control: that way you can update the information without reprinting.