> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.pears.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.pears.io/updates/community-events-2026/preview-an-event.md).

# Preview an Event

As of **January 27, 2026**, a new Preview feature enables testing event registrations during setup — before the event is published. Previously, event preview links were only available after publishing. Now previewing is integrated into the event creation workflow.

## What Changed

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

#### Access the Preview Step

After completing all event setup sections (General Information, Registration Types, Payment, and Confirmations), a new **Preview** step appears in the event progress panel. Click it to enter preview mode.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Submit Test Registrations

Registrations submitted during preview are for testing purposes only. They are not included in reports, capacity counts, or long-term storage. A banner displays throughout preview mode indicating the registration is a test.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Test Payment Processing

* **Online credit card:** Preview shows a **Test Checkout** page — no actual charges are processed.
* **Offline payment** (cash, check): Functions identically to live registrations during preview.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

#### Preview Confirmation Emails

Preview emails are supported so you can review confirmation messages before publishing. Emails include a note indicating the registration is for testing purposes only.

{% hint style="warning" %}
**NOTE:** Real emails are sent if actual email addresses are provided during preview. Use a test email address to avoid sending preview confirmations to real registrants.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
**TIP:** Use the Preview step to verify your entire registration workflow — including fee calculations, form fields, and confirmation messages — before making the event public.
{% endhint %}

## Related Documentation

* [Publish an Event](/plan/community-events/publish-an-event.md) — Preview and publish events to make them visible to registrants