This article...
- Lists which calendar platforms support iCalendar links.
- Provides instructions on how to add iCalendar links to messages.
- Describes the configuration fields of an iCalendar event (e.g., dates, description, location, and optional URL).
- Notes a known issue with .ICS files in Microsoft Outlook (new) and directs users to additional guidance.
NOTE: The iCalendar feature can be used in Message Designer messages and Template Designer templates. The calendar platforms that support it are: Apple Calendar, Microsoft Outlook Calendar, and Google Calendar.
When you're creating a Message Designer message, you can insert an iCalendar link. Recipients can click this link in your message to download an .ICS file that they can open to add the information to their personal calendars. These are often used to exchange scheduling information for events, meetings, and tasks.
An issue has been discovered with the handling of .ICS files in Microsoft's Outlook (new) email application. If you're using this application and are experiencing issues with these files, see Calendar Event (.ICS) Files in Microsoft Outlook (new) (Thrive Communications).
Add an iCalendar link to a message
You can add an iCalendar link to ALL text-based layouts:
- Highlight the text you want to be your iCalendar link.
- Click the Insert/Edit Hyperlink button in the toolbar.
- From the hyperlink dropdown, select iCalendar.
- Fill out the iCalendar configuration fields (see table below for descriptions).
- Click Insert Hyperlink.
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Title | Give your iCalendar event a descriptive title so its purpose is clear to recipients on their personal calendars. |
| Start Date | Use the date picker to set the start date for the event. |
| End Date | Use the date picker to set the end date for the event. |
| Description | Provide all relevant event information recipients will need to know. |
| Location | Inform recipients where the event is taking place. |
| URL (optional) | If you want to include a link that recipients can click for more information about the event, enter it here. You must include the appropriate protocol (http:// or https://) in your URL. |
iCalendar links in images
You can also add an iCalendar link to an Image.
- Select an image and, in the Image Properties panel, click Add hyperlink.
- From the hyperlink dropdown, select iCalendar.
- Complete the fields as described above and click Insert Hyperlink.