But it does not take a lot to get prepared for events if you play a decent amount. I managed to get Echidna when i actually started playing DURING the event. New content is something that is needed to alleviate from the standard grind. You get to put your trained units to use.

Also take into account star rush events, they do not require you to devote all your time to the event so you have plenty of stamina to use for that too. That with a one week break in between and you have tons of time as both veteran and newbie alike to get new stuff.