IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 Kicks Off in Barcelona with Innovation, Culture, and Global Connections

BARCELONA, SPAIN (23 Sept. 2025) – IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 officially opened today at Fira Barcelona Gran Via, one of Europe’s largest and most modern exhibition venues. The premier event for the attractions industry is set to welcome more than 17,000 professionals from theme parks, water parks, indoor entertainment centers, museums, resorts, and zoos from around the world.

The event kicked off with a vibrant performance that set the tone for the days ahead. Barcelona — a city of color, where art and culture come together like the beautiful mosaics that decorate its streets and landmarks — came alive as the joyful rhythm of the Sardana, the traditional dance of Catalonia, filled the venue. Performers in traditional attire joined hands in a circle, symbolizing unity and community, offering an unforgettable welcome to attendees from across the globe.

IAAPA brings this year’s event to Barcelona, a city recognized for its creativity, innovation, and thriving leisure and tourism sectors. Over 700 exhibitors and 60 educational events will showcase the latest trends, cutting-edge technologies, and groundbreaking solutions shaping the future of attractions.

“IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 is the must-attend event for the wider European attractions industry,” said Jakob Wahl, President and CEO of IAAPA. “Over the past years, it has grown into a vital platform where operators across the hospitality and attractions sectors can discover the latest innovations and gain insights from peers and experts in a wide range of fields.”

Highlights of IAAPA Expo Europe 2025
This year’s program features a dynamic lineup designed to inspire, educate, and connect industry professionals. Highlights include the first-ever cruise-themed EDUTour aboard MSC World Europa, the new Women in the Industry Lunch and Job Fair, executive insights at the Leadership Breakfast, industry-focused programming on topics such as safety and sustainability, and informal receptions to foster meaningful connections.

Education and Local Connections
EDUSessions will address operations, repeat guest visitation, artificial intelligence, and other critical topics, equipping attendees with actionable strategies to advance their organizations and careers. EDUTours and networking events throughout Barcelona will highlight local attractions, cultural landmarks, and the city’s role as a world-class destination for innovation and experience-driven entertainment.

“IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 is a powerful driver for the attractions industry and the local economy,” said Peter van der Schans, Executive Director and Vice President, IAAPA Europe, Middle East, and Africa. “Spain — and Barcelona in particular — is home to a thriving tourism and leisure sector, with world-class theme parks, cultural landmarks, and innovative entertainment experiences. Bringing thousands of industry professionals here not only strengthens our global network but also highlights the region’s important role in shaping the future of attractions.”

Commitment to Sustainability and Social Impact
For the third consecutive year, IAAPA will host a fundraising initiative supporting the IAAPA Foundation. Attendees can purchase a traditional Spanish chocolate bar produced by Xócala, a social economy company promoting inclusion and employment for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

For more information on IAAPA Expo Europe 2025, visit IAAPA.org/ExpoEurope 

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About IAAPA
IAAPA is a diverse and dynamic community of global attractions professionals. As the largest international trade association for permanently located attractions, IAAPA unifies the attractions community, connects people to learn and grow together, and strives to promote the highest professional standards for excellence and safety around the world.

Founded in 1918, IAAPA represents leading industry attractions and supplier companies, consultants, and individual members from more than 100 countries. Members include professionals from amusement parks, theme parks, attractions, water parks, resorts, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, science centers, museums, cruise lines, manufacturers, and suppliers.

The association’s global headquarters and North America office are in Orlando, Florida, U.S. IAAPA also maintains offices in Brussels, Belgium; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Hong Kong SAR, China; Shanghai, China; and, Mexico City, Mexico.

Visit IAAPA.org or connect through IAAPA’s social media channels: @IAAPAHQ #IAAPA

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IAAPA Global Communications
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