IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 Draws In, Set to Bring Unmatched Opportunities, Education, and Innovation to Barcelona

 BARCELONA, SPAIN (30 July 2025) – IAAPA, the leading global association for the attractions industry, is set to bring innovation, thought-provoking content, and unmatched networking opportunities and experiences to this year’s IAAPA Expo Europe.

From 22 – 26 September, the Expo will be held at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via, one of Europe’s largest and most modern exhibition venues. The premier event is projected to welcome over 17.000 industry professionals from theme parks, water parks, indoor entertainment centers, museums, resorts, zoos and more from the leisure and attractions sectors. 

Bringing together innovators, visionaries, and leaders from around the globe, IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 promises to be an unmissable gathering for industry professionals. With over 700 exhibitors and 60 educational events, this event will showcase the latest trends, technological developments, and groundbreaking solutions that define the future of attractions.

A range of new and returning events for IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 include:

• EDUTour: Cruise line: For the first time, attendees can take part in a cruise-themed EDUTour aboard the stunning MSC World Europa. This special edition experience will dive into the cruise industry’s bold evolution – blending immersive entertainment, cutting-edge shows, and theme park-style attractions that create unforgettable guest experiences at sea.
• Women in the Industry Networking Lunch: As an all-new component for Expo Europe, this separate-ticketed event will be a welcoming and empowering space for women to forge meaningful connections, share experiences and achievements, and be part of a supportive community driving change and inclusion. This session will be spearheaded by Europa-Park's Katja Mack and Lasting Impressions Maya Mattar.
• Networking Lunch and Job Fair: This will be a fresh take on a segment that combines a networking lunch and job fair, providing young talent the chance to access industry professionals, discover job opportunities, and form new contacts in an easygoing environment.
• Leadership Breakfast: The signature session will once again commence as the premier gathering for executives. This year’s Leadership Breakfast will be a unique opportunity to learn about the industry’s most pressing challenges, discover innovative strategies, and hear from Parques Reunidos CEO Pascal Ferracci and B Lab Europe Co-Founder Daniel Truran.
• Industry-focused Days: Designed around specialized tracks, these full-day programs unite professionals, manufacturers, and operators for in-depth discussions on key topics such as safety, sustainability, indoor entertainment, and water parks.   
• Receptions: As a staple at every IAAPA Expo, these relaxed, informal gatherings give attendees valuable opportunities to meet new peers, exchange ideas, and connect with familiar faces.

Attendees will also gain critical insights from leading professionals and subject matter experts across the global attractions industry. Expo Europe’s EDUSessions will cover a diverse range of topics including, but not limited to, operations, repeat guest visitation, artificial intelligence, and more. Each session provides an opportunity for attendees to equip themselves with practical strategies to help elevate their organizations and careers.

In addition, this year’s EDUTours and networking events will create meaningful connections between the event and the vibrant city of Barcelona—bringing industry professionals into local venues, attractions, and cultural hubs while showcasing the city’s role as a world-class destination for innovation and experience-driven entertainment.

IAAPA remains committed to supporting the next generation of talent within the global attraction industry. For the third time, a special fundraising initiative benefiting the Foundation will take place during IAAPA Expo Europe. As part of the fundraiser, attendees can purchase a traditional Spaniard chocolate bar produced by Xócala, a social economy company dedicated to promoting social inclusion and providing employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. 

Industry professionals may register here.

Member of the press may register for press credentials here.

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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