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IAAPA Honors 2024 Exceeds Expectations

09:47 PM • By Avery Matteo

IAAPA's premier awards event shined

Jakob Wahl, IAAPA CEO, gives an introductory speech during the opening ceremony of IAAPA Honors 2024 in Las Vegas. Credit: Nelson Rodriguez

 

IAAPA celebrated innovative accomplishments and industry luminaries at IAAPA Honors on March 3. Held in the Venetian’s stunning Lido Ballroom, the event showcased outstanding achievements in various sectors of the industry, from marketing and entertainment to food and beverage excellence. With a meticulously planned agenda, attendees were treated to insightful presentations, panel discussions, and award ceremonies throughout the day.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from emcee Mario Armstrong and IAAPA President and CEO Jakob Wahl, setting the tone for a morning filled with inspiration and celebration. After honoring IAAPA Brass Ring Award winners, an insightful keynote presentation by former Walt Disney World Resort president George Kalogridis emphasized the importance of fostering a culture of innovation and creativity.

Panel discussions such as "So, You Think You’re Creative" and "From Ideation to IAAPA Honors: The Seaworld/Hypershere 360 Experience" were interspersed between award acceptances throughout the afternoon, providing valuable insights into the creative processes behind groundbreaking attractions and experiences.  The event also featured award presentations recognizing excellence in areas such as storytelling, the artistic process, and entertainment production.

In addition to celebrating the achievements of the past year, IAAPA Honors provided an opportunity to network with the industry's best, ensuring continued inspiration and innovation within the global attractions industry.

The Evening of Excellence event held at Villa Azur capped off the festivities with the well-deserved celebration of Hall of Fame inductees, Service Award recipients, and the Liseberg Applause Award winner. 

As the attractions industry continues to evolve and push boundaries, IAAPA Honors serves as a source of inspiration, driving the industry toward a future filled with extraordinary achievements, experiences, and innovations.

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Avery Matteo
Avery Matteo

Avery Matteo is the associate editor of Funworld at IAAPA. An Orlando-based writer and editor with more than four years of experience supporting educational institutions, nonprofits, and associations, she is honored to spend her days illuminating the people and experiences that comprise the attractions industry. In her free time, she enjoys traveling to new attractions across the globe. Connect with her on LinkedIn.

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IAAPA is the leading global association for the attractions industry, representing theme parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, and more. Dedicated to advancing industry growth, safety, and innovation, IAAPA provides its members with world-class events, educational resources, and advocacy efforts. IAAPA connects professionals across the globe, helping them create impactful guest experiences and drive business success. More about IAAPA

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