IAAPA Announces Prestigious Honors Awards Events for 2024-2025

BANGKOK, Thailand (May 28, 2024) — IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, is proud to unveil two exceptional awards events designed to inspire, recognize, and celebrate excellence in the attractions industry: IAAPA Honors at Europa-Park, April 28-30, 2025 and the IAAPA Hall of Fame Awards Celebratory Affair at IAAPA Expo 2024, November 18, 2024.

During the opening ceremony of IAAPA Expo Asia 2024, IAAPA President and CEO Jakob Wahl unveiled plans for IAAPA Honors, a dynamic three-day event set to take place at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany. This groundbreaking event will inspire IAAPA members by recognizing outstanding achievements and cutting-edge innovations within the attractions industry.

"The IAAPA Honors Awards Program is more than just a ceremony; it's a celebration of excellence and a testament to the incredible talent and innovation within our industry," said Wahl. "Our goal is to inspire our members by showcasing the best and brightest in the attractions community and to provide a platform for networking, learning, and professional growth. The event will honor innovation within attractions of all types and sizes."

IAAPA Honors will celebrate excellence in many categories including Brass Ring Awards (in a variety of categories); regional awards for Service to IAAPA and the industry, Young Professional of the Year; a new Inspiration Award; and the Liseberg Applause Award.

In addition to the awards program, IAAPA Honors will feature inspirational presentations and EduTours, offering members valuable insights and firsthand experiences to enhance their knowledge and skills in one of the leading theme park resorts worldwide. These educational opportunities will further contribute to the development and advancement of the attractions industry. An additional post tour will go to Switzerland and Italy visiting, among other, Wonderwood at beautiful Lago Maggiore, the facility of incoming chairman Massimiliano Freddi.

Europa-Park, the host venue for IAAPA Honors, will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025, adding an extra layer of excitement and significance to the event.

Wuthichai Luangamornlert, IAAPA Global Board Chair and Managing Director of Siam Amazing Park Bangkok, announced plans for a new IAAPA Hall of Fame Awards presentation and celebratory affair. This event will take place at the IAAPA Expo 2024 in Orlando on Monday, November 18, 2024. He emphasized the significance of honoring industry legends and pioneers, noting that the event will also support The IAAPA Foundation, which inspires and nurtures life-changing careers in the global attractions industry.

"The IAAPA Hall of Fame Awards Celebratory Affair at IAAPA Expo 2024 will elevate the Hall of Fame award and provide a prestigious platform to honor those who have made significant contributions to our industry," said, Luangamornlert. "We are excited to celebrate excellence in new and exciting ways to inspire members and future generations of attractions professionals."

Applications for both IAAPA Honors and the IAAPA Hall of Fame Awards are now open, and IAAPA encourages all members to apply on IAAPA.org website. As IAAPA continues to evolve and chart this exciting new course with its awards program, these events will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the attractions industry.