The IAAPA News Blog


Christopher Perry of Qiddiya Investment Company named 2nd vice chair in 2025 and will chair the global board in 2027
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Doors open at the RAI Convention Center
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Get a sneak peek of the trade show floor
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How the association reaffirms its commitment to green operations
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From the director of parks and attractions at Mobaro
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Linda Freeman joins IAAPA as Safety Expert, bringing over two decades of industry experience
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Visitors to the IAAPA Expo Europe in the RAI can be the first to visit the new amusement park Bommelwereld on 24 September. During the attraction industry's largest trade fair, which is taking place in Amsterdam for the first time after six years, Bommelwereld will share a virtual tour including attractions, layout and design of the first theme park in honour of Olivier B. Bumble.
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For 22 years, the Legends Panel at IAAPA Expo, moderated and curated by Bob Rogers, CEO and Chairman of BRC Imagination Arts, has been a cornerstone for sharing essential knowledge from creative leaders.
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ORLANDO, FLORIDA (August 26, 2024) — IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, is thrilled to welcome Jessi Quillen as our Vice President of Digital Strategy. With a rich background in global digital marketing and technology spanning over 15 years, Jessi brings a wealth of experience from the retail and tourism sectors, specializing in CRM, web, and loyalty experience.
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The two-day event, taking place in Johannesburg, South Africa, from 30 October to 31 October 2024, will be filled with insightful education sessions, networking, and EDUTours to various visitor experiences and attractions.
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Registration is now open for IAAPA Expo 2024, the global attractions industry’s premier event. This marks a significant step forward in IAAPA's event planning and preparation, further solidifying the organization's commitment to delivering a world-class experience for attendees. IAAPA Expo is set to take place at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Florida, from Nov. 18-22 this year.
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IAAPA, the leading global association for the attractions industry, is thrilled to announce the return of IAAPA Expo Europe to Amsterdam. From September 23 - 27, the leisure industry’s premier event will take place at the RAI Convention Center in the heart of Amsterdam.
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The trade show floor is abuzz with the best of the best.

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Exciting enhancements and developments announced in Bangkok
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A Spectacle of Innovation, Culture, and Industry Growth
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2024 event hosted in Türkiye offered value and connection
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Rhodes Forum in Greece encourages solidarity on responsible tourism in the European Union
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CEO of IAAPA says attractions are trending toward inclusion, authenticity
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Research shows a 2% boost in North American theme park attendance
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The first-ever attractions industry economic analysis for the Middle East region including several African countries is now unveiled. This comprehensive study sheds light on the transformative role of attractions in shaping the economic landscape. The study was conducted in 2023, compiling data from 2022 by Tourism Economics commissioned by IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry.
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BANGKOK, THAILAND (April 16, 2024) – In the dynamic world of the attractions industry, trends are constantly shifting, presenting both challenges and opportunities. From technological advancements to changing consumer preferences, every facet of an amusement park must be agile and innovative to successfully navigate an ever-evolving landscape – a dynamic that is not just limited to the attractions industry.
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Latin America & Caribbean (April 15, 2024) – IAAPA, the global trade association for the attractions industry, has expanded its research to encompass the entire attractions industry within the 27 countries/markets in Latin America and the Caribbean. This comprehensive study, conducted in 2023 and compiled with 2022 data by Tourism Economics, commissioned by IAAPA, represents the first time all attraction categories have been included, providing a holistic view of the industry's economic impact.
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Meet the students that benefit from the experiential scholarships
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Bringing a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of success, Eryka joins IAAPA from her distinguished role as director of communications for The Central Florida Oversight District. There, she led comprehensive communication strategies, managed high-pressure media scenarios, and implemented impactful crisis management protocols. Eryka also played a pivotal role in fostering diversity and inclusion within the district. 
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IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, announced today a new partnership with Craft Standard Draft Cocktails, a pioneering company known for its expertise in ready-to-serve draft cocktails. As an IAAPA official partner, CS Draft Cocktails will be at the forefront of revolutionizing the beverage experience within the amusement industry, bringing high-quality cocktails to new locations with easy-to-use draft systems.
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Association leaders share industry observations and expectations
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With less than three weeks until IAAPA’s premier event for IAAPA Awards, the global association for the attractions industry has revealed its keynote speaker and additional panelists for IAAPA Honors 2024.
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New regional advisory committee chair aims to promote young people and give back to the industry
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Dubai, UAE (January 25, 2024) – IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, announced today that Ahmed Zakaria has been selected as the Director of Operations for the Middle East and will be establishing a local office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
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Awarded annually, the IAAPA Individual Achievement Awards recognize significant achievement in the global attractions industry
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Author Salem Thyne previews his IAAPA FEC Summit keynote
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Industry peers explore the latest and greatest tech at CES 2024
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Vince Poscente races into IAAPA FEC Summit with an athlete’s strategy at winning in business.
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Orlando, Florida (January 3, 2024) – IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, announced today Storm Tussey-Haverly has been selected to serve in the newly created role of executive vice president and chief membership officer after a global search.
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Momentum is building as IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, prepares for its first summit of the year.
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Professional development and networking opportunities will be at the forefront of the summit
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The prestigious award will be presented at the IAAPA Honors ceremony
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Orlando, Florida (November 17, 2023) – IAAPA Expo 2023, the premier global event for the attractions industry, concluded its week-long extravaganza today, bringing together 36,173 attractions professionals on the floor from a total registration of 41,236. Of those, 26,453 were qualified buyers representing 18,135 buying companies, and 9,961 exhibitors representing 1,147 exhibiting companies.
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Orlando, Florida (November 14, 2023) – The global attractions industry has descended upon Orlando as IAAPA Expo 2023 officially opened its doors at the Orange County Convention Center today. The largest event of its kind, IAAPA Expo brings together industry professionals from around the world to showcase the latest innovations, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities within the attractions and amusements sector.
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ORLANDO, FLORIDA (November 1, 2023) – The trade show floor for IAAPA Expo 2023 is the global attraction industry’s go-to event for the latest in innovation, technology, creativity, and all-things-thrill. Attending an IAAPA Expo is an experience that influences decision making for years to come for theme parks, attractions, and entertainment destinations.
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ORLANDO, FLORIDA (October 24, 2023) – Putting passion, innovation, and creativity on display, 27 exhibitors and their respective operator partners are set to host press conferences at IAAPA Expo 2023. Everything from product partnerships and development to park expansions to general industry news will be shared during this year’s incredible event.
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Creating safe experiences for guests and employees is the top priority for the global attractions industry and fundamental to the IAAPA mission. In recent weeks, the world has seen an increase in the threat of terrorism and social media activity from terrorist organizations encouraging additional attacks. Now is the time for all industry professionals to remain extra vigilant in your security protocols to ensure the safety of your guests and employees.
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IAAPA reports record-breaking success
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IAAPA announces winners at IAAPA Expo Europe 2023
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Periales elected among seven new IAAPA board members
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Excitement builds as doors open at Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center
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Insight provided by key IAAPA members sheds light on what's ahead
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See Europe's greatest trade show floor come together
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EMEA safety manager Pierre van der Wijst speaks to the association's efforts
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ORLANDO, FLORIDA (Sept. 13, 2023) – IAAPA Expo 2023, the premier event for the global attractions industry, will spotlight a host of exciting new features and attractions for attendees, making it an event like no other expo event. In addition to the indoor exhibit space being sold out for the first time since 2019 – featuring more than a staggering 1,100 exhibitors – this year’s expo highlights an expanded exhibit space and sponsored programming that shines a light on major industry brands.


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BRUSSELS, BELGIUM (September 13, 2023) – With just days to go until the much-anticipated IAAPA Expo Europe opens its doors, the excitement in Vienna is palpable. The premier event for the global attractions industry is set to take place from 25 to 28 September at the Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center, and it promises to be a celebration of innovation, leadership, and giving back.
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IAAPA, the Global Association for the Attractions Industry, is proud to announce the addition of three distinguished professionals to its leadership team. These strategic hires are set to drive IAAPA's commitment to advancing the attractions industry worldwide.
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IAAPA Connections event at Lagoon inspires and a ride on S&S’s Axis prototype
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ORLANDO, FL (August 2, 2023) – Registration for IAAPA Expo, the premier event for the global attractions industry, has opened, cementing the latest milestone in event management and show preparations for IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry. IAAPA Expo will take place at the world-renowned Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida from November 13-17.
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Your participation is vital to helping us understand how IAAPA can help you.
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Shining light on the global attractions industry
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Get a sneak peek of the conference
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The surf coaster opened to the public on May 27
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President and CEO Jakob Wahl shares new changes
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Watch the highlights from four days in Cancun, Mexico
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GKTW fundraisers scale down 32-story Orlando hotel
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Optimism is rising for a successful year across all regions
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Identifying the option that fits your needs
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Jim Pattison Jr. shares announcements following IAAPA Board of Directors meeting
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How Disney developed merchandise suited for the world of Tron
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Riyadh event offered resources and insights in a growing industry destination
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First look: Legoland Florida’s new ride is now open
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Funworld Live: IAAPA FEC Summit 2023 Preview
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EMEA Team performs site survey in Austria
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Marketing, Food and Beverage, and Best New Product Finalists
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Learn who's a finalist in 2022!
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Watch the Service Awards winners announcement
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Watch as IAAPA announces four inductees
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Cedar Fair’s creative visionary leaves lasting impact
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As IAAPA supports the growth of its members’ businesses and careers, it also looks to help develop the next generation of industry leaders.
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Rooted in the French Alps—with the internationally known resorts of Alpe d’Huez, La Grave, and Les Deux Alpes—the SATA Group is reinventing the mountain experience for both summer and winter.
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For several years, the IAAPA Foundation has been working to inspire undergraduate students to pursue careers in the global attractions industry and aid them in their professional journeys by offering academic and experiential scholarships.
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IAAPA has made several efforts to keep IAAPA Expo sustainable and environmentally friendly across its planning, organization, venue, and execution.
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During IAAPA Expo 2022, three charity events will raise funds for Give Kids The World Village, an 89-acre, nonprofit resort in Kissimmee, Florida, that provides weeklong, cost-free vacations to critically ill children and their families.
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Uniquely designed for attractions professionals, the Education Conference program at IAAPA Expo 2022 will run Nov. 14-17 and feature myriad sessions covering trends and topics from around the industry.
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IAAPA Expo’s business- and leadership-focused institutes and symposia create opportunities for industry newcomers, new managers, and human resources (HR) professionals to discover management best practices and professional development tools.
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Through the exciting lineup of special events at IAAPA Expo 2022, attendees can hear about the global attractions industry’s latest projects, learn from industry executives, and forge business connections with leaders.
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This November, IAAPA Expo 2022 is ready to inspire attractions industry professionals when they gather at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
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See photos from the most recent World's Fair
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Beloved Brazilian characters becomes part of a mobile art installation
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Sensory Access is a Seattle-based company that creates inclusion for people with hidden disabilities
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The IAAPA Foundation's mission is to inspire life-changing careers in the industry
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IAAPA Expo Europe 2022 will be held at ExCeL London from Sept. 12 to 15, with the trade show floor open from Sept. 13 to 15
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IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean and Post Tour 2022 showcased multiple attractions across Brazil
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Over 90 attendees came together for educational presentations, unique experiences, and networking opportunities
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Peter van der Schans discusses the upcoming London conference and trade show, set for Sept. 12-15 
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IAAPA EMEA Spring Summit 2022 touched on the attractions industry’s resiliency despite the struggles of recent years
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The deadline for applications is June 30, 2022
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The historical theme park brand is coming soon to China
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Michael Shelton has been promoted, and Peter van der Schans joins the team
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Three Dubai attractions, of all different backgrounds, shared insight on planning, design, and operation
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New attractions provide insight into design, sustainability, and operations
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The three-day event in Italy will offer networking, education, and exclusive tours
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View from 'Garden in the Sky' inspires as global expo takes a bow
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The Park Playground is a VR experience that can send guests of all ages on five different group-oriented adventures
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Connections, learning, and insight highlight first IAAPA event of 2022
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IAAPA Summit: Latin America, Caribbean is set to take place April 25-27
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IAAPA FEC Summit 2022 will head to Scottsdale, Arizona, for three days of education, connection, and fun, Jan. 23-25
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IAAPA's Board of Directors welcomes five new members to its ranks
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In October, attendees came from Belgium, the Netherlands, and France, representing attractions companies from around the globe
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The first Latin America, Caribbean Meet IAAPA took place in São Paulo, Brazil at the Jacarandá Restaurant and the second was held in Mexico City at Bistró Chapultepec Restaurant
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IAAPA Middle East Summit 2022, scheduled to take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Feb. 21-23, will allow attendees to explore several attractions facilities across the region
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New IAAPA Member, Themics Philippines Inc., is a multifaceted company that creates themed architecture for attractions and leisure companies around the world
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As of Nov. 1, Wahl directly leads the operation of IAAPA’s regional offices, global sales, three global Expos, and additional member events around the world
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IAAPA EMEA Christmas Summit in Rust, Germany, was filled with color and entertainment


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Tips and suggestions for the best convention week ever
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On Dec. 9, attendees will gather at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany, for IAAPA EMEA Christmas Summit
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Returning to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, IAAPA Expo will bring together attractions industry professionals from Nov. 15 to 19
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Allianz Parque in São Paulo, Brazil has been welcoming thousands of spectators into its stadium since 2014
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IAAPA EMEA Spring Summit in Belgium offered attendees a unique opportunity to reconnect with peers while touring and learning from four facilities: Bellewaerde, Pairi Daiza, Plopsaland De Panne, and Walibi Belgium.
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Funworld previews the 2021 IAAPA Expo with exciting special events, engaging educational programs, and new opportunities down every aisle
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Golf, Run, and Walk to Support Give Kids The World Village with these charity events at IAAPA Expo
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IAAPA Expo's in-depth learning experiences offer unique opportunities to explore attractions management topics through
interactive, immersive sessions led by industry leaders and experts.
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Get exclusive access to Central Florida attractions through EDUTours
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We’re all different, and that’s normal!
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Expo Leadership Breakfast takes a twist
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In-person Expo welcomes the world
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PortAventura plays host to important conversation
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Climb aboard and join us for a look at the EDUTours to PortAventura during IAAPA Expo Europe.
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Inside the final preparations for IAAPA Expo Europe
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IAAPA Expo 2021 will be held Nov. 15 - 18. (Trade Show: Nov. 16 - 19)
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The Vancouver-based company creates experiential and escape room experiences
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Held in Barcelona, Spain, IAAPA Expo Europe will take place Sept. 27-30
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Summer's magic felt during a trip to Knoebels
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The award honors members who demonstrate a dedication to the attractions industry
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IAAPA Expo Asia heads to Shanghai, China, to reconnect attractions industry professionals
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Members gather for education, fellowship, and fun
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IAAPA gets sneak peek at new dining and entertainment concept
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New Intamin mega coaster debuts in style
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“IAAPA Safety Month: Latin America and the Caribbean” will present safety best practices, standards, and updates
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The Expo will present special events, a trade show floor, and more, Aug. 10-13
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A sneak peek inside Ocean Park Hong Kong's soon-to-open water park
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Reflections of an IAAPA Show Ambassador
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On April 5, 2021, IAAPA joined nearly 1,200 American businesses, U.S. Department of State designated program sponsors, US Travel, and many other trade associations, in urging President Biden to help prevent serious hiring shortage for the industry by addressing the concerns about the J-1 Visa program
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First in-person event for IAAPA Asia-Pacific in 2021
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Dippin’ Dots visits Team IAAPA
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Tracy Lanza shares the importance of marketing and content creation in inspiring a return to travel
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GKTW opens new ice cream parlor with help from IAAPA members
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New document designed to support members when speaking to government leaders
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Members and attractions professionals gathered at Ole Red Orlando at Icon Park

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IAAPA offers on-demand courses and industry training modules online
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The new program will transition to an assessment-based certification model
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Iconic water ski show returns to Legoland Florida Resort
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Conquering a fear of heights while helping Give Kids The World Village
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The summit will bring participants together for backstage tours and educational talks, June 29-July 1
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