News

Posted 28/09/2026 by Experience UK

IAAPA Expo Europe 2026 closes in London after record-breaking week

IAAPA Expo Europe 2026 concluded at Excel London on 24 September, bringing the global attractions industry together for a week of business, learning and new connections.

The Expo welcomed 16,530 verified attendees, including 11,710 qualified buyers from 8,956 companies across 118 countries. More than 870 exhibitors filled a show floor spanning over 22,800 square metres—the largest in the event’s history and 50% bigger than when it was last held in London in 2022.

For Experience UK, the week offered a valuable opportunity to put British creativity and expertise in front of an international audience. Our UK Pavilion brought together 17 showcase partners and a delegation of more than 110 people, creating a lively meeting place for conversations across the attractions sector.

The Pavilion was just one part of a busy week. Our Experience Talks roundtable brought industry voices together on Monday, followed by the sold-out Rabbit Hole Mixer that evening. Across the Expo, our members and delegates connected with potential clients, collaborators and partners from around the world.

Education was another major focus of the event. More than 70 learning opportunities featured 190 speakers, covering the guest experience, AI, safety, sustainability, leadership and operations. Attendees could also explore UK attractions through visits to Chessington World of Adventures Resort, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort and Thorpe Park.

“The growth we’ve seen since we were last in London four years ago speaks volumes about the strength of the attractions industry,” said Peter van der Schans, Executive Director and Vice President, IAAPA ESA.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in London and helped make the week such a memorable one. We look forward to seeing where the conversations started here lead next.

IAAPA Expo Europe returns in Vienna, Austria, from 20–24 September 2027.