Excel London will host the most ambitious edition of IAAPA Expo Europe yet, bringing the global attractions industry back to one of its most dynamic markets.
For the first time since 2022, IAAPA Expo Europe is heading back to London, and the timing could hardly be better. The Education programme runs from 21 to 25 September 2026, with the show floor open from 22 to 24 September at Excel London.
As host city, London places the event at the heart of one of the world’s most innovative and commercially vibrant attractions markets. Whether you are a seasoned veteran of the Expo circuit or attending for the first time, IAAPA Expo Europe 2026 promises an unmissable week of business, learning, inspiration and celebration.
Peter van der Schans, Executive Director & Vice President, IAAPA EMEA, said:
“Returning to London after four years is both exciting and humbling. The UK is home to IAAPA’s largest European membership base and continues to be a market with influence on indoor entertainment trends within neighbouring regions. We’re proud to come back with our largest Expo to date, creating even more opportunities for connection, collaboration and inspiration.”
A market that sets the pace for Europe
The United Kingdom is one of Europe’s largest attractions markets, and arguably its most influential. Ranked third in Europe for direct economic impact, the UK has built a leisure landscape of extraordinary breadth, from world-class theme parks and coastal resorts to a booming indoor entertainment sector and a proud heritage of farm attractions.
Nowhere is that leadership more evident than in indoor entertainment, where the UK consistently generates concepts and formats that ripple outwards, shaping FEC and indoor entertainment businesses across Northern Europe and beyond. Major investments are also reshaping the landscape. Universal Destinations & Experiences is developing a landmark new park, Puy du Fou UK is set to bring the renowned French historical spectacle to British audiences, and established operators such as Pleasure Beach Resort are investing in new ride additions.
Record-breaking show floor
If last year’s edition in Barcelona set a new benchmark, IAAPA Expo Europe 2026 is about to raise the bar again. For the second consecutive year, the show is breaking its own record, with more than 800 exhibiting companies and over 22,000 square metres of exhibition space, the largest show floor in the event’s history. The full breadth of the global attractions supply chain will be on display, spanning ride manufacturers, technology providers, theming specialists, licensing, food & beverage and digital experience designers.
New for 2026, a dedicated Food & Beverage zone brings 20 companies presenting their latest products and concepts, from snack innovations and ice cream to revenue-generating catering solutions. It is a compelling new destination for operators looking to diversify income streams.
Education at its most inspiring
2026 delivers the most ambitious education programme in the event’s history. For the first time, content will be spread across four dedicated spaces: the IAAPA Theatre sponsored by Angry Birds, three conference rooms and the Innovation Stage. With more than 175 speakers and over 60 sessions, there has never been so much knowledge on offer at a single European attractions event.
The Leadership Breakfast will be a highlight, built around rapid growth and scalability through two powerful business cases. Robert Dahl, CEO of Karls, recently announced its expansion into California, while Wouter Dekkers, CEO of Momentum Leisure, has grown his group strongly in Poland and is now expanding across Central Europe.
A certified sustainable event
IAAPA Expo Europe 2026 has earned certification as a Sustainable Event by Greentime, following an independent third-party review. Achieving a total score of 76% and meeting all mandatory requirements, the certification recognises IAAPA’s commitment to responsible event management, covering everything from transport and waste to working conditions, diversity and financial sustainability.
Networking around every corner
The 2026 networking programme has expanded significantly. The familiar constituency-based receptions for indoor entertainment, theme parks and water parks return alongside the MENA Reception, joined by three new geography-focused receptions for the DACH Region, Poland and France. The Women in the Industry Networking Lunch, enthusiastically received on its debut last year, has been confirmed as a signature event for 2026.
Signature events not to be missed
Indoor Entertainment Day, reserved exclusively for IAAPA members, celebrates the UK’s status as a global FEC and indoor entertainment trendsetter, with keynotes, panels and behind-the-scenes venue visits. The signature EDUTour, a perennial sell-out, visits Chessington World of Adventures Resort and LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort. And Water Park Day evolves into the Water Park Forum, with a sharper focus on learning, peer networking and a distinctive visit to Lee Valley White Water Centre.
Whether you are coming to do business, to learn, to be inspired, or simply to reconnect with the community that defines this industry, IAAPA Expo Europe 2026 has something for you. London is ready. The industry is ready.
Visit here for updated information and to register.
