Registration has opened for IAAPA Expo Europe 2026, marking the highly anticipated return of the premier event for the leisure and attractions industry to the British capital.
Taking place from 21 to 25 September 2026 at Excel London, the event returns to the UK after a four-year absence. This year's latest edition highlights the immense momentum within the sector, showcasing a record-breaking 21,000 square metres of exhibition space - a 50% expansion since 2022.
Theme Park Network is proud to announce that we are an Official Media Partner for IAAPA Expo Europe 2026. Lawrence will be on the ground at Excel London throughout the event, delivering live coverage, exclusive interviews, and breaking news directly from the show floor.
Scale, Speakers, and Industry Solutions
The 2026 event is set to host more than 800 exhibitors from across the globe, presenting all the latest advancements in ride technology, operational solutions, and immersive guest experiences.
Beyond the trade show floor, the expanded education programme features over 60 sessions and 175 industry speakers. Discussions will target operational areas such as sustainability, leadership, safety, and young professional development.
A key focus for this year's conference is the strategic role of food and beverage (F&B) in modern attractions. IAAPA benchmark data indicates that F&B can account for as much as 30% to 35% of total park revenue. To address this, the 2026 event will feature dedicated discussions and trends on the show floor focused on maximising in-park dining and hospitality experiences.
Networking and Keynote Highlights
The event calendar includes several high-profile networking opportunities and regional tours:
- The Leadership Breakfast: Featuring insights from prominent industry leaders Robert Dahl (CEO of Karls Erlebnis-Dorf) and Wouter Dekkers (CEO of Momentum Leisure).
- Exclusive EDUTours: Guided operational tours to two of the UK's theme parks, Chessington World of Adventures Resort and LEGOLAND Windsor Resort.
Peter van der Schans, Executive Director and 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 neighboring regions. This return reflects both the strength of the UK market and the continued growth of our event. We’re proud to come back with our largest Expo to date, creating even more opportunities for connection, collaboration, and inspiration.”
Professionals across the theme park, museum, amusement, and hospitality sectors can now secure their visitor passes via the IAAPA website.
Stay tuned to Theme Park Network for comprehensive updates in the lead-up to September.
