The latest IAAPA Honours event is in the book, acknowledging the wonderful innovations happening in the leisure industry.
Taking place at Europa-Park for the very first time, IAAPA Honors rolled out the red carpet in delivering a three-day delight celebrating the “people, ideas, and organisations shaping the future of the global attractions industry,” as per a spokesperson.
Guests enjoyed three days of inspiration, recognition, and exclusive experiences to coincide with Europa-Park’s 50 anniversary.
What’s more, the festivities included behind-the-scenes tours, keynote sessions with influential figures of the leisure industry as well as the presentation of the IAAPA Brass Ring and Individual Achievement Awards.
“This year’s IAAPA Honors exceeded expectations,” said Jakob Wahl, president and chief executive officer of IAAPA.
“From celebrating decades of excellence to recognising the next generation of innovators, we brought together the very best of our industry.
“Europa-Park proved to be the perfect host – providing a backdrop rich in heritage, storytelling, and creativity. I’m incredibly proud of our IAAPA team and partners for creating such a memorable and meaningful program.”
In addition, Dr. Roland Mack, founder and managing partner of Europa-Park, added his thoughts: “We are proud to host the first IAAPA Honors outside of North America. Whenever the experts of the leisure industry come together, inspiring impulses and a valuable exchange of ideas arise, which enriches the entire industry.
“The fact that this special event is now taking place in Europe and at Europa-Park, fills us with pride and once again demonstrates the international significance of our organisation.
“And as a former IAAPA Chairman, it is a personal pleasure to welcome the global industry to our park especially in the year of Europa-Park’s 50th anniversary.
“Innovation, quality and sustainability have been at the heart of our family business for 250 years and are values that still characterise Europa-Park and MACK Rides today.
“Therefore, we are proud to be an internationally respected part of this extraordinary industry. Together, we look to the future with optimism and wish all IAAPA members many satisfied guests, creative ideas, and shared success for the new season,” stated Roland Mack.
The IAAPA Brass Ring Awards were a focal point of the event, with deserving wins for Puy du Fou Asia, Africam Safari in Latin America, and PortAventura World in Europe, to highlight a few outstanding visitor attractions.
Also, the Liseberg Applause Award, presented by Liseberg CEO Andreas Andersen, headed to Japan with Universal Studios Japan for its continued pioneering and innovation.
“As the curtain closes on IAAPA Honors 2025, the energy and innovation we witnessed will continue to ripple across our industry,” said Wahl.
“Through powerful stories, bold ideas, and shared success, this event reaffirmed that excellence in our industry is not just celebrated – it’s continually redefined. Congratulations to each of this year’s outstanding honourees.”
Image: IAAPA
