London is set to host IAAPA’s European attractions trade show from 21 to 25 September 2026, with organisers describing the event as the largest regional edition the organisation has held. The five-day gathering is expected to bring together attractions operators, suppliers, industry professionals and other stakeholders for an expanded programme of educational and sector-focused activities.

The 2026 London expo is planned around a broad programme that includes more than 180 speakers and over 70 sessions. Organisers have also announced a new food-and-beverage area as part of the onsite additions planned for this year’s event.

A Major European Attractions Industry Gathering

The London edition is being positioned as a significant event in IAAPA’s European calendar. Its planned scale reflects the range of professionals and businesses involved in the attractions industry, including operators, equipment and service suppliers, entertainment professionals and other industry participants.

Taking place from 21 to 25 September 2026, the expo is expected to provide opportunities for attendees to explore industry developments, participate in educational sessions and connect with other professionals from across the attractions sector.

The organisers’ programme update provides an early overview of the event while making clear that details remain subject to normal changes as preparations continue.

More Than 180 Speakers and 70 Sessions

One of the key highlights of the 2026 programme is its planned educational schedule. IAAPA has listed more than 180 speakers and over 70 sessions, offering attendees a wide range of topics and formats across the event.

The number of planned speakers and sessions indicates the breadth of the programme, although the published update does not represent a final timetable or complete speaker directory. Session times, speakers and individual programme elements may change before the event.

For professionals planning their attendance, the programme provides an initial indication of the scale of educational content expected throughout the week.

New Food-and-Beverage Area Added

The 2026 expo will also feature a new food-and-beverage area. The dedicated space is part of the onsite enhancements announced for the London event and is intended to add another area for attendees during the show.

Food and beverage operations can be an important part of the visitor experience at attractions, making the addition relevant to professionals working across different areas of the attractions industry.

The new area forms part of the broader programme expansion planned for this year’s European edition.

What Attendees and Exhibitors Should Know

The published programme figures provide useful planning information for prospective attendees and exhibitors, but they should not be treated as a final schedule. The organisers have stated that programme details are subject to normal event changes.

This means session timings, speaker participation and onsite features could be adjusted as the event approaches. Those planning to attend should therefore monitor official updates for the latest information. Visitors with extra time in the city can also explore some of London’s hidden gardens, museums and historic spots.

For exhibitors and suppliers, the event also represents an opportunity to participate in a major European industry gathering and engage with professionals from across the attractions sector.

Further Updates Ahead of September 2026

With the event scheduled for 21 to 25 September 2026, further programme information is expected as preparations progress. Updates may include additional details about speakers, session formats, schedules and onsite facilities.

The current announcement establishes the intended scale of the London edition while leaving room for adjustments before the event begins. Attendees and exhibitors can use the published information as an initial planning reference and check subsequent organiser updates for confirmed details.

Conclusion

IAAPA’s 2026 European attractions trade show in London is planned as the organisation’s largest regional edition to date, with more than 180 speakers, over 70 sessions and a new food-and-beverage area. The event will bring together professionals from across the attractions industry between 21 and 25 September 2026.

While the programme provides a strong indication of the event’s planned scale, details remain subject to change. Attendees and exhibitors should follow further organiser updates as the September event approaches for the latest schedule and participation information.