Now that IAAPA’s Euro Attractions Show (EAS) has taken up residency as a permanent autumn fixture – just a month before Amusement Expo Europe (formerly Technofolies) – park owners from across Europe will have to ask themselves which exhibition they should attend.
Euro Attractions Show (EAS) has established itself as the preferred event for many in the industry, with a more comprehensive list of exhibitors, including most of the “big names.” This year’s show takes place from September 30 to October 2 at the RAI in Amsterdam and includes a complementary programme of half-day seminars tackling such subjects as marketing, safety, operations and the economic crisis. There will also be a full day (October 1) TiLEzone conference on sustainability.
As always, EAS features a strong social calendar too, including Wednesday night’s Opening Reception, the EAS Party at the Heineken Experience and a pre-event visit to Efteling (on September 29). See the website for further details. Yet while Amsterdam is acknowledged as a party city, staying there can be pricey and those who have not already booked their accommodation could find they are in for a similar shock as last year when EAS took place in Munich during Oktoberfest. IAAPA’s own event fees can also mount up.
Genoa, on the other hand, is a little more affordable, offers renowned Italian cuisine (and ice cream!) but suffers from poor air links. Amusement Expo Europe (AEE), which takes place there at Fiera di Genova exhibition centre from October 28 to 30, will bring together a number of Italy’s prolific ride manufacturers at a venue where they are free to exhibit their latest rides and attractions in all their working glory.
The event follows on from a successful Interschau last autumn in Stuttgart, Germany, and will now alternate between the two cities under the Amusement Expo Europe name. Visitors to Genoa can expect not only the exhibition itself but also an AEE social programme including a tour of the Italian Riveria.
A series of meetings and seminars are also planned including the ESU-UFE, ANESV and DSB showmen’s get-togethers, an ANCASVI suppliers’ meeting and three technical seminars hosted by enthusiasts from Parksmania. Again, full details can be found on the official event website. Admission to AEE is free for amusement operators who pre-register or hold an invitation.
Which show you attend will likely depend on your budget, schedule and location, but we hope the information above may help you choose. Of course, you could wait another month and go to IAAPA Attractions Expo in Las Vegas instead!
