IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, shares new speakers and program highlights for IAAPA Honors 2026, its annual global awards event celebrating excellence across the attractions, leisure, and tourism sectors.
Taking place May 12-14, 2026, at Hotel Xcaret México, the program will feature keynote sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and behind-the-scenes experiences across the Xcaret theme parks. The multi-day event brings together operators, manufacturers, suppliers, and creative leaders from around the world to recognize achievements shaping the future of the attractions industry.
Industry leader insights
The first full day of programming will begin with welcome remarks followed by a fireside chat with IAAPA President and CEO Jakob Wahl and Grupo Xcaret CEO Miguel Quintana. During this candid conversation, the two leaders will share insights on leadership, legacy, and the trends shaping the future of the global attractions industry.
Also on the first day, Xavier López Ancona, president and CEO of KidZania, will deliver a keynote address focused on creativity and strategies that drive innovation with purpose. On day two, Jacob Robinson, founder and CEO of Dig World, will take the stage for a keynote on resilience, purpose, and choosing joy under pressure — offering a personal perspective on leadership and entrepreneurship in the attractions industry.
Panel presentations and exclusive experiences
New to IAAPA Honors this year, a series of dynamic panels will bring together both award winners and industry leaders recognized across IAAPA’s prestigious award categories — including F&B, Human Resources, Live Entertainment, Marketing, Sustainability, and more — to share the ideas, strategies, and creative breakthroughs behind their success.
IAAPA Honors will also feature immersive EDUTours – offering attendees an inside look into back-of-house operations, world-class safety standards, maintenance practices, and operational procedures during tours of Xcaret’s operational facilities. Attendees will also embark on an immersive cultural journey through Xcaret’s three signature parks. The experience will highlight the creative vision, design innovation, safety standards, and operational excellence that bring these world-renowned attractions to life.
Global industry excellence
One of the industry’s most prestigious recognitions, the Liseberg Applause Award, will also be presented during IAAPA Honors. The Liseberg Applause Award recognizes a park whose management, operations, and creative achievements have inspired the industry and set new standards for excellence.