IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, will celebrate the accomplishments of the newest members of the IAAPA Hall of Fame at the 2024 IAAPA Honors ceremony, which is taking place in Las Vegas on 3 March.
The awards demonstrate the potential for all attractions to play a pivotal role in driving the advancement of the industry, regardless of their size. This year’s winners include executives from the biggest names in the sector and a theme park which is accessible to all.
Industry’s greatest honour
The IAAPA Hall of Fame Award is the highest distinction presented to individuals in the global attractions sector. The award recognises their innovations, unwavering dedication, extraordinary achievements, and lasting impact.
Jakob Wahl, IAAPA president and CEO, says: “The passion, creativity and innovation in the industry never stop. These outstanding new Hall of Fame members have worked tirelessly to push the boundaries and make sure our industry delivers groundbreaking new experiences and opens doors for everyone to experience the joy of attractions and themed entertainment.”
The three new members will be admitted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame at the inaugural IAAPA Honors event, which will be held at the legendary Venetian Resort in Las Vegas.
The 2024 inductees are:
August Busch III, Busch Entertainment Corporation. The former president and chairman of Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc., will enter into the IAAPA Hall of Fame for his commitment to conservation and unwavering pursuit of quality.
Gordon, Maggie and Morgan Hartman, Morgan’s Wonderland. In 2010, the Hartman Family redefined the concept of an “attraction for all” with the creation of Morgan’s Wonderland. This theme park in Texas promotes inclusivity for those with special needs. The family will be inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame for their vision and passion – which has shaped perceptions and transformed lives.
Barnette Ricci, Walt Disney Company. The famed Walt Disney Imagineer has created some of Disney’s most memorable night-time spectaculars, such as Main Street Electrical Parade and Fantasmic! Ricci will become a member of the IAAPA Hall of Fame in recognition of her work to reinvent live entertainment.
Inspiring lineup in Las Vegas
The most brilliant minds in the business will come together for the first-ever IAAPA Honors event on Sunday 3 March at the renowned Venetian Resort in Las Vegas. Attendees will enjoy an inspiring full-day programme which includes engaging speakers, networking opportunities, and an exhibition of the most recent advancements in the industry.
Registration is now open, and places can be reserved here.
The IAAPA Honors event is followed by the IAAPA North America Summit, which is taking place in Las Vegas from 3 to 5 March.
Last month, IAAPA announced the appointment of Ahmed Zakaria as its director of operations for the Middle East. The association also revealed that it intends to open a local office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).
