Waterford is welcoming more than 200 leaders from Ireland’s tourism and hospitality sector for AVEAconf25, the annual national gathering of the Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions.
Taking place on 13 and 14 October, the event will shine a spotlight on Ireland’s growing visitor economy and the central role attractions play in shaping the country’s tourism offer.
The 2025 conference theme, “Ireland’s Tourism Mosaic of Amazing Spaces,” will explore how innovation, leadership and sustainability are driving change in the industry. Over two days, delegates will take part in keynote sessions, panel discussions and learning journeys across some of Waterford’s leading attractions, including Mount Congreve Estate and the House of Waterford Crystal. The programme will also include networking events designed to foster collaboration across the sector.
Catherine Flanagan, CEO of AVEA, said the conference comes at an important moment for Irish tourism. Visitor experiences and attractions are at the heart of how Ireland tells its story to the world: “Our members welcome 20 million visitors a year, and are key drivers of the tourism economy, particularly in the regions. This year’s AVEA conference brings together a remarkable range of operators and partners to share ideas, explore challenges and celebrate the diversity of Ireland’s tourism offering. Waterford is the perfect stage to do that – a city that blends history, creativity and innovation.”
AVEAconf25 will feature expert-led discussions on themes including artificial intelligence, strategic resilience, marketing trends and sustainable practice. A ground-breaking piece of research by the National Centre for Tourism Policy Studies at the University of Limerick will examine visitor flow to the Cliffs of Moher and how Clare County Council is using the data to improve on the visitor experience.
“Over one million people, representing more than 100 nationalities, have visited the Cliffs so far this year. This longitudinal research study has significant potential for other local authorities and tourism hotspots to learn from,” said Ms Flanagan.
The event, which is being hosted at the Tower Hotel Waterford, will see tourism professionals from across the island share insights, strengthen networks and champion the future of Ireland’s visitor economy.
The Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions represents more than 140 of Ireland’s most significant tourism sites and plays a leading role in supporting best practice, advocacy and sector development.
For more information, visit avea.ie/conf25
