Park and attractions professionals in Russia and Eastern Europe have a choice of two industry trade shows in the coming weeks, both taking place in Moscow. Park World previews the EAAPA and RAAPA events.
As well as several amusement parks, large shopping malls and entertainment centres, popular leisure outlets in Moscow include a large network of cinemas, nightclubs and bars. Casinos, once a popular pastime for many Muscovites, were banned around three years ago.
Now in its fourth year, the EAAPA Eurasian Parks and Attractions Expo kicks off on February 16. The event is organised by Smile Expo, which promises an increased number of exhibitors on this occasion. Accompanying the exhibits will be a conference programme focusing on problem solving for attractions operators and current industry trends.
Some of the exhibitors confirmed include international names such as Arihant Industrial Corp, Falgas, KCC Entertainment Design, Ninja Jump. Polin Waterparks & Pool Systems, Vekoma Rides Manufacturing and Zamperla.
The more established RAAPA Expo, organised by the Russian Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions, takes place next month in the all-new pavilion 75 of the All-Russia Exhibition Center. Now In its 13th year, the event is recognised as the premier trade show for the parks and attractions industry in Russia and the CIS (former Soviet) countries.
As well as the accompanying conference programme, RAAPA has secured a coup this year by hosting the first Golden Pony Awards to be presented outside Italy. The ceremony, on March 23, is being promoted by the publisher Facto Edizioni.
The heads of the administrations from more than 60 of Russia’s largest cities are expected among the buyers at this year’s event, as well as participants from around 30 other countries. They will be able to chose from exhibitors including Arihant Industrial Corp, Brunswick, C&S, Falgas, Game Art, Golden Dragon Amusement, KCC Entertainment Company, Moser’s Rides, Pax Company, Preston & Barbieri, Polin Waterparks & Pool Systems, Sarner, Syndicate Printers, Technical Park and Zamperla, plus many local ride manufacturers and suppliers.
EAAPA 2011 takes place at Moscow’s Crocus Expo from February 16 to 18. RAAPA Expo will be staged from March 23 to 25 at the All-Russia Exhibition Center (VVTs), also in Moscow.
Pictured: RAAPA 2010
