Waterford will today (October 13th, 2025) welcome more than 200 leaders from across Ireland’s tourism and hospitality sector for AVEAconf25, the annual national gathering of the Association of Visitor Experiences and Attractions (AVEA).

Taking place across October 13th and 14th, the two-day conference will focus on Ireland’s growing visitor economy and the crucial role attractions play in shaping the country’s tourism offering.

The 2025 theme, “Ireland’s Tourism Mosaic of Amazing Spaces,” will explore how innovation, leadership, and sustainability are driving transformation in the industry. Delegates will participate in keynote sessions, panel discussions, and learning journeys at some of Waterford’s leading attractions, including Mount Congreve Estate and the House of Waterford Crystal. A series of networking events will also encourage collaboration and idea-sharing among professionals from across the sector.

Catherine Flanagan, CEO of AVEA, said the conference comes at a pivotal time 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,” she said.

AVEAconf25 will feature expert-led discussions on topics such as artificial intelligence, strategic resilience, marketing trends, and sustainable practice. A highlight of the programme will be the unveiling of a ground-breaking research project by the National Centre for Tourism Policy Studies at the University of Limerick. The study examines visitor flow to the Cliffs of Moher and how Clare County Council is using the data to enhance 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 Flanagan.

Hosted at the Tower Hotel Waterford, the event will see tourism professionals from across the island come together to 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.

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