- AVEA conference takes place October 19, 2026 at National Gallery of Ireland
- Theme ‘Beyond the Visit: Story-telling for Success in Visitor Attractions’
- Speakers include O’Leary, Griffiths, Golding and Rice
- Gala evening event at Guinness Storehouse with coach transfers provided
- AGM for AVEA members held October 20 at 10.00am
The Association of Visitor Experience Attractions (AVEA) has scheduled its 2026 conference for October 19 at the National Gallery of Ireland, with the theme ‘Beyond the Visit: Story-telling for Success in Visitor Attractions’ bringing together industry leaders from across Ireland and England. Delegates will assemble at the Merrion Square entrance from 9.15am for badge collection and welcome hospitality in the Shaw Room before the plenary session commences at 10.00am in the Lecture Theatre. The conference programme runs until 5.00pm with a lunch break at 12.30pm and an afternoon break at 3.15pm, followed by a gala evening event at the Guinness Storehouse for delegates who have registered for the occasion.
Guest speakers include Stephen O’Leary from Olytico, Paul Griffiths from the Association of Cultural Enterprises, Michael Golding from the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions, and Sinéad Rice from the National Gallery of Ireland, alongside selected case studies from the open call. The conference addresses the growing importance of narrative-driven experiences in attracting and retaining visitors across cultural institutions, heritage sites and tourist attractions. The programme examines how storytelling techniques can enhance visitor engagement, increase dwell time and improve overall satisfaction metrics at attractions throughout Ireland and Britain.
Delegates attending the evening event will take complimentary coach transfers provided by Do Dublin and Vintage Tea Trips to the Guinness Storehouse, arriving at 6.00pm for an evening of food, entertainment and networking concluding at 9.00pm. AVEA members are reminded that the Association’s Annual General Meeting takes place the following morning, Tuesday October 20 at 10.00am. The National Gallery of Ireland does not permit overnight bags or cases into the building, though small lockers are available free of charge for storing coats and umbrellas.
