Merriam-Webster recently revealed its Word of the Year: "authentic." Interestingly, the word has multiple definitions, including “real” and “true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character.” As people seek more profound, meaningful connections, attractions are even more focused on aligning with this cultural shift.
For two weeks a year, fairgrounds come alive with carnival rides, fried food on a stick, and a stacked lineup of live entertainment. Check out the agendas of an upcoming state fair, and you’ll likely find plenty of tractor pulls, livestock competitions, and pie baking.
Ready to check out how state fairs transform dormant fairgrounds into lively events once a year?
Interns: the bright-eyed, energetic crew that brings a burst of youthful energy every summer. They might debate you over the merits of ankle socks vs. crew and give your side part the side-eye, but they also infuse our team with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. We chatted with a few of our interns to hear what they’re looking for at attractions, their thoughts on the current industry landscape, and what qualities they seek in mentors as they embark on their professional journeys.
In the day-to-day rhythm of working in a creative field, a designer sometimes finds themselves in a design rut. The pen is not flowing, stuck, still on the paper. We’ve all been there, knowing the inspiration is right below the surface. The solution? Reaching out, building connections, and fostering trust can fuel your mission and unleash pent-up creativity.
We checked in with PGAV’s summer interns to glimpse what’s valued as we welcome Generation Z into the industry. Olivia Grinage, Revati Dass, Leo Aguilar-Behsman, Geoffrey Dugopolski, Lizzy Calvert, and Karalina Kulis spoke about their experiences and dreams for the industry.
People haven’t quenched their thirst for travel. Demand continues and people are prioritizing experiences, but not everything is puppies and rainbows. Heading into the busy season, let’s look at the bright spots and stock up on sunscreen… but pack a rain poncho (just in case).
When it comes to visiting attractions, Mom is often the planning, packing, wrangling, band-aid-keeping, backpack-carrying warrior. They spend their visits ensuring everyone is fed, safe, hydrated, and slathered in sunscreen. In honor of those moms, we spoke with a few PGAV moms about their experiences visiting attractions with their children and what they keep in mind when designing attractions.
Does this title sound familiar? We recycled it.
The climate is in crisis, and there’s a direct impact on attractions. Fortunately, there are options for attractions to be more sustainable—and to help guests along the same path.
Restroom goals: one that is accessible to all, clean, provides for basic needs, and useful… and while we’re at it, it might as well have a beautiful and unique design.
The following article discusses weight, obesity, and traumatic experiences related to size. We understand it may be triggering for some people. Please take care in reading.
