THE BIG TRAVEL TRADE EVENT 2025
WATCH HERE- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onh-DF02Sag
The Big Travel Trade Event 2025 took place on the 3rd & 4th June in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast. Hosted by NI Travel News, the event saw over 500 Travel Agents and Travel Trade Suppliers make their way to the venue for two back-to-back days of networking, relationship building and fun! With a packed schedule, agents were invited and hosted by suppliers in sponsored breakfasts, lunches, dinners and so much more!
Day one saw the opening of the event with 20 suppliers speed networking! Agents enjoyed updates about new and existing brands, products and services and had the chance to ask questions to the suppliers directly.
The speedy networking session called recess with PortAventura World hosting a coffee morning. Judith Farràs, Account Manager from PortAventura World, showcased its fantastic theme park and different opportunities you have while staying in Salou or nearby the park! Agents enjoyed Spanish omelettes, pastries and cold cuts while getting their caffeine fix for the next session of Speed Networking!
60 Travel Agents were then hosted by Travel Solutions in partnership with Aer Lingus as they hosted the first ever “The Most Fun You Can Have With Your Boots On” Agent Lunch! Agents were greeted with cowboy accessories such as hats and bandanas, followed by a spread of western style food such as trashcan nachos and smash burgers! Agents were also treated to a line-dancing class in the hopes to find the best dancer. Nicole McKittrick from Oasis Travel came out on top winning the grand prize of two return flights to Nashville courtesy of Aer Lingus.
The Supplier Marketplace hosted 54 stands with a large Gran Canaria meeting hub featuring mini golf and fresh tropical juice station for all to enjoy! Suppliers competed in the annual stand competition with Attraction World coming out on top with an Axe Throwing attraction at their stand. The Supplier Marketplace hosted two industry insight session with Ciaran Connelly bringing AI to the forefront of everyone’s minds as we heard about the uprise in the Travel Industry, and on Day Two a panel of representatives from Luxury companies joined NI Travel News’ Kirsty Johnston on stage to talk about trends in the luxury market.
The Spanish Tourist Office & Salou hosted suppliers and agents to a drink’s reception of sangria before a three course Spanish themed meal on the first night. The entertainment for the night was hosted by SpeedQuizzing NI, a tablet was provided, team names were picked, and the competitiveness began! Teams had multiple rounds of general knowledge questions with a Spanish flare with quick fire bingo rounds! Prizes consisted of blow-up flamingos, bananas and palm trees, wine and chocolates! Congratulations to the winning teams!
Day Two of The Big Event 2025 kicked off with the Rise and Shine Oceania Breakfast hosted by Kal Sindhu, Business Development Manager North UK, NI & Scotland. Agents enjoyed a breakfast spread and heard about the fantastic ships in the Oceania fleet before decorating their very own breakfast waffle. Kal showcased the amazing suites, packages and dining on board and answered any questions in the room. A fantastic start to the day for all.
Kerry Buchanan, Business Development Executive from Virgin Voyages, welcomed the agents to a Paint & Sip event at lunch time on Day Two. Agents enjoyed a Scarlett Night Cocktail and a tapas table, whilst Kerry welcomed guests and presented on Virgin Voyages and their offering. After an overview presentation, Kerry then led the painting class as agents painted a sunset over the ocean with palm trees! Agents sipped on Prosecco whilst following along as Kerry demonstrated from the front! A perfect, relaxing lunch.
The Launch of the 33rd NI Travel & Tourism Awards took place on the 4th June. Jonathan Adair was joined by the Awards sponsors as they announced the host, awards, venue, & date. You can read the press release and have your say by voting today HERE.
The Big Event 2025 wrapped up with the Jet2holidays Battle Of The Bands; guests dazzled as they came dressed in their favourite band, singers, & rock festival attire! Guests entered through security to the venue and enjoyed a bottle of beer before entering the gig. Guests entered the Battle Of The Bands Arena and enjoyed a pre-show meal before the band hit the stage and entertained the crowd by inviting them on stage to sing their favourite hits! DJ Nathan performed until the early hours, and the night was an event that no one will forget!
SEE THE OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHS HERE.