CELTH Industry Day

CELTH Industry Day

From Knowledge to Experience: Building Bridges between Science and Industry

Wednesday, 27 August 2025

The World Leisure Conference 2025 in Breda will introduce a groundbreaking Industry Day. Unlike previous conference days, this new initiative aims to bridge the gap between the leisure industry and the academic community. Our working analogy for this connection is: “From Knowledge to Experience: Building Bridges between Science and Industry”.

Organised by the Dutch Centre of Expertise Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality (CELTH), this day will break away from traditional formats. It will embody the very principles it advocates, offering participants an engaging, immersive, and co-creative experience. While some elements may appear conventional (like keynotes and workshops), they will be presented and executed in new, unexpected, and impactful ways. Disruptive elements, meaningful interactions, and creative methods will take centre stage, ensuring a truly transformative experience for all attendees.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering event that will shape the future of the leisure industry. Register now to secure your spot and join us in building bridges between science and industry!

Programme Schedule:

09:00 🎉 Grand Arrival & Dynamic Welcome Experience
09:30 ✨Opening and inspiring Keynote with a Twist. A thought-provoking session with unexpected insights and interactive surprises titled: “The Future of Leisure Research and the Role of Industry”
10:45 ☕ Break with a Dash of Adventure
11:15 🎨 Parallel Creative Labs: Bridging Knowledge and Practice in Leisure
12:30 🍽️ “Expect the Unexpected” Lunch
13:30 🛶 Leisure: Bridging Theory and Practice
16:00 💡 Round-the-Table Sparks Engage in dynamic, small-group conversations that challenge conventional thinking.
17:00 🍹 Celebratory Wrap-Up & Networking
17:30 🎆 Grand Closure

Note: Programme is subject to change

Concept of the Day:

  • Morning Workshops: The day will begin with a series of interactive workshops designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with industry experts and academics, exploring new ideas and solutions.
  • Afternoon Technical Tours: In the afternoon, attendees will embark on technical tours to local leisure facilities and businesses. These tours will provide a hands-on experience, showcasing best practices and innovative approaches in the leisure industry.

Parallel Creative Labs:

  • Format: Interactive, hands-on workshops.
  • Objective: Fostering collaboration between industry professionals and academics to explore innovative solutions for the future of leisure.

In the Parallel Creative Labs, participants will step beyond traditional discussions and actively engage in co-creative sessions designed to bridge the gap between research and real-world applications. These interactive workshops bring together experts from diverse backgrounds—ranging from urban planners and festival organisers to experienced designers and leisure researchers—to tackle pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in the industry.

Each lab will be guided by thought leaders and facilitators who will introduce a key challenge or opportunity related to leisure. Using design thinking, case studies, and collaborative problem-solving techniques, participants will work in dynamic groups to develop actionable solutions, innovative concepts, and new insights that can shape the future of leisure.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Engage with professionals and researchers from different sectors to gain fresh perspectives.

Real-World Application

Work on live case studies or industry challenges to develop tangible solutions.

Innovative Approaches

Experience creative problem-solving methods such as scenario planning, rapid prototyping, and storytelling techniques.

Hands-On Engagement

Move beyond passive listening and actively contribute ideas, concepts, and strategies.

Networking in Action

Build meaningful connections while co-creating with industry peers and academic experts.

Each lab will be focused on one of the seven key themes* of the day, allowing participants to deep dive into areas such as sustainability, inclusion, technology, or urban development. Whether you’re an industry leader looking for new insights or a researcher seeking real-world applications for your work, these labs offer a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge, challenge existing norms, and spark new collaborations.

Leave fresh perspectives, concrete ideas, and potential partnerships that could drive meaningful innovation in the leisure industry. Come ready to think, create, and collaborate—because the future of leisure starts with you!

*The seven key themes of the labs are:

1. Traditional Dutch & Heritage: Innovating the Future with a Nod to the Past

The Netherlands has a deep-rooted leisure heritage, from historic landscapes to cultural traditions that have stood the test of time. This theme explores how heritage can be a source of inspiration for modern leisure innovations. How can AI and digital storytelling enhance the visitor experience at historic sites? How do we ensure that traditional Dutch experiences remain relevant in a rapidly evolving leisure market? Join this session to explore the intersection of tradition and technology in shaping the future of leisure.

2. The Role of Leisure in Urban Development: Shaping Cities Through Recreation

Leisure plays a crucial role in creating vibrant, liveable cities. From urban parks to public art installations, and from festivals to creative placemaking, this theme explores how leisure contributes to the social, economic, and environmental fabric of urban spaces. How can cities strategically integrate leisure to foster inclusivity, economic growth, and community engagement? What lessons can be learned from successful urban leisure developments worldwide? This session will provide insights and strategies for leveraging leisure in urban planning.

3. Leisure & Food: The Ultimate Pairing for Memorable Experiences

Food is more than sustainable, it’s an experience, a story, and a connection to culture. In this session, we examine how culinary tourism and food-based leisure experiences create lasting memories while promoting sustainability and regional identity. How can food be leveraged to enhance tourism, foster social interactions, and support local economies? What role do storytelling and authenticity play in food-related leisure experiences? Explore the powerful relationship between food and leisure and how it shapes consumer behaviour and destination appeal.

4. Inclusion: Leisure for Everyone, Everywhere

Leisure should be a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and able to participate fully. But how do we design truly inclusive leisure experiences? This theme explores the best practices in accessibility, representation, and cultural sensitivity. Learn from case studies and innovative projects that have successfully made leisure spaces more equitable. Discuss how policy, design, and programming can break down barriers and ensure that leisure is a source of joy and belonging for all.

5. Sustainability: Designing a Green Future for Leisure

As the leisure industry faces increasing environmental challenges, sustainable innovation is no longer optional—it’s imperative. This session delves into practical strategies for integrating sustainability into leisure infrastructure, services, and experiences. How can destinations balance economic growth with ecological responsibility? What role do circular economy principles, regenerative tourism, and responsible consumption play in leisure planning? Join the conversation on shaping a greener, more resilient future for the industry.

6. Meaningful Experiences: Crafting Moments That Matter

Consumers are no longer just seeking entertainment; they crave experiences that inspire, transform, and connect them to something bigger. This theme explores how leisure providers can design deeply engaging and emotionally resonant experiences. How do we move beyond passive entertainment to create leisure moments that lead to personal growth and social impact? What are the key elements of designing experiences that remain with people long after they leave? This session will uncover the psychology and best practices behind meaningful leisure.

7. Technology & Innovation in Leisure: Creating Immersive Futures

The rapid evolution of technology is revolutionising the way people experience leisure. From AI-powered personalisation to immersive storytelling through VR and AR, this session will explore the frontier of digital innovation in leisure. How are emerging technologies reshaping the visitor experience? What are the ethical and practical considerations when integrating tech into leisure offerings? Join us to discover how cutting-edge innovations are redefining the boundaries of leisure and setting new standards for engagement.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of a pioneering event that will shape the future of the leisure industry. Register now to secure your spot and join us in building bridges between science and industry!