2024 Blooloop Innovation Awards Entries Preview
From 15 to 16 January 2025, professionals from the visitor attraction sector will convene online to hear insights from industry leaders and discover the winners of the Innovation Awards 2024, presented in collaboration with AREA15.
A panel of industry experts will evaluate the awards, recognising the most groundbreaking projects and products that are set to propel the industry forward and instigate genuine change.
AREA15 is the world’s first purpose-built experiential entertainment district, located just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip. This vibrant space nurtures creativity and content through top-tier experiential entertainment companies such as Meow Wolf, Lost Spirits Distillery, Wink World, and Illuminarium.
Innovation Awards 2024: Celebrating Innovation Across the Sector
The winners of the Innovation Awards 2024 will be unveiled at the Festival of Innovation, which will take place online from 15 to 16 January 2025. Registration is currently open and is free.
The Festival will feature panel discussions with leading operators and some of the creative minds behind the award entries. Additionally, every award entry will be showcased for attendees to explore in our Innovation Showcase.
Participants will also have the opportunity to influence the 2024 Public Vote Award by rating each entry on a scale of one to five stars.
In anticipation of the event, we are excited to provide an exclusive preview of some of the entries for the Innovation Awards 2024 that will be highlighted at blooloop’s Festival of Innovation.
360, An Extraordinary Experience
Princess Cruises has submitted its immersive dining experience for consideration in the Storytelling and Immersive Experience categories.
360: An Extraordinary Experience is available on the Enchanted Princess and Discovery Princess cruise ships. This immersive gastronomic experience takes twenty guests on a journey through the Mediterranean, guided by a live host who leads them through a living travel journal created with a blend of physical and digital interactions.
Guests will indulge in a multisensory feast featuring a bespoke soundtrack, fragrances, vivid imagery projected across curving LED walls, and an intriguing interactive tabletop. Each destination inspires the seven-course menu, showcasing authentic ingredients and the stories behind the dishes.
Advatek PixLite A4-S Mk3
Advatek Lighting has entered its lighting control system into the Creative Technology category at the Innovation Awards 2024.
The Advatek PixLite A4-S Mk3 empowers designers to craft powerful, immersive experiences with pixel LED fixtures, making it ideal for large-scale projects in challenging environments.
This system is part of Advatek’s signature PixLite Mk3 series, combining precision, efficiency, and user-friendliness with its innovative SHOWTime feature set.
It drives up to six universes on each of its four outputs, accommodating a total of 4080 RGB pixels. This capability reduces the need for multiple controllers, thereby lowering costs while enhancing pixel value.
AIPH Pavilion and Garden at Expo 2023 Doha
The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has submitted its temporary exhibit at Expo Doha 2023, titled Oasis of Life – Uncovering the Power of Plants, in the Exhibit and Sustainability categories.
This project was showcased at one of the first international horticultural exhibitions in the Middle East, aiming to foster a deeper connection between people and plants. Research indicates that engaging with nature can significantly enhance wellbeing. The space immerses visitors in nature, featuring over 60 plant species.
A 12.9-meter-high structure, inspired by local fishing nets, creates naturally cooled microclimates for the plants. This inviting space encourages exploration with its canyon-like design. Hosts lead tours and discussions, inviting visitors to touch the plants and discover their various forms. Four educational tracks cater to diverse interest groups, including a kids’ trail and relaxation area to enhance engagement.
Alice, the Patented AI Virtual Docent System
Mad Systems has entered its technology into the Experiential Technology, Guest Journey, and Inclusion categories at the Innovation Awards 2024.
Alice® is a patented AI-powered interactive technology that enhances visitor interaction with exhibitions through customisation.
Unlike traditional systems, Alice tailors content to user preferences, including language, learning style, and ADA requirements, resulting in unique experiences with each interaction. The technology integrates seamlessly with the QuickSilver system, establishing a new standard for personalised guest experiences that keep the exhibit at the forefront of the visit.
ARTE MUSEUM LAS VEGAS
AV integrators AVI-SPL have entered ARTE MUSEUM LAS VEGAS in the Immersive Experience – Culture category.
This immersive art experience opened in 2023 and takes guests on a multi-sensory journey that explores the intersection of technology, art, and nature.
The experience relies on precise solutions that combine to create a unique immersive environment, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Expert integration includes meticulously rigged projectors and audio equipment, along with lights and scent machines that transport visitors to extraordinary moments.
Beat The Bomb
The interactive experience Beat the Bomb is entered in the Game On! category at the Innovation Awards 2024.
In Beat the Bomb, players step into real-life video games within innovative, interactive rooms featuring RFID-enabled props, projection mapping, and motion sensors.
The experience is rapidly expanding across the US, with ten new games launched in 2024 designed to enhance human connection through improved team communication, collaboration, and coordination. The roster now includes two new missions and endings, featuring paint, foam, and slime bombs.
Bullanginya Dreaming – Luna Light Journey
Laservision has entered the immersive experience, Bullanginya Dreaming, into the Spectacular and Storytelling categories.
Bullanginya Dreaming is Australia’s first permanent interactive light and sound experience, honouring Indigenous Australian heritage and community through traditional storytelling, stunning visuals, and immersive soundscapes.
Set in 40 acres of natural bushland, the 1.8-kilometre walking trail allows visitors to escape the outside world and explore the Dreamtime, a significant Indigenous Australian cultural and spiritual concept. Guests engage with 13 activations, each highlighting an important aspect of Bangerang’s heritage and culture.
Category 6 Waterpark, Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean International’s Category 6 Waterpark is in the Splash and Thrills categories.
Icon of the Seas features the largest waterpark at sea, complete with an immersive storm experience and six record-breaking slides.
Located 20 decks above the ocean, visitors can enjoy the Hurricane Hunter and Storm Surge, the first family raft slides at sea; the Frightening Bolt, the tallest drop slide at sea at 46 feet; Storm Chasers, the first duo mat-racing slides in the cruise industry; the Pressure Drop, the industry’s first open free-fall slide; and the immersive Eye of the Storm, which offers three unique storm experiences.
CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular
TAIT has entered CineSational in the Spectacular category for the Innovation Awards 2024.
CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular is Universal Orlando‘s largest nighttime spectacular to date, launched in the summer of 2024. The show brings to life memorable moments from beloved Universal movies, presented within an immersive stage that employs innovative technology, a compelling visual narrative, and an evocative soundscape.
This nightly show was created in partnership with Universal Orlando Entertainment, aiming to provide a pioneering end-of-day experience that pushes the boundaries of technical skill and creative expression.
TAIT developed a new stage and viewing area to deliver the show content, accommodating a larger and more immersive variety of layered special effects, particularly water effects and projection technology. The project also introduced a new level of integration with aerial drone effects, merging sky-based elements with media, fountains, and pyrotechnics.
Currents Immersive Experience on Carnival Jubilee
Infinite World Studios has entered The Currents Immersive Experience on Carnival Jubilee in the Experiential Technology and Immersive Experience categories.
The Currents is a two-deck-high, immersive and interactive venue that transports passengers onboard the Carnival Jubilee to captivating underwater worlds. It features six enormous LED windows, a gigantic wave-shaped LED ceiling, interactive hotspots, show lighting, and compelling sound design.
The project includes three experiences: an ‘Interactive Aquarium’ where passengers can create fish and watch them swim on the LED screens; ‘SoundWaves’, an interactive dance party where guests select their favourite music and visualiser for the LED windows; and ‘Change the Currents’, where they can transform the venue by choosing from six animated underwater scenes, each with bespoke music and sound design.
Discover The Giants of the Past through the Magic of Augmented Reality!
Magic Memories & Plantasia Tropical Zoo have entered the Giants of the Past experience in the Experiential Technology and Guest Journey categories for the Innovation Awards 2024.
The Giants of the Past experience at Plantasia Tropical Zoo seamlessly integrates Magic Memories’ new MAGIC AR (Augmented Reality) technology with five prehistoric fossil exhibits. These ancient species come to life through a blend of education and entertainment, using augmented reality on mobile devices. The personalised content engages visitors on a deeper level, enriching the entire guest experience from pre- to post-visit interactions.
In addition to the exciting AR encounters, visitors can uncover fun facts, take the Top Trumps trail, and access their photos for free at interactive kiosks.
FluidLED – Low Voltage LED Display System for Wet Environments by Octopus Design Studio
Octopus Design Studio has submitted the FluidLED display system for the Creative Technology category.
FluidLED is a unique, low-voltage LED display designed for wet environments, operating on just 24V DC power. This allows designers to utilise LED lighting in locations previously deemed unsuitable, including fountain shows, water parks, water rides, and immersive spa experiences.
Its application on cruise ships demonstrates the technology’s effectiveness in one of the most demanding environments for entertainment systems. FluidLED was installed this year on Sun Princess, the first vessel in Princess’s new Sphere class of ships, which offers unique experiences, including The Dome, a relaxing space by day and an entertainment venue by night.
GAME ON! at the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame
Creative Principals has entered this new fan experience for the Exhibit and Experiential Technology categories at the Innovation Awards 2024.
In celebration of the tenth anniversary of the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, the attraction has created an innovative fan experience that updates the Hall of Fame while preserving the grandeur and traditions of college football.
GAME ON! is a personalised, AI-powered experience that immerses fans in the attraction’s exhibits. Upon entry, visitors have their pictures taken while answering questions about their favourite team, main opponent, and ideal position on the field. This information is used to create a hyper-personalised visitor experience, with 14 fan-specific AI touchpoints around the Hall of Fame, tailored using proprietary technology.
Guinness Storehouse Ingredients Experience
Dalziel & Pow Design Consultants has submitted The Ingredients Experience at the Guinness Storehouse Dublin in the Immersive Experience – Culture and Storytelling – Culture categories.
The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin invites visitors to explore the history, heart, and spirit of Ireland’s most iconic beer, welcoming over 1.5 million visitors each year.
The Ingredients Experience delves into the four natural components required to brew Guinness – barley, water, hops, and yeast – all sourced with care and respect for the environment.
The stories of these ingredients are conveyed through a series of installations crafted by makers, creators, designers, florists, and engineers, engaging visitors and catering to both Guinness enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Imvizar
The Imvizar bring-your-own-device (BYOD) solution is entered in the Blue Sky and Guest Journey categories.
Imvizar is a BYOD solution that radically transforms how visitors experience attractions. This technology turns smartphones and tablets into powerful storytelling tools, allowing visitors to see virtual content and interact with 3D figures while connecting with location-based narratives as they navigate a site.
With over 80 experiences in eight countries, Imvizar has established itself as a leader in enhancing the guest experience. High-profile projects such as the Spike Island Experience and the award-winning Waterford Digital Story Trail demonstrate how the platform can elevate standard tours into unique and immersive experiences.
International African American Museum
Octopus Design Studio has entered the International African American Museum (IAAM) in the Storytelling – Culture category for the Innovation Awards 2024.
The IAAM is located on the waterfront site that served as the port of arrival for nearly half of all enslaved Africans transported to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries. The museum is dedicated to sharing their important stories and acknowledging the cultural contributions of their descendants.
The exhibition design brings to life the untold stories of African and African American history, connecting with audiences on both personal and global levels. By basing the museum’s design on the port of arrival, IAAM delivers an immersive experience that honours the sanctity of the location while making history accessible to contemporary visitors.
LOOP Website Platform
The LOOP website platform for attractions by Semantic is entered in the Creative Technology and Guest Journey categories.
LOOP is a website platform specifically designed for attractions, leisure, and tourism brands, aiming to simplify the creation and maintenance of engaging, user-friendly websites that enhance the guest experience. Its clients benefit from fast-launching, SEO-optimised, user-friendly, and cost-effective websites.
2024 marks LOOP’s first full year, and the feature-rich platform has already been adopted by attractions such as Watermouth Castle, Twycross Zoo, New Forest Wildlife Park, The Crystal Maze, and Cotswold Farm Park.
The company plans to integrate advanced eCommerce functionalities and AI-powered personalisation in the future.
Nexus by Gel Blaster
Nexus by Gel Blaster is entered in the Game On! category.
By combining cutting-edge technology, captivating graphics, and adaptable options, Nexus by Gel Blaster offers a unique approach to blaster gaming in family entertainment centres (FECs).
This interactive adventure game features a distinctive glow-in-the-dark arena, with elements such as glowing, soft gellets and illuminated locations engaging visitors of all ages. Digital leaderboards and customisable game modes further enhance the experience.
Operators benefit from the game’s scalable, sustainable design, which can be adapted to fit venues of any size, delivering a high-quality experience while maximising investment. Additionally, the gellets are water-based and biodegradable, leaving minimal mess for quick turnover.
Panasonic 1-Chip DLP Projectors
Panasonic Connect Europe has entered the Panasonic 1-Chip DLP Projector into the Creative Technology category at the Innovation Awards 2024.
Panasonic’s 1-Chip DLP projectors exceed expectations for integrators and operators of location-based entertainment. The 2-axis pixel-shifting Quad Pixel Drive technology allows for installation flexibility while producing realistic 4K images that are deep, smooth, and detailed.
The series-leading REQ15 generates up to 15,000lm of brightness, resulting in stunning 4K images. Its Quad Pixel Drive works with Panasonic’s ET-SWR10 Real-Time Tracking Projection-Mapping System to blend digital and analogue motion in XR attractions or stage shows. Dynamic Contrast enhances the inherent contrast ratio to 25000:1, delivering deep blacks and brilliant whites that are ideal for immersive experiences.
The Sistine Chapel Heritage exhibition in Warsaw’s PGE National Stadium exemplifies the potential of this technology, allowing visitors to experience the wonders of the Sistine Chapel outside of Rome for the first time.
Panasonic and DEM Museums Bring Ancient Ephesus to Life
Panasonic Connect Europe and DEM Museums have submitted their 360-degree multi-sensory immersive experience at the Ephesus Experience Museum in the Immersive Experience – Culture category.
The Ephesus Experience Museum aims to provide a compelling, immersive visual experience that helps visitors understand the historical significance of Ephesus. To achieve this, a unique 2,400m2 museum was constructed among pine forests, housing a multi-sensory immersive experience developed by Astel Professional Display Systems in collaboration with Panasonic and content developer Marshmallow Laser Feast.
This attraction offers an in-depth exploration of the ancient city’s rich history, from its founding to its peak as a major metropolitan centre. A storyteller guides guests through three rooms, each employing innovative AV technology to allow visitors to wander the streets of the historic city, admire its architecture, and engage with its residents.
This captivating visitor experience incorporates 360-degree projections, 3D soundscapes, and multi-sensory elements like fog and scents, creating an entertaining, vivid, and informative experience that transports visitors back thousands of years.
Phantom Peak
The League of Adventure has entered Phantom Peak in the Immersive Experience and Storytelling categories.
Phantom Peak is London’s first large-scale open-world escape room and immersive experience. This fully realised town is filled with strange characters, secrets, and stories. Guests spend over four hours exploring, dining, and engaging with immersive sets, technology, and live actors.
Powered by a trail system, Phantom Peak employs a unique approach that keeps visitors engaged and moving through the 30,000-square-foot facility. A web app on their phones guides guests through the intricate world’s stories, featuring actors, sets, and interactive technology.
Each new season introduces fresh content, characters, and stories, creating an ever-evolving experience that invites guests to return.
Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation
Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA) has entered The Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation in the Exhibit category at the Innovation Awards 2024.
The Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City spans 230,000 square feet. As the lead exhibit designer, RAA aimed to display artefacts authentically, reflecting their natural characteristics.
The galleries feature an insectarium with live insects, a sound gallery showcasing “melodies” made by insects in nature, a 1:20 scale suspended resin-sculpted bee hive with integrated audiovisual experiences, and a large leafcutter ant display that allows visitors to observe colony dynamics. The butterfly vivarium evokes a natural garden, attracting butterflies with plants and flowers, while its temperature and humidity conditions support their thriving.
The Louis V. Gerstner, Jr. Collections Core is a vertical feature spanning three stories and 2,500 square feet of floor-to-ceiling collections displays, including double-sided cabinets that allow visitors to observe scientists at work.
