Published on: December 1, 2024 / Updated on: December 1, 2024 – Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
European trade fairs for XR technologies (Extended, Augmented, Virtual and Mixed Reality; Metaverse) 2025 – Image: Xpert.Digital
Extended Reality Highlights - from AR to Metaverse: The most exciting XR events in Europe in 2025
Experience the future: The most important XR trade fairs in Europe in 2025
Extended Reality (XR), an umbrella term encompassing Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR), and the metaverse, has emerged as a key area of technological innovation in recent years. The importance of XR technologies is growing not only in entertainment but also in fields such as education, medicine, architecture, and industry. Trade shows play a central role in showcasing new technologies, exchanging knowledge, and building networks. In 2025, Europe offers an impressive array of events specifically focused on XR technologies. Below is a detailed look at the most important events.
1. SIEX (Social Immersive Entertainment Expo) 2025
Location: London, UK
Date: January 14th to 16th, 2025
SIEX 2025 will premiere in London and promises to be a highlight on the XR industry calendar. The focus is on immersive entertainment, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). Particular emphasis will be placed on the convergence of technology and social interaction. The trade fair distinguishes itself through its broad range of topics, spanning from gaming and esports to social platforms that utilize XR. In addition to interactive demos and presentations, there will be dedicated panels addressing the ethical and societal impacts of immersive technologies.
A unique feature of SIEX is the integration of artists and creatives who demonstrate how XR can revolutionize the art world. The fair also offers a special zone for startups, where young companies can present their innovative ideas.
2. Laval Virtual 2025
Location: Laval, France
Date: April 9th to 11th, 2025
Laval Virtual is Europe's oldest and most prestigious trade fair for immersive technologies. Since its inception in 1999, the event has established itself as a leading platform for showcasing new applications and developments. The fair offers a diverse program ranging from expert conferences and workshops to impressive XR demos.
The 2025 edition focuses on industrial applications, including training, maintenance, and design using XR technologies. Laval Virtual has a reputation for innovation, particularly at the intersection of science and industry. Each year, universities and research institutions showcase their latest prototypes, while major companies present their XR strategies and solutions.
Another highlight of the trade fair is the “ReVolution” competition, where start-ups from all over the world can present their projects to an international audience and potential investors.
3. XR EXPO 2025
Location: Stuttgart, Germany
Date: May 8th to 9th, 2025
XR EXPO is a compact yet highly influential event focused on the B2B market. Located in Stuttgart, the trade fair sits at the heart of Germany's technology and automotive industries, making it an ideal venue for companies interested in industrial applications of XR technologies.
The event includes an exhibition featuring leading technology providers and a conference with high-caliber presentations. Topics range from the use of XR in mechanical engineering to the implementation of AR solutions in logistics.
A particularly interesting feature of XR EXPO 2025 is its focus on hands-on workshops. Visitors will have the opportunity to try out state-of-the-art hardware themselves and gain insights into real-world applications.
4. XR Salento 2025
Location: Otranto, Italy
Date: June 17th to 20th, 2025
XR Salento offers a unique experience by bringing together scientists, engineers, and companies in a relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere. This conference specializes in fostering collaboration between research and industry and provides a platform for showcasing new ideas and projects in the field of XR.
One focus of the event is on the creative and cultural applications of XR. For example, there are panels on the integration of augmented reality in museums and cultural sites, as well as on the use of virtual reality in film production.
Another highlight of XR Salento is the academic exchange. Scientists from all over the world present their latest studies, and young talents have the opportunity to present their projects to a specialist audience.
5. AWE Europe 2025
Location: Vienna, Austria
Date: November 19th to 20th, 2025
The Augmented World Expo (AWE) is a global event that has been considered a benchmark for XR technologies for years. The European edition in Vienna attracts experts, developers, and industry leaders from around the world.
The focus of AWE Europe 2025 is on technological innovations and how XR can change daily life. A wide spectrum will be covered, from improving customer interaction through AR to new possibilities in healthcare.
The trade fair is known for its interactive presentations, where visitors can experience the latest developments firsthand. In addition, there are high-caliber keynote speakers and panel discussions where industry thought leaders share their visions.
A particular highlight is the "AWE Playground," an interactive area where participants can experiment with the latest devices and applications. Start-ups also benefit from the opportunity to present themselves to a broad audience on the "Start-up Pitch Sessions" stage.
6. NEW: Hidden Champion Extended Reality Munich (HiCerm)
Location: Munich, Germany
Date: November 27th to 28th, 2025
HiCerm also stands for Hyper-Integrated Collaboration for Enhanced Reality Modeling.
It is about the further development of innovative collaboration on platforms with technologies that enable collaborative work in augmented or virtual reality, e.g. for design processes or architectural projects.
The rapid development of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) offers revolutionary opportunities for collaborative work processes in various industries. Particularly in the fields of architecture, design, and engineering, these technologies enable novel approaches to complex projects.
This expert meeting is dedicated to platforms and technologies that promote collaborative work processes in immersive virtual environments. The focus is on solutions that connect teams regardless of location and enable efficient collaboration through interactive 3D models, real-time visualizations, and intuitive interfaces.
Experts discuss how AR and VR technologies can overcome the limitations of traditional work methods. Topics such as integration into existing workflows, innovative applications, and implementation challenges are explored, along with best-practice examples from real-world applications.
The meeting is aimed at experts in the fields of architecture, design, construction, software development, and technology. It offers an opportunity for exchange, the presentation of groundbreaking projects, and the collaborative development of future-oriented insights.
Main topics of the meeting:
- Presentation of current AR and VR platforms for collaborative work
- Applications in architectural and design processes
- Practical examples: Successful implementations and lessons learned
- Technological trends and future developments
- Discussion about challenges in the areas of hardware, software and user acceptance
Why these trade fairs are important
XR technologies have the potential to revolutionize numerous industries. From improving medical training through VR surgery to optimizing manufacturing processes with AR maintenance instructions – the possibilities are virtually limitless. The aforementioned trade shows offer not only the opportunity to see these technologies in action, but also to network with the industry's leading figures.
Furthermore, these events serve as platforms for innovation and inspiration. They promote exchange between science, industry, and creative sectors and contribute to driving the development of new applications.
The importance of XR trade fairs in Europe
The trade fairs presented here are more than just events; they are catalysts for innovation and growth in the XR industry. They offer:
Innovation platforms
Companies can showcase their latest technologies and applications, which drives the development of the industry.
Knowledge transfer
Through lectures and workshops, participants have the opportunity to learn from leading experts and to find out about the latest research findings.
Networking opportunities
The events promote the exchange between experts, leading to collaborations, partnerships and business opportunities.
Market development
An international focus allows companies to tap into new markets and strengthen their global presence.
The future of XR technologies
The continuous development of XR technologies has the potential to fundamentally transform numerous industries. From education and healthcare to industrial production, these technologies offer innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Trade fairs and conferences play a crucial role in this process by fostering dialogue between developers, users, and decision-makers. They enable the early identification of trends, discussions of regulatory frameworks, and the development of common standards.
Each of these events offers a unique program
The trade fairs in 2025 underscore the growing importance of XR technologies and their impact on various aspects of life. Each of these events offers a unique program specifically tailored to the needs and interests of the participants. For companies, researchers, and XR technology enthusiasts, these fairs are essential events to stay up-to-date and actively shape the future.
Plan your calendar for 2025 accordingly and be part of these groundbreaking developments – the world of Extended Reality awaits you!
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