"Kids’ Future Experience EXPO" organised by Congrès Inc. Thrilled at Port Messe Nagoya

In a vibrant celebration of technology and creativity, the “Kids’ Future Experience EXPO” was held at Port Messe Nagoya’s Convention Center on March 9-10, 2024. Congrès Inc., which operates numerous international conferences as the designated PCO, organized the event, attracting around 4,000 visitors and offering children a variety of engaging activities. They explored the latest technologies, including programming, 3D printing, VR, and drones, alongside physical activities and crafts. The event was a resounding success, delighting both participants and organizers.

Celebrating 50 Years of Port Messe Nagoya
Port Messe Nagoya marked its 50th anniversary in November 2023. To commemorate this milestone, the “Kids’ Future Experience EXPO” was organized with the aim of broadening children’s career horizons and fostering the next generation of talent. Congrès Inc., in collaboration with the Nagoya Convention & Visitors Bureau, manages and operates the exhibition hall as the designated administrator of the Port Messe Nagoya MICE Consortium.

Fun and Learning in the Outdoor Event Area
The outdoor event area on the first floor was a hive of activity, where children enthusiastically participated in urban sports like parkour, and enjoyed pretending to be firefighters and mail carriers by riding fire trucks and postal bikes.

Engaging Exhibits, Interactive Workshops, and Inspiring Talks
Inside, the exhibition area featured 18 interactive booths hosted by various companies and local facilities. Kids were captivated by experiences such as drone piloting, VR hang gliding, programming, e-sports, IoT devices, and crafting food samples and floral decorations.

On stage, children listened with rapt attention to professionals sharing insights about their careers. Former Chunichi Dragons player Atsushi Fujii discussed life as a professional baseball player, voice actor and talent Miho Mashiro shared her experiences in voice acting, 8th-dan shogi player Masataka Sugimoto spoke about being a professional shogi player, and Daiki Sakurai from LEGOLAND® Japan described working in a theme park.

Workshops on the fourth floor provided hands-on learning opportunities. Children explored technology through 3D printing and programming, learned about economics with a money-themed board game, and indulged in creative crafts like balloon art and herb wreath making.

Strengthening Community Ties
Port Messe Nagoya actively collaborates with local facilities around Kinjo Pier Station, such as the Aonami Line, LEGOLAND® Japan, and SCMAGLEV and Railway Park, as part of the “Kinjo Pier Town Development Council.” This event featured exhibitions, stage presentations, and workshops conducted in partnership with council members. Additionally, the ‘Town Compass’ app, introduced for Port Messe Nagoya’s 50th anniversary, was used for a lottery drawing. The app, which provides event information and coupons for local dining establishments, saw enthusiastic participation from visitors.

Voices from the Organizers (Congrès Inc.)
Toshi Yoneda: “We saw children’s curiosity shine through in their enthusiasm for parkour, a sport expected to become an Olympic event in the future. It’s exciting to think that some of these kids might become future Olympians.” (Quote translated from Japanese.)

Natsuko Imaichi: “We felt reassured seeing children proudly show off what they made and hearing exhibitors say they felt the children’s passion and were glad to participate. It seemed both exhibitors and visitors gained something from the event.” (Quote translated from Japanese.)

Looking Ahead
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all exhibitors, performers, supporters, and visitors. As the designated administrator of the Port Messe Nagoya MICE Consortium, Congrès Inc. remains committed to organizing events that enhance community vitality and nurture the next generation!