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Palexpo celebrates 100 years of event expertise in Geneva In 2026, Geneva celebrates 100 years of event management excellence. This milestone marks a century since the opening, in June 1926, of the former Palais des Expositions in Plainpalais – the starting point of a modern tradition of fairs and exhibitions. Since then, Geneva has continuously imagined, hosted, and developed events that have contributed to its economic, social, and cultural influence. That year paved the way for an ambitious momentum driven by expertise that has grown stronger over the decades.   Since 1981, Palexpo has been the main heir to this legacy and has carried forward the momentum initiated in 1926. The opening of its current site represented a strategic turning point: more than a change of address, it marked the creation of a modular and visionary venue designed to meet the growing needs of the international market. For more than forty years, its infrastructure, professions, and teams have supported organisers and exhibitors from around the world with a constant ambition: to offer a setting where Swiss excellence is reflected in every detail. The centenary celebrated in 2026 highlights this remarkable evolution by showcasing the expertise developed since the inauguration of the first Palais des Expositions. This know‑how is the heritage of a century of expertise, passion, and precision. It has positioned Geneva as a key player in economic development, hosting a wide range of events open to all audiences while maintaining a strong tradition of excellence.   This heritage is not limited to the past: it continuously evolves, adapts, and innovates. As event formats change in response to technological innovations and new audience expectations, Palexpo constantly adapts its site, its practices, and the experiences it offers. The “Pavillon,” a future 4,000‑sqm modular space planned for 2028, embodies this evolution: a flexible, responsible venue designed to meet the needs of next‑generation events.   Geneva’s event know‑how is also shaped by an engaged ecosystem – partners, clients, exhibitors, and organisers – who design events together today while imagining those of tomorrow. This is why we celebrate a know‑how patiently built over decades, a shared pride among all those who keep this dynamic alive.   Finally, this anniversary pays sincere tribute to all the individuals who, over the past century, have shaped Geneva’s tradition of major exhibitions, as well as to the teams who continue to sustain and reinvent this legacy today. True know‑how is not only transmitted: it is cultivated, enriched, and reinvented every day. Celebrating a centenary means recognizing the value created collectively and affirming a shared vision of the future, carried by those who will shape the events of tomorrow. https://youtu.be/ecld-rgsoWM

Palexpo SA obtientla certification ISO 9001 A major milestone in strengthening operational excellence   Palexpo SA is pleased to announce that it has obtained ISO 9001 certification, the international benchmark standard for quality management.This recognition confirms our organisation’s ability to deliver reliable, well‑controlled services focused on the satisfaction of our clients and partners.   A strategic commitment to ensuring the quality and consistency of our servicesThe ISO 9001 certification demonstrates Palexpo SA’s determination to rely on a rigorous framework aligned with the highest standards of the event industry. This standard is based on key principles: structured listening to clients’ needs, strong employee engagement, a systemic, process‑based approach, continuous improvement of our methods and services. default default default default default Through this approach, Palexpo strengthens its operational performance, secures its internal processes, and ensures consistent quality across all its activities.   A collective effort at the heart of this achievementThe certification is the result of in‑depth work carried out by all our teams. The key steps leading to certification included: identifying and mapping the company’s processes in detail, formalising our professional practices, creating a comprehensive quality manual, conducting regular internal audits, followed by a successful independent certification audit.   This accomplishment reflects the commitment of all employees and their contribution to a controlled, transparent, and excellence‑driven way of working.

The Pavilion: a new space for congresses and events at Palexpo Palexpo continues to innovate to provide organizers with solutions that match their ambitions. Starting in 2027, a new multifunctional space will be created in Hall 1, specially designed to host congresses, conferences, corporate events, and small exhibitions under optimal conditions. With its fully equipped 4,000 m² – sound, lighting, modular seating – this venue will offer a flexible capacity of 1,000 to 4,000 seats and allow for rapid configuration changes, significantly reducing setup times.   This development meets a growing demand: Switzerland is a highly sought-after destination for major congresses, but until now lacked a suitable space. Thanks to this new infrastructure, Palexpo will be able to host around ten additional congresses each year, including several major events, thereby strengthening Geneva’s attractiveness in the face of increased European competition.   With this achievement, Palexpo reaffirms its commitment to offering modern, adaptable, and sustainable spaces for organizers and participants from around the world. Learn more

Geneva will host the 14th International Conference on HIV Science in July 2027! We are honored to announce that the International AIDS Society (IAS), the largest independent association of HIV professionals, has chosen Geneva and Palexpo for this major global event. The IAS Conference on HIV Science, taking place from 11 to 15 July 2027 at Palexpo, will bring together nearly 5,000 participants from more than 130 countries, both in person and virtually, to share the latest scientific advances and strengthen international collaboration. According to Kenneth Ngure, IAS 2027 International Co-Chair and IAS President-Elect: “IAS 2027 will bring together scientists, programme leaders, policy makers and communities in Geneva, long known as a hub for global health and human rights. Together, we will take stock of the latest discoveries, chart progress in building and rebuilding research and programmes, and find the key to opening the door so that these tools reach everyone, everywhere.” “Hosting IAS 2027 in Geneva at this critical time makes perfect sense,” said Alexandra Calmy, IAS 2027 Local Co-Chair and Head of the HIV Unit in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Geneva University Hospitals (HUG). “It will give us a solid platform for global collaboration in the HIV response and for renewing and strengthening partnerships to move forward.” Geneva has a long history of hosting leading public health and human rights organizations, including international organizations and NGOs central to the HIV response. The Geneva University Hospitals (HUG) and their specialized HIV Unit within the Infectious Diseases Division ensure comprehensive and non-discriminatory care for all. The city is also home to the “Geneva patient,” one of ten people considered “cured” of HIV. This recognition reflects the strength and mobilization of our academic, medical, community and institutional ecosystem. More information

The European Para Championships 2027 at Palexpo Geneva has been chosen to host the second edition of the European Para Sport Championships, scheduled for 2027. Held every four years, this multi-sport event brings together the elite of Europe’s para-athletes.   Considered the largest multi-sport para event in Europe, it combines several official European championships into a unique experience concentrated in the heart of a single city. Athletes will compete for European titles in their disciplines and for qualification slots for the Paralympic Games.   Competitions will take place across iconic venues in the heart of Geneva, as well as at Palexpo.   More information on the disciplines, venues, and program will be announced soon. En savoir plus

The Automnales 2025 The Automnales return to Palexpo from November 7 to 16, 2025 The Automnales will be back from November 7 to 16, 2025, for an edition that promises to be more immersive, interactive, and vibrant than ever. A true highlight of Geneva’s autumn calendar, the event is reinventing itself this year around three complementary zones: Food Festival, Market, and Emotion. Under the roof of Palexpo, visitors will discover a wealth of unique experiences designed for all audiences. A reinvented experience With redesigned scenography, new themes, and a dynamic atmosphere inspired by the world of festivals, the 2025 edition of the Automnales introduces a modernized, immersive format focused on experience.“Through this new concept, we aim to make the Automnales an inspiring and inclusive event that resonates with all audiences and brings Geneva to life in November,” explains Jennifer Joly, Director of the Automnales. Three zones, three unique atmospheres Automnales Food Festival Open daily until 10 p.m. (except Sundays), this space dedicated to gastronomy and entertainment will offer a culinary journey through the four seasons. Highlights include the Cook’n’show and its professional counterpart Cook’n’pro, Arvinis, the Automnales Beer Festival, and the salon de l’art du mouvement, all contributing to a rich and festive experience. Geneva’s new nighttime hotspot Each evening, the Food Festival will extend the experience into the night. Beach volleyball, pétanque, cocktail stands, DJ sets, ice skating, karaoke, and food trucks will offer visitors a unique way to end their day or kick off their evening. Automnales Market This 100% shopping area will be organized around thematic hubs: home, well-being, leisure, and sports. A pop-up clearance sale, Stock Armée, and the Green City Forum – guest of honor – will offer public-friendly activities to imagine greener, more sustainable cities. Automnales Emotion A space for passions and gatherings, this zone will host, over two weekends: the International Cat Exhibition, the Bike and Mobility Show, the Used Car Show, Geek Event, Re & Up Cycling Expo, the Afroneo Show, and the 10 km of Palexpo. Tickets are now available via the online ticketing platform.

La Rentrée des Entreprises 2025 On Tuesday, 19 August, Palexpo welcomed 2,500 guests to the Rentrée des Entreprises, organised by FER Genève.   This unmissable annual event for the regional business community brought together executives, entrepreneurs, institutional representatives and partners for an evening marked by conviviality, dialogue and commitment.   Our catering teams, under the direction of Executive Chef Jean-Jacques Longhi, put their expertise to work for the event.   Watch the video to go behind the scenes of this evening and see the work of the Palexpo teams in the kitchen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDRMuhYEMOI

Art Genève offered a new and generous edition Art Genève offered a new and generous edition by bringing together 81 galleries specializing in modern and contemporary art together. The 13th edition of Art Genève concluded on a positive note, marked by an increase in attendance with nearly 27,000 visitors and an ambitious program. With 81 galleries and 22 institutional projects, the fair reaffirmed its  commitment to offering a high-quality selection of exhibitors—an effort that resonated widely with collectors and visitors from across Switzerland and an increasing number of foreign countries. Art Genève also strengthened its influence through new collaborations with leading Swiss institutions, including the Kunst Museum Winterthur, MASI Lugano, the Museum of Fine Arts Le Locle, and the Gandur Foundation for  Art.  Internationally,  prestigious  guests  such  as  the  Cranford  Collection  (London),  the  CAB  Foundation (Brussels), and the Sammlung Scharf-Gerstenberg (Berlin) enriched this edition.

The first edition of autoXpérience Geneva The first edition of autoXpérience Geneva, which took place from March 7 to 9 at Palexpo, was a success. Organized by UPSA Geneva and Palexpo SA, this next-generation automotive event captured the public’s heart with its immersive and dynamic concept.   Over the course of three days, visitors had the opportunity to explore the latest automotive innovations, test nearly 100 different models, and experience a unique atmosphere in a festive setting. With just an hour left before closing, the event attracted over 13,400 people.   Palexpo reaffirmed its role in supporting the local economy, while UPSA Geneva once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting professionals in the industry and its desire to stay close to its clients. autoXperience Geneve, du vendredi 7 mars au dimanche 9 mars 2025. autoxperience est un evenement presente par Palexpo SA et UPSA Geneve pour les passionnes d’automobile et celles et ceux qui envisagent l’achat de leur futur vehicule neuf, avec pres de 200 modeles presentes par les concessionnaires genevois. autoXperience Geneve, du vendredi 7 mars au dimanche 9 mars 2025. autoxperience est un evenement presente par Palexpo SA et UPSA Geneve pour les passionnes d’automobile et celles et ceux qui envisagent l’achat de leur futur vehicule neuf, avec pres de 200 modeles presentes par les concessionnaires genevois. autoXperience Geneve, du vendredi 7 mars au dimanche 9 mars 2025. autoxperience est un evenement presente par Palexpo SA et UPSA Geneve pour les passionnes d’automobile et celles et ceux qui envisagent l’achat de leur futur vehicule neuf, avec pres de 200 modeles presentes par les concessionnaires genevois.

Villa Sarasin : management transferred to the Grand-Saconnex city As of July 1, 2024, Villa Sarasin will no longer be available for rental by Palexpo Geneva. The management of this former mansion, built in 1833 and located in the heart of the Parc Sarasin, will be taken over by the town of Grand-Saconnex.