The Telegraph Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show has long been UK’s largest exhibition for the everyday flannel-wearing, beard – growing outdoorsman. Whether you are passionate about traveling, hiking or climbing, the popular event caters to thrill-seekers of all ages and sizes alike. In February 2015, however – to the satisfaction of scuba divers and snorkeling fans – the exhibition will also become an aquatic attraction.
This year, the exposition will be hosted in Excel London on February 12-15, 2015. The brand new addition to the line-up of shows (The London Bike Show, the Triathlon Show: London and the London International Dive Show, just to name a few) is the WhaleFest London Pop-Up Event.
WhaleFest, which is usually hosted in Brighton, was created three years ago by Ian Rowlands and Dylan Walker – two adventurous, ocean loving friends. Together, they co-founded Planet Whale, a website and global community dedicated to protecting the ocean. Through this platform and their annual WhaleFest event, the duo hopes to inspire people all around the world to become an army of ambassadors, dedicated to marine conservation.
So far, Ian and Dylan are well on their way to accomplishing that goal. WhaleFest is now run by a dedicated team, along with 500+ volunteers. The profits that are earned go to the World Cetacean Alliance (a global partnership of organizations). In 2014 alone, the event attracted over 10,000 visitors from all over the world who came to learn about whales and listen to famous speakers. Included in this big shot list were TV presenters: Gok Wan, Steve Backshall and Miranda Krestovnikoff.
By combining efforts with the Telegraph Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show, which attracted 45,000 visitors this year, the event promises to take London by storm in 2015. You will leave feeling so inspired that you might just want to start your own initiative. But until then, whale you join the movement?
(excuse the pun).
*WhaleFest will return to The Brighton Centre on March 14-15 2015. For more information, check out the World Cetacean Alliance, WhaleFest, Planet Whale and The Telegraph Outdoor Adventure & Travel Show.
