Just under two months before The Boston Outdoor Expo launches at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center and opens its doors to outdoors enthusiasts of all disciplines, the organizers have announced a stellar line up of inspirational and educational speakers. The expo will host Olympians and world record breaking adventurers offering inspiration and insights into their careers, as well as educational sessions to help upskill visitors’ technique and experience in the outdoors. FREE tickets are now available for the weekend April 27-28, 2024 at www.thebostonoutdoorexpo.com using code WEEKENDPLANS.
The expo will welcome outdoors enthusiasts from New England and from across the states looking to improve their skills and knowledge about their passion. Across the Inspiration Stage and the multiple features on the show floor, there will be 20+ sessions aimed at all abilities and interests, from beginners to those trying to set their own records.
Who’s There & When
Saturday’s Inspiration Stage line-up kicks-off with ‘the world’s greatest living explorer’, Sir Ranulph Fiennes – a pioneer of record-breaking exploration with an unparalleled story to tell, including being the first to reach both Poles, the first to cross the Antarctic and Arctic Ocean, and the first to circumnavigate the world along its polar axis.
The inspirational content continuous throughout the day, with one of the world’s best in cross country mountain biking, two-time Olympian Lea Davison, record-breaking ocean rower and kayaker, Cyril Derreumaux. Cross-country coach, ultramarathoner, cyclist and skier, Mirna Valerio (AKA the Mirnavator) will close the day with her message of inclusivity.
On the Sunday, ex Special Forces operator and star of many survival shows, Rudy Reyes, will bring his passion and energy for the outdoors to the Inspiration Stage, followed by adaptive ice climber Kimber Cross, who will be using her story of resilience and inclusion to teach others about the outdoors. For those seeking inspiration about hiking or running the US trails, the Sunday afternoon will see Mikah Meyer take to the stage to pass on his experience of visiting all 419 US National Parks in a single journey, and then 7-times Western States 100 winner, Scott Jurek – a true ultra running legend.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
The expo is designed for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities, shapes and sizes, which is reflected in its diverse speaker line-up. Women will be able to enjoy a panel session that brings a female perspective to the outdoor space, including inclusivity for plus-size adventurers and how the outdoors can help manage chronic pain and illness. For anyone in need of further motivation, Kimber Cross’s story will demonstrate that disability is no obstacle to enjoying the outdoors.
Upskilling your outdoor experience
The schedule offers visitors practical and educational sessions to take away from the expo and apply in their outdoors experiences.
Bushcraft expert, Tim Swanson will be leading a session on the stage about the basics of bushcraft and survival techniques, as well as holding workshops throughout the weekend teaching practical bushcraft skills. Guineafowl Adventures’ Dave Fatula will be sharing insights on how best to prepare for your hiking or walking adventures, and discussing ways to practice ‘Leave no trace’ principles to reduce your environmental impact while enjoying the outdoors.