Orlando will once again welcome thousands of attractions industry professionals from around the world as IAAPA Expo 2026 takes over the Orange County Convention Center Nov. 16–20. The annual event will bring together theme park operators, ride manufacturers, entertainment companies, technology developers and other industry leaders to explore the latest innovations shaping the future of attractions and guest experiences.
Organized by IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, the expo is expected to be the largest in the event’s history, with more than 1,350 exhibitors showcasing products and services across more than 630,000 square feet of exhibition space.
The event will feature new ride concepts, interactive entertainment, emerging technologies, educational sessions and networking opportunities, offering a look at what’s next for theme parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums and other attractions.
IAAPA Expo Expands Across the Convention Center
This year’s expo will expand into the Orange County Convention Center’s West Building for the first time, adding more exhibition space and new opportunities for attendees to explore products and connect with industry professionals.
The expanded West Building will feature several themed areas, including a larger Food and Beverage Pavilion with live chef demonstrations, a Halloween-themed Haunting Grounds experience, and dedicated spaces for first-time exhibitors and young professionals.
The South Building will feature additional showcases focused on arcade games, inflatables, family entertainment, and show production and design. New networking lounges will also give attendees opportunities to connect with professionals in the cruise and glamping industries.
Beyond the exhibition floor, the event will offer more than 170 educational sessions covering topics such as operations, technology, guest experiences, safety and sustainability. Workshops, expert presentations and demonstrations will give attendees opportunities to explore industry trends and learn about emerging business strategies.
New Attractions and Industry Announcements Take Center Stage
One of the major highlights of IAAPA Expo is the opportunity to see new attractions and technologies before they potentially make their way into theme parks and entertainment destinations around the world.
More than 25 exhibitors and their operator partners are scheduled to host press conferences Nov. 17–18, announcing new attractions, partnerships and innovations.
Participating companies include Zamperla, Intamin, Vekoma Rides, Mack Rides, Sally Dark Rides, Rocky Mountain Coasters, DOF Robotics, Maurer Rides and Falcon’s Beyond, among others.
The announcements will span different areas of the attractions industry, from roller coaster developments and dark rides to interactive experiences and new entertainment technologies.
The expo will also feature an Innovation Stage, where exhibitors and industry partners will share developments and showcase ideas shaping the next generation of attractions.
Exclusive Event at Universal Epic Universe
The expo will also bring industry professionals together for IAAPA Celebrates, a special ticketed evening at Universal Epic Universe.
The event will give IAAPA members an opportunity to experience the new theme park through exclusive access to its attractions, entertainment and food and beverage offerings while connecting with colleagues from across the industry.
The gathering is part of the expo’s broader lineup of networking opportunities, which also includes behind-the-scenes educational tours, industry receptions and special events for women and emerging professionals.
When and Where to Attend IAAPA Expo 2026
IAAPA Expo 2026 will take place at the Orange County Convention Center, located at 9400 Universal Boulevard in Orlando.
The education program runs Nov. 16–19, while the exhibition floor is open Nov. 17–20. The event is designed for attractions industry professionals, exhibitors and registered attendees rather than general public admission.
Event Details
Event: IAAPA Expo 2026
Dates: Nov. 16–20
Show Floor: Nov. 17–20
Location: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando
Exhibitors: More than 1,350
Exhibition Space: More than 630,000 square feet
Educational Opportunities: More than 170 sessions
Registration and additional event information are available through the official IAAPA Expo website.
With its expanded show floor, new attraction announcements, and international industry participation, IAAPA Expo continues to highlight Orlando’s role as a major hub for the global theme park and entertainment industry.
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