Orlando Sees Record Turnout at IAAPA Expo
The bustling city of Orlando played host to a record-breaking number of attendees at the annual IAAPA Expo last week, gathering over 41,000 participants. This event, organized by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, took place at the Orange County Convention Center and attracted a significant presence of industry professionals, including 27,000 buyers from about 20,000 buying companies. This year’s Expo featured a total of 1,100 exhibitors, showcasing the latest innovations in the amusement park and attractions industry.
Significant Growth in Attendance
According to Jakob Wahl, CEO of IAAPA, the increase in turnout signifies a positive shift in sentiment within the industry. “The summer was a little flat, and then, in talking to many operators, they had a very strong autumn,” he remarked. Wahl indicated that the Expo’s attendance slightly surpassed last year’s numbers, which is notably encouraging given the uncertainties faced during the summer months.
Evolving Nature of the Expo
This year’s IAAPA Expo, held from November 12 to 15, showcased not just traditional theme park attractions but also a broader spectrum of participants. “You see more and more of those additional attractions coming. You see shopping malls coming. You see ski resorts,” Wahl explained. This diversification highlights the evolving nature of the industry as it adapts to new customer demands and experiences.
Educational Opportunities and New Additions
In addition to the bustling trade floor, the Expo offered a variety of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and award ceremonies. Notably, the event incorporated new elements focused on Halloween attractions and the food and beverage sector. Wahl emphasized the growing global interest in Halloween, stating, “We see parks in China which have Halloween parties with 50,000 people plus.” This acknowledgment reflects the event’s adaptability in catering to emerging trends.
A Vibrant Street Market
The introduction of the new Street Market was another highlight of this year’s Expo. Featuring a diverse range of food vendors, attendees enjoyed offerings from various cuisines, with businesses such as Seoul to Table and Taffy Town participating. Wahl noted the parallel interest in food and beverage experiences, emphasizing that unique dishes have become popular subjects for social media sharing, further enhancing their appeal.
Looking Ahead
The IAAPA Expo has firmly established itself as a hallmark event for industry professionals seeking to network, share ideas, and discover the latest in amusement park trends. The next IAAPA Expo is already scheduled for November 17-21, 2025, promising to build on this year’s successes and continue fostering connections among industry members.
As the amusement park and attractions landscape evolves, the enthusiasm seen at this year’s Expo suggests a bright future. Participants left with not just new business connections but also inspiration and insights to bolster their operations in a competitive industry.
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
