Orlando Breaks Attendance Records at IAAPA Expo with Over 41,000 Participants

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.