The global attractions industry has one event on its calendar that stands above all others. The IAAPA Expo 2026 returns to Orlando, Florida from November 16 to 20, 2026. It is the world’s largest and most influential trade show for professionals in theme parks, water parks, zoos, museums, resorts, and family entertainment centers.
Whether you are attending for the first time or returning as a seasoned professional, this guide covers everything you need to know. From key dates and ticket pricing to exhibitors and special events, you will find all the details right here.
Key Dates and Schedule at a Glance
Understanding the event timeline helps you plan your trip effectively. The expo runs across five days, but each part of the program has its own schedule.
| Program | Dates |
| Education Sessions (EDUSessions) | November 16 – 19, 2026 |
| Show Floor Open | November 17 – 20, 2026 |
| Full Event Duration | November 16 – 20, 2026 |
Education kicks off one day before the show floor opens. Therefore, if you want to catch the full program, plan to arrive by Monday, November 16.
Location: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando
The event takes place at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), located at 9400 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819. Orlando is a natural fit for this event. It is, after all, the theme park capital of the world.
New for 2026 is the addition of the West Building to the existing North and South Buildings. This expansion grows the show floor by nearly 50 percent. It creates significantly more room for exhibitors, innovation showcases, and new programming. The West Building will host:
- The Opening Ceremony
- EDUSessions aligned with exhibitor pavilions
- A newly enhanced IAAPA Central hub
- The EDUTalk Stage
- The What’s New Theater
This expansion came directly from member demand. More than 200 companies were on a waiting list to exhibit. IAAPA responded by growing the space to meet the industry’s needs.
Tickets and Registration
Registration is currently open for IAAPA Expo 2026. There are different registration categories depending on your role and membership status.
IAAPA members receive discounted registration rates. Additionally, members get free access to EDUSessions, which is a significant saving. Non-members can still attend but pay standard rates.
Registration Categories
Here is a simple breakdown of who can register:
| Attendee Type | Access |
| IAAPA Members | Discounted rates, free EDUSessions |
| Non-Members | Standard pricing, EDUSession fees apply |
| First-Time Attendees | Special orientation resources available |
| Hosted Buyers | Curated invitation-based program |
| VIP Guests | Premium access program available |
| Media | Dedicated media credentials and access |
First-time attendees have access to tailored resources that help them navigate the show. However, even experienced attendees benefit from using the Connect+ App, which is available for download through the IAAPA website. The app helps you find sessions, navigate the show floor, and connect with exhibitors in real time.
To register, visit the official IAAPA website at iaapa.org/iaapaexpo and click the Register Now button.
Exhibitors: What to Expect on the Show Floor
With more than 1,100 exhibitors confirmed for 2026, the show floor is one of the most impressive in the industry. Companies from around the world will display their latest products, services, and technologies.
The exhibitor mix spans every corner of the attractions world. You will find ride manufacturers, technology providers, food and beverage suppliers, ticketing systems, safety equipment companies, and entertainment technology firms.
Sponsor Highlights by Tier
Some of the notable platinum-level sponsors for 2026 include Accesso, Brogent Technologies, Christie, DOF Robotics, Dynamic Creatures, and Storyland Studios. Gold-level sponsors include Vekoma and Semnox. Silver-level sponsors include WhiteWater, ProSlide, Hasbro Global Experiences, and Disney Live Entertainment.
The show floor is searchable online through the official exhibitor map at iaapaexpo26.mapyourshow.com. You can search by company name, product category, or booth number. This tool is useful when planning your day.
Education Program: Over 170 Sessions
The education program is one of the most valuable parts of the event. With more than 170 sessions scheduled, there is something for every professional level and every sector of the industry.
Sessions are called EDUSessions. They cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Operations and management
- Guest experience design
- Technology and innovation
- Safety and security practices
- Sustainability in attractions
- Finance and revenue growth
- Marketing and branding
- Workforce development
Signature sessions bring high-profile speakers to the stage. For 2026, the lineup includes Disney Legends, global executives, and renowned storytellers from across the attractions world. These sessions tend to fill up fast, so booking your spots early is a wise move.
The EDUTalk Stage in the new West Building will offer shorter, focused talks throughout the show floor hours. This format makes it easy to step in between exhibitor visits and still pick up valuable insights.
Special Events and Experiences
Beyond the show floor and education sessions, IAAPA Expo 2026 offers a series of special ticketed events. These events are where many of the most memorable connections happen.
IAAPA Celebrates: Universal Epic Universe
One of the standout events this year is the exclusive after-hours celebration at Universal’s Epic Universe. This is a limited-capacity event. It gives attendees private access to the park, the chance to explore new attractions, and the opportunity to connect with peers in a remarkable setting.
Epic Universe is Universal’s newest theme park in Orlando. It opened in 2025 and has been celebrated as one of the most ambitious theme park projects in decades. Getting after-hours access to this park is a rare opportunity.
Additional Ticketed Events
Other special ticketed events will be available for networking and industry connection. These include receptions, dinners, and themed gatherings. The full agenda is available on the official IAAPA Expo website.
Attractions and Innovations to Watch
The show floor is where the future of the industry comes to life. Attendees can expect to see and experience:
- Next-generation ride systems and coasters
- Augmented reality and virtual reality experiences
- Immersive dark ride technology
- Advanced ticketing and access control systems
- Water park slide innovations
- Animatronics and themed entertainment elements
- Sustainable operations technology
- Food and beverage service innovations
The What’s New Theater in the West Building will spotlight the freshest launches from exhibitors. This is a great starting point if you want to quickly identify the biggest innovations of the year.
Networking Opportunities
Networking is a core reason why so many professionals attend this event year after year. The show brings together operators, suppliers, investors, developers, and creative professionals from dozens of countries.
Here are some of the key ways to connect:
- The Hosted Buyer Program matches qualified buyers with relevant suppliers through a structured meeting format
- The VIP Experience Program gives top-level executives a curated event journey
- The Connect+ App has a built-in networking feature that lets you schedule meetings and find fellow attendees
- Special receptions and social events throughout the week provide relaxed settings for conversation
Additionally, IAAPA offers an Ambassador program where volunteers help guide attendees and contribute to the event’s success. It is a rewarding way to get more involved.
Travel Tips for Orlando in November
November is one of the best times to visit Orlando. The summer heat has passed, and the crowds at the theme parks are generally smaller than during peak holiday periods. Here are a few tips to make the most of your trip:
- Book your hotel early. Properties near the OCCC fill up fast during expo week.
- The Orange County Convention Center is located along International Drive, with plenty of dining and transport options nearby.
- Orlando International Airport is approximately 20 minutes from the convention center.
- Rideshare services and taxis are widely available.
- If you plan to visit nearby theme parks, look for combination packages offered by hotels.
Who Should Attend?
This event is designed for trade professionals, not general consumers. Attendees typically include:
| Professional Type | Reason to Attend |
| Theme Park Operators | Discover products, innovations, and best practices |
| Water Park Professionals | Source slides, systems, and safety tools |
| Museum and Zoo Staff | Find display technology and visitor experience tools |
| Resort Developers | Connect with entertainment and design partners |
| Technology Vendors | Launch products and meet buyers |
| Investors and Consultants | Identify growth opportunities |
| Students and Educators | Learn from industry leaders |
Conclusion
IAAPA Expo 2026 is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting edition of the show yet. It runs from November 16 to 20, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. The event features more than 1,100 exhibitors, over 170 education sessions, exclusive special events, and a brand-new West Building that expands the show floor by nearly 50 percent.
Whether your goal is to discover the next big ride technology, learn from industry experts, close business deals, or simply connect with peers, this event delivers on every front. Registration is open now, so there is no reason to wait. Plan early, download the Connect+ App, and get ready for five days that could genuinely change the direction of your business or career.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is IAAPA Expo 2026?
IAAPA Expo 2026 takes place from November 16 to 20, 2026. Education sessions run from November 16 to 19, and the show floor is open from November 17 to 20.
Where is IAAPA Expo 2026 held?
The event is held at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), 9400 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 32819.
Is IAAPA Expo 2026 open to the general public?
No. It is a trade-only event open to professionals in the attractions industry. General consumers cannot purchase tickets.
How do I register for IAAPA Expo 2026?
You can register on the official IAAPA website at iaapa.org/iaapaexpo. Registration is currently open.
Are there discounts for IAAPA members?
Yes. IAAPA members receive discounted registration rates and free access to EDUSessions. Non-members pay standard rates.
How many exhibitors will be at the 2026 show?
There will be more than 1,100 exhibitors on the show floor for 2026.
What is new at IAAPA Expo 2026?
The biggest change is the addition of the West Building, which expands the show floor by nearly 50 percent. It will host the Opening Ceremony, the EDUTalk Stage, IAAPA Central, and the What’s New Theater.
What is the Connect+ App?
The Connect+ App is the official mobile app for the event. It helps attendees find sessions, navigate the show floor, and connect with exhibitors and other attendees in real time.
Is there a special event at Universal Epic Universe?
Yes. IAAPA Celebrates: Universal Epic Universe is a limited-capacity, ticketed event offering exclusive after-hours access to Universal’s newest theme park in Orlando.
Can first-time attendees get help navigating the event?
Absolutely. IAAPA provides special orientation resources for first-time attendees. The Connect+ App also makes navigation much easier, even for newcomers.