IAAPA Expo 2026 Returns to Orlando with Expanded Food & Beverage Pavilion and New Attractions

ORLANDO, FL – IAAPA Expo 2026 returns to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando from November 16–20, bringing together more than 1,350 exhibitors across over 630,000 square feet of exhibition space. The annual trade show showcases the latest innovations in theme parks, attractions, resorts, entertainment, and food service.

This year’s event is expected to be the largest IAAPA Expo in history, with an expanded exhibition footprint across the convention center. Educational programming begins November 16, while the exhibition floor opens November 17 and runs through November 20.

Among the highlights scheduled for this year’s event:

– Transformers Simulator: DOF Robotics will unveil five new attractions, including a Transformers-themed collaboration, on November 17. The company will also showcase SphereFly, a flying simulator experience making its U.S. debut.

– Jumanji: The Lost Levels: Zero Latency will introduce a new free-roaming virtual reality adventure featuring full hand tracking without traditional handheld controllers. The experience is scheduled for commercial launch in December 2026.

– Thrill Glider: Vekoma and Six Flags Magic Mountain will reveal the ride vehicle for a new suspended roller coaster planned for 2027, designed to give riders the sensation of flying.

– Cannonball! Water Coaster: Mack Rides and Holiday World will unveil a ride vehicle for an upcoming water roller coaster combining elements of traditional roller coasters and water attractions.

– Hypnosiz: Zamperla will introduce a new attraction concept featuring distinctive ride movements and visual effects.

– Guardians of the Hidden Chamber: Jacksonville-based Sally Dark Rides will reveal a new interactive dark ride being developed for Doha Quest in Qatar, featuring immersive storytelling and interactive technology.

– Hot Racer: Intamin will unveil the ride vehicle for a new roller coaster scheduled to open at Lagoon Amusement Park in Utah in 2027.

– Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: The Central Florida attraction is scheduled to announce a new immersive experience on November 17, with NASA astronaut Winston Scott participating in the presentation.

– Interactive Gaming Experiences: Valo Motion will showcase Groundfall, an interactive group gaming attraction inspired by floor-is-lava gameplay. Game Volt will also demonstrate Battle Arcade, which uses an interactive LED floor for multiplayer games.

Food and Beverage Pavilion Doubles in Size

One of the major highlights for 2026 is the expanded Food & Beverage Pavilion in the West Building, which has doubled in size.

The pavilion will feature food products, equipment, technology, and services designed for theme parks, concession stands, entertainment venues, and other attractions. A dedicated Chef Demo Stage will host live culinary demonstrations highlighting food preparation techniques and trends in attractions dining.

Exhibitors will showcase solutions for high-volume food service operations, including automated food preparation, specialty snacks, beverage systems, and equipment designed to improve service efficiency.

Among the exhibitors is Sweet Robo, showcasing its ChocoPrint machine, which 3D-prints customized edible chocolate figures, and a robotic cotton candy vending machine that produces freshly spun cotton candy in different shapes.

New Attractions and Entertainment Technology

Beyond food and beverage, IAAPA Expo 2026 will feature new ride technology, immersive entertainment, arcade equipment, animatronics, and themed attractions.

More than 25 exhibitors and industry partners are scheduled to hold press conferences on November 17 and 18, including major ride manufacturers Zamperla, Vekoma, Mack Rides, and Intamin, along with United Parks and Resorts.

The event will also feature more than 170 educational sessions covering attractions operations, technology, safety, guest experiences, and industry trends.

On November 18, a special content creator showcase will provide participating creators with access to interactive demonstrations, food and beverage tastings, and the Halloween-themed Haunting Grounds experience.

Orlando’s Role in the Global Attractions Industry

Founded in 1918, IAAPA maintains its global headquarters in Orlando and represents attractions businesses and professionals in more than 100 countries.

Orlando has hosted IAAPA’s flagship Expo at the Orange County Convention Center since 2010, bringing attractions operators, manufacturers, suppliers, and tourism professionals from around the world to Central Florida.

The 2026 event will also feature IAAPA Celebrates at Universal Epic Universe on Thursday, November 19. The separately ticketed event includes access to the theme park, entertainment, and food and beverage offerings.

IAAPA Expo 2026 Event Details

Dates: November 16–20, 2026

Exhibition Floor: November 17–20, 2026

Location: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida

South Building: 9400 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819

West Building: 9800 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819

Show Floor Hours:

* November 17–19: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
* November 20: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Admission: Industry trade show; advance registration required.

IAAPA Expo is primarily a business-to-business event rather than a public food festival. More than 25 dining options will be available throughout the convention center during the event, including concession stands and restaurants.

For registration, exhibitor information, and the full event schedule, visit https://iaapa.org/expos-and-events/iaapa-expo.