Some of the largest conventions hosted in Orlando include MegaCon Orlando, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo, and the HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition. Orlando, known for its vibrant tourism industry, is a prime destination for major conventions and trade shows. The city’s convention infrastructure, including the expansive Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), makes it an ideal location for large-scale events.

• MegaCon Orlando: Attendance of over 140,000.
• IAAPA Expo: Over 35,000 attendees from around the globe.
• HIMSS Global Health Conference: Approximately 30,000 health IT professionals attended.

MegaCon Orlando

MegaCon Orlando is one of the largest fan conventions in the United States, attracting over 140,000 attendees annually. Held at the Orange County Convention Center, this four-day event celebrates pop culture, including comics, anime, gaming, and sci-fi. It features celebrity panels, autograph sessions, cosplay competitions, and an extensive exhibitor hall.

In 2023, MegaCon saw record attendance, with fans flocking to meet stars from popular franchises like “Star Wars,” “Harry Potter,” and “The Walking Dead.” The convention’s diverse programming includes workshops, Q&A sessions, and exclusive screenings, making it a must-visit for pop culture enthusiasts.

International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo

The IAAPA Expo is a premier event for the global attractions industry, drawing over 35,000 professionals each year. Hosted at the OCCC, this expo showcases the latest innovations in amusement parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, and museums.

In 2023, the IAAPA Expo featured more than 1,000 exhibitors from around the world, presenting cutting-edge products and services. The event includes educational sessions, keynote presentations, and networking opportunities, making it a critical gathering for industry leaders and professionals. Attendees gain insights into trends and technologies shaping the future of the attractions industry.

HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition

The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Global Health Conference & Exhibition is one of the most significant healthcare IT events globally. In 2023, it attracted approximately 30,000 health IT professionals, clinicians, executives, and vendors to the OCCC.

The HIMSS conference offers a platform for exploring the latest advancements in health information and technology. It features over 300 educational sessions, a vast exhibition hall with more than 1,200 exhibitors, and numerous networking events. Topics covered include telehealth, cybersecurity, data analytics, and patient engagement, reflecting the evolving landscape of healthcare technology.

InfoComm

InfoComm is a leading audiovisual (AV) and integrated experience event, drawing over 40,000 attendees to Orlando each year. Held at the Orange County Convention Center, it is a critical platform for AV professionals to discover the latest technologies and solutions.

In 2023, InfoComm featured over 1,000 exhibitors showcasing innovations in digital signage, audio equipment, conferencing solutions, and more. The event includes educational workshops, certification programs, and networking opportunities, providing a comprehensive view of the AV industry.

PGA Merchandise Show

The PGA Merchandise Show is the largest golf industry event globally, attracting around 40,000 industry professionals to Orlando annually. Held at the Orange County Convention Center, this event showcases the latest in golf equipment, apparel, and accessories.

In 2023, the PGA Merchandise Show featured over 1,000 exhibitors and offered numerous educational sessions and networking events. Attendees included PGA professionals, golf retailers, and industry executives, making it a vital event for anyone involved in the golf business.

The International Builders’ Show (IBS)

The International Builders’ Show (IBS) is another major event hosted in Orlando, attracting over 60,000 attendees each year. Organized by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), this event is the largest annual light construction show in the world.

In 2023, IBS showcased the latest products and technologies in home building, with more than 1,500 exhibitors. The show also offered a wide range of educational sessions, covering topics such as sustainable building practices, smart home technologies, and innovative construction techniques.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference & Exhibition

The AAP National Conference & Exhibition is the premier event for pediatric healthcare professionals, drawing approximately 17,000 attendees to Orlando each year. This conference offers a comprehensive program with over 350 educational sessions, workshops, and networking events.

In 2023, the AAP conference featured keynote presentations from leading experts in pediatric healthcare, as well as an extensive exhibit hall with the latest products and services for pediatric care. The event provides valuable opportunities for professional development and collaboration.

Microsoft Ignite

Microsoft Ignite is a key event for IT professionals and developers, attracting around 25,000 attendees to Orlando. This conference offers deep technical training, hands-on labs, and opportunities to connect with Microsoft experts and other industry professionals.

In 2023, Microsoft Ignite featured over 1,000 sessions covering topics such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and more. The event also included keynote addresses from top Microsoft executives, providing insights into the company’s latest technologies and future directions.

The American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting & Exposition

The ASH Annual Meeting & Exposition is the world’s largest and most comprehensive hematology event, attracting over 30,000 professionals to Orlando. This conference provides a platform for the latest research and clinical advancements in hematology.

In 2023, the ASH meeting featured over 4,000 scientific abstracts, educational sessions, and networking opportunities. The event brought together clinicians, researchers, and industry experts to share knowledge and advance the field of hematology.

Orlando’s reputation as a premier destination for large conventions is well-deserved, with its state-of-the-art facilities and attractive location. The city’s ability to host such significant events highlights its importance in the convention and trade show industry. Visit the Orange County Convention Center’s official site for more information on the biggest Conventions and Events in Orlando, Florida.