IAAPA Expo 2024 Sets New Attendance Record, Concludes with Groundbreaking Insights and Announcements
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The IAAPA Expo 2024 concluded its festivities on Friday at the Orange County Convention Center, marking a significant turnout with 41,429 registrants and 37,066 confirmed participants from around the world. This year’s gathering set a record for attendance, reinforcing its status as the essential yearly event for the international attractions sector. Over 1,100 exhibitors and around 27,000 purchasers representing more than 20,000 purchasing organizations showcased the sector’s expansion and innovation at this year’s expo.
The educational conference offered over 140 sessions, providing attendees with critical insights, best practices, and thought-provoking information. During the Expo’s EDUSessions, participants were also introduced to the 2025 North America Economic Outlook Report, which predicts future growth in the attractions industry, including for the first time, natural, adventure, and eco-attractions. This addition reflects a significant expansion in the industry, with combined visitor numbers at these destinations topping one billion and supporting over 1.1 million jobs across North America.
New pavilions like “Haunting Grounds” and “Street Market” made their debut on the North Concourse, offering immersive experiences and the latest industry trends. Key events like the LEGENDS: A Hall of Fame Celebratory Affair and the first-ever Women in the Industry Networking Lunch emphasized resilience and advancement within the sector.
IAAPA Expo also served as a critical platform for industry announcements. Key stakeholders, including top manufacturers, suppliers, and park operators, took this opportunity to hold press conferences and announce major developments, new attractions, rides, company expansions, and innovative products.
The expo also highlighted the significant contributions to the IAAPA Foundation, which raised nearly $80,000 through events and auctions. This amount will be doubled by IAAPA, totaling $160,000 in funds raised.
“This year’s IAAPA Expo was truly a celebration of community and collaboration within our industry,” said Jakob Wahl, President and Chief Executive Officer for IAAPA. “Bringing together professionals from every corner of the globe, we saw firsthand the power of shared passion, knowledge, and creativity. IAAPA Expo is more than just an event; it’s a place where ideas come to life and where lifelong connections are made. Watching the energy and excitement of attendees reminded us why we do what we do—to inspire, to innovate, and to create memorable experiences that bring joy to people everywhere.”
The opening ceremony marked the official transition of leadership to Massimiliano “Massi” Freddi, the founder and CEO of Wonderwood, who will serve as the next IAAPA Chairman of the Board. With over two decades in attractions management and development, Massi’s commitment to education will enhance the support and growth opportunities available to IAAPA members globally.
Looking ahead, IAAPA Expo 2025 is scheduled for November 17-21, with 688 companies already having reserved 368,400 square feet of exhibition space.
