The 2022 IAAPA Expo Has Wrapped Up

The 2022 IAAPA Expo took place at the Orange County Convention Center November 14-18. This is not like D23 Expo or Star Wars Celebration, where it’s for fans. Instead, IAAPA Expo is for those involved with the attractions industry. It is not open to the general public. I was granted press credentials, and it was an honor to attend.

Part of IAAPA Expo is educational. There were back to back panels on everything from dealing with stress in uncertain times to using drones to inspect rides to tips on TikTok. One panel celebrated 40 years of Epcot, and included slides of drawings and notes from the late Marty Sklar. He was the driving force behind Walt Disney World’s second theme park. The 2022 Brass Ring Awards also took place, with some familiar names and places.

There was more to IAAPA Expo than just learning and networking. There was so much taking place on the Show Floor that it was impossible to take it all in, even though it was open for four days! It was fascinating.

There were some full rides on the Show Floor, rides that those attending could experience. There were spin rides and drop rides, and even a small roller coaster! Several ride vehicles for theme parks were revealed. There were also models and plenty of pictures.

Water parks were also well represented. Some companies had full ride rafts, while others had demonstrations or pictures. For the most part it wasn’t the actual water parks that were there, instead it was companies hoping to catch the attention of water park or hotel executives.

There were more carnival-style games than I could count. There were also prizes for those games. The pavilion that had the arcade games was always busy, since the games were there for people to play.

IAAPA Expo had two different areas for bounce houses, one indoors and one out. There were lots of companies that featured virtual reality. There were companies that focus on miniature golf, and others on bowling. There was even an ax throwing display! IAAPA Expo covered more than just theme parks.

Food was also an important part of IAAPA Expo. Companies selling machines for Dole Whip, cotton candy, Dippin’ Dots, popcorn, pizza, pretzels, and many other types of theme park snacks were there. Many of the companies offered samples, making these booths popular! There were also companies that hope to make meals more fun.

There were booths offering services that many of us never would have thought of. There were lockers, wristbands, and cashless machines. There was a booth that sold restrooms. There were even massage chairs; those were popular as well.

In 2023, IAAPA Expo will return to the Orange County Convention Center. The dates next year will be November 13-17. I’m sure that most who attended this year are already starting a countdown.