October Special — 50% off Spotlights and exhibitor listsSee prices

    Dates

    17–19 Nov 2026

    City / country

    Orlando, USA

    Venue

    Orange County Convention Center

    Time

    10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily

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    Notable exhibitors

    Companies exhibiting at Athletic Business Conference & Expo include AllChem Performance Products, AquaRevival, Aquatic Design Group, Association of Aquatic Professionals and Association of Outdoor Recreation & Education.

    • AllChem Performance Products
    • AquaRevival
    • Aquatic Design Group
    • Association of Aquatic Professionals
    • Association of Outdoor Recreation & Education

    Event overview

    Overview

    The Athletic Business Conference & Expo is a solution-focused event for athletics, fitness, recreation, and military professionals.

    It features over 200 exhibiting companies and 100+ educational sessions, providing actionable insights and innovative solutions.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Dates and Venue: The Athletic Business Conference & Expo takes place from November 17-19, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
    2. 2Scale and Focus: This event features over 200 exhibitors and 100 educational sessions focused on athletics, fitness, and recreation.
    3. 3Organiser: The event is organised by Athletic Business, a leading resource for athletic, fitness, and recreation professionals.
    4. 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include facility owners, managers, and program directors from the athletics and fitness sectors.
    5. 5Entry: Registration is now open, with options for free expo badges for spouses and guests.

    Why visit

    Attendees will gain access to cutting-edge products and services, learn from industry leaders, and network with peers to enhance their programs and facilities. Dates and Venue: The Athletic Business Conference & Expo takes place from November 17-19, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Buyer Authority: Attendees include facility owners, managers, and program directors from the athletics and fitness sectors.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibitors will showcase their latest innovations, connect with decision-makers, and increase brand visibility among a targeted audience of industry professionals. Scale and Focus: This event features over 200 exhibitors and 100 educational sessions focused on athletics, fitness, and recreation. Organiser: The event is organised by Athletic Business, a leading resource for athletic, fitness, and recreation professionals. Buyer Authority: Attendees include facility owners,.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Facility owners and managers seeking innovative solutions.
    Program directors looking to enhance their offerings.
    Athletic trainers and coaches interested in the latest equipment.
    Recreation professionals aiming to improve community engagement.
    Military fitness coordinators exploring new training methods.
    Health and wellness advocates promoting fitness initiatives.

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Companies providing athletic equipment and technology.
    Vendors offering fitness and wellness services.
    Suppliers of recreational facilities and programming solutions.
    Organizations focused on health and fitness education.
    Manufacturers of sports and fitness apparel.
    Consultants specializing in facility design and management.

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Athletic equipment and gear for various sports.
    Fitness technology and wearable devices.
    Recreational facility management solutions.
    Health and wellness programs and services.
    Sports nutrition products and supplements.
    Training and coaching resources for professionals.

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Orange County Convention Center

    9800 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819, USA

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    :10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
    • Expo Badge

      Available for spouses/guests 18 years and older.

      $35.00
    Register

    Ticket info

    Ticket notes

    Free Expo badges are available for spouses/guests.

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Athletic Business

    What's on

    Programme

    1

    Keynote

    1

    Networking

    1

    Event days

    10:30 AM–10:30 AM

    Typical time

    This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

    Speakers

    CS

    Chris Stevenson

    Founder @ The Empower Group

    Maximizing Potential: A Journey to Empowerment

    Wednesday, Nov 18, 2026

    10:30 AM

    Keynote Presentation

    Keynote
    7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

    Industry Party

    Networking

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    New this edition

    • 1

      15% More Conference Sessions

      AB Show 2026 adds 15 percent more conference sessions across athletics, fitness, recreation and military tracks, expanding education for facility and program leaders.

      Source

    Testimonials

    I love attending the AB conference! This allows me to reconnect with colleagues and network with folks across the nation. I always leave feeling empowered to bring innovative change to my program.

    Zoe Huff · Outdoor Programs Coordinator · Towson University · 2025

    As a first year attendee, I had hopes of what I thought ABS could be, and thankfully it exceeded all of my expectations. The educational sessions were inspiring, the expo hall had everything I could have wanted to see.

    Scott Nicholos · Recreation Coordinator · Cosumnes CSD Parks & Recreation · 2025

    AB Show is a 'must attend' for any group or individual who has professional aspirations in the fitness or sports world. The classes and expo were worth every moment and every dollar we spent there.

    Paul Shoesmith · Fitness Director · US Air Force · 2025

    Next edition outlook

    2027-11-02 – 2027-11-04
    high

    Future shows include the 2027 edition in New Orleans.

    Expanded educational sessions and more exhibitors.

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    The Athletic Business Conference & Expo is a solution-focused event for athletics, fitness, recreation, and military professionals. It features over 200 exhibiting companies and 100+ educational sessions, providing actionable insights and innovative solutions. The Athletic Business Conference & Expo is crucial for professionals in the athletics and fitness industries, providing networking opportunities and insights into the latest trends and innovations.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    Visitors typically include Facility owners and managers seeking innovative solutions., Program directors looking to enhance their offerings., Athletic trainers and coaches interested in the latest equipment., Recreation professionals aiming to improve community engagement.. Dates and Venue: The Athletic Business Conference & Expo takes place from November 17-19, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Scale and Focus: This event features over 200 exhibitors and 100 educational sessions.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitors will showcase their latest innovations, connect with decision-makers, and increase brand visibility among a targeted audience of industry professionals. Scale and Focus: This event features over 200 exhibitors and 100 educational sessions focused on athletics, fitness, and recreation. Organiser: The event is organised by Athletic Business, a leading resource for athletic, fitness, and recreation professionals. Buyer Authority: Attendees include facility owners,.

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    Orlando, FL, USA

    Why it matters

    Attending Athletic Business Conference & Expo on 2026-11-17 to 2026-11-19 in Orlando lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Digital buyer journeys

    What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    02

    Sustainability in procurement

    What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    03

    Automation and labour efficiency

    What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    04

    Regional supply-chain resilience

    What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    05

    Hybrid engagement models

    What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    MCO

    Orlando International

    Orlando International (MCO) is the main commercial gateway serving Orlando; allow 45–60 min by road or rail to Orange County Convention Center.

    to venue

    by car

    SFB

    Orlando Sanford International

    Orlando Sanford International (SFB) is the main commercial gateway serving Orlando; allow 45–60 min by road or rail to Orange County Convention Center.

    to venue

    by car

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    rideshare/taxi

    Estimated costUSD 30–50
    Best forOrlando International (MCO) to Orange County Convention Center

    Roughly 20–30 min via SR-528 W; tolls may apply — confirm before travel.

    public transit

    Estimated costUSD 2–4
    Best forOrlando International (MCO) to Orange County Convention Center

    Lynx bus routes with transfers, typically 60–90 min; slower but cheapest option — confirm before travel.

    airport shuttle/van

    Estimated costUSD 20–35 per person
    Best forOrlando International (MCO) to Orange County Convention Center

    Shared-ride shuttle services; check schedules in advance — confirm before travel.

    rideshare/taxi

    Estimated costUSD 45–100
    Best forOrlando Sanford International (SFB) to Orange County Convention Center

    Approximately 45–60 min via SR-417/SR-528; tolls likely — confirm before travel.

    rental car

    Estimated costUSD 40–90 per day
    Best forMCO/SFB pickup to OCCC and International Drive

    Plus parking fees at hotels and OCCC; toll transponder recommended — confirm before travel.

    local bus/I-Ride trolley

    Estimated costUSD 2 per ride / USD 5–8 day pass
    Best forInternational Drive corridor to OCCC

    I-Ride Trolley serves the I-Drive resort area; useful for hotel-to-venue commutes — confirm before travel.

    Weather

    Orlando in November is mild and relatively dry. Daytime highs average 24-25 C (75-78 F) and overnight lows 15-16 C (59-61 F), with roughly 45-60 mm of rain spread over 6-8 wet days. Pack light layers for warm afternoons and cooler evenings during AB Show, 17-19 November 2026.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Orlando has strong 4G/5G coverage across the city and the Orange County Convention Center. Business visitors can use a US prepaid SIM, a travel eSIM data plan, or hotel Wi-Fi for video calls and tethering; check roaming rates before travel.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Business dress

    Business casual is typical; scientific meetings may be less formal than consumer fairs.

    Arrival

    Arrive early on day one for registration and badge pickup.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: MCO

    Book flights to MCO when possible for the shortest transfer to the venue; compare SFB only if fares are materially lower.

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Orlando International (MCO): Orlando International (MCO) is the main commercial gateway serving Orlando; allow 45–60 min by road or rail to Orange County Convention Center.; Orlando Sanford International (SFB): Orlando Sanford International (SFB) is the main commercial gateway serving Orlando; allow 45–60 min by road or rail to Orange County Convention Center.. Allow road or rail time to Orange County Convention Center; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition v

    Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Orange County Convention Center: International Drive / Kirkman Road (near OCCC): International Drive / Kirkman Road (near OCCC); International Drive / I-Drive Resort Area: International Drive / I-Drive Resort Area; OCCC campus / Pointe Orlando / Dr. Phillips: OCCC campus / Pointe Orlando / Dr. Phillips.

    Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely available around Orlando International Airport, International Drive, and the convention center.

    Public transit: LYNX bus service covers International Drive; the I-Ride Trolley runs along I-Drive near many hotels.

    Parking: On-site parking is available at Orange County Convention Center; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: November 2026

    Temperature: Daytime highs 24-25 C (75-78 F); overnight lows 15-16 C (59-61 F)

    Seasonality: November marks Orlando's shift toward the drier season, with about 45-60 mm of rain over roughly 6-8 wet days. Brief showers are possible but most days are sunny and comfortable.

    Packing: Pack lightweight layers and business casual attire for warm afternoons, a light jacket for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes for the convention center, and a compact umbrella for occasional showers.

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    14

    Confirm passport validity and US entry requirements — Check whether an ESTA or a B-1 business visitor visa is needed for travel to Orlando for AB Show 2026.

    12

    Book flights into Orlando International (MCO) or Orlando Sanford (SFB) — Target arrival 16-17 November 2026 for the 17-19 November show dates.

    10

    Reserve a hotel on International Drive near the venue — Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa, Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando and Days Inn by Wyndham are 0.5-0.6 mi from the Orange County Convention Center.

    8

    Register online for your conference and/or expo badge — Register through abshow.com and select the sessions or tracks you plan to attend.

    7

    Download the AB Show schedule and expo hall plan — The full schedule is published at abshow.com/schedule with conference sessions 17-19 November and the trade show open 18-19 November.

    6

    Shortlist conference sessions and demo stage talks — AB Show delivers 100+ sessions across athletics, fitness, recreation and military tracks; pick priorities in advance.

    5

    Request meetings with exhibiting suppliers — Reach out to companies such as Life Fitness, Technogym and BCI Burke before the show floor opens.

    4

    Arrange airport transfer or rideshare from MCO — MCO is about 15-25 minutes from the convention center via SR-528 W to International Drive.

    3

    Pack business casual attire and light layers — Expect warm afternoons around 24-25 C and cooler evenings near 15 C in Orlando in November.

    2

    Save badge confirmation, session bookings and hotel reservation — Keep digital and printed copies for badge collection at the convention center.

    1

    Arrive in Orlando, collect your badge and confirm evening plans — The Industry Party is scheduled for 18 November, 7:00-10:00 p.m. at Ole Red.

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Hotel × 2 nights$190.00
    • Per diem × 2$150.00
    Estimated total$340.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    visitor_ticket

    visitor · Expo Badge

    USD 35 / per person

    unknown

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Pick the closest answer for each. Your recommendation updates live.

    QUESTION 1 OF 6

    What is your primary role?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Athletic directors, facility and program managers, and coaches evaluating equipment, surfaces and programming for schools, universities, parks and military recreation.

    Min. budget

    $350.00

    Timeline

    4-6 weeks for flights and hotel booking ahead of 17-19 November 2026

    Risks

    Peak autumn Orlando hotel pricing along International Drive during a busy convention month

    Confirm whether you need a full-conference pass or expo-only badge

    exhibit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Suppliers of fitness equipment, sports surfaces, aquatics, locker rooms, playgrounds and recreation technology seeking facility and program buyers.

    Min. budget

    $2,200.00

    Timeline

    4-6 months for stand booking, design, build and freight

    Risks

    Limited prime hall space as 250+ companies exhibit

    Freight and rigging deadlines set by the organiser

    Staff and hotel availability during show week

    skip

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Consumer fitness shoppers or non-trade visitors; AB Show is a business-to-business education and sourcing event for athletics, fitness, recreation and military professionals.

    Min. budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Timeline

    Not applicable

    Risks

    Trade-focused content and floor with limited consumer retail access

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    CEUs
    Continuing Education Units awarded for participation in educational sessions.
    2
    Expo
    The exhibition area where vendors showcase their products and services.
    3
    Keynote
    A featured speaker session that sets the tone for the conference.
    4
    Networking
    Opportunities for attendees to connect and build professional relationships.
    5
    Registration
    The process of signing up to attend the event.
    6
    Workshops
    Interactive sessions focused on specific topics within the industry.
    7
    Tours
    Pre-conference excursions to local facilities or attractions.
    8
    Sponsorship
    Financial support provided by companies to enhance their visibility at the event.

    Also known as

    Alternate names and search phrases for this event.

    • Athletic Business Conference & Expo
    • Athletic Business Conference Expo
    • AB Show Orlando
    • AB Show 2026
    • Athletic Business Conference 2026
    • Athletic Business Expo Orlando 2026
    • Orlando Florida athletic business expo
    • AB Show Orange County Convention Center
    • fitness technology expo Orlando
    • recreational facility management conference

    7 more alternate names hidden

    Trust footer

    Sources

    5

    References

    1

    Publishers

    0

    Date checked

    1

    Athletic Business

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