What comes to mind when you think of Orlando? Most likely world-famous theme parks, but did you know that Orlando’s economy is also booming thanks to a thriving convention scene?
At the center of this economy sits the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), the largest in the southeast and the second largest in the United States. Generous accommodations, a rich dining and entertainment scene, and those world-famous parks attract more than a million convention attendees year after year.
Convention season is year-round in Orlando. Check out below what’s coming to the OCCC in May.
Knowledge 2020
May 4 – 7 | West Concourse
20,000 attending
https://events.rainfocus.com/widget/servicenow/knowledge2020/knowledgecatalog?
Attend for extensive learning opportunities for business owners using ServiceNow. Lab/workshops include methods for improving staff management systems, defining and mapping business service, and improving the customer’s experience on mobile devices, among many other business-related educational sessions. Aside from the normal convention activities—expo hall, keynotes, networking, and breakout sessions, this event will have CreatorCon, a hands-on lab where coders get to build and play.
Sapphire Now and ASUG Annual Conference
May 12 – 14 | North & South Concourse
20,200 attending
https://events.sap.com/sapandasug/en/home
Did you know that Sapphire is actually an acronym that means SAP’s Perennial Highly Integrated R/2-3 Exchange? If you’re a business owner or use any products from SAP, the business systems software company, then you’ve probably heard of this conference. Held yearly and attracting more than 20,000 to Orlando, this conference includes sessions, great networking opportunities, and incredible business development opportunities around SAP solutions.
KnowledgeFest
May 15 – 17 | West Concourse
1,500 attending
http://knowledgefest.org/
Not to be confused with Knowledge 2020 hosted earlier this month, attendees of this private event will learn about mobile electronics. Educational opportunities on schedule include educational workshops and manufacturer trainings. After some learning, network with manufacturers and benefit-providers during the trade show. Mobile Electronics Association Retailer members get in free. Otherwise there is a cost to attend.
CITRIX Synergy 2020
May 18 – 20 | West Concourse
8,000 attending
https://www.citrixsynergy.com/
Most modern business solutions are wrapped in software packages, Citrix Synergy being one of those software companies and products. If you’re an influencer in your company—network engineer, systems administrator, or infrastructure developer, then this event most likely will prove useful. This conference, available at a cost, has the standard events: seminars, training sessions, breakouts, networking opportunities, a reception, and a final night party. It also has a massive Solutions Expo area.
Orlando International Film Festival
May 23 – 26 | West Concourse
2,000 attending
https://orlandointernationalfilmfestival.org/
Orlando has plenty of film festivals, e.g. Fringe, but none like this one. This film festival is specifically for young, upcoming filmmakers still in school in any grade from kindergarten to a senior in high school. Young filmmakers will have the opportunity to attend workshops, exhibits and networking opportunities with experienced filmmakers. All entries will be showcased and graded for awards. Orlando International Film Festival, Inc., a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, offers its attendees discounts to theme parks at Universal Orlando Resort, Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld.
UBU Expo
May 23 – 24 | West Concourse
15,000 attending
http://www.ubuexpo.com/cities/orlando/
Here’s a conference, open to the public, that’s a delightful mix of various athletic competitions, natural and holistic products, vitamins, supplements, athletic apparel, and … cosplay. At this fun event, competitions range from bodybuilding, grappling, sport Taekwondo and Karate, and Rock, Paper, Scissors tournaments. Exhibitors will have the latest samples of energy drinks, meal supplements, and athletic apparel. And don’t forget the cosplay portion which will also host costume contests. Tickets for the day are $25 for adults or $40 for both days. Tickets for children (ages 6 – 12) are $10 for one day and $15 for both. Kids 5 and younger get in free.
2020AAU 18U Girls Junior National Volleyball Championships
May 23 – 25 | North/South Concourse
2,500 attending
https://aauvolleyball.org/18UNationals
All are welcome to enjoy this showcase of young volleyball talent as squads get together to compete for national titles. Volleyball teams will compete in waves by divisions: 18 Classic, 18 Club, 18 Open, and 18 Premier. College coaches and scouts will be there, so players have a little extra to look forward to aside from a championship.
Stay in a Hotel Close to the OCCC
Midpointe Hotel, a Rosen Property, is right across the street from the OCCC. Our comfortable accommodations such as refrigerator in every room, queen and king sized beds in deluxe or suite guestrooms, as well as coffee makers, hairdryers, and irons make every stay feel like home. Rooms book fast, so check availability today by clicking the orange button in the upper right corner of this page.
