Carnival & Fair News

  ORLANDO, FL (June 17, 2026) – Registration is now open for IAAPA Expo 2026, the premier global event for the attractions industry that brings together professionals from theme parks, family entertainment centers, zoos, aquariums, museums, resorts, and beyond. Set to take place Nov. 16-20, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC), this year's Expo will mark the event's largest footprint to date with its expansion into the West Building. As the largest IAAPA Expo ever, the event will also offer the most educational opportunities in its history. More than 170 expert-led sessions will provide attendees with practical strategies and tangible insights across operations, technology, guest experience, safety, sustainability, and more. Over 1,100 exhibiting companies from around the world will showcase the latest innovations, products, and services shaping the future of the attractions industry. Expo Expands into the West Building As the attractions industry continues to ...   [read more]

  After significant efforts and strong advocacy from stakeholders across the amusement industry, the H-2B Certified Seasonal Employer (CSE) and the Amusement Industry's P-Visa language has been included in the House FY27 Department of Homeland Security Appropriations baseline bill (Section 409). This marks the first time any proposed H-2B cap relief measure has been incorporated into a baseline appropriations bill. According to the Seasonal Employment Alliance, this represents a major step forward in securing cap relief for seasonal employers and workers. Language included in a baseline bill is considerably more difficult to remove than an amendment, which has been the vehicle for all previous H-2B cap relief efforts.The CSE & P-Visa language will now move to the Senate for further consideration. While the legislation has not yet reached the finish line, this development represents significant progress in the effort to secure long-term H-2B reform.The CSE designation would exempt ...   [read more]

  Kissel Entertainment has become the first carnival company to earn International Ride Operator Certification (iROC) through International Ride Training (IRT), a safety training organization for the amusement industry.The iROC program is the only third-party ride operator certification program in the world. Developed by IRT, the program is designed to train front-line ride operators in safety procedures, operational efficiency, and professional guest interaction. The certification draws on decades of experience in ride operations and safety training across the amusement industry.Kissel Entertainment officials said the certification reflects the company’s ongoing focus on ride safety and employee training.“It is our hope that we inspire every traveling amusement provider to participate in this incredible program,” said Madison Kissel, chief operating officer of Kissel Entertainment, who led the initiative. “We want to ensure our industry receives the most ...   [read more]