Most commonly known as the Gibtown Trade Show, its official moniker is the International Independent Showmen's Association Super Extravaganza & Trade Show. It is the first major amusement industry event of the new year. Presented by the International Independent Showmen's Association (IISA), “Gibtown” has, for decades, been a must-attend event for carnival companies, rental companies, small to mid-range amusement parks, concessionaires, and amusement industry professionals. The show takes place February 10–13, 2026, at the IISA Club Grounds in Gibsonton, Florida.

One of the few conventions held during the global pandemic, Gibtown continued even through lockdowns. It was not until 2025, however, that a key component, the outdoor exhibition space, began a return to form. As with most other industries, lockdowns disrupted outdoor amusement businesses through delays, factory closures, shipping and travel restrictions, and the first wave of inflation, which continues to be a global economic trend. That negativity began to ebb last year as manufacturers and suppliers once again populated the open-air trade show floor, prompting Teresa Rimes, trade show secretary for The IISA, to declare that ride companies and equipment manufacturers “are back in force.”

Years in which ride manufacturers were either absent or occupied only booth space without exhibiting equipment disappeared last year. While 2025 saw companies tentatively reseeding once-fallow ground, 2026's crop yield is closer to pre-pandemic levels than any year since the global crisis.

More Equipment on Display

Interviewed just after the New Year, Rimes was, as usual, frantically planning the event. Because of timing just after the holidays and shortly following the larger IAAPA and IAFE conventions, whose attendance overlaps with Gibtown's constituency, January is always an extremely hectic month. This year was no exception. For the first time in years, outdoor booth space has surged with momentum unseen so far this decade.

“We have a lot more exhibitors outside than any time since the pandemic,” said Rimes. “We are getting more companies back, and they are bringing more rides. Every ride manufacturer has expanded their footprint to accommodate rides, as well as generators, trailers, and equipment. The show is always exciting, and people are excited to be here.”

For 2026, the Gibtown spotlight will shine on the core of any midway: amusement rides. This year, the show is hosting the convention's second Exhibitor Light Show on Tuesday, February 10, where outside vendors are encouraged to show off equipment with lights until 7 p.m.

Typically, the trade show floor closes at 5 p.m. However, with the influx of rides and equipment repopulating the grounds, Rimes seized the opportunity created by early midwinter sunsets, allowing manufacturers to present products fully illuminated.

“The light show did very well last year,” Rimes said. “With the time change, it gives exhibitors the only chance to show off their lights. New rides are beautiful and feature the latest lighting, which is best appreciated at night. Participation is optional, and I encourage exhibitors to take part. It is more successful when more exhibitors participate.”

Business Outlook

Len Soled of Rides 4-U is among several companies returning to Gibtown with an amplified presence, featuring more rides and a brighter presentation than in previous years. Soled is bringing three new, one-trailer, easy-assembly rides: Pirate Ship, Spinning Coaster, and Mini Tagada.

“We're always inspired by Gibtown. It's relaxed and more laid back than other shows like IAAPA,” said Soled. “The socializing is very important. Carnival companies had a strong 2025 season, and there is new momentum for brand-new rides.”

While tariffs, inflation, and shipping delays impacted some businesses in 2025, Soled believes the worst has passed. “Decision-makers are in a better position than a year ago. Delivery times from SBF/Visa have shrunk to eight months to a year.”

Expectations for 2026 are high. “We expect to write orders,” Soled said. “People are looking to deal, and it's important to be present at Gibtown because companies come here to make decisions.”

The revitalized outdoor exhibition is essential to the hands-on interaction the industry relies upon. “Buyers want to see and touch new equipment,” said Brian Woodke of Amusement Devices Manufacturing (ADM). “Compact designs and ease of assembly are in demand, and the market is strong.”



Despite broader economic concerns, exhibitors remain optimistic. “With interest rates falling, we are very excited,” said Scott Kunz, president of Galaxy Amusement Sales. “It's shaping up to be a very good year.” Galaxy will unveil new signage and menu boards using advanced neon and LED designs.

“My attitude is that it's going to be a great show,” said Gary Otterbacher of Lifetime Products. “2025 was a transitional year. Business conditions are improving, and people feel better about the economy and the future.”

Otterbacher will showcase new bunkhouses, on-site offices, and ticket kiosks designed for cashless midway systems, which continue to gain popularity. “More kiosks increase operational value,” he said.

The labor market remains tight, making employee accommodations more important than ever. “The better the living conditions, the better the job performance,” Otterbacher noted. “We design bunkhouses from the end-user perspective.”

Supplemental Limbo

The key seminar at the 2026 Gibtown is the annual H-2B update, presented Wednesday, February 11, by James K. Judkins, president of JKJ Workforce Agency and the Small Business Workforce Alliance. Joining him will be Leon Sequeira of SequeiraBilby and Gray Delaney of the Seasonal Employment Alliance.

The seminar will focus on mobile entertainment visas, including updates on certified seasonal employer reforms, supplemental visas, consular processing, and enforcement issues.

For carnival companies navigating an evolving labor system, this seminar is essential. “The situation is fluid, and the presentation will reflect conditions as of February 11, 2026,” said Judkins.

Despite challenges, the 2025 H-2B program functioned adequately. Supplemental visas were released, though processing delays affected arrival times. Judkins noted improvements in recruitment from expanded eligible countries and generally positive employer feedback.

As of press time, the release of additional supplemental visas was limited to a partial release of 35,000 visas. “Not unless more visas are released,” Judkins said, when asked whether companies would receive all needed workers.

Certification Seminar

The ServSafe Certification Class will be held during all four days of the IISA trade show. Conducted by Dominic Cianciola of Last Call Training, the half-day course leads to National Food Safety Manager certification. New FDA Food Model Code 2025 guidelines will be incorporated, including expanded illness reporting and stricter local certification requirements.