Abilities Expo 2026 Comes to Orlando October 9 - 11

Author: Abilities Expo
Published: 5 Dec 2025 - Updated: 11 Sep 2026
Publication Type: Event

Table of Contents:
Synopsis - Definition - Overview - FAQs - Insights, Updates - Related Content

Synopsis

This information announces Abilities Expo's expansion to Orlando in October 2026, bringing the nation's largest disability-focused event to Central Florida for the first time and making it more accessible to tens of thousands of residents across the state who previously had to travel to reach the event. For over 45 years, Abilities Expo has served as a vital gathering place where people with disabilities, seniors, and families can discover innovative assistive technologies, test adaptive equipment, learn from industry experts, and connect with organizations supporting independent living - all free of charge. The relocation to Orlando's central location with robust transportation infrastructure represents a significant accessibility milestone, allowing a broader audience to participate in interactive experiences like service dog demonstrations, adaptive sports zones, and inclusive recreational activities, while giving exhibitors and vendors a wider platform to introduce cutting-edge mobility solutions and assistive devices to communities that need them most.*

At a Glance

1 - Attendee admission to Abilities Expo is always free. Exhibitors are already expressing enthusiasm for the 2026 Orlando move.
2 - This marks the first time the event has come to Central Florida. The move creates easier access for tens of thousands of individuals and families across the state.
3 - Interactive experiences include an all-inclusive climbing wall, service dog demonstrations and adaptive sports zones. These activities make the event a dynamic celebration of all abilities.
4 - Abilities is also launching the Abilities International Accessibility Conference in Los Angeles, New York Metro and Chicago in 2026. Attendees there can earn 10 CEUs and connect with complex rehab professionals.

Topic Definition

Abilities Expo: Abilities Expo is the nation's leading event series for people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals, and it has served the disability community for more than 45 years. A property of Raccoon Media Group, the event gives attendees a free, hands-on place to discover the latest assistive technology and mobility products, test-drive adaptive equipment, learn from industry experts in workshops, and take part in adaptive activities such as sports, fitness, dance, service dog demonstrations, and an accessible climbing wall. Its core purpose is to increase everyday independence by connecting people with the products, services, and organizations that support inclusive, self-directed living.

Overview

Abilities Expo 2026 expands its reach with Orlando to Host the event starting October 2026. The new central location brings the nation's premier disability event to more Floridians than ever before.

Abilities Expo, a property of Raccoon Media Group and the leading event series dedicated to elevating everyday independence for people with disabilities, is officially coming to Orlando. The inaugural Orlando Abilities Expo will take place October 9 - 11, 2026, at the Osceola Heritage Park Events Center. The move positions Abilities Expo at the heart of Florida, creating easier access for tens of thousands of individuals and families across the state. With its central location, robust transportation options and strong commitment to inclusive tourism, Orlando provides an ideal new home for Abilities Expo's Florida edition.

For more than 45 years, Abilities Expo has been the nation's go-to event for discovering the latest in disability products, assistive technology, local resources, adaptive recreation and expert-led workshops. Attendees can test-drive innovative equipment, meet leading manufacturers, learn from industry professionals, participate in adaptive activities and connect with supportive organizations improving quality of life.

"We're thrilled to bring Abilities Expo to Central Florida," said Katy Roberts, Managing Director of Abilities Expo. "Orlando's energy, accessibility and incredible visitor experience make it the perfect place to grow our community. This move allows us to welcome a wider audience, connect more people with life-changing products and services and continue championing accessibility for people with disabilities."

Likewise, every event features such interactive, immersive experiences as an all-inclusive climbing wall, service dog demos, adaptive sports zones and more, making Abilities Expo a dynamic celebration of all abilities.

Attendee admission to Abilities Expo is free and exhibitors are already expressing enthusiasm for the 2026 move.

"We couldn't be more excited about Abilities Expo's move to Orlando," said Debbie Gnall of Pride Mobility, a global leader in power mobility and assistive technology. "This easily accessible location for Florida residents gives us an opportunity to meet new people and introduce our latest innovations to a broader audience. It's a win-win for Abilities and vendors alike, and we're looking forward to 2026."

The Orlando debut marks an exciting new chapter for Abilities Expo in Florida, with expanded opportunities for attendees to discover new accessibility solutions, engage with resources that support independent living throughout the region and meet others with disabilities to share experiences and insights.

This image captures an inclusive adaptive sports moment at an indoor paddle tennis event. A man in a wheelchair, wearing a dark jacket and headband, is positioned at the net on a blue court with his paddle raised, about to hit a yellow ball. Purple branded barriers line the court behind him, and a crowd of spectators stands in the background watching the match. The venue is modern and well-lit, with other players visible on the court and people in casual athletic wear scattered throughout the scene, creating an atmosphere of community participation and accessible recreation.

Looking Ahead: Abilities International Accessibility Conference

In addition to the Orlando Expo, Abilities is also launching the Abilities International Accessibility Conference (AIAC) in 2026 in Los Angeles (March 26-27), New York Metro (April 30-May1) and Chicago (June 11-12), co-located with the Expo. This new conference will be the first large-scale U.S. event to bring together the entire accessibility industry, including clinicians, healthcare providers, ATPs, dealers, manufacturers and technicians. Attendees can earn 10 CEUs, improve patient outcomes, learn how to optimize their business and connect with complex rehab professionals. Abilities Expo looks forward to eventually bringing this same opportunity to the Orlando show, giving attendees access to cutting-edge accessibility education, networking and collaboration.

Abilities Expo

Abilities Expo, a property of Raccoon Media Group, is the nation's leading event for people with disabilities, their families, caregivers and healthcare professionals. For more than four and a half decades, the disability community has gathered at Abilities Expos all over the country to discover the latest, life-enhancing products and services, access experts in info-packed workshops and engage in fun, adaptive activities like sports, fitness, dance, service dog demonstrations, an accessible climbing wall and more. This event is designed to increase independence for people with disabilities and admission is always free.

Raccoon Media Group

Raccoon Media Group is a dynamic, high-growth media business dedicated to serving passion-led communities across both B2C and B2B markets worldwide. Through its impactful events and media properties, Raccoon delivers year-round content, education and growth and networking opportunities to specialist, self-identifying audiences. Founded in 2018 the company has rapidly expanded its portfolio across health, wellbeing and specialist passion-led markets. Entrepreneurial and disruptive, Raccoon challenges the status quo, invests in exceptional people and creates sustainable events that foster industry growth and meaningful connections.

Frequently Asked Questions

NOTE: Researched FAQs by Disabled World (DW)

How much does it cost to attend Abilities Expo in Orlando

Attendee admission to Abilities Expo is always free. There is no charge to enter and explore the exhibits, workshops, and activities.

Where is the 2026 Orlando Abilities Expo being held

The event takes place at the Osceola Heritage Park Events Center. This venue is located in the Orlando area of Central Florida.

What dates is Abilities Expo 2026 in Orlando

The inaugural Orlando Abilities Expo runs October 9 through 11, 2026. It spans three days across that weekend.

Who should attend Abilities Expo

The event is designed for people with disabilities, seniors, families, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Anyone interested in assistive technology and independent living resources is welcome.

Do I need to register in advance to attend

Registration details are provided by the organizers through the official Abilities Expo channels. Checking the official website before the event is the best way to confirm current entry requirements.

What kinds of products and services are shown at Abilities Expo

Exhibitors display mobility solutions, assistive devices, adaptive recreation equipment, and local support resources. Attendees can meet manufacturers such as power mobility leaders and try equipment in person.

Is Osceola Heritage Park accessible for wheelchair users

Orlando was chosen in part for its central location, robust transportation options, and commitment to inclusive tourism. The venue and event are organized to support attendees who use wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

What is the Abilities International Accessibility Conference

It is a new 2026 event bringing together the accessibility industry, including clinicians, healthcare providers, ATPs, dealers, manufacturers, and technicians. It launches in Los Angeles, New York Metro, and Chicago, with attendees able to earn 10 CEUs.

Insights, Analysis, and Developments

Editorial Note: The expansion of Abilities Expo to Orlando reflects a growing recognition that accessibility isn't just about removing physical barriers - it's about actively meeting people where they are, both geographically and in their journey toward independence. By positioning this premier event at the heart of Florida, Abilities Expo demonstrates that inclusive events require intentional planning and community-centered decision-making. As the disability community continues to advocate for meaningful access to products, services, and knowledge, initiatives like this serve as a model for how private enterprise can align profitability with genuine social responsibility.*

* Editorial additions by Ian C. Langtree.