Greetings,

The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) has recently been recognized by multiple industry publications and associations for its efforts to help drive the industry forward during these unprecedented times. We are home to some of the most esteemed conventions and trade shows across the nation, and this award further affirms our competitiveness and industry standing.

Exhibitor Magazine has awarded the OCCC as a Center of Excellence in its 2021 list of the nation’s best convention centers for trade shows and events. This prestigious list judges based on a variety of criteria from facility and functionality, location and accommodations, service and execution, upgrades and expansions, and awards and industry participation. Recognized for two consecutive years, the OCCC continues to enhance its facility and lead the conventions and trade show industry, particularly in response the current climate.

Northstar Meetings Group has also recognized the Center as a 2020 Gold Stella Award winner, acknowledging its status as the best convention center in the Southeastern U.S. Established in 2017, the Stella Awards are designed to recognize hotels, convention centers, airlines, cruise lines and destination marketing organizations (DMOs) for the delivery of high-quality service and innovation standards to meeting and event professionals.

Lastly, I am honored to be recognized by VenuesNow, the premier live entertainment trade publication, as an All-Star in its second annual listing of top executives across the live events industry. This year’s list recognizes honorees for their strength and courageous decision-making in helping to revive business and drive the industry’s recovery forward. Joining the OCCC at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge to say the least, but I am fortunate to be part of a team of passionate, driven and proactive decision-makers, and remain thankful for the tremendous support from our community and elected officials.

As always, thank you for your continued partnership and trust in the OCCC.
Mark Tester
Executive Director
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando Winterfest & Holiday Market
The OCCC is excited to announce in partnership with Alliance Nationwide Exposition, the I-Drive Business Improvement District, and iHeart Media, the Orlando Winterfest & Holiday Market will take place at the Center from Dec. 3-6, 2020.

Local companies are encouraged to exhibit at this event for an opportunity to network with customers face-to-face and facilitate product and craft sales in a safe and festive holiday marketplace. Learn more at www.orlandowinterfest.com.
Orlando International Airport Update 
The Orlando International Airport (MCO) is safely welcoming back passengers, reconnecting convention and trade show attendees. MCO currently has service to 61 domestic and 6 international destinations. Airlines continue to see the value of Orlando and continue to review their routes offered into MCO. Recently, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced his support for lifting federal COVID-19 restrictions on travelers from the United Kingdom and Brazil. The Airport continues to work closely with federal and local partners to monitor the developments surrounding COVID-19, and to implement changes to maintain a safe travel environment for customers and staff.

Hotels and Accommodations Updates
The hotels and resorts across the destination continue to implement robust health and safety protocols. The Walt Disney World Resort has reopened multiple hotels across its property. With the opening of these hotels, Disney has taken a measured and deliberate approach to implement a number of health and safety measures based on guidance from various governmental authorities and health agencies.

The Universal Orlando Resort has also implemented strict protocols and thorough new cleaning protocols following all CDC guidelines. In line with their exemplary customer service, their Meetings & Events Hotel Safety Protocols  in response to COVID-19, further supports its commitment to the safety of their guests.
Theme Park and Attractions Updates
Our standalone attractions continue enforcing existing safety and health procedures and implement new protocols to ensure the health and safety of guests and team members. Andretti Indoor Karting & Games is making sure they “play it safe, so you can play to win” – by enhancing their karting experience, arcade games and interactive gaming procedures, guests will be able to play at ease knowing that our attractions are putting safety first.
Gold Key Partner Update | Universal Orlando Resort
We can’t wait to see you again. As we begin to welcome back your attendees, health and safety is our top priority. We want to remind you of the ongoing efforts we make on a daily basis, and new measures we have added to provide a clean environment at our parks. From arrivals to seating arrangements and more, we’re ready to accommodate your programs safely. Learn more about our safety guidelines for your next event.

With three amazing theme parks and a dining and entertainment complex, we have everything you need to deliver unforgettable event experiences, including a night on the town in our New York street sets and the live entertainment and all-night excitement of Universal CityWalk.

Staying at one of our hotels, or just enjoying the parks during the day? Click here to review our full destination safety guidelines.

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