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Florida Encounter

February 2 - 4, 2026 | Hilton Orlando | Orlando, FL


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Florida Encounter 2026 - Tentative Schedule of Events

7:30 am - 3:00 pmOrlando Ballroom Pre-Function Area

Registration & Information Desk Open

Misc.
8:00 am - 9:00 amOrlando Ballroom

Breakfast on the Tradeshow Floor

Networking & Activities
9:00 am - 12:00 pmOrlando III & IV / Orange Ballrooms

Appointments

Appointments
12:00 pm - 1:30 pmOrlando Ballroom I & II

Networking Lunch, hosted by Experience Kissimmee

Networking & Activities

Experience Kissimmee is the host of the 2027 Florida Huddle and Florida Encounter! Let's celebrate with your friends from Kissimme!

The program will also feature "Experiences That Matter", a short presentation by Dr. Chris Dold, Chief Zoological Officer of SeaWorld Orlando, the host for the closing evening event. A visit or event at SeaWorld creates more than memories-it makes a difference. Every experience helps support the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of animals in need, while connecting guests to a mission with a purpose.

1:30 pm - 3:00 pmOrlando III & IV / Orange Ballrooms

Appointments

Appointments
3:00 pm - 5:30 pmOrlando Ballroom

Exhibitor Move-Out

Move-In and Set-Up
3:30 pm - 5:30 pmSpring Lake

VISIT FLORIDA Florida Meeting Planner Focus Group

Misc.

VISIT FLORIDA wants to hear what matters to planners like you!

Visit Florida is inviting meeting planners to take part in a candid focus group discussion. This session is designed to better understand how planners view Florida as a destination today — and how Visit Florida can better support your research, decision-making, and planning process moving forward.

No slide deck or sales pitch. Just a candid conversation about your experience, and what Florida as a state can do to support you better every step of the way.

As a thank-you for your time and participation, all registered attendees who participate will receive a $100 Visa gift card.

3:30 pm - 5:30 pmRosen Shingle Creek

Site Visit #2: A Gorgeous Afternoon with a Farm Experience at Rosen Shingle Creek

Networking & Activities

Chef’s tour of Emma’s Farm followed by a Chef’s Sampling of treats featuring farm items and bar.

Transportation will pick you up at the hotel at 3:30 pm and will drop you back off by 5:30 pm.

3:30 pm - 5:30 pmRosen Centre

Site Visit #3: Chef Demo with Desserts & Cocktails at the Rosen Centre

Networking & Activities

Transportation will pick you up at the hotel at 3:30 pm and will drop you back off by 5:30 pm.

3:30 pm - 5:30 pmThe Florida Hotel and Conference Center

Site Visit #1: The Florida Hotel and Conference Center

Networking & Activities

Come join us for the Amazing Race Scavenger Hunt at The Florida Hotel and Conference Center!

Explore the mall—the hotel is connected to The Florida Mall—follow the map, solve clues, and collect free giveaways and gift cards along the way.  Sign up fast—spots are limited!

Transportation will pick you up at the hotel at 3:30 pm and will drop you back off by 5:30 pm.

3:30 pm - 5:30 pmHilton Garden Inn Millenia

Site Visit #5: Hilton Garden Inn Millenia

Networking & Activities

This one promises to be a delightful experience for all! We are hosting a "Build Your Perfect Pair" event at the wonderful Hilton Garden Inn Millenia!

 This event is all about indulging in the finer things in life – think wine, cheeses, charcuterie, and more. It's not just about savoring delicious flavors, but also about creating your own perfect pairing experience.

As a special treat, you'll get to take home a custom board and a fine bottle of wine of your choice, making this event not only enjoyable but also memorable. Please note, we have a maximum capacity of 15 participants, so make sure to secure your spot soon!

Looking forward to seeing you there and sharing this delightful experience with you.

7:00 pm - 9:30 pmSeaWorld

"Thrill & Chill!" Closing Evening Event at SeaWorld

Networking & Activities

The first bus will leave the Hilton Orlando at 6:45 pm for the short ride to SeaWorld. Transportation will loop continuously.