The 2025 IAAPA Attractions Expo opened Tuesday at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, preparing to welcome more than 38,000 professionals from across the global amusement industry over the four-day show. Attendees include representatives from theme parks, family entertainment centers, carnivals, fairs, and a wide range of attractions. This year's show floor—sold out once again—features over 1,100 exhibitors.

“Expo reflects the extraordinary creativity and innovation of our industry,” said Jakob Wahl, President and Chief Executive Officer of IAAPA. “Every exhibitor, every attendee, and every session represents our shared passion for creating memorable moments and happiness. The attractions industry doesn't just entertain — it transforms lives, strengthens communities, and continues to grow as a global economic force.”

Worldwide Service & Supply

A longtime exhibitor serving both carnival and park sectors, Jim Zaja of Worldwide Service & Supply continues to represent Tivoli, the U.K.-based manufacturer behind two of the most recognizable and durable rides on the midway: the Orbiter and the Remix.

Zaja began selling Tivoli rides in 1979 for Mack Duce and has since sold between 80–90 Orbiters and more than 20 Remix rides across North America. The Orbiter has earned a reputation as a strong performer on both carnival midways and in amusement parks. “Busch Gardens in Tampa imported the first Orbiter in 1978 and operated it for over 50 years before retiring it to build a drop tower in the same location,” said Zaja. Busch Gardens Williamsburg installed the second Orbiter, which remains in service today at another Busch theme park.

“If you talk to anyone who bought one, they don't have issues down the line,” Zaja said, noting the ride's durability.

Tivoli's production schedule is currently booked through 2027. Deliveries include an Orbiter for Big Rock Amusements in 2026 and a Remix for Robbie Hauser's West Coast Amusements. The company also has six or seven Orbiter/Remix-style rides in production for European showmen. Early in 2025, a newly themed Remix—branded Zeus—was delivered to Dreamland Amusements with a full flash package and a variety of upgrades.



While Tivoli recently introduced a new attraction, the Exciter, only one unit has been produced despite interest. “Tivoli has about 15 employees, and their production line is fine-tuned to building Orbiters and Remixes,” said Zaja. Switching to a different ride type would create delays, so the company remains focused on its top sellers at the moment.

The Exciter, described as a modern take on the Force 10, features floorless seats with over-the-shoulder restraints, LED lighting, and a European-style backwall. The prototype operates in England and was built during the pandemic when sales slowed. Zaja previously sold about seven Force 10s to U.S. showmen and noted that while the originals required heavy maintenance, the updated design is more controlled and easier to maintain.

Despite a market saturated with Orbiters, Zaja has recently seen customers return to purchase updated models or opt for a Remix. “The new attractions are a bit more complex than the older ones, with updated electronics for stricter European standards,” he said. “But the overall designs remain unchanged—still robust and reliable.”

When not selling Tivoli rides, Zaja remains busy servicing equipment and building custom racking systems. His shop recently completed racking for Talley Amusements' new giant wheel, designing forklift-ready crates that slide into van loads on tracks to speed up setup and teardown. He previously racked the company's 33-meter Lambrink Dutch Wheel as well.

Zaja has also been redesigning the blueprints for a San Antonio Merry-Go-Round after he and Tom Talley acquired the rights several years ago. “We've made a lot of improvements to the original design. It's a simple, easy-to-operate Merry-Go-Round,” Zaja said. The first unit using the updated design is set for delivery this year.

Additional work includes building ticket boxes for the State Fair of Texas, ranging from one-person to eight-person booths as well as units for automated machines.

Galaxy Amusement Sales Introduces New LED Neon Lighting

Scott Kunz of Galaxy Amusement Sales showcased the company's new flexible LED neon lighting, a product poised to redefine signage across the industry. The versatile lighting can be used for lettering, accent illumination, and custom decorative designs. A sample “Lemonade” sign at the Galaxy booth featured flexible LED neon outlining the letters with an RGB color-changing LED border.

“When Vegas was at its peak, everything was neon. It has a bright, nostalgic look. Everyone who's seen the new LED version absolutely loves it,” said Kunz.

A major feature at the Galaxy booth was the new façade for Stevie Ianni Jr.'s Greek-themed food stand, Acropolis. Built on a truss structure, the façade blends Chameleon color-changing pucks, backlit signage, and the new flexible LED neon. The stand is scheduled to debut on the Strates Shows midway in early 2026.

Building on its success with Acropolis, Kunz added, “We're working on some really cool front entrance gates to debut in Gibtown.”

Galaxy is also rolling out new digital LED menu boards suitable for food stands, ticket boxes, and ride safety signage. The displays feature easy-to-use software that allows menu updates via Wi-Fi without requiring graphic design expertise. “These signs are outdoor full-sun displays that can be used in any weather conditions,” Kunz said.