
The cancellation of several conventions in Florida is sending a message to the tourism industry, with implications reaching even Walt Disney World. A growing list of organizations is scrapping plans to gather at the Orange County Convention Center and other locations in the state. Concerns are now mounting over the economic repercussions caused by the issue. Convention organizers cite Florida’s “unfriendly political environment,” largely attributed to Governor Ron DeSantis, as the primary reason for abandoning the state. These Florida convention cancellations will likely significantly impact Disney World and its bottom line.
Orlando Convention Cancellations
The ongoing clash between Walt Disney World and Governor Ron DeSantis complicates matters further. These organizations’ decisions grant significant blows to the state’s tourism industry, impacting Broward County, Orange County, and beyond. However, they also bring fewer people to the Walt Disney World Resort.
Four conventions have pulled out of coming to Orlando this year alone—the National Society of Black Engineers, AnitaB.org Grace Hopper Celebration, Con of Thrones, and a 2027 AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo. According to Phil Diamond, the Orange County comptroller, their absence could cost the area quite a heavy loss in tourist revenue and local jobs.
Convention Guests and exhibitors are among the most common visitors to Disney World, as the allure of the theme park is a reason to host an event in Central Florida. Fewer gatherings are a noticeable injury. The Parks have been reportedly emptier this summer. While many critics argue it’s a self-inflicted wound by Disney, we cannot disregard the surrounding area when making this claim.
Disney’s Multiple Struggles
Compounding these challenges, Walt Disney World is entangled in a conflict with Governor DeSantis regarding its progressive social agenda. The Resort has been actively promoting inclusive policies and initiatives to foster diversity and acceptance among its employees and within its parks. However, Governor DeSantis has publicly criticized what he perceives as “woke” and has taken actions that challenge these efforts. The two entities are now locked in a legal battle that stresses the state further.
Beyond the immediate financial consequences for hotels, restaurants, and local attractions, the cancellations have far-reaching effects. Visit Lauderdale, the tourism promotion group for Broward County, emphasizes that minority-owned, women-owned, and LGBTQ+ businesses, which heavily rely on visitor spending, will bear the brunt of these losses.
All of these issues create a snowball effect for Walt Disney World. Furthermore, the company now faces an additional obstacle in maintaining visitor numbers and economic viability. Conventions are vital in generating revenue for the Resort, further straining its dwindling tourism income.
Related: Has the Disney World Bubble Burst?
Standing Firm in a Political Warzone
Walt Disney World must navigate the hardships of maintaining and welcoming Guests of all backgrounds while being housed in a political warzone over marginalized groups. Negotiating these challenges requires finding ways to mitigate the economic fallout from things like Florida convention cancellations while upholding the commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all visitors.
The resolution of these issues will shape the future of Florida’s tourism industry and determine whether Walt Disney World can sustain its status as a globally renowned destination cherished for its magical experiences and inclusive values.