Attractions Industry Brings 'Big Show' to the 'Bright Lights' of Las Vegas

IAAPA Attractions Expo 2009 Previews New Rides, Games, and Trends for the
Global Amusement Parks and Attractions Industry

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Big rides, new technology, and selling more
tickets in today's economic times are just three elements of interest at IAAPA
Attractions Expo in Las Vegas today through Nov. 20.

As the largest annual gathering of the $24 billion amusement park and
attractions industry, the Expo takes center stage in Las Vegas for the first
time in the event's 90-year history.

The Expo brings a $40 million boost to Las Vegas' economy, temporarily
transforming the Las Vegas Convention Center into a marketplace reminiscent of
a theme park midway complete with rides, games, food, and fun showcased by
1,065 exhibitors. Industry service companies specializing in theming, design,
ticketing, and information technology also fill 1 million square feet of
convention center space.

Approximately 25,000 professionals from the world's top theme and amusement
parks, waterparks, zoos, aquariums, museums, family entertainment centers,
casinos, and resorts are on site to network and learn about new trends and
innovations for 2010 and beyond.

Special events at IAAPA Attractions Expo 2009 include a keynote presentation
by Matt Goldman, co-founder of Blue Man Group, more than 100 education
sessions and behind-the-scenes tours of Las Vegas' hottest productions.

Expo attendees will also hear from legends including Yves Pepin, who
transformed the Eiffel Tower on New Year's Eve 2000; Peter Herschend, vice
chairman of Herschend Family Entertainment Corp., which operates Dollywood and
Stone Mountain Park; Joni Newkirk, leader of Disney's 2005 launch of "Magic
Your Way" marketing shift; and several "Disney Legends" including Imagineering
Ambassador Marty Sklar, feasibility founder Harrison 'Buzz' Price, songwriter
Richard Sherman, tech wizard Bob Gurr, and animator/sculptor Blaine Gibson.

Produced by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions,
the Expo is not open to the public, but media are invited to attend. More
information about IAAPA Attractions Expo 2009 is available at
www.IAAPA.org/expos or by calling 703-299-5127.

SOURCE International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions

Nicholas Wolaver, +1-404-643-6873, IAAPA press team