OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Hundreds of travel industry professionals from around the globe gathered in Ocala/Marion County last week for Florida Huddle and Encounter 2025. For the first time, the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau partnered with VISIT FLORIDA and the World Equestrian Center—Ocala (WEC) to host these prestigious international travel trade and meeting planner tradeshows from Feb. 3-5, 2025.
Florida Huddle, the state’s official travel trade show, and Florida Encounter, a long-running meeting and conference industry event, welcomed 550 attendees representing 27 countries. Over the course of two days, industry experts—including tour operators, travel agents, airlines, destination marketing organizations, travel journalists, and event planners—participated in more than 7,000 pre-scheduled appointments. The Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau team alone conducted 76 one-on-one meetings.
“We are immensely proud to have hosted Florida Huddle and Encounter here in Ocala/Marion County this week and are so thankful to our fantastic partners who have helped make this happen,” said Loretta Shaffer, Tourist Development Director for the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau. “The exposure from these two incredible tradeshows will deliver amazing results and future business for our community for years to come.”
Beyond networking opportunities, the event included an international update from VISIT FLORIDA, a media press briefing, industry speakers, and an equine panel featuring local experts. Attendees enjoyed a derby-themed opening reception at WEC’s Stirrups Terrace, featuring a showcase from Grandview Clydesdales and remarks from local and state officials.
The event’s success highlighted Ocala/Marion County as a top-tier meeting destination. Additional off-site activities showcased local venues, restaurants, and attractions, ensuring attendees experienced the best of the Horse Capital of the World®. With record-breaking participation, Florida Huddle and Encounter 2025 left a lasting impression, further cementing Ocala/Marion County’s reputation on the global stage.