What the Florida FFA State Convention and Career Expo Is
The Florida FFA State Convention and Expo is the association's annual gathering of chapters, with nearly 6,000 members, advisors, administrators, alumni, parents and industry partners. The most recent convention ran June 15 to 19, 2026, at the Caribe Royale Orlando, 8101 World Center Drive, Orlando, FL 32821. It combines Career Development Event contests, award presentations, motivational speakers, workshops, exhibits and the Expo, plus the business sessions that run the association.
What Happens There
- Career Development Events (CDEs) are held during the week. First-place state CDE team members and high individuals are recognized on stage, along with one individual and one advisor from each of the 2nd through 5th place teams.
- Business sessions include delegate committee meetings, district meetings, campaign sessions and general sessions. Each chapter seats two delegates for official business, and voting delegates need a Quality Chapter Report, due May 1.
- Award winners report to the rear award seating 45 minutes before each session.
Who Can Attend and Rules
- A badge is required for entry. Members need full-week student badges, with exceptions for students attending only to receive a State FFA Degree or American FFA Degree candidacy.
- Students need the Florida FFA Permission Form, notarized and presented at registration, not mailed.
- Students must be accompanied by an advisor and an appointed school district representative, with one adult per six students.
- Official FFA dress is required. Student curfew is 11:30 p.m. unless the program says otherwise.
- Curfew or conduct violations can lead to removal at the chapter's expense and a report to the principal and superintendent.
Key Dates
- Chapter registration opened Monday, April 20, at 3:00 p.m. ET through the Florida FFA Formstack form; the hotel room block opened at the same time.
- School checks had to be postmarked by May 15; Quality Chapter Reports were due May 1.
- Onsite registration hours: Sunday 4-7 p.m.; Monday through Thursday 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday 7-9:30 a.m.
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Online chapter registration | $100 per person |
| Onsite registration | $110 per person |
| Single day (families, sponsors, guests) | $30 per person |
| Mega Party (members; advisors and adults free) | $25 per student |
| Chapters not staying at the convention hotel (outside a 30-mile radius) | $175 per person |
| Parking | $125 flat per chapter registration, unlimited vehicles |
Fees are non-refundable and due at check-in. Visa, Mastercard, American Express or school check are accepted. Single-day tickets do not include the Expo or Shopping Mall.
Lodging
Queen and King suites were $219 per night and villas with a full kitchen $469. Premium suites ranged from $234 to $259 if standard suites sold out. Suites hold up to five people, and chapters sign a room damage waiver covering up to $300. Hotel reservations: 1-888-258-7501. Cancellations need 72 hours' notice to the hotel.
Questions
Can parents come?
Yes, on single-day tickets at $30 per person, which do not cover the Expo or Shopping Mall.
Can I register at the door?
Yes, onsite registration is $110 per person.
Who do I contact?
Use the contact page on the Florida FFA website. Expo and exhibitor registration and volunteer sign-up have their own pages.
Official Links
- Florida FFA State Convention and Expo: schedule, registration and policies
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