NORWALK, Conn.—Vision Expo East show organizers, The Vision Council and RX Global, have announced a redesigned show floor and enhanced programming for its inaugural Orlando debut. Taking place February 19-22, 2025, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., the event will bring together more than 300 of the industry’s most influential eyecare and eyewear brands showcasing cutting-edge products and services in a new show floor layout, along with extensive and accredited continuing education that will deliver more than 270 hours of educational programming beginning February 19. The educational programming will cover essential clinical, technical and business topics for all industry levels.

At the heart of the enhanced experience, the main stage will offer daily programming, including thought leadership sessions, expert panels and a keynote interview. The stage will also feature the Flaunt the Frame fashion shows presented by the Accessories Council, showcasing select frames from the expanded NOW Trends Showcase, show organizers said.

The exclusive new Platinum Club will welcome VIP practices, media and influencers, while the OptiCon Hub, presented by the United Opticians Association (UOA), will offer a dedicated space for opticians to connect and learn. The new resource center located near the main stage will bring together The Vision Council with industry associations and charitable partners, creating a central hub for community engagement, according to the announcement.

Additional show highlights will include the following:

  • Indie Lab Speakeasy, a unique meeting space collective for leading independent laboratories, sponsored by Pacific Lab.

  • NOW Trend Showcase, centrally located in the show entrance featuring expanded categories and a fresh design.

  • Zeiss German Beer Garden, offering an eclectic environment and themed drinks.

  • Conferee Café, a new French-inspired lounge with daily refreshments and barista.

  • OTC Showcase, featuring the industry’s most sought-after over-the-counter products.

  • Enhanced dining and networking spaces with the V Bar for daily happy hours, curated lounges, café and daily snack breaks for continuing education courses.
The comprehensive event programing extends beyond show hours with parties and networking opportunities off the show floor:

  • Opening Night Party on Thursday, February 20, beginning at 9:00 p.m. at multiple bars within The Pointe area, will include entertainment from two DJs, live country music and an outdoor concert by the Bad Habits.

  • Optical Women’s Association Champagne Breakfast: Celebrating Women in Leadership celebrating the association's 2025 OWA award recipients.

  • The 17th annual Vision Monday Summit at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts will take a dive deep into how collaboration drives us forward. Shuttle service to the Summit will be available following the OWA breakfast.

  • Prevent Blindness Person of Vision Dinner, celebrating Dr. Howard Purcell, OD, president and CEO of the New England College of Optometry, will support Prevent Blindness and its sight-saving programs on Wednesday, February 19, at 6:00 p.m.

  • Tropical Cocktail Reception on Friday, February 21 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., poolside at the Rosen Centre, offering live entertainment in a tropical oasis setting.
View the full schedule of events here.

“We have exciting new ways for the optical industry to connect and celebrate at Vision Expo East 2025 in Orlando,” said Mitch Barkley, vice president of trade shows at The Vision Council. “The enhanced show floor and expanded programming reflect our commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for all attendees.”

Vision Expo East 2025 will provide complimentary shuttle service to host hotels and event venues. Registered participants can also save 50 percent on Brightline rail travel between Miami and Orlando (with multiple South Florida stops) for February 18-23, 2025. Click here to learn more.

To make the most of planning for Vision Expo East, attendees can register and explore exhibitors, events, course lists and more by clicking here.