The golf industry’s largest gathering returns to Orlando, bringing innovation, community, and a touch of rock ‘n’ roll to the fairway.
Each January, when the rest of the world is still shaking off holiday glitter and pie crumbs, Orlando gears up for a completely different type of spectacle: the PGA Show. But don’t let its unassuming name fool you—this isn’t some sleepy golf convention. Born out of the trunks of cars in 1954, the PGA Show has morphed into the $102 billion industry’s biggest annual bash, attracting golf professionals, big-name brands, innovators, and enthusiasts from all corners of the world. From January 21 to January 24, the Orange County Convention Center will transform into a bustling mini-city dedicated to all things golf, where attendees can test equipment, learn business strategies, build networks, and yes, groove to Third Eye Blind at the PGA Winter Jam.
For any PGA Professional, golf course manager, or industry insider, the PGA Show is essentially Mecca. It’s where the big brands bring their latest tech, boutique companies showcase cutting-edge products, and experts share insights that may just turn your golf business from par to birdie. It’s trade-only, mind you—so while spectators won’t be sneaking in for a casual look around, the pros know it’s the place to be.
PGA Show: By the Numbers
With more than a thousand exhibitors sprawled across 1.1 million square feet of exhibit, demo, and meeting space, the sheer scale of the PGA Show is jaw-dropping. The event draws in over 30,000 industry professionals from across the globe, representing 89 countries and all 50 U.S. states. Among these attendees are over 7,000 PGA, LPGA, and international PGA professionals, a powerhouse lineup of VIP buyers from more than 775 golf facilities, and a media army of 900 journalists from 25 countries.
The dollars involved are staggering, too. The VIP buyers alone bring purchasing power exceeding $900 million, fueling nearly $2.9 billion in retail sales. It’s safe to say that what happens in Orlando reverberates across the entire golf industry.
Highlights of PGA Show Week
So what exactly can attendees expect at this year’s show? Simply put: more than your average trade show lineup.
Demo Day: Officially kicking off PGA Show Week, Demo Day is a must-attend event for anyone who loves getting hands-on with the latest gear. Held at the Orange County National Golf Center, this is the world’s largest professional outdoor demo day, where brands set up stations across a 42-acre facility, complete with hitting bays, practice greens, and short-game testing areas. You can’t just passively admire the shiny new clubs on display here; Demo Day is all about testing and tweaking. From getting a feel for the latest clubs to witnessing live demos from tour players and top coaches, it’s a golf enthusiast’s dream.
Why attend? The advantages go beyond the thrill of testing gear. Attendees gain exclusive access to best-practice workshops on coaching, club fitting, and range operations, with insights from the Golf Range Association of America (GRAA) and the Golf Fitness Association of America (GFAA). It’s an unmissable opportunity to network, sharpen skills, and scout out products that might soon be the latest game-changers.
Fashion Show: Move over, Milan—Orlando’s Fashion Show Happy Hour promises to bring a new level of glamour to the PGA Show. Kicking off at 5:00 p.m. on January 22, this runway showcase will reveal the newest collections in golf apparel and accessories. With top brands presenting pieces that blend performance and style, this high-energy event will feature runway looks that are as much about style on the green as they are about making statements beyond it. Sponsored by Johnnie-O, the show combines fashion with networking in a party-like atmosphere—lively music, refreshing drinks, and ample opportunities to connect with fellow attendees.
Winter Jam Concert: Here’s where the PGA Show truly departs from convention territory. The Winter Jam concert, now in its second year, cranks up the volume after exhibit hours, transforming the evening into a true rock ‘n’ roll celebration. This year’s headliner is none other than Third Eye Blind, whose hits like “Semi-Charmed Life” and “Jumper” will fill the concert lounge at THE | RETREAT. Open to all registered attendees, the concert lounge offers a chance to unwind, sing along, and connect with colleagues in a laid-back setting. Corebridge Financial is on board as a supporting sponsor, adding VIP hospitality perks to the mix, while PGA HOPE—a program supporting military veterans—serves as the concert’s charitable partner. For anyone nostalgic for the 90s, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to rock out with the golf industry’s movers and shakers.
The Show Floor: Where Golf Innovation Takes Center Stage
Beyond the headline events, the real core of the PGA Show lies on its expansive Show Floor. Over a thousand exhibitors will set up shop in specialty pavilions, each dedicated to different aspects of the industry—from high-tech equipment and adaptive golf gear to luxury travel packages and industry-specific services. The Show Floor’s organized layout ensures that attendees can quickly locate the exact innovations that could be game-changers for their business.
Key features include:
- The Clubhouse: Here, you’ll find everything related to elevating the golf member experience, with products and services designed to enhance the quality of play and hospitality at golf facilities.
- THE | RETREAT: This sophisticated environment within the convention center hosts premium brand experiences and special events, perfect for high-stakes networking in a polished, relaxed atmosphere.
- Golf Travel Pavilion: A paradise for travel enthusiasts, this pavilion focuses on global golf destinations and luxury travel options, catering to those who look for premier experiences both on and off the green.
- Equipment Test Center: With hitting bays, short game areas, and a test track for golf cars, the Equipment Test Center is designed for real-time product testing. It’s not enough to see the latest equipment—you can feel its impact on your game.
- Adaptive Golf Center: With a mission to make golf accessible to all, this center showcases assistive technology and other advancements supporting adaptive golf.
- Advancing Industry Knowledge: PGA Show Education: For those looking to boost their golf business acumen, the PGA Show Education Program is an indispensable resource. The program offers over 70 sessions tailored for professional development in key industry areas, including teaching, coaching, executive management, and operations.
Highlights include:
PGA Show Education Sessions & Outdoor Workshops (Jan. 21-24): Interactive sessions led by leading industry experts.
PGA of America Teaching & Coaching Summit (Jan. 20-21): A two-day event providing deep dives into teaching methodologies.
Complimentary Programming Across Show Floor Stages: Free sessions on diverse topics, from health and wellness to career growth.
Whether you’re new to the golf business or a seasoned veteran, the education track provides essential tools, insights, and strategies for navigating the challenges and opportunities within the evolving industry.
If the PGA Show sounds a little different this year, you’re not imagining it. With expanded show floor space, more international brands, and an even more diverse lineup of events, the 2025 PGA Show is ready to surpass expectations. The rising popularity of golf has brought new interest and investment into the industry, leading to a packed schedule and sold-out exhibit space.
For the industry’s insiders, this isn’t just another trade show—it’s a celebration of everything that makes golf a global phenomenon. Whether you’re in it for the new tech, the educational insights, or the chance to belt out your favorite Third Eye Blind lyrics, the PGA Show 2025 is your ticket to experiencing the golf world’s past, present, and future. So pack your bags (and maybe a pair of earplugs), because Orlando’s going to be buzzing.
