Integrated Ticketing System for Entertainment Venues

The County of Volusia, through the Ocean Center & Lyonia Amphitheater, seeks proposals from qualified vendors to provide a comprehensive, exclusive ticketing system that supports:

• Multi-venue operations with high-volume, concurrent events
• Seamless integration with existing payment systems (Grant Street/Payment Express)
• Robust client support, both virtually and on-site
• Growth and flexibility for expanding ticketed programming

The system should accommodate both digital and printed ticket delivery methods, guard against resale and access control issues, integrate Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and marketing tools, and include extensive reporting features.

As the current agreement with Ticketmaster approaches its conclusion, the Ocean Center is initiating an open and competitive RFP process to identify a ticketing solution that advances beyond traditional sales functionality. The goal is to implement a comprehensive event engagement and access platform that enhances patron experience, leverages data-driven insights, and supports sustainable revenue growth.

The initial term of the agreement shall be for four (4) years, with the option to renew for up to two (2) additional one (1) year periods, subject to mutual agreement by both parties.

Originally built in 1985, the Ocean Center served as a central hub for entertainment in Central Florida, hosting major acts like Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, and Usher. While the focus on concerts waned over the past decade, the venue has seen a recent resurgence. In FY24/25, the Ocean Center hosted 14 ticketed events, including three sold-out comedy shows, three concerts, American Motorsports Association events, and family entertainment acts such as the Harlem Globetrotters and a monster truck rally—selling over 30,000 tickets.

With seating capacities up to 8,400 in the arena, 5,000 in the exhibit hall, and 1,000 in the ballroom, the Ocean Center will be embarking on aggressive expansion into the live entertainment market.

This RFP is part of a multi-year initiative to reestablish the Ocean Center as a premier live event destination. The successful ticketing partner will help enable this growth by providing a high-performance, scalable, and intuitive system that enhances the guest experience, improves operational efficiency, and supports cross-venue ticketing.

Additionally, Volusia County boasts another exceptional venue: a 700-seat outdoor amphitheater adjacent to the Lyonia Environmental Center in Deltona. While primarily used for smaller events in recent years, the amphitheater has tremendous potential to evolve into a vibrant community hub. Plans are underway to expand its programming, transforming it into a premier, local destination for live music, theatrical performances, educational events, and community gatherings in a scenic open-air setting. The Lyonia Center is currently undergoing renovation, with an anticipated opening/availability of Spring or Summer 2026.

Together, these venues are embarking on a strategic initiative to elevate their entertainment offerings and establish the Ocean Center and Lyonia Environmental Amphitheater as premier destinations for live events in Central Florida.