Do you work with outdoor power equipment? Then you need to know about the Equip Expo.
This Kentucky event, which takes place every October in Louisville, is another high-quality American trade show you can leverage for business growth. Think more than a million square feet of indoor exhibits, plus a vast outdoor demonstration area where buyers can actually test equipment live. As a dealer, buyer, or casual attendee, the opportunities at this exposition are endless!
Now that we’ve got your attention, read on to discover what makes this event so great (and lucrative!).
When And Where Is The Equip Expo?
Equip Expo 2026 will take place in Louisville, KY, over four days from October 20-23. Attendees and exhibitors can register online, and early tickets start selling at around $20. Prices can increase up to $120 for late tickets, so get in soon!
The exposition is one of the major annual events held at the Kentucky Exposition Center, located near Louisville International Airport. Though it may not be as large as some other American trade show venues, the Kentucky Exhibition Center still boasts a respectable 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space.
What Is The Equip Expo All About?
Formerly the GIE+Expo, the Equip Exposition is the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s premier trade show. It adopted its current name after a 2021 rebrand and continues to grow as an important destination for outdoor equipment trade professionals.
Fast Facts
- Equip Exposition won The Greatest Trade Show of 2024 award at the Trade Show Executive’s Gold 100 Awards and Summit.
- Nearly 30,000 people attended the 2025 Equip Expo.
- Attendees from all 50 states and 52 countries attended in 2025.
- It’s one of the ten largest trade shows in America based on Net Square Footage (NSF).
- Exhibit space at Equip Expo has sold out annually since 2022.
What To Wear To Equip Expo
Business casual is usually what you should wear to trade shows like Equip Expo, but the additional outdoor exhibits and features complicate this a bit. You can wear more casual clothes to the Equip Expo if you’d like to take part in one of the outdoor activities.
What Can You Expect From Equip Exposition?
The Equip Expo is a dual indoor/outdoor show with plenty of growth potential. On the business side of things, you’ll hardly find a better market for the latest and greatest products from the outdoor equipment sector.
Meanwhile, as a new attendee, you’ll gain access to the show’s incredible education program.
Who Attends?
Major attendees include:
- Landscapers
- Dealers
- Retailers
- Hardscapers
- Manufacturers
And the best part? Most of them have buying influence, meaning you’re likely to have more product sales as an exhibitor.
Outdoor Demo Yard
The beloved outdoor demo yard is the Equip Expo’s dedicated 30-acre area where new equipment is tested. As a core component of the event for over 30 years, it’s highly regarded by returning attendees.
Opening times for the outdoor yard were extended back in 2022, so there’s no excuse not to have a look around!
The Morning Show Podcasts
Visitors and exhibitors can enjoy three live podcasts held on stage, followed by an open audience Q&A session. Keep an eye out for special podcast guests.
Education Program
From tree planting to landscaping techniques and chemical application safety, Equip Expo has seminars galore. You can browse and register for the different presentations via the show’s website.
Combine these with a few keynote talks for an education-packed experience.
UTV Driving Test Track
Attendees 16 and older can put the latest utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) through their paces at this special outdoor driving course.
Get A Booth That Works For You At The Equip Expo
With indoor and outdoor areas, deciding what kind of booth you’ll need for the Equip Expo can be a challenge. With both modular build-ups and custom showpieces available, you’ll need to choose a design that works for you.
That’s where we come in. As trade show booth builders, we’d be proud to join you in Kentucky and design you a booth that really draws a crowd!
Where is Equip expo 2026 held?
Equip Expo 2026 will be held at the Kentucky Exhibition Center.
How big is Equip expo?
Equip expo welcomes over 30,000 visitors annually and is held over 1.2 million square feet at the Kentucky Expo Center.
What industries does Equip expo cover?
Equip expo covers the outdoor power equipment, outdoor living, and home improvement industries.
Who owns Equip expo?
Equip Expo is owned by Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI).
What should I wear to equip expo?
Business casual is the ideal dress for the Equip Expo, although more casual attire will be better suited for those taking part in the outdoor activities.
