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    Equip Exposition 2026

    Equip Exposition 2026 is the premier North American trade show for outdoor power equipment, landscape, and light construction industries, held October 20–23 in Louisville, Kentucky. The event features more than 1,100 exhibits across 1.3 million square feet, a 30-acre hands-on Outdoor Demo Yard, and co-location with Hardscape North America.

    LandscapeOutdoor Power EquipmentHardscapingOutdoor Living

    Dates

    20–23 Oct 2026

    Venue

    Kentucky Exposition Center

    Time

    Wednesday, Oct 21: Indoor Trade Show Dealer & Media Preview 9:00 AM.–12:00 PM · All Attendees 12–5:00 PM · Outdoor Demo 12–5:00 PM · Thursday, Oct 22: Indoor 9:00 AM.–5:00 PM · Outdoor 9:00 AM.–5:00 PM · Friday, Oct 23: Indoor 9:00 AM.–2:00 PM · Outdoor 9:00 AM.–1:00 PM

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    Matched booths for Equip Exposition 2026

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    Notable exhibitors

    Companies exhibiting at Equip Exposition 2026 include 1 Man 1 Mower Landscaping, A&D Equipment Inc, A-i Power, A. M. Leonard, Inc. and Abbott Rubber Company Inc.

    • 1 Man 1 Mower Landscaping
    • A&D Equipment Inc
    • A-i Power
    • A. M. Leonard, Inc.
    • Abbott Rubber Company Inc.

    Event overview

    Overview

    Equip Exposition is the international landscape, outdoor living, and equipment exposition held annually in Louisville, Kentucky. The 2026 edition runs October 20–23 at the Kentucky Exposition Center.

    Owned and managed by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) and co-located with Hardscape North America, the show spans over 1. 3 million square feet of exhibits and a 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard.

    It is one of the top three largest trade shows in the United States, drawing contractors, dealers, landscape professionals, arborists, and manufacturers.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Equip Exposition 2026 runs October 20–23 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
    2. 2The show features more than 1.3 million square feet of exhibits and a 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard for hands-on equipment testing.
    3. 3It is co-located with Hardscape North America and owned and managed by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI).
    4. 4New for 2026: an expanded Tree Care Arena in Freedom Hall, a closing Paristown Block Party, and keynote speaker Mike Holmes.
    5. 5Exhibit space has sold out for the fifth consecutive year; early-bird registration starts at $30 through September 10.

    Why visit

    Attendees can compare every major brand side-by-side in one place, test equipment hands-on in the 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard, and attend practical education sessions through Equip Academy. The show offers networking with tens of thousands of industry peers, product launches from top manufacturers, and new 2026 experiences including an expanded Tree Care Arena, a Drone Zone, and a closing Paristown Block Party. Registration includes access to most featured events, two concerts, and free parking.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibitors gain direct access to thousands of decision-makers including contractors, dealers, landscape professionals, and manufacturers. Exhibit space has sold out for five consecutive years, with 1,100+ exhibits across 1.3 million square feet indoors and a 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard for live equipment demonstrations. Co-location with Hardscape North America expands reach. OPEI member and nonmember rates are available, and the 2026 Exhibitor Prospectus covers full details.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Landscape contractors and lawn care professionals
    Outdoor power equipment dealers and retailers
    Hardscape contractors and designers
    Arborists and tree care professionals
    Landscape architects and designers
    Distributors and rental companies
    Municipal and institutional grounds managers

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Equipment manufacturers (mowers, compact equipment, skid steers, UTVs, robotics)
    Outdoor power equipment brands and suppliers
    Landscape software and technology providers
    Irrigation, lighting, and hardscape suppliers
    Battery and power system manufacturers
    Trailer and attachment manufacturers

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Mowers and turf equipment
    Compact construction equipment (skid steers, mini excavators)
    Outdoor power equipment (trimmers, blowers, chainsaws)
    Battery and electric power systems
    Irrigation and water management systems
    Landscape lighting
    Hardscape materials and installation tools
    Drones and GIS mapping technology
    Business software and fleet management
    UTVs and utility vehicles
    Tree care equipment and safety gear
    Trailers and attachments

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Kentucky Exposition Center

    Entrances & gates

    Gate 2

    Crittenden Drive entrance; recommended for faster access.

    Gate 4

    Crittenden Drive entrance; recommended for faster access.

    Gate 6

    Preston Highway entrance; recommended for faster access.

    Facilities

    Parking

    Free parking at the Kentucky Exposition Center around show hours. Parking is included with your badge. More than 19,000 parking spaces available. No overnight parking. Park only in designated locations or areas directed by KEC staff; vehicles parked inappropriately will be towed or ticketed. Enter via Gate 1 (Main Gate), Gates 2 or 4 on Crittenden Drive, or Gate 6 on Preston Highway.

    19,000 spaces ·

    Accessibility

    The Kentucky Exposition Center is wheelchair accessible and accommodating to patrons with limited mobility or who are blind, visually impaired, deaf, or hard of hearing. There are 306 ADA-compliant parking spaces located within the various parking lots at the Kentucky Exposition Center. All public restrooms are accessible according to Federal ADA requirements. All perimeter public access points have an ADA door. Accessible parking spaces are available in lots directly adjacent to KEC buildings; vehicles must display a temporary hang tag or permanent accessible license plate. Elevators and ramps are available throughout the facility. ASL interpreters may be available for select events with advance notice. For assistance, contact 502

    Cloakroom

    Bag check and coat check are available in Hallway B at the Kentucky Exposition Center during show hours. This is convenient for attendees who need to store items while visiting the Outdoor Demo Yard or attending evening events.

    Food options

    Main Indoor Food Courts, Tented Outdoor Food Court, North Wing Food Court

    On-site dining

    Parking: Free parking for Equip attendees. Enter Gates 2, 4, or 6 for faster access. No overnight parking. All access gates close at 11:00pm EST.

    Gate: Main gate is Gate 1; faster access via Gates 2 & 4 on Crittenden Drive or Gate 6 on Preston Highway.

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    Wednesday, Oct 21Indoor Trade Show Dealer & Media Preview 9:00 AM.–12:00 PM
    Event daysAll Attendees 12–5:00 PM
    Event daysOutdoor Demo 12–5:00 PM
    Thursday, Oct 22Indoor 9:00 AM.–5:00 PM
    Outdoor9:00 AM.–5:00 PM
    Friday, Oct 23Indoor 9:00 AM.–2:00 PM
    Outdoor9:00 AM.–1:00 PM
    • Super Early Rate

      Available through May 31, 2026.

      $25.00
    • Early Bird Rate

      Available June 1 through September 10, 2026.

      $30.00
    • Advance Rate

      Available September 11 through October 19, 2026.

      $60.00
    • Standard Onsite Rate

      Available show week, October 20 through 23, 2026.

      $120.00
    Register

    Ticket info

    Badge collection

    Badge pickup is available at four locations: North Wing, South Wing B, West Wing Lobby, and West Wing Pavilion. Express pickup lines and self-serve kiosks are available for pre-registered attendees. Everyone must sign for their own badge at pickup; lost badges incur a $30 reprint fee and require a matching ID. Badges are also available for pickup at the Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs, select Louisville hotels, and the airport starting Tuesday. Registrations are not processed by phone; register online or onsite in the North Wing.

    Ticket notes

    A single badge is a 3-day pass covering both Equip Exposition and Hardscape North America. There are no one-day passes. The pass includes the show floor, most featured events (Welcome Reception, Keynote, 4th Street Live! concert, and more), and free parking at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Show floor and demo areas are open to ages 12+ with no exceptions; demo driving requires age 16+ with a valid driver's license. Some add-ons (the 5K Fun Run, Dealer Breakfast, and paid education sessions) cost extra and are shown during registration. Registration is open now through the close of the show on October 23, 2026.

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Kris Kiser

    President & CEO, OPEI

    What's on

    Programme

    1

    Closing Party

    1

    Concert

    4

    Event days

    06:30–22:00

    Typical time

    Official agenda Updated Thursday, Sep 24, 2026
    This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

    Speakers

    MH

    Mike Holmes

    HGTV Star and Veteran Contractor @ Holmes Family Rescue

    Keynote Address: Raising Standards and Demanding Quality

    SP

    Susan Packard

    Media Entrepreneur @ Co-creator of HGTV, CNBC, and Food Network

    Women's Leadership Reception Keynote

    JG

    Judith Guido

    Green Industry Executive @ Former CEO, one of the highest-ranking women in the green industry

    Women's Leadership Reception Keynote

    PJ

    Paul Jamison

    Host @ Green Industry Podcast

    The Morning Show at Expo

    NT

    Naylor Taliaferro

    Host @ LCR Media Podcast

    The Morning Show at Expo

    CA

    Caleb Auman

    Host @ Kid Contractor Podcast

    The Morning Show at Expo

    BF

    Brian Fullerton

    Owner and Host @ Fullerton Unfiltered Podcast and Brian's Lawn Maintenance

    ENERGIZE: Sales, Marketing, and Winning in Landscape Contracting

    KB

    Kevin Battistoni

    Irrigation Expert @ Hunter Industries, Inc.

    Unlocking Profits: How to Break Into the Irrigation Business

    SS

    Shawn Sandink

    CIC, CLIA, CID @ SiteOne Landscape Supply

    Inside the System: A Deep Dive into the Anatomy of Irrigation

    RH

    Rick Hall

    CIC, CID, CLIA @ K-Rain Manufacturing Corp.

    Irrigation Repair Made Easy: Fundamentals Every Contractor Should Know

    Tuesday, Oct 20, 2026

    18:30 – 21:00

    Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs

    Networking Reception
    Churchill Downs

    Wednesday, Oct 21, 2026

    06:30 – 08:00

    Mulligan's 5K Fun Run & Walk

    Fun Run
    Big Four Pedestrian Bridge
    07:30 – 09:00

    Dealer Networking Breakfast

    Networking Breakfast
    Kentucky Exposition Center
    11:00 – 12:00

    Opening Keynote Address: Mike Holmes

    Keynote
    Equip Stage
    19:30 – 22:00

    4th Street Live! Concert

    Concert
    4th Street Live!

    Thursday, Oct 22, 2026

    08:00 – 09:30

    The Morning Show at Expo

    Live Podcast
    Equip Stage
    09:30 – 10:30

    Unlocking Profits: How to Break Into the Irrigation Business

    Education Session
    11:00 – 12:00

    Inside the System: A Deep Dive into the Anatomy of Irrigation

    Education Session
    12:30 – 13:30

    Irrigation Repair Made Easy: Fundamentals Every Contractor Should Know

    Education Session
    14:00 – 15:00

    ENERGIZE

    Panel
    Equip Stage
    15:30 – 16:30

    Water Like a Pro: Irrigation Scheduling Strategies for Maximum Efficiency

    Education Session
    16:00 – 18:00

    Women's Leadership Reception

    Reception
    Kentucky Exposition Center
    18:30 – 22:00

    Paristown Block Party & Concert

    Closing Party
    Old Forester's Paristown Hall

    Friday, Oct 23, 2026

    08:00 – 09:00

    Power Up Your Skills: Electrical Troubleshooting for Irrigation Pros

    Education Session
    09:30 – 10:30

    Mastering Irrigation Controllers: The Key to Efficiency & Profitability

    Education Session

    Topic tracks

    Hiring and RetentionTop 150 StrategyNew Business OpportunitiesCEO/Leadership for Landscapers & ContractorsWomen's LeadershipGrowth ModeSnow Removal AmpedIrrigationTaught in Spanish

    Co-located events

    Hardscape North America 2026

    Separate ticket

    Co-located seminars

    Hardscape North America Education Sessions

    Paid

    Awards

    Trade Show Executive's Gold 100 Grand Awards

    Annual

    Equip Exposition was named a finalist in three categories for Trade Show Executive's Gold 100 Grand Awards: The Marketing Genius Award, The Best Attendee Acquisition Model, and The Stickiest Show Floor in 2025.

    The Marketing Genius AwardThe Best Attendee Acquisition ModelThe Stickiest Show Floor in 2025
    source

    Sponsors

    Caterpillar Inc.

    Kress

    Belgard

    SiteOne

    Hunter FX/Luminaire

    Rehlko

    Exmark

    BOSS Snowplow

    Gravely

    CASE Construction Equipment

    STIHL Inc.

    Propane Education & Research Council

    Active Dynamics

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2026 · 28,500 visitors · 1,100 exhibitors

    Edition number is the fifth year under the Equip Exposition name (the 2025 organiser release calls 2025 the fourth). Exhibit space sold out for a fifth consecutive year as of June 2, 2026, at about 1.2 million sq. ft. including the Outdoor Demo Yard (about 111,484 sq. m). The 1,100 exhibitor and 28,500 visitor figures come from the existing forecast seed and were not confirmed on a page reviewed here. The 28,500 figure equals the 2024 actual registrant count, so treat it as unverified.

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    30,000

    Floor area (sqm)

    111,484

    Visitor countries

    52

    Growth over time

    Edition recap

    2025 edition (October 21 to 24, Louisville): the organiser reported record attendance of nearly 30,000 registered attendees from all 50 states and 52 countries, with landscaper attendance up 12% and dealer attendance up 17%. The show sold out for a fourth consecutive year with more than 1.2 million sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor exhibit space. Highlights included a keynote by Jesse Cole, a Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs, and the new Equip Creator Space.

    New this edition

    • 1

      Expanded Tree Care Arena (2026)

      The 2026 Tree Care Arena in Freedom Hall adds interactive hands-on stations and mini-tours alongside tree care technique demonstrations on a 50-foot live tree.

      Source
    • 2

      Custom small-batch bourbon (2026)

      The 2026 show again features a custom small-batch bourbon to be named by a show attendee.

      Source

    Testimonials

    Now in our fourth year as Equip, we continue to break records in both attendance and exhibit space.

    Kris Kiser · President and CEO, OPEI (organiser statement, not an exhibitor or attendee testimonial) · Outdoor Power Equipment Institute · 2025

    Next edition outlook

    2026-10-20 – 2026-10-23
    high

    Equip Exposition 2026 is scheduled for October 20-23, 2026 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville. The show has sold out its exhibit space for the fifth consecutive year. The Kentucky Exposition Center is undergoing a $400 million expansion, and OPEI has announced a two-city rotation beginning in 2029, with the show moving to the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, October 10-12, 2029, and continuing in Orlando in 2031 and 2033. Louisville will host the show in 2028, 2030, and 2032.

    Equip Academy introduced as a new all-access education package ($170) Dealer Boot Camp workshop added on Tuesday, October 20 Paristown Block Party closing event added on Thursday, October 22 Dealer Breakfast returns Wednesday morning, sponsored by STIHL Inc. Expanded Tree Care Arena at Freedom Hall with 50-foot tree demos Custom small-batch bourbon to be named by a show attendee Two-city rotation beginning in 2029 with Orlando, Florida

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    Equip Exposition is the largest trade show in North America for the outdoor power equipment, landscape, and light construction industries, owned and managed by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). The 2025 edition drew nearly 30,000 registered attendees from all 50 states and 52 countries, with double-digit growth among landscapers (12%) and dealers (17%), and featured more than 1.2 million square feet of indoor and outdoor exhibit space. The show was named the third-largest trade show in the United States and received the 'Greatest Trade Show of 2024' award from Trade Show Executive magazine. Since OPEI assumed full ownership and management in 2022, the event has achieved record attendance and sold-out exhibit space every year. Along with its co-location partner Hardscape North America, the show brings more than $30 million annually to Louisville.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    Equip Exposition attracts a highly qualified audience of decision-makers and buyers from across the outdoor power equipment, landscape, and light construction industries. In 2025, attendance came from all 50 U.S. states and 52 countries, with landscaper attendance growing 12% and dealer attendance growing 17% year over year. The show's education programming includes sessions in both English and Spanish, with partners including Landscape Management magazine, the Irrigation Association, the International Society of Arboriculture, the Davey Institute, Texas A&M University, and many others. Exhibitor feedback has consistently noted the quality and quantity of conversations with attendees, with most companies reporting higher-quality interactions year over year.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Equip Exposition has sold out exhibit space for five consecutive years, with the 2026 edition's last booth selling in May 2026. The show offers more than 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space, including the 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard where attendees test equipment hands-on, and the show floor features thousands of products and services that help dealers expand and better their business. The event brings more than $30 million annually to Louisville along with its co-location partner Hardscape North America. Exhibitors report strong return on investment, with the show serving as the most important annual gathering for the global outdoor power equipment and landscape industry.

    Intelligence

    Exhibitors

    931

    Exhibitors

    20

    Categories

    14

    Countries

    14

    Pavilions

    Top exhibitor countries

    Top 10 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.

    • United States
      792
    • China
      76
    • Canada
      36
    • India
      6
    • Italy
      6
    • Hong Kong
      5
    • Turkey
      2
    • Japan
      2
    • Taiwan
      1
    • Switzerland
      1

    ~85% of listed exhibitors are from United States.

    Category breakdown

    1~252
    estimate
    2~176
    estimate
    3~114
    estimate
    4~83
    estimate
    5~42
    estimate
    6~39
    estimate
    7~36
    estimate
    8~36
    estimate
    9~34
    estimate
    10~19
    estimate
    11~18
    estimate
    12~16
    estimate
    13~14
    estimate
    14~14
    estimate
    15~12
    estimate

    National pavilions

    United States

    ~792 stands
    estimate

    China

    ~76 stands
    estimate

    Canada

    ~36 stands
    estimate

    India

    ~6 stands
    estimate

    Italy

    ~6 stands
    estimate

    Hong Kong

    ~5 stands
    estimate

    Turkey

    ~2 stands
    estimate

    Japan

    ~2 stands
    estimate

    Taiwan

    ~1 stands
    estimate

    Switzerland

    ~1 stands
    estimate

    France

    ~1 stands
    estimate

    United Kingdom

    ~1 stands
    estimate

    Finland

    ~1 stands
    estimate

    Colombia

    ~1 stands
    estimate

    Buyer targets

    High priority

    Buyers sourcing

    Other Outdoor Power Equipment & Landscaping Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    General Landscaping & Grounds Maintenance Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Outdoor Power Equipment & Landscaping Suppliers (profile Pending)

    Buyers sourcing

    Hardscape, Pavers & Outdoor Living Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Irrigation, Pumps & Water Management Suppliers

    Medium priority

    Buyers sourcing

    Green Industry Software, Fleet & Business Management Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Wholesale Distribution & Manufacturer Representative Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Commercial Mowing, Turf & Grounds Equipment Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Tree Care, Arbor & Forestry Equipment Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    Wear Parts, Blades & Aftermarket Components Suppliers

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    North America

    Why it matters

    Equip Exposition is the single most important commercial platform for the North American outdoor power equipment, landscape, and light construction industries. With exhibit space sold out for five consecutive years and a 2026 sellout achieved in May — the earliest in show history — the event has become the definitive launchpad for new products and technologies. The show attracted nearly 30,000 registered attendees in 2025, including landscapers, dealers, contractors, hardscape professionals, and equipment manufacturers from all 50 U.S. states and 52 countries. The co-location with Hardscape North America creates a combined footprint that covers the full spectrum of outdoor living and landscape construction. The market itself is undergoing structural change: battery electrification, autonomous mowing, and connected fleet management are reshaping product design and channel priorities. Equipment manufacturers use Equip to debut commercial-grade electric platforms, robotic mowers, and IoT-enabled fleet solutions. For exhibitors, the show delivers access to qualified buyers who are actively re-evaluating their equipment portfolios in response to regulatory pressure, labor shortages, and sustainability mandates. For attendees, it is the only venue where they can test equipment in real dirt on a 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard and compare platforms side-by-side. The 2029 Orlando rotation signals the show's ambition to expand its national footprint while maintaining Louisville as a core host city.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Battery Electrification of Commercial Equipment

    Battery-powered platforms are moving from residential to professional-grade applications, with manufacturers launching all-battery commercial ecosystems capable of all-day runtime. Greenworks Commercial expanded its Optimus Crew lineup for 2026 with the AiMowBot robotic mower, advanced CORE battery systems, and next-generation ZTR mowers delivering up to 36 kWh capacity and 8-hour runtime, while Honda began U.S. production of its first battery-powered zero-turn mowers in February 2026. STIHL and Kärcher formed the ALLPRO battery platform alliance in July 2026, aiming to create a unified high-performance battery standard for professional users across forestry, landscaping, and construction.

    Source
    02

    Autonomous and Robotic Mowing Systems

    Robotic and semi-autonomous mowing is shifting from novelty to commercial reality. Greenworks Commercial's AiMowBot uses RTK and vision technology to map multiple cutting zones and operate autonomously with minimal human intervention. Mitie rolled out 24 AI-powered Kress Voyager 'mowbots' across UK customer sites in June 2026, marking one of the first large-scale deployments in the sector. These systems reduce labor dependency, lower operational costs, and address the chronic labor shortage facing landscape contractors.

    Source
    03

    Regulatory Pressure Driving Zero-Emission Adoption

    Municipal noise ordinances and emissions regulations for small off-road engines are accelerating the shift to electric equipment. Battery-powered lawn and garden equipment is gaining traction because it reduces local exhaust emissions, lowers noise, and supports use in noise-sensitive environments such as residential neighborhoods, schools, hospitals, and parks. Professional users are increasingly factoring noise compliance and emissions restrictions into procurement decisions, with some jurisdictions restricting gasoline engine use altogether.

    Source
    04

    Connected Fleet Management and IoT Integration

    Digital controls, telematics, and software-based fleet management are redefining how commercial equipment is purchased, operated, and maintained. Professional users are adopting connected fleet tools to monitor utilization, battery health, maintenance schedules, location, and operator productivity. Equipment manufacturers are embedding IoT-enabled diagnostics and predictive maintenance capabilities that analyze vibration, temperature, and runtime data to reduce downtime and optimize lifecycle costs.

    Source
    05

    Market Growth Driven by Commercial Landscaping Demand

    The global outdoor power equipment market grew from USD 39.53 billion in 2025 to an estimated USD 41.65 billion in 2026, with forecasts reaching USD 57.91 billion by 2032 at a 5.60% CAGR. Growth is driven by increasing commercial landscaping investments, rising demand for autonomous mowing systems, expansion of smart landscaping solutions, and the development of lightweight high-efficiency motors. The construction industry's expansion also drives demand for outdoor power equipment used in site clearing and grounds maintenance.

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    Equip Exposition Sells Out Exhibit Space for Fifth Consecutive Year

    Read

    Equip Exposition Announces Two-City Rotation Starting in 2029

    Read

    Honda Begins U.S. Production of Battery-Powered Zero-Turn Mowers

    Read

    STIHL and Kärcher Form ALLPRO Battery Platform Alliance

    Read

    Mitie Deploys 24 AI-Powered Robot Mowers Across UK Sites

    Read

    Equip Exposition Nominated in Three Gold 100 Award Categories

    Read

    Similar landscape, outdoor power equipment, and hardscape events circuit

    Next 12-18 months (October 2026 through March 2028)

    The landscape and outdoor power equipment trade show circuit spans North America and Europe, with Equip Exposition and Hardscape North America serving as the anchor events in Louisville each October. For exhibitors and buyers planning a 12-18 month circuit, the calendar clusters around three primary windows: late October (Louisville for Equip/HNA), late January-February (North American regional events and European winter shows), and mid-year (European summer shows and North American regional events). Equip's 2029 move to Orlando introduces a new Southeast U.S. destination to the rotation, while Louisville remains a biennial host from 2030 onward. European events such as spoga+gafa and Paysalia provide complementary access to the EMEA market, while. The Landscape Show in Orlando and ELEVATE serve the North American regional audience. Exhibitors should note that HNA 2027 is scheduled for October 19-22 in Louisville, preceding the show's rotation to Orlando in 2029.

    19–21 Aug 2026

    The Landscape Show 2026

    Orlando, United States

    Held at the Orange County Convention Center, the same venue that will host Equip Exposition beginning in 2029. Future dates: August 18-20, 2027.

    website
    20–23 Oct 2026

    Equip Exposition 2026

    Louisville, United States

    Co-located with Hardscape North America. Exhibit space sold out in May 2026. 1.2 million sq ft of exhibits plus 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard.

    website
    21–23 Oct 2026

    Hardscape North America 2026

    Louisville, United States

    One badge grants access to both Equip and HNA. HNA features 220+ exhibitors and 30+ education sessions.

    website
    8–11 Nov 2026

    ELEVATE 2026

    Los Angeles, United States

    Focused on landscape business education and professional development. Future dates: November 7-10, 2027.

    website
    24–26 Feb 2027

    Myplant & Garden 2027

    Milan, Italy

    11th edition. Also hosts Myplant & Garden Middle East in Dubai, scheduled for October 21-23, 2026.

    website
    15–17 Jun 2027

    spoga+gafa 2027

    Cologne, Germany

    Held biennially in Cologne. Covers garden equipment, outdoor living, and landscaping. Future editions: September 2028 and September 2029.

    website
    19–22 Oct 2027

    Hardscape North America 2027

    Louisville, United States

    Dates confirmed by multiple trade show directories. Equip 2027 will be held in Louisville, with the two-city rotation beginning in 2029.

    website
    30 Nov – 2 Dec 2027

    Paysalia 2027

    Lyon, France

    Held at Eurexpo Lyon. Co-located with Rocalia, the French natural stone trade show.

    website

    Late October 2026 — Louisville Anchor Window

    Equip Exposition 2026Hardscape North America 2026Myplant & Garden Middle East 2026

    Equip and HNA co-located in Louisville, October 20-23. Myplant & Garden Middle East held in Dubai October 21-23, overlapping with the Louisville shows.

    November 2026 — North American Regional

    ELEVATE 2026

    ELEVATE held in Los Angeles November 8-11, focused on landscape business education and professional development.

    February 2027 — European Winter Window

    Myplant & Garden 2027

    Milan, February 24-26. 11th edition of the leading European horticulture and landscape trade show.

    June 2027 — European Summer Window

    Spoga+gafa 2027

    Cologne, June 15-17. World's leading garden and BBQ trade fair, held biennially.

    August 2027 — North American Regional

    The Landscape Show 2027

    Orlando, August 18-20. Premier nursery and landscape trade show in the Southeast U.S., held at the Orange County Convention Center.

    October 2027 — Louisville Return

    Equip Exposition 2027Hardscape North America 2027

    Equip and HNA return to Louisville October 19-22, 2027. This is the final Louisville edition before the two-city rotation begins in 2029.

    November-December 2027 — European Winter Window

    Paysalia 2027

    Lyon, November 30-December 2. Premier European trade show for landscaping professionals, co-located with Rocalia natural stone show.

    Event dates sourced from official event websites, OPEI press releases, and trade show directory listings. Equip Exposition and HNA dates confirmed by organizer OPEI. The Landscape Show and ELEVATE dates sourced from official show websites and trade show directories. spoga+gafa and Myplant & Garden dates sourced from official organizer websites. Paysalia dates from official show website. The two-city rotation starting in 2029 is confirmed by an official OPEI press release dated February 4, 2026. HNA 2027 dates (October 19-22) are listed on multiple trade show directories; organizers have not yet published an official 2027 call for the Louisville event as of September 2026.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    SDF

    Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport

    Primary airport for Louisville. Located directly across from the Kentucky Exposition Center. Offers nearly 40 non-stop destinations and about 76 daily departures. Ride-share (Uber/Lyft) pickup on the west side of baggage claim; taxis available at the commercial curb.

    1.4 miles (2.3 km)

    to venue

    4-5 minutes

    by car

    LOU

    Bowman Field

    General aviation and corporate airport, Louisville's original hometown airport established in 1919. Serves as a reliever airport for SDF. Not suitable for commercial airline arrivals.

    3.5 miles (5.6 km)

    to venue

    8-10 minutes

    by car

    CVG

    Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport

    Alternative major airport approximately 100 miles north of Louisville via I-71. Useful for international arrivals with more flight options; requires ground transportation or a connecting flight to Louisville.

    100 miles (161 km)

    to venue

    1 hour 40 minutes

    by car

    IND

    Indianapolis International Airport

    Alternative major airport approximately 115 miles north of Louisville via I-65. Offers additional flight options for attendees driving to the event.

    115 miles (185 km)

    to venue

    1 hour 50 minutes

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    budget
    Airport area / South Louisville

    USD 85–150 / night

    Hotels near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) and along Phillips Lane. The airport is only 0.2 miles from the Kentucky Exposition Center, making this the most convenient budget option. Estimated rates based on 2026 market data.

    mid range
    Downtown Louisville (4th Street / Whiskey Row)

    USD 150–250 / night

    Hotels on or near the complimentary Equip Exposition shuttle route, including Moxy Louisville Downtown, Aloft Louisville Downtown, and Tempo by Hilton NuLu. Rates are estimates from 2026 booking platforms.

    premium
    Downtown Louisville (Jefferson Street corridor)

    USD 250–400 / night

    Full-service and upscale properties including Louisville Marriott Downtown, Omni Louisville Hotel, and Hyatt Regency Louisville. The Hyatt Regency is the HNA 2026 headquarter hotel with a group rate of $240 single / $250 double occupancy (2-night minimum).

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Complimentary Equip Exposition Shuttle

    Estimated costFree
    Best forSelect Louisville hotels to Kentucky Exposition Center

    Complimentary shuttle service runs between select Louisville hotels and the Kentucky Exposition Center on the show's official shuttle routes. Route details and times are posted on the Equip Expo shuttle routes page. Routes 1-7 serve the Welcome Reception and Paristown Block Party. Route 8 (Airport Shuttle) operates Friday only, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., outside the North Wing.

    Ride-hail (Uber/Lyft)

    Estimated cost$10–$35
    Best forLouisville Airport (SDF) or downtown hotels to Kentucky Exposition Center

    The Kentucky Exposition Center is adjacent to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), only about 2 km away (5–10 minutes by rideshare). Rideshare drop-off and pickup is adjacent to the North Wing Skywalk. Rates vary by origin and demand.

    Taxi

    Estimated cost$8–$13
    Best forLouisville Airport (SDF) to Kentucky Exposition Center

    A flat rate of $8 applies for taxi fares between the Kentucky Exposition Center and Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) with no intermediate stops. A flat rate of $20 applies between the Exposition Center and downtown Louisville.

    TARC Public Bus

    Estimated cost$2–$4
    Best forDowntown Louisville to Kentucky Exposition Center

    TARC (Transit Authority of River City) buses serve the Kentucky Exposition Center area and connect to downtown Louisville. Line 28 is the most direct route. Travel time is approximately 48 minutes from downtown.

    Personal Vehicle

    Estimated costFree parking
    Best forI-65 and I-264 to Kentucky Exposition Center (937 Phillips Lane)

    Parking is free for Equip Exposition attendees at the Kentucky Exposition Center during show hours; parking is included with your badge. No overnight parking. The venue has over 19,000 parking spaces. Main gate is Gate 1; faster access via Gates 2 & 4 on Crittenden Drive or Gate 6 on Preston Highway.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    B-1 Business Visitor VisaCitizens of countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) who are traveling to the U.S. for business purposes such as attending trade shows, conferences, or meetings. This includes citizens of India, China, Brazil, and most other non-VWP countries.$185.00Varies significantly by consulate; wait times for interview appointments can range from a few weeks to 12+ months depending on the country and time of year. For example, in India, wait times in 2026 ranged from approximately 4 months (Kolkata) to 9.5 months (Mumbai/Hyderabad).
    ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)Citizens of the 42 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Chile, Israel, and most EU countries. Travelers must have a valid passport and apply for ESTA authorization before travel.$40.27Typically approved within 72 hours, but applicants are advised to apply at least 72 hours before travel. ESTA is generally valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

    Citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Program countries do not require a visa for business travel to the U.S. for stays of up to 90 days, but must obtain ESTA authorization before travel. The full list includes: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. Citizens of all other countries must apply for a B-1 visa.

    The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary duty-free importation of commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods intended for use at trade shows and exhibitions. Equip Exposition exhibitors bringing equipment from abroad can use an ATA Carnet to avoid duties and taxes on items that will be re-exported. The U.S. currently accepts paper ATA Carnets; the transition to digital eATA Carnets in the U.S. is planned for the second half of 2026, subject to final readiness. Samples intended to be consumed or given away at the show are not covered under an ATA Carnet. The ATA Carnet is valid for one year and allows unlimited entries and exits. USCIB is the U.S. guaranteeing association for ATA Carnets.

    Official visa page

    Weather

    Late October in Louisville features mild autumn weather. Average high temperatures are around 70°F (21°C) and average lows around 50°F (10°C). October is a moderately wet month with approximately 3.72 inches (94 mm) of rainfall. Conditions can vary; layered clothing and a light waterproof jacket are recommended. The Outdoor Demo Yard is a major part of the show, so attendees should be prepared for both indoor and outdoor conditions.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    The Kentucky Exposition Center is located at 937 Phillips Lane, Louisville, KY 40209, at the junction of Interstate 65 and Interstate 264, making it easily accessible by car from any direction. The venue is adjacent to Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), just 1.4 miles away (about a 4-5 minute drive). Downtown Louisville is approximately 10 minutes away. Ride-share services (Uber, Lyft) and taxis are widely available. TARC (Transit Authority of River City) buses serve the KEC area and connect to downtown hotels and neighborhoods. The venue has more than 19,000 parking spaces and parking is free for Equip Exposition attendees with their badge. Major access gates are Gate 1 (Main Gate), Gates 2 and 4 on Crittenden Drive (recommended for faster access), and Gate 6 on Preston Highway.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Bourbon Heritage

    Louisville is situated on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, with more than 10 distilleries in the metro area. Bourbon is a point of local pride and a common social topic. The Equip Exposition has its own custom small-batch bourbon, and bourbon tastings are a popular networking activity.

    Horse Racing Culture

    Louisville is home to Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby. The city has a deep horse racing tradition, and the Kentucky Derby Museum is a major attraction. The 2026 Welcome Reception will be held at Churchill Downs, offering attendees a chance to experience this iconic venue.

    'Keep Louisville Weird'

    Louisville has a strong independent business culture, captured by the local slogan 'Keep Louisville Weird.' The city is known for its unique local restaurants, craft breweries, and neighborhood districts such as NuLu and Highlands. Supporting local businesses is appreciated by residents.

    Business Etiquette

    Business interactions in Louisville follow standard U.S. professional norms. A firm handshake, punctuality, and direct but polite communication are expected. Casual attire is common in the outdoor power equipment and landscaping industries. Many attendees wear jeans and work boots to the trade show floor.

    Southern Hospitality

    Louisville blends Midwestern practicality with Southern hospitality. Locals are generally friendly and approachable. 'Please,' 'thank you,' and a friendly demeanor go a long way in both business and social settings. Small talk about local food, bourbon, or the weather is common.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: SDF

    Book flights early as Louisville hotel rooms and flights sell out during Equip Exposition. SDF offers nearly 40 non-stop destinations. Major airlines serving SDF include American, Delta, Southwest, and United. The airport is 1.4 miles from the Kentucky Exposition Center (about a 4-5 minute drive). Ride-share (Uber/Lyft) is available from the west side of baggage claim; taxis are available at the commercial curb.

    Visa

    Entry requirements depend on nationality. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries can travel for business for up to 90 days with ESTA authorization and no visa. Citizens of all other countries require a B-1 business visitor visa. Equip Exposition provides a visa invitation letter as a link in the registration confirmation email after registration is approved; this letter can support the visa application.

    Processing: Highly variable by country and consulate. Advance planning of 3-12 months is recommended for B-1 visa applicants. ESTA is typically approved within 72 hours.

    The B-1 visa MRV fee is $185. An optional $750 expedited interview fee is available July 1–December 31, 2026, at select consular posts for interviews within 10 business days. ATA Carnets are accepted for temporary equipment imports. Equip Exposition issues visa invitation letters via the registration confirmation email.

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Areas to stay

    Downtown Louisville (4th Street / Whiskey Row / Jefferson Street) · Airport area / South Louisville (Phillips Lane corridor) · NuLu / East Market District

    budget

    $85–$150 per night

    mid range

    $150–$250 per night

    premium

    $250–$400 per night

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: 1.4 miles (2.3 km) — 4-5 minutes — Primary airport for Louisville. Located directly across from the Kentucky Exposition Center. Offers nearly 40 non-stop destinations and about 76 daily departures. Ride-share (Uber/Lyft) pickup on the west side of baggage claim; taxis available at the commercial curb.

    Hotel → venue: Downtown Atlanta and convention-center hotels are typically within walking distance or a short ride-hail/MARTA trip to the venue.

    Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Louisville. Rideshare drop-off and pickup at the Kentucky Exposition Center is adjacent to the North Wing Skywalk, which provides direct access to the North Wing Lobby. Expect $10–$35 depending on origin.

    Public transit: TARC (Transit Authority of River City) buses serve the Kentucky Exposition Center area and connect to downtown Louisville hotels and neighborhoods. Line 28 is the primary route; fare is $2–$4 and travel time from downtown is approximately 48 minutes.

    Parking: Free parking at the Kentucky Exposition Center around show hours. Parking is included with your badge. More than 19,000 parking spaces available. No overnight parking. Park only in designated locations or areas directed by KEC staff; vehicles parked inappropriately will be towed or ticketed. Enter via Gate 1 (Main Gate), Gates 2 or 4 on Crittenden Drive, or Gate 6 on Preston Highway.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: October

    Temperature: High: 70°F (21°C) / Low: 50°F (10°C)

    Seasonality: October is a moderately wet month in Louisville with approximately 3.72 inches of rainfall. Autumn foliage is at its peak. Weather can be variable, with warm afternoons and cool evenings.

    Packing: Pack layered clothing: short-sleeve shirts for warm afternoons, a light jacket or sweater for cool mornings and evenings, and a waterproof jacket or umbrella for rain. Comfortable walking shoes are essential given the 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space. Business casual attire is appropriate for most show activities; jeans and work boots are common on the show floor.

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    T-25

    Register online and save the badge confirmation — Official 2026 FAQ: registration is online and the best price is online. Confirmations typically arrive within 3 business days. Trade show passes are non-refundable and no cancellations or refunds are possible after September 25, 2026.

    T-25

    Book lodging through the official housing provider — Louisville Tourism's Louisville Housing Bureau is the official housing provider, per the official travel page. Booking through it is described as entering attendees into prize drawings.

    T-21

    Choose and pay for education sessions — Official 2026 FAQ: classes are priced $50 to $150 depending on type. The schedule is on the event website and the Equip mobile app. Guidance: pick sessions first, then build the floor plan around them.

    T-14

    Shortlist target exhibitors in the MapYourShow planner — The official 2026 floor plan and exhibitor directory let you save favorite exhibitors and sessions. Guidance: shortlist 15 to 25 booths by category, since the show has 900+ listed exhibitors.

    T-10

    Plan Outdoor Demo Yard time and bring weather-ready footwear — The official description highlights a 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard for hands-on testing. Guidance: reserve a dedicated block for demos rather than fitting them between indoor booths.

    T-7

    Plan parking and arrival gate — Official venue and travel pages: parking is free for Equip attendees, Gates 2, 4 and 6 give faster access, there is no overnight parking, and all access gates close at 11:00 p.m. EST.

    T-5

    Decide on the Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs — Official 2026 FAQ lists a Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, starting at 6:30 p.m. Check the event site for access terms.

    T-3

    Prepare a follow-up template and note-taking method — Guidance, not an official requirement: decide how you will log booth conversations and send follow-ups within a few days of the show.

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    Tue Oct 20, 6:30 PM

    Welcome Reception (official event listing)

    Churchill Downs
    Wed Oct 21, 8:00 AM

    Collect badge at on-site registration (official FAQ lists registration from 8:00 a.m. Wednesday to Friday)

    Kentucky Exposition Center, North Wing Lobby
    Wed Oct 21, morning (recommendation)

    Walk your priority indoor exhibitors from your MapYourShow shortlist

    Indoor exhibit halls
    Wed Oct 21, afternoon (recommendation)

    Test equipment hands-on

    Outdoor Demo Yard
    Thu Oct 22, morning (recommendation)

    Attend a pre-booked Equip Academy or education session

    Kentucky Exposition Center
    Thu Oct 22, afternoon (recommendation)

    Meet suppliers and dealers you shortlisted, and log notes

    Indoor exhibit halls
    Fri Oct 23, morning (recommendation)

    Revisit top 3 booths, then send follow-ups

    Kentucky Exposition Center

    Side trips

    3

    Churchill Downs

    Landmark and Official Event Reception Venue

    Short drive from the venue (estimate; verify on a map)

    The official 2026 FAQ lists the Welcome Reception here on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.

    Kentucky Derby Museum

    Museum (recommendation, Not Event-Affiliated)

    Short drive from the venue (estimate; verify on a map)

    Easy add-on for an evening or free block if you are already visiting Churchill Downs.

    Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

    Museum and Factory Tour (recommendation, Not Event-Affiliated)

    Downtown Louisville, about a 15 to 20 minute drive (estimate)

    A well-known downtown Louisville attraction that fits an evening after show hours.

    Networking spots

    3

    Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs

    Official event-hosted

    Listed in the official 2026 FAQ for Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.

    Outdoor Demo Yard

    Official show area (networking is a recommendation)

    Official description highlights a 30-acre hands-on demo area. Guidance: conversations with dealers and contractors flow naturally around live equipment.

    Equip Academy and education sessions

    Official programme (networking is a recommendation)

    Paid classes run $50 to $150. Guidance: arrive early or stay after to meet peers in your segment.

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    2026 indoor booth rates are per square foot, with a $50 processing fee added to each indoor booth. Rates depend on company type and booth size. Outdoor demo space is $1.65 per sq. ft. for up to five times your indoor space, and $10.00 per sq. ft. for anything beyond that. The 2026 Exhibitor Prospectus covers full details. Exhibit space sold out for the fifth consecutive year.

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Booth 10 m² × $316.00/m²$3,160.00
    • Hotel × 3 nights$345.00
    • Per diem × 3$207.00
    • Insurance$35.00
    Estimated total$3,747.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    indoor_booth_space

    exhibitor · OPEI members, 100 to 400 sq. ft.

    USD 27.1 / per sq. ft.

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    indoor_booth_space

    exhibitor · OPEI members, more than 400 sq. ft.

    USD 25.6 / per sq. ft.

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    indoor_booth_space

    exhibitor · Nonmembers eligible for OPEI membership, 100 to 400 sq. ft. and above 400 sq. ft.

    USD 30.9–33.1 / per sq. ft.

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    indoor_booth_space

    exhibitor · Nonmembers not eligible for OPEI membership, 100 to 400 sq. ft. and above 400 sq. ft.

    USD 27.5–30.2 / per sq. ft.

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    indoor_booth_processing_fee

    exhibitor · per indoor booth

    USD 50 / per booth

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    outdoor_demo_space

    exhibitor · up to 5x indoor space and beyond 5x indoor space

    USD 1.65–10 / per sq. ft.

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    education_class

    visitor · per class, depending on class type

    USD 50–150 / per class

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    visitor_registration

    visitor · promotional online rate advertised on the official site

    USD 30 / per person

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    parking

    both · Kentucky Exposition Center parking for Equip attendees

    —

    officialAs of 2026-09-24

    hotel

    both · budget to premium (planning estimate)

    USD 115–265 / per night

    estimateAs of 2026-09-24

    per_diem

    both · meals and local transport (planning estimate)

    USD 69 / per day

    estimateAs of 2026-09-24

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Pick the closest answer for each question. Your Equip Exposition 2026 recommendation updates live.

    QUESTION 1 OF 7

    How much of your customer or supplier base is in landscape contracting, lawn care, outdoor power equipment dealers, hardscape or tree care?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Your business buys or specifies outdoor power equipment, landscape, hardscape or tree care products and you can be in Louisville for at least 2 days.

    Best for

    Contractors, dealers, grounds managers and suppliers who want to compare brands side by side, test equipment in the Outdoor Demo Yard, and attend Equip Academy sessions.

    Min. budget

    $580.00

    Timeline

    About 3 to 4 weeks: register online, book housing, and pick sessions and target booths. Note that no registration refunds are available after September 25, 2026.

    Risks

    Large show floor with 900+ listed exhibitors, so unplanned days waste time

    Outdoor demo areas depend on weather

    Hotel and airfare costs peak around the show dates

    exhibit

    Your buyers are contractors and dealers, you can staff 3 or more people, and you have a follow-up process ready for the volume of leads.

    Best for

    Manufacturers, software providers and suppliers selling to landscape contractors, equipment dealers and distributors who can support live demos and follow-up at volume.

    Min. budget

    $4,300.00

    Timeline

    8 or more weeks for manual review, staff registration, insurance, freight and lead-capture setup. Space has reportedly sold out for five consecutive years, so confirm current availability first.

    Risks

    Space availability may be limited

    Booth build, freight, drayage and labor costs are on top of space fees

    Official 2026 manual details sit behind the gated Exhibitor Resource Center

    skip

    Your audience fit is under 20%, travel on October 20 to 23 is impractical, or there is no clear outcome to justify the cost.

    Best for

    Companies with little exposure to landscape, outdoor power equipment or hardscape buyers, or without budget and staff to make the trip worthwhile.

    Timeline

    None. Decide before the September 25, 2026 refund cutoff if you have already registered.

    Risks

    Missing product launches and side-by-side comparisons

    Competitors may gain dealer and contractor visibility

    You may lose face time with suppliers and distributors

    Book with

    Partners

    Louisville Housing Bureau

    Official Housing Provider

    Louisville Tourism and its Louisville Housing Bureau is the official housing provider for Equip Exposition 2026. Booking through the official provider enters attendees into prize drawings. Beware of unauthorized housing solicitations.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    Official Equip Exposition travel page

    Kentucky Exposition Center

    Venue

    The Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC) is located at 937 Phillips Lane, Louisville, KY, at the junction of I-65 and I-264. The venue offers free parking for Equip attendees and is accessible via Gates 2, 4, and 6.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    Official venue website

    MapYourShow

    Floor Plan & Exhibitor Directory

    Interactive floor plan and exhibitor directory for Equip Exposition 2026, allowing attendees to locate booths and plan their show floor route.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    Official show floor plan platform

    Recommended providers

    Visa

    USCIB (United States Council for International Business)

    USCIB is the U.S. guaranteeing association for ATA Carnets, which are used for temporary duty-free import of equipment and goods for trade shows. Exhibitors bringing equipment to Equip Exposition from abroad may obtain an ATA Carnet through USCIB or its authorized service providers.

    Hotels

    Louisville Housing Bureau (Louisville Tourism)

    The Louisville Housing Bureau is the official hotel reservation company for Equip Exposition. Attendees and exhibitors who reserve rooms through the official housing provider are entered into prize drawings (Louisville gift baskets, personalized bourbon bottles, or a complimentary hotel room during the stay). Room blocks of 10 or more are available. Beware of unauthorized housing companies; the official provider uses the Equip Exposition logo on all housing sites and communications. If a non-official company contacts you, call Equip Exposition at 844

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    OPEI
    Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, the trade association that owns and manages Equip Exposition.
    2
    Outdoor Demo Yard
    A 30-acre outdoor area at the Kentucky Exposition Center where attendees can operate and test equipment on real dirt.
    3
    Hardscape North America
    A co-located trade show focused on hardscape products, installation, and design.
    4
    Equip Academy
    The education program at Equip Exposition offering practical sessions taught by contractors and industry experts.
    5
    Tree Care Arena
    An expanded feature in Freedom Hall featuring live arborist demonstrations on a 50-foot tree, interactive hands-on stations, and mini-tours.
    6
    Dealer Day
    Wednesday of the show, when the exhibit hall opens early for dealers and media before all attendees.

    Digital business cards for the show floor

    Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.

    Create a free card