At Equip Exposition, the industry’s largest gathering for landscapers, contractors, dealers, and outdoor power equipment manufacturers, attendees come to grow their businesses, test the newest equipment, and connect with the industry’s best. This year, the award-winning show adds fresh experiences designed to inspire, educate, and energize.
“We build on what works—and keep evolving based on attendee feedback,” says Kris Kiser, president & CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), which owns Equip. “People want to test equipment, network, and find new profit streams—like the booming tree care sector. That’s why we’re bringing in live demos, top-notch training, and giveaways in our new Tree Care Arena in Freedom Hall.”
Here are 12 can’t-miss highlights at Equip, October 21–24, Kentucky Exposition Center:
1. Keynote: Jesse Cole – Sponsored by Kress, hear the Savannah Bananas founder share game-changing, brand-building lessons.
2. Outdoor Demo Yard – Visit the 30 acres outside at the KEC, which allows for hands-on testing: drive, mow, chop, dig, trench, and more with the latest outdoor power equipment. An expanded layout means easier navigation and more equipment, and expect new product giveaways. No other industry trade show has Equip’s level of hands-on opportunities.
3. Expanded UTV Test Track – Be sure to check out the new UTV Corral on the South Wing Porch, and visit the ever-popular UTV Test Track, now larger and relocated to Lot B (across from the South Wing Lobby) for convenience.
4. Tree Care Arena – Sponsored by Altec, visit the new zone in Freedom Hall that features live arborist demos, bucket trucks, instruction, giveaways, and a product showcase focused on tree care.
5. Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs – Sponsored by Caterpillar, meet peers and be welcomed to Louisville at the kick-off party for Equip at the legendary home of the Kentucky Derby.
6. Pro Talk Series – Access quick-hit, TED Talk-style education sessions including a Q&A with the experts. Free for registered attendees.
7. Wednesday Night Block Party – 4th Street Live concert in downtown Louisville returns! Meet old friends and find new ones at this popular concert, featuring the Crashers. Sponsored by the Propane Education & Research Council.
8. New Product Showcase – See all the latest innovations, technology and products in one spot in the KEC West Wing.
9. Mulligan’s 5K Fun Run & Walk and Mutt Madness – Sponsored by Active Dynamics and Mulligan’s Mutt Madness, run or walk the Big Four Bridge early Wednesday morning to help raise funds for the Kentucky Humane Society (KHS). The race starts at the TurfMutt Great Lawn at Waterfront Park, the USA Today’s Reader’s Choice Award winner for Best Riverwalk. On Thursday, adopt a rescue dog from the KHS and meet CBS Lucky Dog host Brandon McMillan at Mutt Madness in the South Wing Lobby.
10. Taste Equip Reserve 42: Backyard Blend Bourbon – Louisville-brewed, and named by an attendee, Sam Meagher, owner of Sam I Am Outdoor Services, Equip’s inaugural bourbon has already won two awards: a Silver Medal from the American Distilling Institute’s 2025 competition and a triple gold award in the Major Liquor Spirit Awards’ (MLSA) competition. Get a tasting at the Louisville Tourism booth, Wednesday from 3 to 5 pm.
11. Big & Rich with Gretchen Wilson Concert – Sponsored by Gravely and free for attendees, rock out at this Thursday night show at the Kentucky International Convention Center.
12. Creator Space – At the ECHO Social Media Patio and PodRow, meet influencers and join live podcasts. Expand your vision for your business at Energize, sponsored by Exmark, or be part of a live podcast during the Morning Show at Expo, sponsored by Rehlko.
Plan your visit with the Equip Expo app, sponsored by CASE Construction Equipment, available on Apple and Google.
Equip Exposition drew a record-breaking 28,500 attendees last year from all 50 states and 50 countries. Register for $30 through Sept. 4 and for $60 through Oct. 19 ($120 onsite). CEU courses are $30 each and sell out fast. Sign up at EquipExposition.com under Education.
