Kentucky Exposition Center Welcomes Equip Exposition, the Nation’s Third‑Largest Trade Show

The Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC) is hosting Equip Exposition, one of Louisville’s most significant economic events and the third-largest trade show in the country. Across both the property and outdoor demo areas, tens of thousands of attendees and large‑scale equipment displays are expected to generate an estimated $30.1 million in economic impact.

As a homegrown event with international appeal, the 42-year-old show is projected to draw record‑level participation from all 50 states and roughly 50 countries. The activations extend beyond KEC to the Kentucky International Convention Center, KFC Yum! Center, and the TurfMutt Foundation Great Lawn.

A number of multi‑million‑dollar facility improvements meet attendees for the first time, including a newly renovated Gate 4 with a 50% increase in access lanes, ensuring a smoother and more efficient entry and exit, and a new Command Center featuring campus‑wide camera coverage to support traffic and parking operations.

Registered attendees kicked off their event today with a morning 5K Fun Run downtown, heard from Jessie Cole, Founder and CEO of Savannah Bananas, at the opening of KEC, and will spend the rest of the week digging, demoing, and building in the Outdoor Demo Yard through Oct. 24. In addition, a 40 foot tree has also been installed within Freedom Hall for demonstrations and education.

About Kentucky Venues

Kentucky Venues operates two premier facilities in Louisville— the Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC) and the Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC). As both a world-class host and proven event organizer, Kentucky Venues produces flagship events such as the Kentucky State Fair, the National Farm Machinery Show, and the World's Championship Horse Show, while welcoming conventions, trade shows, sporting events, and exhibitions from around the globe. With 1.4 million square feet of indoor space, 356 acres of outdoor grounds, and a LEED-certified downtown convention center, Kentucky Venues offers unmatched flexibility and accessibility. Backed by decades of event production experience and Kentucky's signature hospitality, Kentucky Venues is a trusted partner for meeting planners and show organizers seeking impactful, memorable events.