Equip Exposition returned to the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Ky., Oct. 20-23, 2026, bringing together equipment manufacturers, dealers, contractors and landscaping professionals for one of the industry's largest trade shows.
The event featured more than 1,100 exhibits across approximately 1.2 million sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor exhibit space. The show sold out its available exhibit space for the fifth consecutive year, reflecting continued demand from manufacturers and suppliers seeking to reach landscaping, outdoor power equipment and compact machinery markets.
Organized by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), Equip Expo was held alongside Hardscape North America. Its 30-acre Outdoor Demo Yard gave attendees opportunities to operate equipment and evaluate products in real-world conditions before making purchasing decisions.
The 2026 show introduced several new programs aimed at helping businesses improve operations, develop employees and expand their services. Equip Academy offered a new education option, while Dealer Boot Camp provided additional training for equipment dealers. The Wednesday morning Dealer Breakfast, sponsored by STIHL Inc., also returned to the schedule.
Another featured attraction was an expanded Tree Care Arena, developed with the Davey Institute and Academy Trained. The area offered hands-on training, interactive stations, equipment demonstrations and business discussions for professionals interested in tree care services.
HGTV personality and veteran contractor Mike Holmes delivered the opening keynote address on Oct. 21. Known for his “Make It Right” philosophy, Holmes emphasized quality, professionalism and the importance of maintaining high standards in the construction and contracting industries.
Additional programming included a Women's Leadership Reception featuring media entrepreneur Susan Packard, who helped establish HGTV, CNBC and Food Network. Attendees also had opportunities to network during a welcome reception at Churchill Downs and a new closing block party at Old Forester's Paristown Hall.
The event continued to provide a venue for manufacturers to introduce products, demonstrate equipment and connect with prospective customers. Exhibits and demonstrations covered outdoor power equipment, compact machinery, landscaping technology, hardscape products and other solutions for contractors and dealers.
Equip Expo's growth has prompted organizers to explore ways to accommodate rising demand while expanding educational and networking opportunities.
The next Equip Exposition is scheduled for Oct. 19-22, 2027, at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville.
For more information, visit equipexposition.com.
