Equip Exposition announced this year’s top 15 experiences and education opportunities at this year’s show October 20-23 at the Kentucky Exposition Center.
“We build on what works—and continue to evolve while factoring in attendee feedback and industry trends,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), which owns Equip. “People want to test equipment, network, get training, and find new ways to make money. Our exhibit space is packed with the latest industry advances and hands on experiences.”
The 15 can’t-miss highlights at Equip include:
1. Keynote address: Mike Holmes, HGTV star and veteran contractor – Sponsored by Kress, hear Holmes bring his “make it right” philosophy to the Equip stage on Wednesday with real-world insight on raising standards and demanding quality that pushes the industry forward.
2. Outdoor Demo Yard – Visit the 30 acres outside at the Kentucky Exposition Center, which allows for hands-on testing: drive, mow, chop, dig, trench, and more with the latest outdoor power equipment.
3. The UTV Driving Experience and the UTV Corral – Compare the latest vehicles while putting them through their paces on curves, hills, rocks, bumps, and maybe even a little water and mud.
4. Expanded Tree Care Arena – Visit Freedom Hall to see live arborist demos on a 50-foot tree, do interactive training, and learn about safety in this growing profit-making niche.
5. Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs – Sponsored by Caterpillar Inc., meet peers and be welcomed to Louisville at the fun kick-off party Tuesday evening at the legendary home of the Kentucky Derby.
6. The West Wing: Drones, New Products and Golf – Take a swing at the Equip Golf Experience, try your hand at flying in the drone zone, and tour the other West Wing exhibits. Ride shares drop off here and you can even skip the lines and pick up your badge.
7. New Product Showcase – Tour the New Product Showcase, with more than 40 entries, to see the latest equipment and product developments in the West Wing.
8. The Dealer Breakfast – Connect with equipment dealer industry leaders and meet potential partners over breakfast before the show opens for Dealer Day on Wednesday morning at the KEC.
9. Mulligan’s 5K Fun Run & Walk and Mutt Madness – Sponsored by Active Dynamics, 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. On Thursday, adopt a rescue dog from the KHS at Mutt Madness, an annual dog adoption event, in the South Wing Lobby
10. Wednesday Night Block Party – Enjoy the 4th Street Live concert in downtown Louisville, featuring the Crashers. Sponsored by the Propane Education & Research Council.
11. Women’s Leadership Reception – On Thursday at the KEC, connect with women shaping the landscape industry while building relationships that last. Hear from special guest Susan Packard, co-creator of HGTV, CNBC and Food Network, for an evening of leadership and inspiration. Sponsored by Belgard, SiteOne and Hunter FX/Luminaire.
12. Morning Show at Expo – Hear three industry podcasts go live on-stage Thursday morning where they’ll talk about all the real issues that come with growing your landscaping business. Questions from the audience are welcome. Sponsored by Rehlko.
13. ENERGIZE – Hosted by Brian Fullerton, meet industry leaders and engage in discussions on growing, marketing and investing in your landscaping business on Thursday afternoon. Sponsored by Exmark and BOSS Snowplow.
14. Closing Paristown Block Party & Concert – Jam out with live music, awesome local food and even better company at the Equip takeover of Old Forester’s Paristown Hall and the surrounding block, sponsored by Gravely, on Thursday evening. Don’t miss the exclusive tasting of the show’s official bourbon while jamming with your team and new connections.
15. Equip Academy – Continue learning long after the show ends! Every education session at the blockbuster trade show is now available to attendees. For an additional fee, attendees can access dozens of education sessions online after the show.
Visit www.equipexposition.com to register and book hotel rooms.