For centuries, humans the world over have organized and attended fairs, games, competitions, and various types of events that have similarities to today’s agricultural exhibits. Meeting together to share information, see what others are up to, and take a break from day-to-day duties is enjoyed and valued internationally.
Of course, festivities and fairs are different from the agricultural exhibits of the modern age. Who had the idea of agricultural shows? Where did this concept originate and why has it had such a lasting appeal? In some ways, it’s impossible to nail down the exact start of the “agricultural show” idea. Every country has a different date marking their first event specifically dedicated to farming. For example, in the United Kingdom, the first known agricultural show was in 1768, put on by the Salford Agricultural Society. In the United States, this type of event didn’t begin until the early 19th century. The first US agricultural exhibit was held in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and was a small event that mostly consisted of sheep shearing demonstrations.
These small events have evolved over the centuries to become extremely popular and beneficial professional opportunities for farmers. At today’s modern ag tech conferences, farmers can learn about the latest equipment, agricultural techniques, animal husbandry, and advances in agricultural technology.
What Is the Largest Agricultural Show in the World?
Two of the biggest international agricultural shows are the World Ag Expo and the International Agriculture Exhibit.
- World Ag Expo 2023
This show is one of the largest outdoor farming shows with over 2.6 million square feet of exhibit space. Held annually in California, the World Ag Expo typically has over 1,500 exhibitors, free seminars for agri-business professionals, and a wide selection of innovative farming technologies. Attendees value World Ag Expo for the product research, networking, and business development opportunities.
- International Agriculture Exhibition 2023
Held in Paris, France, the International Agriculture Exhibition has over 50 years of showcasing livestock, regional-specific products, and international gastronomy. With over 1,000 international exhibitors, farming professionals can participate in competitions, workshops, and networking with other farmers.
What Is the Largest Agricultural Show in Europe?
Two of the largest agricultural shows in Europe are the Paris International Agribusiness show (also known as SIMA) and the EIMA International.
- SIMA/Paris International Agribusiness Show
The SIMA agricultural exhibit is one of the largest shows solely dedicated to B2B exhibition and attendees. Over 230,000 farming professionals regularly attend, learning about topics like:
- Farming equipment including:
- Tractor components, accessories, and on-board electronics
- Equipment for tropical crops
- Livestock machinery
- Milking and dairy equipment
- Landscaping and forestry-specific equipment
- Tilling and sowing
- Crop protection
- Irrigation
- Harvesting and post-harvesting
- Handling, transport, storage, and buildings
- Sustainable development and renewable energy
- IT and software
EIMA International
Held in Berlin, Germany, EIMA International focuses on a B2B audience and specializes in exhibiting machinery for agriculture and gardening. Regularly attracting over 280,000 visitors, this global farming exhibition is a great chance to learn more about agricultural equipment.
What Is the Biggest US Farm Show?
The two biggest US farm shows are the Pennsylvania Farm Show and the National Farm Machinery Show.
- Pennsylvania Farm Show
As one of the largest indoor agricultural shows under one roof, this event highlights the unique qualities of Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry. With an average attendance of 500,000 people, this exhibition gives an opportunity to network with agricultural professionals and enjoy the fruits of their labor—including the signature butter sculpture created for each show!
- National Farm Machinery Show
Held in Louisville, Kentucky, the National Farm Machinery Show annually attracts over 300,000 visitors and more than 900 exhibitors. Over the course of four days, attendees can explore the latest agricultural trends and technologies, with a focus on practical and implementable machinery for current farming operations.
With so many options available, which agricultural exhibition is right for you? After all, as a busy agri-business professional, you probably don’t have a ton of time to spare attending events. While traditional agricultural shows have many benefits, a cross-sectional conference can help you maximize your time, taking your experience to the next level.
Which of the 2023 Farm Shows Should I Attend? Rally!
At Rally, you’ll find a technology conference that brings together agriculture, software, healthcare, hardtech, sportstech, and entrepreneurship innovators in one space. You’ll learn about the latest and greatest technological breakthroughs across industries, and get exposure to innovations that you may not have ever considered. We believe in the power of cross-collaboration to spark ideas, create interesting connections, and help professionals learn and grow. And did we mention the money? That’s right, up to $5 million will be awarded at Rally’s IN-Prize Pitch Competition!
Don’t miss the best three days in innovation—register for Rally in Indianapolis, IN on August 29-31, 2023.