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Top 10 Trade Shows in the U.S. Every Marketer Should Know
Trade shows are more than just industry gatherings they’re where brands make bold statements, forge new connections, and showcase innovation. From the cutting-edge tech of CES Las Vegas to the hands-on energy of World of Concrete, the U.S. trade show landscape offers unmatched opportunities to stand out.
But success at a trade show takes more than just being present. It requires thoughtful trade show booth design, impactful exhibition stand design, and visually compelling custom trade show exhibits. Whether you're exhibiting in Orlando, Chicago, Atlanta, or Las Vegas, your booth needs to engage, inform, and leave a lasting impression.
In this guide, we explore the Top 10 trade shows in the U.S. that every marketer and exhibitor should know. These are the events where creativity, strategy, and flawless execution come together to create lasting brand moments.
1. CES – Las Vegas, NV
Arguably the most influential tech trade show globally, CES (Consumer Electronics Show) gathers over 4,500 exhibitors, 140,000+ attendees, and massive global press attention.
• What makes it powerful: Product debuts, immersive tech experiences (AI, VR/AR, robotics, automotive), and Eureka Park for startups.
• Pro tip for exhibitors: Use double-deck booth designs, LED video walls, interactive demos, and immersive AR to stand out. Leverage custom trade show exhibits that reflect your innovation.
2. World of Concrete – Las Vegas, NV
For the concrete, masonry, and construction trades, World of Concrete is the premier U.S. event. It covers over 900,000 square feet with live demos, certification classes, and heavy equipment showcases.
• What makes it unique: It's the only annual international event dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry industries.
• Exhibitor insight: Use rugged modular displays, outdoor-rated materials, custom flooring, and clear traffic flow designs for both indoor and outdoor setups.
3. NAB Show – Las Vegas, NV
Hosted by the National Association of Broadcasters, NAB attracts media, entertainment, and tech professionals exploring AV, production, streaming, and virtual experiences.
• Why it matters: It’s the broadcast industry's largest trade show, featuring hands-on product previews, immersive booth experiences, and new media innovation.
• Booth strategy: Integrate touchscreens, demo stages, interactive exhibit solutions, and high-resolution graphic printing services to create a high-impact experience.
4. IMTS – Chicago, IL
The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) is North America’s largest industrial and manufacturing event, with 90,000+ attendees and a strong robotics, machining, and automation focus.
• Industry appeal: It’s where innovation in additive manufacturing and digital transformation meets the factory floor.
• Exhibit advice: Feature live machinery, use custom island exhibits, and provide heavy-duty flooring and kiosk displaysto support tech-heavy demos.
5. Pack Expo – Las Vegas & Chicago
Pack Expo focuses on packaging, processing, and supply chain solutions. It rotates between Las Vegas and Chicago and attracts brands from food, pharma, and CPG sectors.
• Standout elements: Sustainable packaging innovations, smart labeling, and automation demos are major crowd-pullers.
• Display tip: Use modular trade show displays, directional trade show flooring, and experiential booth design that highlights product workflow and automation.
6. SEMA Show – Las Vegas, NV
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show is a car enthusiast’s dream. It’s one of the largest automotive aftermarket events, with full-size custom vehicles on display indoors and out.
• Why it excels: Offers unique branding opportunities with over-the-top vehicle integrations and performance demos.
• Booth execution: Build thematic custom trade show exhibits, outdoor-rated display structures, and custom lighting solutions to create wow moments.
7. SHOT Show – Las Vegas, NV
The Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show is the leading trade event for the firearms and outdoor gear market. It brings together manufacturers, dealers, and tactical professionals.
• Audience insights: It’s a serious buying crowd; the right messaging and layout make all the difference.
• Exhibit tip: Keep your design functional, compliance-conscious, and inviting with secure display cases, graphic backdrops, and branded trade show flooring.
8. Natural Products Expo West – Anaheim, CA
Expo West focuses on natural and organic products across food, beverage, beauty, and wellness categories. Thousands of startups launch their products here.
• What works: Sustainability, transparency, and authenticity rule the floor.
• Design idea: Use eco-friendly custom portable displays, fabric booth materials, and clear ingredient/product storytelling. Incorporate greenery and ambient lighting.
9. NRF Big Show – New York, NY
The National Retail Federation (NRF) Big Show is a major event for retailers, tech innovators, and logistics companies. Think smart checkout, AI-powered analytics, and supply chain automation.
• Why marketers love it: It's retail’s idea lab—where physical meets digital innovation.
• Pro tip: Use interactive product demos, LED towers, and digital lead capture tools that align with your retail tech message.
10. HIMSS Global Health Conference – Orlando, FL
The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) event focuses on healthcare innovation, EHRs, AI diagnostics, and hospital tech.
• Audience focus: Healthcare providers, insurers, and health tech vendors.
• Exhibit must-haves: Use sanitized kiosks, custom booth rentals with product walkthroughs, and interactive touchscreens to demo clinical tech solutions.
How to Maximize Your Trade Show Investment
The difference between ROI and wasted spend often lies in booth execution. Whether you’re at CES, SEMA, or HIMSS:
• Use custom trade show exhibits or trade show booth rentals tailored to the event
• Prioritize trade show booth design that aligns with your product and brand
• Include AR/VR demos, lead tracking tools, and pre-show marketing
• Partner with experienced trade show exhibit companies to manage logistics, installation, and dismantle
Exhibitorly Makes It Easy
Need a high-impact booth in Las Vegas, Chicago, or Orlando? Exhibitorly connects you with top-rated exhibit design partners, from custom modular trade show displays to full-service booth rentals. Whether you're building your first booth or preparing for CES 2026, we offer free design consultations, price comparisons, and project support from concept to teardown.
Get started today with Exhibitorly because your next event deserves more than a backdrop.
Quote Request
Fill the form below to get your 3 custom design and concepts from our preferred vendors.
