World’s Largest Livestock Event Returns to Kentucky Exposition Center

The North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE), the largest all-breed, purebred livestock expo in the world, returns to the Kentucky Exposition Center November 1-17. The event draws nearly 30,000 entries across 10 livestock divisions, all under one roof.   Representing the 48 contiguous states, NAILE exhibitors show cattle, mules and donkeys, goats, swine, llamas and alpacas, sheep and horses, as they compete for nearly $750,000 in premiums and awards. The expo also attracts livestock breeders and agriculture professionals from around the world, contributing an estimated $8 million to the area’s economy.

NAILE strives to prepare the next generation for tomorrow’s breeding challenges, hosting the National Collegiate and 4-H/FFA Livestock Judging Contests. The exposition’s premier event, the Sale of Champions, benefits young exhibitors who often go on to pursue careers in agriculture. In 2015, the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion auction of steers, hogs and lambs brought in a record-breaking $110,000. Through the years, more than $1.75 million has been raised to promote youth involvement in agribusiness and fund charitable endeavors.

The expo kicks off with the North American Quarter Horse Show in Broadbent Arena November 1-9. Consistently ranked as a top five show by the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), this competition features events such as halter, reining, cutting and team penning.  The North American Championship Rodeo is also held in conjunction with NAILE, November 10-12 in Freedom Hall. Top cowboys and cowgirls compete for $80,000 in prize money and the title of Regional Champion in events ranging from bull riding to steer wrestling and women’s barrel racing to team roping. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. each night and tickets range from $25-$32 for adults and $5-$10 for children, depending on the evening.

The Giant Country Store draws shoppers interested in browsing the latest in western wear, livestock gear, musical instruments, handcrafted furniture, art, jewelry and more. The Farm City Luncheon is also a NAILE tradition. Produced by Louisville’s Agribusiness Industry Network, the program includes the presentation of the “Agribusiness of the Year” award and “Wing Tip Rodeo.” Ticket order forms are available at www.agribusinesslouisville.com/farm-city-luncheon.html.

Prices for NAILE admission and parking are:

• Children (ages 2-12) $3
• Adults $6  Seniors (age 55 and older) $3
• Parking (per day) $8   Admission passes and parking passes valid throughout the expo can be purchased for $25 each.

For more information about NAILE, the North American Quarter Horse Show and the North American Championship Rodeo, visit www.livestockexpo.org.