Overview of the Farm Progress Show
The Farm Progress Show, Varies, USA (e.g., Boone, Decatur) is the largest outdoor agricultural event in the United States, organized annually in alternating locations—Boone, Iowa, and Decatur, Illinois. This internationally recognized trade show has been a cornerstone of American farming innovation since 1953. With each edition, it draws a massive crowd of agriculture professionals, farmers, researchers, students, and industry leaders eager to experience the latest in agri-tech advancements.
Known for its cutting-edge displays, live field demonstrations, and high-level networking, the Farm Progress Show serves as a vital platform for agricultural businesses and farmers alike. It’s not just a trade event; it’s an experience that fuels the future of American agriculture.
Venue and Rotational Locations
The show rotates annually between two dedicated sites:
- Boone, Iowa: Located in central Iowa, the Boone site provides ample farmland for field demonstrations and large-scale equipment exhibits.
- Decatur, Illinois: Positioned in the heart of the Midwest’s grain belt, Decatur offers a similar scale and layout with modern infrastructure tailored to agricultural exhibitions.
Each site features over 90 acres of exhibit space and approximately 300+ acres reserved for field demonstrations.
Event Date and Time
The Farm Progress Show typically takes place during the last week of August or the first week of September. It spans three days, running from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Thursday.
For 2025, the event is expected to be held in Decatur, Illinois, from August 26–28, 2025 (tentative dates subject to confirmation).
Visitor Profile and Attendance
The event annually attracts over 150,000 visitors from across the U.S. and internationally. These include:
- Farmers and ranchers
- Agricultural engineers and technicians
- Equipment manufacturers and dealers
- Agri-business professionals
- Government officials and policymakers
- Research institutions and universities
Visitors come not only to explore the latest in equipment and technology but also to learn about modern farming practices and connect with key stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
Exhibitor and Product Categories
With over 600 exhibitors, the Farm Progress Show hosts a comprehensive range of agricultural products and services, including:
- Tractors, combines, planters, sprayers
- Precision agriculture tools and GPS systems
- Irrigation systems and grain handling equipment
- Livestock production technologies
- Seed and crop protection products
- Drones, sensors, and agritech software
- Sustainability and regenerative farming innovations
- Rural lifestyle equipment
Live product demonstrations, ride-and-drive areas, and side-by-side equipment comparisons make it a hands-on learning hub.
Field Demonstrations and Live Experiences
One of the show’s biggest attractions is its live field demonstrations, including:
- Corn and soybean harvesting
- Tillage and planting demonstrations
- Autonomous tractor displays
- Drone spraying and scouting
- Hay and forage handling
These demos allow attendees to see the performance of machinery in real-time conditions, giving farmers insights before making major purchase decisions.
Educational Opportunities and Forums
The event hosts several educational sessions and forums on:
- AgTech advancements
- Crop management strategies
- Weather forecasting and risk mitigation
- Farm finance and insurance
- Government policy and rural development
Experts from universities, USDA, and agribusiness firms deliver valuable insights, helping attendees apply knowledge directly to their operations.
Cost of Attendance
General Admission is typically $20–$25 per day, with discounts for multi-day passes and group bookings. Admission covers access to all exhibition areas, forums, field demos, and activities.
Parking is free, and shuttles are available within the venue for ease of movement. Early bird online registration is highly recommended to skip queues and secure event guides or promotional kits.
Nearby Accommodation and Stay Options
Both Boone and Decatur offer a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Nearby stays include:
For Boone, Iowa:
- Cobblestone Inn & Suites – Boone
- Baymont by Wyndham Boone
- Boulders Inn & Suites
For Decatur, Illinois:
- Hampton Inn Decatur Mt. Zion
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Decatur
- Decatur Conference Center & Hotel
Advance hotel booking is strongly advised due to the high influx of visitors during the show week. Many hotels also offer free breakfast, parking, and shuttle service to the venue.
Dining and Local Amenities
Both locations have local diners, national food chains, and food courts within the event site. Food vendors inside the venue serve Midwest specialties, including pork chops, corn dogs, kettle corn, fresh dairy treats, and more.
ATM services, information desks, medical assistance stations, and family zones are also available onsite.
Transportation and Accessibility
Both venues are accessible by road, and ample signage is provided for driving directions. Charter buses and ride-share services operate during the event days. Airports nearby include:
- Des Moines International Airport (for Boone)
- Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, Springfield (for Decatur)
Accessible parking, shuttle buses, and mobility scooters are available for attendees with physical limitations.
Perks and Benefits of Attending
Attending the Farm Progress Show offers several tangible benefits:
- Direct interaction with product manufacturers and service providers
- Hands-on experience with the latest machinery and tools
- Learning from peers and experts through live forums and demos
- First-hand access to exclusive deals, discounts, and product launches
- Opportunities to network with key influencers, dealers, and buyers
- Preview of future trends and technologies shaping agriculture
Whether you’re a large-scale farmer or a startup in agri-tech, the Farm Progress Show provides exposure, education, and business growth all in one place.