The Upper Midwest Woodworking Expo – Minneapolis is one of the most anticipated trade events for woodworking professionals, enthusiasts, manufacturers, and hobbyists. Held annually in the heart of Minnesota, this expo has built a reputation for bringing together industry leaders, tool makers, equipment manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers from across the region and beyond. With a focus on innovation, craftsmanship, and education, the expo is the perfect blend of business networking and hands-on learning in the woodworking industry.

Venue details and event location

The Upper Midwest Woodworking Expo is hosted in Minneapolis, a city known for its vibrant industrial sector and growing community of craftsmen and manufacturers. While the final confirmation of the venue is typically announced closer to the event date, previous editions have been held at popular venues such as the Minneapolis Convention Center due to its spacious layout and central location.

The convention center is conveniently located near public transit hubs and is accessible from all major highways, making it ideal for both local and out-of-state visitors. Ample parking, food courts, Wi-Fi facilities, and accessibility support make this venue highly functional for a trade show of this scale.

Dates and timing

The event is usually scheduled during early fall or late summer, ideal for professionals who want to network before the busy holiday production season. For the estimated upcoming edition, attendees can expect it to take place around September 2025, with typical expo timings running from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM over two consecutive days. These timings provide attendees with ample opportunity to visit booths, attend seminars, and engage with live demos.

Exhibitor profile and product categories

One of the most significant attractions at the Upper Midwest Woodworking Expo is the sheer diversity of products and exhibitors. From hand tools to heavy-duty machinery, visitors will witness a comprehensive display of woodworking technologies and services. Key product categories include:

• CNC routers and carving machines
• Woodturning lathes and accessories
• Dust collection systems and ventilation units
• Hardwood, softwood, and engineered panels
• Sawing, sanding, and planing machines
• Finishing solutions and coating technologies
• Furniture design tools and software
• Wood adhesives and binding solutions
• Safety equipment and workshop furniture

Industry-leading brands and regional manufacturers often use this platform to showcase their latest innovations. It’s a great place to see technology in action and test out the latest tools before making a purchase.

Visitor profile and expected attendance

The Upper Midwest Woodworking Expo draws a diverse crowd of visitors including:

• Cabinetmakers and carpenters
• Furniture designers and builders
• Commercial contractors
• DIY woodworkers and hobbyists
• Tool distributors and suppliers
• Architects and interior designers
• Educational institutions and vocational schools

Previous editions have seen an attendance of over 5,000 visitors, and the number is expected to grow as interest in woodworking continues to rise across the U.S. Midwest.

Nearby accommodation and lodging options

Visitors coming from out of town have a variety of lodging options in close proximity to the expo venue. Some well-rated hotels near the Minneapolis Convention Center include:

• Hilton Minneapolis – Directly connected to the Convention Center with business-class amenities
• Hyatt Regency Minneapolis – A short walk from the venue with spacious rooms and onsite dining
• Millennium Hotel Minneapolis – A budget-friendly yet comfortable option for trade show attendees
• Hotel Ivy, a Luxury Collection Hotel – A high-end stay for executives and international visitors
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown – Perfect for exhibitors needing easy access to transport and amenities

All these hotels offer easy access to restaurants, coffee shops, shopping districts, and downtown entertainment venues.

Cost of attendance and registration details

The cost of entry typically ranges from $10 to $20 for general attendees, while industry professionals can often register in advance for discounted or free access. For those interested in attending specific workshops or keynote sessions, there might be an additional fee, often between $25 and $100 depending on the speaker or topic.

Exhibitors and vendors are encouraged to register several months in advance to ensure optimal booth placement and promotional visibility. Early bird discounts are usually available for both attendees and exhibitors.

Why you should attend the Upper Midwest Woodworking Expo

There are several compelling reasons to attend the Upper Midwest Woodworking Expo, whether you are a seasoned professional or someone new to the craft:

• Networking opportunities: Meet with peers, suppliers, potential clients, and industry veterans.
• Live demonstrations: See machines in action and learn from master craftsmen.
• Workshops and seminars: Stay ahead of trends with educational content on woodworking techniques, safety, and business growth.
• Access to latest tools: Try out and compare woodworking machines and tools before purchasing.
• Promotional deals: Many exhibitors offer event-exclusive discounts and product bundles.
• Industry insights: Discover market trends, eco-friendly wood products, and automation solutions.
• Career development: Connect with vocational schools and training centers promoting skill advancement in woodworking trades.

Special features and perks

Some editions of the expo also feature:

• Tool swap zones for hobbyists
• Live competitions for students and artisans
• Design showcases from local craftsmen
• Raffle prizes and giveaways
• Food trucks and networking lounges
• Exclusive product launches

These special features transform the event from a conventional trade fair into a dynamic, interactive experience for all ages.

The Upper Midwest Woodworking Expo – Minneapolis offers a unique, hands-on, and deeply engaging platform for everyone passionate about woodworking. Whether you are looking to upgrade your workshop, stay updated with technology, or simply connect with like-minded professionals, this expo provides unmatched value. It’s more than a trade show – it’s a celebration of woodcraft, creativity, and innovation in one of the nation’s most vibrant manufacturing regions.