The construction industry is booming in the United States. According to Statista, the U.S. construction sector is valued at about 1.6 trillion US dollars. With so much growth in the industry, it’s no wonder there are so many massive building and construction trade shows.
What’s even more fascinating is the overall value of the industry rose by 8% between 2020 and 2021. Trade shows are a great way for companies to show off their latest products, services, and innovations. If you’re new to building and construction, keep reading to find out where the heavy hitters play.
What happens at building and construction trade shows?
Building and construction trade shows function in the same way as any other trade show. Members and companies in the industry are brought together to showcase their latest products, services, and news. Most shows have keynote speakers and panel discussions about industry trends and topics.
Many construction trade shows offer educational opportunities that help professionals further their careers. Additionally, most shows are held in popular cities that many construction professionals study. For example, many premier building shows occur in Chicago, the first city ever to build a skyscraper.
Choosing the right building and construction trade show to exhibit or attend shouldn’t be difficult. The industry is comprised of multiple sectors, each with its specific show. If you specialize in roofing, you’ll fit right in at the International Roofing Expo (IRE). If you focus on architecture, then the American Institute of Architects (AIA) is where you’ll want to look.
The top 10 largest building and construction trade shows in 2023
There are many great building and construction trade shows in the United States. Here are 10 of the best.
1. KBIS/IBS
When: Feb 25. – 27, 2025
Where: Las Vegas Convention Center
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) hosts the International Builder’s Show (IBS), which since 2021, teamed up with the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS).
IBS is one of the largest annual trade shows for the building and construction industry, with over 1,500 exhibitors and 100,000 attendees from around the world. IBS features educational sessions on a variety of topics, as well as an extensive exhibit hall with the latest products and services.
Registration link: NAHB International Builders’ Show | IBS 2025
2. Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating (AHR) Expo
When: Feb. 10-12, 2025
Where: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando
The AHR Expo is the world’s largest HVACR marketplace, bringing together over 1,800 exhibitors and 45,000 attendees. The show offers a unique opportunity to see the latest products, find new suppliers, and learn about the latest industry trends – all under one roof.
In addition to the exhibits, the AHR Expo features a comprehensive conference program with over 100 sessions covering a wide range of topics. Whether you’re an HVACR contractor, engineer, facility manager or manufacturer, the AHR Expo is a must-attend event.
Registration link: AHR Expo
3. American Institute of Architects (AIA)
When: June 5 – 8, 2024
Where: Washington, D.C.
The AIA Conference on Architecture is a must-attend event for architects and other design professionals. The conference features over 200 educational sessions on a variety of topics related to architecture and design, as well as an exhibit hall with hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services.
Registration link: AIA Conference on Architecture 2024
4. International Roofing Expo (IRE)
When: February 19 – 21, 2025
Where: Henry Gonzalez Convention Center, San Antonio
If you are in the roofing industry, or any construction-related industry, the International Roofing Expo (IRE) is a must-attend event. IRE is the largest trade show for roofing professionals, featuring over 400 exhibitors and around10,000 attendees.
Exhibit trends at the 2022 show included a focus on energy efficiency, sustainability and technology. Many exhibitors were showcasing products that help roofing contractors reduce their environmental impact and save money on energy costs. There was also a lot of interest in new technology, with several exhibitors demonstrating drones and other innovative tools that can be used in roofing applications.
Registration link: International Roofing Expo
Read our IRE show spotlight here.
5. National Hardware Show (NHS)
When: March 18 – 20, 2025
Where: Las Vegas Convention Center
The National Hardware Show is another huge show for the building and construction industry, with over 2,600 exhibitors and 19,000 attendees. NHS takes place every May in Las Vegas, Nevada. For the first time ever, it will run concurrently with KBIS and IBS in 2023.
Registration link: National Hardware Show
6. Greenbuild International Conference and Expo
When: Nov. 12 – 15, 2024
Where: Philadelphia, PA
Greenbuild is a conference and expo dedicated to sustainable building practices and green buildings. Greenbuild takes place every November in a different city each year; past locations have included Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Toronto, and Washington D.C.
Registration link: Official Greenbuild International Conference and Expo
7. Conexpo-CON/AGG
When: March 3 – 7, 2026
Where: Las Vegas Convention Center
The construction industry is always evolving, and Conexpo-CON/AGG is one of the leading events that brings together the latest innovations and technologies. Held every three years in Las Vegas, Nevada, Conexpo-CON/AGG showcases the latest equipment, products and services for the construction industry.
In addition to the trade show floor, Conexpo-CON/AGG features educational seminars, demonstrations and networking events.
Registration link: CONEXPO-CON/AGG
8. International Woodworking Fair (IWF)
When: Aug. 6 – 9, 2024
Where: Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, GA
The international Woodworking Fair is the world’s largest trade show for the woodworking industry. It is held every two years in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. The fair showcases the latest machinery, equipment, supplies, and services for the woodworking industry. It attracts visitors from all over the world and is a great opportunity to network with other professionals in the industry.
Registration link: IWF
9. Equip Exhibition
When: October 15 – 28, 2024
Where: Kentucky Exhibition Center, Louisville, KY
Formerly known as GIA + Expo, Equip Exposition is a trade show that focuses on the latest in technology and equipment for the manufacturing industry. If you’re in the manufacturing industry, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Attendees can expect to see the latest in machines, tools, and software that can help take their business to the next level.
Registration link: Equip Exposition
10. World of Concrete
When: January 21 – 23, 2025
Where: Las Vegas Convention Center
World of Concrete is one of the top building and construction trade shows in the United States. Held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada, this show is a must-attend event for anyone in the concrete industry. With over 55,000 attendees and more than 1,500 exhibitors, World of Concrete is the largest annual gathering of the concrete industry.
The show provides attendees with an opportunity to see the latest products and technologies, learn from experts, and network with other professionals in the industry.
Registration link: To World of Concrete
If you’re in the building or construction industry, trade shows are a great way to network and stay up to date on the latest trends. From small, local events to large, international gatherings, there’s something for everyone.
Need help with your trade show marketing strategy? The Trade Group has been designing award-winning exhibits since 1986. Contact us below for quality assistance.
The Trade Group is a full-service trade show and event marketing company. We will work with you to create an exhibit or an event that brings in leads and helps you achieve your business goals. Contact us here or give us a call at (800) 343-2005.
