What to Experience at World Pork Expo 2026 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds | Rachel Fishback, Pork Industry News
The countdown is on for the 2026 World Pork Expo 2026 — the world’s largest pork-specific trade show — returning June 3-4, 2026, at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa.
Hosted by the National Pork Producers Council, World Pork Expo brings together pork producers, pig farmers, swine industry professionals, veterinarians, nutritionists, equipment companies, barn builders, trucking companies, genetics leaders, feed companies, and ag businesses from across the United States and around the world.
If you’ve never attended World Pork Expo before, many in the pork industry describe it as a must-attend event for anyone involved in pork production. For two full days, the Iowa State Fairgrounds transforms into the center of the pork industry, packed with innovation, education, networking, equipment, technology, food, and conversations focused entirely on helping pork producers succeed.
What to Expect at World Pork Expo 2026
Nearly 400 Exhibitors
Attendees can explore nearly 400 exhibiting companies showcasing the latest in:
- Swine health
- Hog barn technology
- Feeding systems
- Ventilation
- Genetics
- Biosecurity
- Equipment
- Construction
- Transportation
- Nutrition
- Data and precision farming tools
Exhibits stretch across more than 300,000 square feet throughout the fairgrounds, with nearly 700 booths open during the two-day event.
More Than 10,000 Pork Industry Attendees
Each year, more than 10,000 pork producers and agricultural professionals attend World Pork Expo from around the globe. From family pig farmers to large-scale operations, Expo offers opportunities to connect with people across every area of the pork industry.
Over 50 Hospitality Tents
One of the biggest attractions during Expo week is the hospitality tents located throughout the fairgrounds along Grand Avenue and Ruan Plaza. Companies host producers, customers, and industry friends while showcasing new products, services, and innovations shaping the future of pork production.
If you attend, be sure to stop and say hello to the Iowa Pork Producers Association hospitality tent. My home state of Iowa pork producers, staff and committees, are known throughout the industry for their welcoming attitude and hospitality, opening their arms to visitors and pork producers from around the world during Expo week.
Check Out the Lynch Livestock Semi — A Farm Kid’s Dream at World Pork Expo
While walking the grounds, be sure to check out the impressive Lynch Livestock semi — something many farm kids and trucking enthusiasts would call a dream setup. From the chrome to the details, it’s expected to be a popular stop for attendees exploring the fairgrounds. Farm moms will love it, pork producer dads will wish it was parked in their shop, and the kids will already be dreaming about practicing backing this truck up to the loading chutes someday.
Kent Feeds BBQ Is Award Winning
While exploring the hospitality tents during World Pork Expo, many attendees make it a priority to stop by the award-winning Kent Nutrition Group and Innovative Solutions BBQ experience.
Known throughout the pork industry for incredible food, hospitality, and gathering pork producers together, the Kent Feeds BBQ has become a favorite stop during Expo week. From smoked pork to great conversations, it’s one of the many experiences that helps make World Pork Expo feel like a reunion for the agriculture industry.
And of course — best regards to Chef Kevin for helping deliver one of the tastiest stops at the Iowa State Fairgrounds during World Pork Expo.
Celebrate 50 Years with Parks Companies
Expo attendees can also help celebrate 50 years of Parks Companies during World Pork Expo 2026.Stop by Hospitality Tent RI204 for food, drinks, and celebration fun with The Parks Companies team! Don’t miss the Trainwreck Band on Wednesday at 5 PM. Help celebrate 50 years of serving the pork industry with The Parks Companies at one of the biggest pork industry events of the year!
Educational Opportunities
World Pork Expo also offers free educational seminars included with admission.
Business Seminars
Five business seminars will be held during the event inside the Varied Industries Building, covering topics important to pork producers and ag businesses.
Pork Academy Sessions
Six PORK Academy seminars are also scheduled throughout the show, focusing on:
- Swine health
- Pork industry economics
- Consumer trust
- Industry trends
- Production management
- Current hot topics in pork production
The Big Grill
No World Pork Expo experience is complete without stopping at the famous Big Grill. More than 10,000 pork lunches are expected to be served during the show, giving attendees a chance to enjoy pork while networking with fellow producers and industry professionals.
World Pork Open Golf Tournament
The week kicks off with the annual World Pork Open Golf Tournament on Tuesday, June 2, at The Legacy Golf Club near Des Moines. The event welcomes 120 golfers from across the pork industry before Expo officially begins.
Why Pork Producers Attend
For many producers, World Pork Expo is more than a trade show. It’s an opportunity to:
- Discover new products and technologies
- Meet face-to-face with industry companies
- Learn from experts
- Network with other pork producers
- Explore solutions for their farms and hog barns
- Stay informed about trends impacting the pork industry
Whether you raise pigs, work in swine production, sell products to the pork industry, or simply want to better understand modern pork production, World Pork Expo continues to be one of the biggest gatherings in agriculture.
World Pork Expo 2026 takes place June 3-4 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa.
And did I mention the food? I’m going to be looking for Jr’s SouthPork Ranch Maple Glazed Bacon Topped Croissant Donut. *Chef’s kiss… they’re absolutely amazing!*