Best Trade Shows for Press Attendance
Trade shows are so much more than networking events. Brands use them to showcase their products in front of industry insiders, retail buyers, investors, and the media. They’re perfect for brand launches, competitive analysis, market research, and building brand awareness. Trade shows can also be huge press events. The biggest expos have hundreds, if not thousands, of journalists, bloggers, and influencers attending with media badges. We’ve identified some of the best trade shows for press attendance to help you plan your expo season.
Consumer Electronics Show
The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is one of the largest tech events in the world. It showcases the latest innovations in consumer technology, from cutting-edge gadgets to emerging trends, drawing industry professionals and tech enthusiasts worldwide.
Industries represented: consumer electronics, robotics, IoT (internet of things), gaming, tech startups, retail tech and e-commerce, digital health.
Number of show attendees: 115,000 (2023)
Number of press attendees: 3,500+ *estimated
Event info: Registration is currently open for CES 2024. It will take place January 9-12th in Las Vegas.
Natural Products Expo West & Expo East
The Natural Products Expo West & Expo East shows bring together the natural and organic products industry. Thousands of exhibitors showcase their eco-friendly and health-conscious products to retailers and consumers alike.
Industries represented: Food & beverage, cosmetics, personal care, natural living, pets, wellness.
Number of show attendees: 65,000 (Expo West, 2023)
Number of press attendees: 2,000 *estimated
Event Info: Expo West is scheduled for March 12-16, 2024 in Anaheim, CA. Expo East will take place in place September 20-23, 2023 in Philadelphia.
Inspired Home Show
The Inspired Home Show is an annual trade event that highlights innovative and stylish home and housewares products. It provides a platform for industry professionals to explore the latest trends and innovations in the world of home goods.
Industries represented: Kitchenware & cookware, home decor, tabletop, cleaning, organization, smart home, gourmet food, home improvement, small electronics and appliances, wellness.
Number of show attendees: 20,000 (2022)
Number of press attendees: 200+
Event Info: The next Inspired Home Show is scheduled for March 17-19, 2024 in Chicago.
Fancy Food
The Specialty Food Association’s Fancy Food show happens twice a year and brings together gourmet and specialty food producers. They showcase a wide array of unique and innovative culinary products to industry professionals and food enthusiasts.
Industries represented: food & beverage
Number of show attendees: 30,000+
Number of press attendees: 800+ (estimate)
Event Info: The 48th annual Winter Fancy Food Show will take place January 21-23, 2024 in Las Vegas. The Summer Fancy Food will be June 23-25, 2024 in New York City.
Super Zoo
SuperZoo is a trade show for the pet industry that attracts thousands of pet retailers, manufacturers, and professionals. Exhibitors showcase the latest pet products, trends, and innovations.
Industries represented: pet products
Number of show attendees: 20,000
Number of press attendees:
Event Info: August 14-16, 2024 in Las Vegas
Toy Fair
The North American International Toy Fair serves as a global platform for toy manufacturers, retailers, and industry professionals. Exhibitors and attendees use the show to debut and explore the latest toys and games on the market.
Industries represented: toys, games, infant/baby, candy, pet, party, outdoor, home improvement, amusement/theme park, sporting goods, seasonal
Number of show attendees: 26,000 (2022)
Number of press attendees: 1,000+
Event Info: September 30-October 3, 2023, New York City
High Point Market
The High Point Market is the largest home furnishings industry trade show in North America. Furniture manufacturers, designers, and retailers converge to discover and showcase the latest trends and products in the world of home furnishings and decor.
Industries represented: home furnishings, decor, accessories, bath
Number of show attendees: 75,000
Number of press attendees:
Event Info: Fall 2023 will take place October 14-18 and Spring 2024 is April 13-17 in High Point, NC
Outdoor Retailer
Outdoor Retailer is a leading trade show for the outdoor industry that happens twice a year. Brands and manufacturers, retailers, and outdoor enthusiasts attend each year to showcase and experience the latest innovations in outdoor recreation and adventure products.
Industries represented: water sports, winter sports, Overlanding & travel, camping & hiking, running & cycling, climbing
Number of show attendees: 20,000 (estimated)
Number of press attendees:
Event Info: The next winter show is November 14-16, 2023 and the summer show will take place June 17-19, 2024. They both happen in Salt Lake City, UT.
National Hardware Show
The National Hardware Show is one of the biggest shows around for the hardware, home improvement, and garden industries. There’s also an inventor’s showcase for the best new inventions on the market.
Industries represented: smart home, backyard & bbq, inventor’s spotlight, lawn & garden, paint & accessories, pet products, storage, organization, plumbing & electrical
Number of show attendees: 25,000
Number of press attendees: 150+ industry-relevant press as well as 75+ industry-leading influencers
Event Info: March 26-28, 2024 in Las Vegas
ABC Kids Expo
If you are involved in the toy industry, then this is the trade show to attend! The ABC Kids Expo showcases the latest baby and children’s products. You’ll see everything from clothing and gear to furniture and accessories at the show.
Industries represented: baby & kid products, infant care, toys & games, parenting
Number of show attendees: 2,000
Number of press attendees: 114 (2023)
Event Info: May 15-17, 2024 in Las Vegas
Other Big North American Media Events
There are a few other events that attract a lot of media attention each year that have become launchpads for startups and new brands. They can be expensive to attend as an exhibitor but are great for networking.
Art Basel
Art Basel is one of the world’s leading contemporary art fairs. Artists artists, galleries, collectors, and art enthusiasts showcase and experience cutting-edge artworks from around the globe. It’s also become a haven for unique product launches and a place for tech startups to network and be seen.
SXSW
SXSW (South by Southwest) is where film, music, digital art, and technology come together to explore the latest trends and innovations in entertainment and technology. Startups use SXSW as a launch event for their products and to generate buzz for their brand.
Need assistance with getting in front of members of the media attending these shows? Check out our guide to creating a virtual press kit and our PR for tradeshow guides. You can also set up a consultation with a member of the Orca Communications PR team.