World Ag Expo

World Ag Expo

THE BEST FARM SHOW ON DIRT

Words by Lifestyle Staff | Photos provided by International Agri-Center

FEBRUARY 13-15, 2024 |TULARE, CALIF0RNIA

Every February, in the heart of Tulare’s agricultural land, the International Agri-Center ® (IAC) becomes a bustling hub of innovation and agricultural prowess. It hosts the World Ag Expo®, a premier three-day event that draws farmers, industry experts, and agribusiness professionals from around the globe.

OVER 100,000 ATTENDESS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE.

The annual event is one of the largest agricultural trade shows in the world. It was established in 1968 with a goal to create a platform for ag businesses to showcase their products and services. Since its inception, it has played a crucial role in connecting businesses, fostering innovation, and contributing to the advancement of the ag industry. Each year, exhibitors prepare their booths to showcase precision farming equipment, cutting-edge irrigation systems, and much more, promising a glimpse into the future of farming. It takes the IAC team many months to prepare for the event, which is run in large part by the help of many volunteers. Waves of attendees flood through the gates every February, eager to explore the exhibits and engage in conversations with experts who are paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient agricultural future. The food is also a main attraction with booths offering items like homemade Dutch oven cobbler and mouth-watering ribeye sandwiches.

Educational Programs and Seminars

In addition to the exhibition, the World Ag Expo® has consistently offered educational programs, seminars, panel discussions, and workshops led by industry experts and leaders. There are over 90 sessions this year covering a variety of topics, including best practices in farming, emerging trends in agriculture, discussions on challenges facing the industry, and even cooking demos as an added attendee attraction.

Focus on Sustainability

In response to growing concerns about sustainability and environmental issues in agriculture, the expo has also placed a significant emphasis on showcasing sustainable farming practices and technologies that promote environmental stewardship.

Community Impact

The show has had a positive impact on the local community in Tulare and the surrounding areas. The event brings together farmers, industry professionals, and exhibitors, fostering collaboration and networking opportunities.

Another main attraction is the Field Demos, where attendees gather to witness live demonstrations of state-of-the-art farm equipment in action. Tractors equipped with GPS technology navigate the fields with precision, showcasing the efficiency and accuracy that modern farming methods can achieve. Drones buzz overhead, monitoring crop health and optimizing resource allocation.

As the sun sets on the final day of the World Ag Expo®, the sense of camaraderie among attendees lingers. The exchange of ideas, the forging of new partnerships, and the shared commitment to advancing agriculture paints a vivid picture of a community united by a common goal—to feed the world sustainably and responsibly. Tulare continues to be a beacon of agricultural excellence, with the World Ag Expo® standing as a testament to the resilience and innovation of those who till the soil and cultivate the future.

Attending the event for the first time? Here are some tips:

• Dress in layers and wear walking shoes. Be prepared for rain or muddy grounds.

• Parking can be congested. Consider utilizing the Park & Ride program.

• Download the app and plan which of the over 1,200 booths to visit.

World Ag Expo History Timeline

1960s-1970s

In 1968, the California Field and Row Crop Equipment Show was born. In 1976, the International Agri-Center was formed.

1980s-1990s

The show grew steadily, attracting exhibitors and attendees from various parts of the United States and around the world.

2000s

As the show continued to expand, it gained an increasingly international presence, attracting exhibitors and visitors from a wide range of countries. As a result, in 2001 the show was renamed World Ag Expo®

2010s

The World Ag Expo® became a platform for showcasing the latest innovations and advancements in agriculture.

2020s

Like many events, the World Ag Expo® faced challenges due to the global Covid-19 pandemic. Today, however, the expo is going strong, as it welcomes its 57th show in February 2024.