Get Ready to Network: A Guide to the Top Construction Trade Shows from 2023 to 2026

• 27 March 2023

Trade shows are an essential part of the construction industry, providing a platform for businesses to showcase their latest products and services, network with industry peers, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. As we move through 2023 and into 2026, the construction trade show calendar is filling up with exciting events that are sure to attract a diverse range of attendees. Wait, is it too early or just downright crazy to be talking about 2026? Not if North America's largest construction trade show only happens every three years!

Whether you're a contractor, architect, engineer, or supplier, there's a trade show out there that's tailored to your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a closer look at the top construction trade shows of 2023, highlighting their key features, the benefits of attending, and what you can expect from each event. As a recent main exhibitor, we'll even give you a few insights from the 2023 Conexpo Con/Agg that will be helpful when it's back in 2026. From the latest in sustainable building practices to cutting-edge construction technology, these shows offer a wealth of opportunities to learn, connect, and grow your business. So get ready to network and let's dive into the world of construction trade shows!

The importance of attending construction trade shows

Attending a construction trade show is one of the best ways to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, products, and services in the industry. These events provide a unique opportunity to connect with peers, learn about new products and services, and gain valuable insights into the latest industry trends.

One of the most significant benefits of attending a trade show is the opportunity to network with other professionals in the industry. Whether you're looking to expand your business, find new clients, or learn about new products and services, trade shows offer an excellent platform to do so. You can meet with other professionals in the industry, exchange ideas and insights, and forge new relationships that can help you grow your business.

Another benefit of attending a construction trade show is the opportunity to learn about new products and services. These events often feature exhibits from a wide range of vendors, showcasing the latest in construction technology, materials, and equipment. You can see firsthand how these products and services work, ask questions of the vendors, and learn about the benefits and drawbacks of each product.

Top construction trade shows of 2023 and beyond

National Association of Home Builders International Builders' Show

Feb 27-29, 2024 Las Vegas
Feb 25 - 27, 2025 Las Vegas

Feb 17-19, 2026 Orlando Florida

The National Association of Home Builders International Builders' Show is one of the largest construction trade shows in the world, attracting over 60,000 attendees each year. This show features exhibits from over 1,500 manufacturers and suppliers, showcasing the latest in construction technology, materials, and equipment.

The show also features over 100 educational sessions, covering topics such as design, construction, product launches, and home builder trends. These sessions are led by industry experts and provide valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the industry.

One of the unique features of this show is the New American Home, a showcase home that highlights the latest in home design and construction. This home is designed and built specifically for the show and features the latest in sustainable building practices, energy-efficient products, and cutting-edge technology.

AIA Expo 2023

June 7-10, 2023 | Expo: 8-9

San Francisco, CA

The Architecture Expo at A’23 is a networking hub for the AEC industry, and it’s packed with 500+ brands, a diverse range of experts, project-changing ideas, and pioneering solutions. It’s your ticket to building better relationships.

Get ready for a new expo experience. Now owned by AIA, the Architecture Expo at A’23 is designed for networking, collaboration, and discovery. Nowhere else connects you to such a diverse range of expertise and thought leadership while giving you access to the full product experience from 500+ of the building product manufacturers architecture professionals rely on most. More than 100 new brands will be on display offering business services, innovative products, software, technology, and more.

Greenbuild International Conference and Expo

Sept 26-29, 2023 | Expo: 27-28

Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington DC

The Greenbuild International Conference and Expo is the largest conference and expo dedicated to sustainable building practices. This show features exhibits from over 600 companies, showcasing the latest in sustainable building products and technologies.

The show also features over 200 educational sessions, covering topics such as sustainable design, construction, and operations. These sessions are led by industry experts and provide valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in sustainable building practices.

One of the unique features of this show is the Greenbuild Celebration, a networking event that brings together attendees and exhibitors in a fun and relaxed environment. This provides attendees with a unique opportunity to connect with other professionals in the industry and forge new relationships.

The Buildings Show

November 29 - December 1, 2023

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, South

Toronto, Canada

The Buildings Show is the largest North American event for products, services, educational programming, and professional networking in the design, architecture, construction, and real estate sectors. This show features exhibits from over 1,600 companies, showcasing the latest in construction technology, equipment, and materials.

The show also features over 350 educational sessions, covering topics such as design, construction, and real estate. These sessions are led by industry experts and provide valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the industry.

One of the unique features of this show is the Construct Canada section, which focuses on construction products, technologies, and services. This section provides attendees with a unique opportunity to learn about the latest products and services in the industry.

NAHB/IBS Show

February 27-29, 2024

Las Vegas, NV

Residential construction professionals look forward to the NAHB International Builders' Show® (IBS) each year. This premier event hosts networking, learning and discovery opportunities through:

• Product launches
• Education sessions
• Home builder trends

You walk away with real ideas and the solutions you need to grow and strengthen your business.

The World of Asphalt

March 25 - 27, 2024

Nashville, TN

World of Asphalt focuses on the asphalt industry with in-depth education and exhibitors showcasing their latest technologies and innovations. Visit with equipment, product, and service providers at the industry’s leading trade show.

World of Concrete

Jan 22 - 25, 2024

Las Vegas, NV

World of Concrete is the largest annual international event dedicated to the commercial concrete and masonry construction industries. This show features exhibits from over 1,500 companies, showcasing the latest in concrete, masonry, and construction technology.

The show also features over 150 educational sessions, covering topics such as concrete production, equipment, materials, and design. These sessions are led by industry experts and provide valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the industry.

One of the unique features of this show is the outdoor exhibits, which allow attendees to see firsthand how concrete products and equipment are used in real-world applications. This provides attendees with a unique opportunity to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of different products and equipment.

CONEXPO-CON/AGG

Mar 3-7, 2026

Las Vegas, NV

CONEXPO-CON/AGG is one of the largest construction trade shows in North America, attracting over 130,000 attendees from around the world. This show features exhibits from over 2,800 companies, showcasing the latest in construction technology, equipment, and materials.

The show also features over 150 educational sessions, covering topics such as:

• Asphalt
• Aggregates
• Concrete
• Earthmoving
• Hauling
• Lifting
• Trucking
• Heavy Civil Construction Project Management Software
• And more

Optional training sessions are led by industry experts and provide valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in the industry.

One of the unique features of this show is the outdoor exhibits, which allow attendees to see firsthand how construction equipment is used in real-world applications. This provides attendees with a unique opportunity to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of different equipment and technologies.

When we attended the 2023 ConExpo show, here are a few of the things we observed.

• People attending the show were there to learn about new products and advanced construction technology. The ConExpo crowd is purpose driven and they are generally not just “window shopping”.
• Show attendance was global - we met with industry professionals from across the world - not just North America.
• People that walk into your booth are generally interested in what you have to offer, or are trying to solve a problem. Be ready to learn about your visitors' needs and apply any resources that can help them with their business…don’t sell them - HELP them.
• Have a team ready for the “wave” of booth attendees. Trade shows tend to flow with activity. The minute you are understaffed is when the wave hits your booth. Always be prepared to help ALL opportunities that appear at your booth. With the outside exhibits - the rainy days increased traffic for inside exhibitors.
• Location, location, location - have a booth that is well constructed, visible and in a high traffic area. It is worth the added expense to make sure your booth is appealing and easy to find.
• If you are exhibiting - have a “hand-out” to get people to stop and see who you are….Vizzn offered “recovery kits” for the day-after impact of Vegas!
• As a first-time exhibitor, Vizzn enjoyed meeting and talking to our current and prospective clients. It’s great to be back out in a face-to-face setting to interact and learn from our industry colleagues.

BAUMA

April 7-13, 2025

Munich, Germany

The BAUMA (International Trade Fair for Construction Machinery, Building Material Machines, Mining Machines, Construction Vehicles and Construction Equipment) is the world's largest trade fair in the construction industry. The trade fair, which can be visited by anyone, is held every three years on the grounds of the Neue Messe München and lasts for seven days

How to prepare for a construction trade show

Attending a construction trade show requires a bit of preparation to ensure that you get the most out of the experience. Here are some tips to help you prepare for a construction trade show:

• Research the exhibitors and educational sessions ahead of time, so you know which ones you want to see.
• Create a schedule for the show, so you don't miss any important sessions or exhibits.
• Bring plenty of business cards to hand out to other professionals in the industry.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring a notebook and pen to take notes on new products and technologies.

What to expect at a construction trade show

Construction trade shows are busy and crowded events, but they're also a lot of fun. Here's what you can expect at a construction trade show:

• A wide range of exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services, and technologies in the industry.
• Educational sessions led by industry experts, covering a wide range of topics.
• Opportunities to network with other professionals in the industry.
• Exciting product demonstrations and exhibits.
• Fun events and activities, such as networking parties and keynote speeches.

Networking tips for construction trade shows

Networking is one of the most important aspects of attending a construction trade show. Here are some tips to help you network effectively:

• Be prepared with a quick pitch about your business and what you do.
• Don't be afraid to approach other professionals in the industry and strike up a conversation.
• Attend networking events and parties to meet other professionals in a more relaxed environment.
• Follow up with the people you meet after the show to continue the conversation and build relationships.
• Use social media to connect with other professionals in the industry and stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies.

Conclusion

Attending a construction trade show is an excellent way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, products, and services in the industry. These events provide a unique opportunity to connect with peers, learn about new products and services, and gain valuable insights into the latest industry trends. So get ready to network and make the most of your experience at a construction trade show!