It’s A Family Tradition

Celebrating 50 years, the North American International Livestock Exposition is a time-honored event that attracts exhibitors and visitors from across the world. Beginning the first weekend in November, NAILE offers competitive shows for various species including dairy and beef cattle, goats, swine, and sheep.

For some, this may be the first year traveling and experiencing the busy roads of Louisville, but for others this show is a family tradition that involves several generations. Traveling from Central Missouri, the Dixson family has been exhibiting dairy at NAILE since 1995. Beginning with Keith Dixson and his kids Brett and Katie, there has never been a dull moment on their trips to Kentucky, working as a family with their registered Guernseys.

Right away, NAILE became special to the Dixson family. In 1997, both Brett and Katie were Grand and Reserve Champions of the Guernsey show, having what Keith called “beginners luck.” Continuing to visit every year, the Dixson family was making memories not only in the show ring but in the barns as well.

“One night every year, a group of 30 or 40 of us in the barn would get together and go eat at the 5th Quarter,” said Keith as he reminisced on the lasting friendships they made while at NAILE. “And those friends that we met years ago still stop by to say hi!”

Their love for the show grew with Katie as she began bringing her now 20-year-old daughter, Whitney Yurina, and younger nephew, Diesel Dixson, to experience NAILE.

“This show has always been my favorite. It’s laid back, everyone is friendly, and it's also kid-friendly,” Katie mentions.

As the Dixson family continues to return, Whitney is now making with her family. From participating in dairy judging to exhibiting a Grand Champion Guernsey in 2021, Whitney continues to create memorable while showcasing Dix-Lee Farms on the green shavings.

NAILE is a place for everyone to visit, exhibit, and make lasting memories. Celebrating 50 years is a milestone to remember not only for visitors but also for the families in the barns that have been traveling to Louisville, Kentucky, since the beginning.