North American International Livestock Exposition Wraps Another Successful Year

The North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) wraps up its 51st event. The annual show brought in an estimated 200,000 visitors for two full weeks of livestock shows, contests, and activities.  

The show rings were busy at the fifteen-day livestock show from November 7-21. The expo drew more than 25,000 livestock entries from eight species, with exhibitors representing nearly every state and Canada. Exhibitors and their livestock participated in around 100 shows, and nearly 680 iconic purple and gold felt banners were handed out on the green shavings to the best of the best livestock and exhibitors.   

“The North American International Livestock Exposition is a place to celebrate those in the livestock industry and recognize them for their hard work and dedication,” said David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues. “We are immensely proud to be the place where that celebration takes place, right here in Louisville, Kentucky.” 

North American Championship Rodeo presented by Rural 1st  
Held in conjunction with the livestock show, the three-night North American Championship Rodeo presented by Rural 1st ran November 14-16. The event, held in historic Freedom Hall, drew a sell-out crowd for Saturday’s performance. Over 33,000 fans snagged tickets to the annual event. 

The North American Country Store 
With more vendors than ever before, visitors were invited to shop livestock gear and equipment, western wear, boutique clothing, trinkets, and more from over 100 vendors in the Country Store in the North Wing. 

Saddle and Sirloin Portrait Gallery Induction

The 379th honoree was inducted into the Saddle & Sirloin Club Portrait Gallery, the hall of fame honoring the most significant leaders in the livestock industry. Housed at the Kentucky Exposition Center, it is the largest portrait collection honoring a single industry in the world. Each year, a new member is inducted, and the portrait of Jim S. Williams of Boling, Texas, was unveiled at a special ceremony on November 17.  

Educational Contests 

NAILE is the destination where future leaders of the livestock industry are recognized during a multitude of contests. Students from across the nation competed in the 119th National Collegiate Livestock Judging Contest, held since 1976. In addition, the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest and Dairy Quiz Bowl took place at the NAILE.