The final touches are being put on the exhibits at the Kentucky Exposition Center in readiness of doors opening for the National Farm Machinery Show which runs Feb. 15-18. Billed as the largest indoor farm show in the country, the event features 1.2 million square feet of space and boasts a $23.1 million economic impact for the area.

David Beck, president and CEO, Kentucky Venues remarks that the show “is where the agriculture industry comes together for four days of networking, exploring new techniques and doing business.”

He adds that farmers face the ever- growing challenge of feeding the world with less farmland, less labor, increased costs and a growing population. “It’s important to be efficient and environmentally sound with every acre and having the right equipment and techniques are essential for profitability and meeting the expectations of today’s consumers.”

Beyond the show floor

The show offers a wide range of exhibits on the main floor and beyond that farmers will find educational opportunities too. There are nearly two dozen seminars scheduled for the show offering farmers the chance to update knowledge, learn about new technology and plan for the upcoming year.

The free seminars are in the South Wing and include subjects ranging from market and weather strategies to driverless technology. Sponsors include Beck’s Hybrids, DTN/Progressive Farmer, Farm Journal Media and Farm Progress. It’s a diverse list of seminars.

Another show feature is the Gift & Craft Market, located in the South Wing mezzanine. For 2023, exhibitors are extending their hours. More than 65 booths will be on hand offering everything from custom leather belts to fashion to toys. You’ll also find collectibles, snacks and more.

The extended hours have the market open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. For the farmer who’s left home to venture to the show, the Market offers you a chance to pick up something special for the family back home.

Championship Tractor Pull ready to rumble

Held in conjunction with the National Farm Machinery Show, the Championship Tractor Pull presented by Syngenta offers a fun-filled showdown of some of the top pullers competing today. Roaring tractors and trucks will be heard throughout Freedom Hall as rival pullers race down the dirt track to earn a grand championship title.

The pull runs all four days of the show including matinee competition on Saturday Feb. 18. The event draws the nation’s top drivers as they compete for the title of grand champion and a portion of $300,000 in prizes.

PULL ON: This will be the 55th Championship Tractor Pull. The event, sponsored by Syngenta, brings drivers from the three major circuits to one big event. (Courtesy National Farm Machinery Show)

Drivers compete in 10 different divisions and competition begins when weighted sleds are attached to the machines. Competitors then “gun for a full pull” – aiming to pull the full length of the track for a win. If two or more drivers in a division nail a full pull, more weight is added. The driver who pulls the farthest wins. Earplugs are recommended for the competition.

The Championship Tractor Pull, holding its 55th event, was the first indoor tractor pull in the nation.

Visitors have a chance to see pullers and their machines before they compete. The Pit in Broadbent Arena offers fans the chance to take pictures of their favorite vehicles, meet drivers and collect autographs. Admission is free and open to the public Wednesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Tickets for the pull are available online and at the show. Event times and prices vary by day:

Full details about classes and times are available at champpull.org.

Admission to the National Farm Machinery Show is free and open to the public Feb. 15-18 from 9 a.m.to 5 p.m. Parking at the Kentucky Exposition Center starts at $10.60 online or $12 per vehicle at the gate for standard vehicles. Parking options are available online. Bus parking is $25 at the gate. Registration is not required for the 2023 show. More information is available at farmmachineryshow.org.

Source: National Farm Machinery Show