WORLD’S FINEST LIVESTOCK TAKE CENTER STAGE AT NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION
The North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE), the largest all-breed, purebred livestock show in the world, returns to the Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center this November 5-18. Attracting exhibitors from all 48 contiguous states, NAILE receives more than 22,000 entries and features more than 140 total shows, sales, breed meetings, entertainment events and judging contests. More than 200,000 visitors att/files/storyimages/the show during its two week run every year, bringing an estimated economic impact of $11.6 million to the state annually.
With a total of $650,000 in premiums and awards on the line, NAILE’s competitors can choose from nine major divisions of livestock entries: dairy cattle, dairy goats, llamas and alpacas, quarter horses, draft horses, market swine, beef cattle, Boer goats and sheep. Particular interest is also given to the industry’s future as seven major youth judging contests are incorporated into the show to help prepare the next generation of livestock breeders.
In addition to the sales and judging contests, NAILE offers plenty of alternative events to catch the eye of all of its visitors. From November 10-12, the region’s best cowboys and cowgirls will join the show to compete for more than $80,000 in prizes in the North American Championship Rodeo - the invitational Great Lakes Circuit finals for the Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association. High-flying canines will also showcase their talents in the U.S. Disc Dog Nationals Championship Week/files/storyimages/as part of the action November 12-13. Some of NAILE’s more laid-back activities include browsing through the Giant Country Store, which houses everything from jewelry to farm supplies, and attending the annual Farm/City Luncheon, held November 11 at 11:30 a.m. The luncheon, produced by Louisville’s Agribusiness Industry Network, is highlighted by the presentation of the “Agribusiness of the Year” award and the fun-filled “Wing Tip Rodeo,” a light-hearted roping competition between local celebrities and business leaders.
NAILE also provides a unique learning experience for students as the show’s field trip program explains how the livestock industry affects our everyday lives. More than 3,000 students attended NAILE and participated in the interactive learning stations last year through the school tour group program. The NAILE field trip program, sponsored by Kentucky Farm Bureau, continues to broaden its efforts to reach youth in the region and provide them with an unforgettable educational experience.
Admission to NAILE is $5 for adults and $2 for children 12 and under. A pass for the entire twoweek run of the show can be purchased for $20. Parking is $5 each day, or visitors can purchase a parking pass good for the duration of the show for $25. For more information about NAILE, visit the official website at www.livestockexpo.org.
