World Pork Expo 2026 returns to the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines June 3-4, bringing pork producers, industry professionals, exhibitors and other partners together for two days of education, innovation and connection. Hosted by the National Pork Producers Council, the world’s largest pork-specific trade show provides a direct look at the conversations, technologies, products and people shaping the future of pork production.

“From the trade show floor to the seminar rooms, this event helps producers exchange ideas, explore practical solutions and strengthen the relationships that keep pork moving forward,” said NPPC President Rob Brenneman. “World Pork Expo gives producers a chance to gather with the people who understand the challenges and opportunities in this industry firsthand.”

Attendees can meet the newest voices in pork advocacy by supporting the next generation of industry leaders during the Young Pork Advocates Issues Meet, presented by founding sponsors Novus and Nutra Blend. Young adults ages 18–22 will address current pork industry issues through research, discussion, creative problem-solving and mock policy development. The competition begins Wednesday with orientation and preliminary rounds, followed by the Final Four on Thursday at the Anne & Bill Riley Stage, where $25,000 in scholarships will be awarded.

Expo mornings begin at the McRig, where participants can start their day with a breakfast courtesy of Lopez Foods and McDonald’s®. The McRig will be located on Grand Avenue, west of the main entrance, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. June 3 and 4, offering a convenient stop before heading into the trade show, seminars and other fairgrounds activities.

The World Pork Expo Trade Show will run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on both June 3 and 4 across hospitality tents, outdoor areas and the Varied Industries Building. This year’s expo is expected to feature nearly 400 companies from North America and beyond, approximately 700 booths and more than 300,000 square feet of exhibit space. Attendees can use the trade show to compare solutions, meet company representatives and explore the latest products, services and technologies designed for pork production.

Participants are encouraged to build their schedules around opportunities for connection and education. World Pork Expo offers numerous ways to learn, ask questions and engage with industry peers. Business Seminars and Pork Academy sessions will cover topics including markets, consumer demand, swine health, pricing, sustainability, manure management and production performance. In addition, more than 50 hospitality tents located along Grand Avenue and Ruan Plaza provide spaces to continue conversations with company representatives and fellow attendees.

The full program for the trade show and related activities is available online.

Attendees can have lunch at the Big Grill, located south of the Varied Industries Building. Lunch will be served from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on both Expo days, offering an opportunity to refuel, reconnect and take part in one of the event’s most recognizable traditions.

The second day of World Pork Expo will conclude with live entertainment featuring Tyler Richton and The High Bank Boys. The performance will take place Thursday, June 4, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Anne & Bill Riley Stage, providing a fitting finish after two days of learning, networking and exploring the show.

Registration for World Pork Expo 2026 closes May 28.

Source: World Pork Expo