Las Vegas awaits: Irrigation Show delivers innovation, education and industry connection

Industry insights | Fall 2026
BY Anne Blankenbiller

The irrigation industry is evolving rapidly. New technologies, changing water management demands and rising expectations for efficiency continue to reshape how irrigation professionals do business. The 2026 Irrigation Show and Education Week, Dec. 7–10 in Las Vegas, offers an opportunity to see those changes firsthand while connecting with the people and companies driving them forward.

Hands-on training and certification put the “education” in Education Week.

See innovation up close on the exhibit floor

At the heart of the event is the industry’s largest exhibit floor, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, technology providers and service companies from across the irrigation sector. More than a place to browse products, the trade show offers a chance to have face-to-face conversations with the experts behind the equipment, software and services you use every day. Whether you’re evaluating new technologies, comparing solutions or troubleshooting a challenge, there is no substitute for seeing products in person and getting answers directly from the source. The exhibit floor also includes the IA Pavilion, IA Member Lounge, Insights Theater, Startup Showcase and New Product Contest Plaza, creating a hub of innovation and industry expertise.

Innovation will be on full display through the popular New Product Contest, where exhibitors showcase their latest products and compete for industry recognition. Attendees can explore new products up close, learn how they work and speak directly with company representatives about real-world applications. The Startup Showcase provides a look at the next generation of irrigation technology, featuring emerging companies and products that are helping shape the future of the industry. Attendees can meet startup founders, ask questions and discover fresh ideas before they become mainstream.

Discovery and collaboration thrive at the center of the Irrigation Show.

Explore new learning and education opportunities

Education remains a cornerstone of the Irrigation Show experience. Industry Insights sessions will feature a new Emerging Technology and Research track, highlighting evolving technologies, research findings and industry trends affecting irrigation professionals. Combined with the conference’s broader educational offerings, these sessions provide practical knowledge that attendees can take back to their operations and businesses.

For those seeking deeper technical training, IA University offers some of the industry’s most respected education. This year’s program includes seven new classes, covering topics including

  • flow management basics
  • pump performance
  • preventing air problems in pipes and pumps
  • scalable irrigation service
  • forensic irrigation water budgeting

Led by experienced instructors, IA University delivers practical training designed to help professionals strengthen their technical expertise and stay current with industry best practices.

New in 2026! Agriculture Policy Exchange Session: Navigating Water, Regulation & the Future

Join fellow agricultural irrigation professionals for an interactive discussion on the issues shaping the future of farming. This new Exchange Session on Dec. 9 provides a forum to share perspectives; explore challenges related to water management, regulations and technology adoption; and gain valuable insights from peers across the industry. Whether you’re looking to learn, contribute or make new connections, this collaborative conversation offers a unique opportunity to engage with others who share your passion for advancing agricultural irrigation.

Make plans now for Vegas

The 2026 Irrigation Show and Education Week brings together education, innovation, networking and business opportunities in one place. Register now and make your hotel reservation through Connections Housing, the IA’s official housing partner, to access discounted rooms and convenient accommodations near the convention center. Visit irrigationshow.org and click “Register” for registration, housing and event information.

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