If you’re going to be around downtown Indy next week, you may notice a lot more blue and gold around town — and not just Pacers fans. The 95th National FFA Convention kicks off of Wed., Oct. 26 and runs through Sat., Oct. 29.
The convention — celebrating agriculture and agricultural education — is among one of the biggest events held in Indianapolis and is expected to bring in more than 60,000 FFA members from across the country.
What to know
- This year’s event will have over 300 exhibitors.
- Sessions will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium.
- Wednesday + Thursday night concerts will be at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
- Students will participate in a service project to construct 1,200 travel book pillows to go to hospitals + schools.
- The annual convention has been held in Indy since 2016 + will continue to be held in Indianapolis through at least 2033.
The National FFA Expo inside the Indiana Convention Center hosted more than 400 exhibitors in 2018.
Photo by National FFA Organization
By the numbers
- In 2018, the convention had an economic impact of $39.8 million. In 2021, the convention brought in about $30 million — its first year back in person following the pandemic.
- In 2018, the convention’s National Days of Service project had an economic impact of $171,842.
- The convention has a huge impact on the local hospitality industry, booking out 115 hotels around Indy and ~32,550 hotel rooms.
With this many people flocking to Indy, this is a friendly reminder that traffic around downtown, especially surrounding Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the Convention Center, and State Fairgrounds will be heavier than usual.