Free Session Featuring Caleb & Brittany Auman
Thursday, October 21, 2026, 9 – 10 a.m.
Busy Isn’t Profitable: The Numbers and Systems That Changed Our Company
Caleb and Brittany Auman grew their design-build company by more than 30% – not by adding more work, but by getting clear on their numbers and building better systems. In this practical session, the Aumans will share what it took to make the shift, including the missteps and mindset changes along the way. Sponsored by: Granum
New at HNA
Ask the Contractor Coffee Corner
Grab a coffee, recharge your phone, and connect with experienced hardscape contractors in a relaxed setting designed for contractors and dealers. Whether you’re troubleshooting a challenge, seeking business advice, or exploring new ideas, this is the place to ask questions and learn from those who’ve been there before.
Cash Grab Cube
Enter for a chance to step inside and collect as much cash as you can by scanning your badge at the Cash Grab Cube in the HNA West Wing exhibits!
West Wing Grab & Go
Grab a quick drink or snack at the new West Wing Grab & Go, designed to help attendees refuel fast, avoid concession lines, and get back to the booths, demos, and sessions you came to see.
National Installer Championship
Come watch the 2026 National Installer Championship event in the Hardscape House Wednesday – Friday during show hours. The top 12 teams will race against the clock in up to two rounds, to determine who will be crowned the National Champion on Friday afternoon. Championship Event Sponsors: Belgard, How to Hardscape, Regency Wire, Weber MT, Inc.
HNA Awards
Awards Presentation: Thursday, October 22, 2026, 1:15 – 2:30 p.m.
The HNA Awards recognize outstanding hardscape projects by teams installing residential and commercial projects. Award winners and honorable mention recipients will be recognized during the 2026 HNA Awards Recognition Presentation and featured on the HNA website and several other industry publications. Sponsored by: Hardscape Magazine and iQ Power Tools
Welcome Reception at Churchill Downs
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
Churchill Downs will welcome thousands of HNA and Equip attendees and exhibitors for networking at the legendary home of the Kentucky Derby, the night before the shows officially open. Brought to you by Equip Expo. Sponsored by: CAT
Mulligan’s 5K Fun Run & Walk
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 6:30 a.m.
Lace up for the fifth-annual Mulligan’s 5K Fun Run and Walk, stepping off Wednesday morning at 6:30 a.m. and taking participants across the Ohio River on Louisville’s Big Four Pedestrian Bridge. Brought to you by: Equip Expo. Sponsored by: Active Dynamics
Show Keynote
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 11 a.m.
Great businesses are built by people who refuse to cut corners. HGTV star and veteran contractor Mike Holmes brings his no-nonsense “make it right” philosophy to the Equip stage with real-world insight on raising standards, demanding quality that pushes the entire industry forward. This is the epic keynote you don’t want to miss. Brought to you by Equip Expo. Sponsored by: Kress
4th Street Live! Concert
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
Back by popular demand, Downtown Louisville’s 4th Street Live! will host a Wednesday night afterparty. Brought to you by Equip Expo. Sponsored by: Propane Education & Research Council
Mulligan’s Mutt Madness
Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
Who knows your yard best? Our dogs. On Thursday, attendees can adopt rescue dogs, through a partnership with the Kentucky Humane Society. From TurfMutt’s humble beginnings, the program, which showcases the value of family yards and managed green spaces, has grown into an educational juggernaut. The TurfMutt program has reached 70 million kids, teachers and families and is featured in the U.S. Green Building Council’s prestigious Global Learning Lab.
Women’s Leadership Reception
Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 4 p.m.
Connect with women shaping the landscape industry while building relationships that last long after HNA and Equip end. Plus, welcome special guest Susan Packard, co-creator of HGTV, CNBC, and Food Network, for an evening of leadership, and inspiration. Brought to you by Equip Expo. Sponsored by: Belgard, Hunter/FX Luminaire, SiteOne Landscape Supply
Paristown Block Party & Concert
Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
Live music. Local food. Great bourbon. Even better company. Equip’s Paristown Block Party takes over Old Forester’s Paristown Hall and the surrounding block for a night of live performance, local eats, outdoor hangouts, and an exclusive tasting of the official show bourbon. Bring your team, your coworkers, and the connections you just made on the show floor. Brought to you by Equip Expo. Sponsored by: Gravely
