2025 Trade Shows & Expos

2025 Trade Shows & Expos

Published: January 1st, 2025

As the new year begins, 2025 is shaping up to be an extraordinary time for knife enthusiasts, collectors, and outdoor professionals, with a packed schedule of premier shows and expos kicking off right away. From the world-renowned SHOT Show in Las Vegas to the craft-focused Blade Show Atlanta,, these events promise to showcase the latest innovations while celebrating the timeless artistry of the blade industry. Smoky Mountain Knife Works (SMKW) will have a significant presence, attending and sponsoring key expos while hosting its much-anticipated annual fall festival. Here’s a preview of the must-attend events that will shape the knife and outdoor community in 2025.


S.H.O.T. Show

The SHOT Show (Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade Show) is the premier annual event for professionals in the shooting, hunting, and outdoor industries. Held each January in Las Vegas, Nevada, it serves as the ultimate marketplace for firearms, ammunition, outdoor gear, and related accessories. Organized by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the SHOT Show attracts thousands of exhibitors and attendees from around the globe, including manufacturers, retailers, law enforcement, and military professionals.

Spanning over 13 acres of exhibition space, the event showcases cutting-edge innovations and time-tested favorites, offering unparalleled networking opportunities. Attendees can explore new product launches, attend educational seminars, and connect with industry leaders, making it an essential platform for professionals to stay ahead of trends and advancements. Open exclusively to industry professionals, the SHOT Show plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the shooting sports and outdoor lifestyle industries. It also underscores a strong commitment to safety and responsible firearm ownership.

Location
Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum
Las Vegas, Nevada

Date
January 21st - January 24th


Blade Show Texas

Blade Show Texas is a premier event for knife enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals, bringing the best in blade craftsmanship to the Lone Star State. Held annually in Fort Worth, this regional offshoot of the renowned Blade Show Atlanta provides a unique platform to celebrate the artistry, innovation, and heritage of knife-making. The event attracts a dynamic mix of exhibitors, including master bladesmiths, custom knife makers, and top manufacturers, offering attendees a rare chance to explore a diverse selection of cutting-edge designs and classic craftsmanship.

From hunting knives and tactical blades to everyday carry tools and culinary cutlery, Blade Show Texas showcases an extensive range of products to suit every interest. The show also features exclusive opportunities to meet renowned makers, learn about new trends in materials and designs, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces.

Location
Fort Worth Convention Center
Fort Worth, Texas

Date
March 7th - March 8th


Blade Show Atlanta

Blade Show Atlanta, held annually in Atlanta, Georgia, is the world’s largest knife show and a premier event for knife enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals. Spanning over 40 years of history, this iconic event is the ultimate destination to explore the latest trends, innovations, and craftsmanship in the cutlery world.

The show boasts more than 900 exhibitors, ranging from renowned brands to individual custom knife makers, showcasing everything from EDC knives and traditional blades to high-performance tools and cutting-edge designs. Attendees can meet legendary designers, discover exclusive releases, and handle some of the most sought-after knives in the industry.

In addition to its vast exhibition floor, Blade Show Atlanta offers a packed schedule of events, including live knife demonstrations, educational seminars, and competitions like the BladeSports cutting championships. The show also hosts the prestigious Blade Magazine Knife of the Year Awards, celebrating excellence in knife design and innovation.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual enthusiast, Blade Show Atlanta delivers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the global knife community, celebrate the art and utility of blades, and discover the best the industry has to offer.

Location
Cobb Galleria
Atlanta, Georgia

Date
June 6th - June 8th


Blade Show West

Blade Show West is one of the premier knife events in the United States, drawing knife enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals from around the globe. Held annually on the West Coast, this event serves as a showcase for the latest innovations in cutlery, from custom knives and high-end production models to tactical tools and everyday carry essentials.

Featuring hundreds of exhibitors, Blade Show West offers attendees the unique opportunity to meet renowned knife makers, discover up-and-coming brands, and see exclusive product launches. Whether you’re interested in handmade artistry, tactical designs, or outdoor survival tools, Blade Show West is a must-visit for anyone passionate about blades.

Location
Salt Palace Convention Center
Salt Lake City, Utah

Date
October 10th - October 11th


SMKW Fall Festival

SMKW Fall Festival logo

The SMKW Fall Festival is an annual celebration held at Smoky Mountain Knife Works in Sevierville, Tennessee, that brings knife brands, enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and families together for a weekend of fun, community, and incredible deals. As the largest knife store in the world, SMKW transforms into a hub of activity, featuring live demonstrations from renowned knife makers, exclusive product launches, and unbeatable discounts across a vast selection of knives, tools, and outdoor gear.

This family-friendly event offers more than just shopping. Attendees can meet industry experts and even get hands-on with live forging demonstrations. The festival is also packed with fun activities like giveaways, games, and food trucks serving local favorites. Whether you're an enthusiast, a hobbyist, or simply curious about the knife world, the SMKW Fall Festival is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the craftsmanship and culture of the blade industry.

Location
Smoky Mountain Knife Works
Sevierville, Tennessee

Date
October 17th - October 19th

Written by Drew Clifton


Expert Reviewed

T.C. Barnette

T.C. Barnette

T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.