The International Builders' Show is the largest annual gathering of home building and remodeling professionals in North America

The International Builders' Show (IBS) is held every January in a different U.S. city and draws builders, contractors, architects, designers, and suppliers from across the residential construction industry. The event is run by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and typically spans three to four days. Attendance ranges from industry professionals to homeowners interested in new construction methods, materials, and design trends.

Unlike a consumer home and garden show where you browse finished products, IBS focuses on the business and technical side of building homes. You will see large-scale exhibits of building materials, tools, software systems, and services that contractors use on job sites. The show floor includes both established manufacturers and emerging companies launching new products.

The event also features educational sessions, keynote speeches, and networking events. These sessions cover topics like building codes, energy efficiency, labor shortages in construction, financing for builders, and design innovations. Many sessions are led by industry experts, government officials, or economists who discuss trends affecting the residential building market.

Key Takeaways

  • The International Builders' Show happens every January in a rotating U.S. city and is organized by the National Association of Home Builders.
  • The event is primarily for construction professionals but welcomes homeowners who want to see new building materials, technologies, and design approaches.
  • Exhibit halls showcase products and services used in home construction and remodeling, from framing materials to smart home systems and energy-efficient windows.
  • Educational sessions at the show cover building codes, construction trends, labor challenges, and business topics relevant to builders and contractors.
  • Admission typically requires registration, and some sessions or areas may have separate fees or require industry credentials.

Who attends and what they look for

The show draws builders of all sizes—from small local contractors to large national home building companies. Remodeling contractors, architects, engineers, and interior designers attend to research new products and connect with suppliers. Homeowners and prospective home buyers also attend to learn about construction methods, see emerging home technologies, and understand what goes into building or renovating a home.

Builders use IBS to evaluate new tools and materials before committing to them on job sites. A contractor might spend time at booths testing new framing techniques, comparing insulation products, or learning about software that manages construction schedules and budgets. Suppliers use the show to demonstrate their products to potential bulk buyers and to gather feedback on what the market needs.

What you will see on the exhibit floor

The exhibit hall is divided into sections covering different aspects of home building. You will find booths for lumber and building materials, roofing products, windows and doors, HVAC systems, plumbing fixtures, electrical components, and flooring. There are also sections for smart home technology, solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and green building materials.

Many booths include working demonstrations or sample installations. For example, a window manufacturer might display different frame styles and show how they perform in different climates. A smart home company might demonstrate how homeowners control lighting, temperature, and security from a mobile app. Suppliers often hand out product samples, brochures, and pricing information.

Beyond physical products, you will also see software and service companies. These include construction management platforms, accounting software for builders, financing services, insurance providers, and labor recruitment firms. These vendors are typically there to help contractors run their businesses more efficiently.

Educational sessions and seminars

IBS includes dozens of seminars and workshops held throughout the event. Sessions might cover topics like "Building Codes and Compliance," "Energy Efficiency and Net-Zero Homes," "Managing Construction Labor," or "Design Trends for 2024." Some sessions are technical and aimed at contractors; others are designed for homeowners who want to understand the building process.

Keynote speakers often include economists who discuss the housing market, government officials who explain new regulations, or industry leaders who share insights on where construction is headed. These talks are usually free with show admission and held in large auditoriums.

Attendees can also participate in hands-on workshops where they learn to use new tools or techniques. For example, a workshop might teach the latest methods for installing energy-efficient insulation or demonstrate how to use construction management software.

When and where the show takes place

The International Builders' Show is held every January. The location changes each year—recent shows have been held in Las Vegas, Orlando, and other major cities. The NAHB announces the location for upcoming years on its website, typically several months in advance.

The show usually runs for three to four days, with the exhibit hall open during set hours each day. Educational sessions and keynotes are scheduled throughout the event, often running parallel to exhibit hours so attendees can choose between browsing the floor or attending seminars.

Registration and admission

Most attendees register in advance online through the IBS website. Registration typically includes access to the exhibit hall and many educational sessions. The cost varies depending on whether you register as an industry professional or a consumer, and whether you register before or during the show. Advance registration is usually less expensive than registering on-site.

Some specialized sessions, workshops, or networking events may have additional fees beyond general admission. Certain areas of the show floor or VIP networking events may require industry credentials or membership in the NAHB to access.

If you are a homeowner, you can attend as a consumer visitor. You will have access to the main exhibit hall and many of the educational sessions, though some sessions are restricted to industry professionals. Bring comfortable shoes—the exhibit hall is large and you will likely spend several hours walking and talking with vendors.

What to bring and how to prepare

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes; the show floor is extensive and you will be on your feet for hours. Bring a bag or backpack to carry brochures, product samples, and business cards you collect from vendors. Many attendees bring a notebook or use their phone to take notes about products or booth numbers they want to follow up on later.

Before you go, review the show's website to see the list of exhibitors and the schedule of educational sessions. This helps you plan which booths to visit and which seminars fit your interests. If you are looking for specific products or information, you can often find booth maps and exhibitor directories online before the event.

If you are attending as a homeowner interested in a specific project—like a kitchen remodel or adding solar panels—make a list of questions to ask vendors. Booth staff are usually knowledgeable and can explain how their products work and answer questions about installation or cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can homeowners attend the International Builders' Show?

Yes. While the show is primarily for construction professionals, homeowners and prospective home buyers are welcome to register and attend. You will have access to the exhibit hall and many educational sessions, though some sessions are restricted to industry professionals only. Check the show website when you register to see which sessions are open to consumers.

Do I have to be in the construction industry to attend?

No. You do not need to work in construction or be a member of the NAHB to attend IBS. Homeowners, real estate agents, and anyone interested in learning about home building and remodeling can register. Some specialized networking events or VIP areas may require industry credentials, but general admission is open to the public.

How much does it cost to attend?

Registration cost varies based on your category (professional or consumer), when you register (advance or on-site), and your location. Advance online registration is typically less expensive than registering at the door. Check the IBS website for current pricing, as costs change each year depending on the location and date of the show.

What if I want to learn about a specific product or material?

Use the exhibitor directory on the IBS website to search for companies that make the product you are interested in. The directory usually includes booth numbers and a map of the exhibit hall. You can plan your route to visit those booths first, or ask booth staff at the information desk to point you in the right direction.

Are there sessions specifically for homeowners?

Yes. The show includes sessions on topics like "Choosing Materials for Your Remodel," "Understanding Energy Efficiency," and "What to Expect During Construction." These sessions are designed for homeowners and explain building concepts in plain language. Check the session schedule when you register to find sessions marked for consumer or general audiences.