Sioux Falls, SD (March 24, 2026) – The Central Plains Dairy Association celebrated in style as it executed its 25th Central Plains Dairy Expo (CPDE), March 17-19, in Sioux Falls, S.D. Since its inception, CPDE has served as a premier gathering for the dairy industry, offering timely education, access to innovative products and services, and opportunities to strengthen connections across the dairy community. Built on a firm foundation, the 2026 Expo offered expanded programming, new experiences and an educational lineup designed to serve dairy operations of all sizes, shapes and stages.
More than 3,500 dairy enthusiasts gathered in for the 2026 CPDE. Attendees represented 40 states and 16 countries. The dairy-focused trade show included nearly 300 exhibitors that shared the latest in dairy equipment, technologies, services, products and communications – within 50,000 square feet of exhibit space. In addition, Five Star Sponsors provided nearly 80 educational sessions, with 10 presented in Spanish.
Besides celebrating with CPDE 25th Anniversary cake, this year’s Expo provided numerous dairy foods, including 880 pounds of cheese, 7,800 cheese slices, 56 pounds of butter, 69 gallons of ice cream, 2,000 ice cream novelties, 2,500 grilled cheese sandwiches 3,100 cartons of milk and 506 servings of pancakes. “Many thanks to our amazing sponsors for providing these tasty, wholesome and nutritious snacks,” said Central Plains Dairy Association (CPDA) Member Services Director Renee Brod.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who helped make CPDE a success,” Brod said. “From our exhibitors and speakers to the producers who traveled to be here, the energy and engagement throughout the event reflect the strength of our dairy community. CPDE’s dairy-only focus creates a strategic environment where producers can maximize their time – comparing solutions designed specifically for dairy, having direct conversations with experts and bringing home practical ideas they can put to work immediately. That collaboration and shared passion are what continue to make this Expo valuable year after year.”
“Seeing the strong engagement around calf development, cow health and feeding automation reinforces how committed Central Plains producers are to continuous improvement,” said Kristy Mach, CPDA executive director. “For 25 years, CPDE has evolved alongside the industry – highlighting the tools, research and technologies that help dairies grow stronger and more efficient. This year’s discussions demonstrated that our producers are not standing still; they’re actively shaping the next chapter of dairy in our region.”
The 2026 CPDE kicked off with country music legends Blackhawk. The performance set the tone for a celebratory Expo that honored the past while looking ahead to the future of dairy.
Wednesday’s Ag Prayer Breakfast featured Coach Joe Kennedy, who is known for his unwavering commitment to faith. Before coaching his first game, Kennedy made a promise to God that he would offer a prayer of gratitude at the conclusion of each game – giving thanks for the effort of his players and the opportunity to impact young lives through football.
“The strength of this Expo lies in the engagement we receive from our sponsors and the involvement of our dedicated dairy producers and exhibitors,” said Brod. “I encourage you to support all businesses in the CPDE Membership Directory and to advocate for the Central Plains dairy industry.”
Make plans to attend the 2027 Central Plains Dairy Expo, set for March 23-25, at the Denny Sanford Premier Center in Sioux Falls, S.D.
For more information about CPDE, visit www.centralplainsdairy.com.
