The Nairobi International Trade Fair, commonly known as the ASK Show after the Agricultural Society of Kenya that organises it, is one of the country's largest annual public events, combining agricultural exhibitions, livestock displays, trade stands and a genuinely festive atmosphere that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from across the country over its run.
For visitors, it offers an unusually broad cross-section of Kenyan life in one place — farmers showcasing prize livestock and produce, companies exhibiting products and services, food stalls representing regional cuisines, and a fairground atmosphere with rides and entertainment alongside the more serious agricultural business.
Visiting the show
- The main Nairobi show typically runs over several days, usually in late September or early October — confirm current dates.
- Similar regional ASK shows run in other Kenyan towns throughout the year on a rotating schedule.
- Crowds are substantial, particularly on weekends — plan for a busy, energetic atmosphere.
- It's a genuinely good opportunity to sample regional Kenyan foods from stalls representing different parts of the country.
For a look at Kenyan life well beyond the safari and beach circuit, the ASK Show offers a genuinely broad, energetic public event.
