More than 200,000 Attend the 2025 NRA Great American Outdoor Show

by
posted on March 11, 2025
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
LEDE More Than 200

More than 200,000 enthusiasts filled Pennsylvania’s Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in Harrisburg, Penn., when the annual NRA Great American Outdoor Show returned Feb. 1 to 9. The world’s largest outdoor show isn’t just about numbers, though. It’s a celebration of our nation’s outdoor traditions, including hunting, fishing, archery, boating, camping and others. Over 1,000 exhibitors were on display across nine different halls, and roughly $50,000 in local grants were awarded by the NRA Foundation.  

“The NRA Great American Outdoor Show is a true celebration of American freedom, and the energy and enthusiasm of attendees was palpable throughout the event,” said Doug Hamlin, NRA executive vice president and CEO. “It was incredibly satisfying to see so many families spending time together, exploring outdoor products, connecting with outfitters and planning future adventures. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the citizens of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, for their hospitality and support in making this another hugely successful event. The NRA is honored to be part of this proud tradition.”

Attendees explored the latest guns and gear from firearm manufacturers throughout the nine days, booked what are sure to be memorable hunts and fishing charters, shopped the top brands of bows and archery accessories, and perused the latest boats, RVs and ATVs. In addition, more than 200 educational seminars were conducted by leading outdoors experts like Seek One, Ralph and Vicki Cianciarulo and Melissa Bachman. Country music artists Nate Hosie and Nathan Merovich, and actor Justin Melnick and his K9 partner Pepper—from the TV show “Seal Team”—entertained fans with their own performances on select days in the Small Arena.

“From DockDogs and the Pennsylvania Lumberjack Championships to a 30-target 3D Bowhunter Challenge, the Great American Outdoor Show has something for every outdoor enthusiast,” said Josh Savani, executive director of NRA General Operations. “It was great to see so many younger attendees enjoying the Kids Casting Contest and our Eddie Eagle Kid’s Zone. Thanks to our staff, exhibitors, and attendees for making the 2025 Great American Outdoor Show such a success.”

The night before the show opened, NRA officials and members of the Dauphin County community gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony where The NRA Foundation announced approximately $50,000 in grants to six groups including a local law enforcement agency and central Pennsylvania organizations that promote hunting and youth shooting. Since 2014, The NRA Foundation has donated roughly $500,000 in conjunction with the NRA Great American Outdoor Show. Also that evening, supporters of the Second Amendment gathered for The NRA Foundation’s Sportsmen’s Auction to bid on exclusive firearms, gear, hunts, décor and NRA collectibles. Money raised at this event will support the shooting sports and activities that promote safe, responsible firearms ownership.

The last Saturday of the show concluded with a sold-out NRA Country concert featuring headliner Riley Green and special guests John Morgan and Nate Hosie. The New Holland Arena was at full capacity with country music fans to hear Riley perform his three-time platinum hit “I Wish Grandpas Never Died,” along his newer songs on country radio “Don’t Mind If I Do” and “You Look Like You Love Me” and others. It was a night celebrating cherished traditions, freedom, and our shared American values.

The 2026 NRA Great American Outdoor Show will be held Feb. 7 to 15, 2026, at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in Harrisburg, Penn. Outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to learn more and stay up to date on the schedule of events by visiting the website.

Latest

Henned Up Try One Of These Tips
Henned Up Try One Of These Tips

Early Spring Turkey Tactics that Work

A hunter strokes the paddle on a box call emitting a loud yelp into the predawn air. The thunderous reply has blood boiling at both ends of this dance. What now? Read on for some early spring turkey tactics that work.

New for 2026: Imperial Whitetail Sorghum Select

Hunters and land managers looking to add additional feeding opportunities now have a new option: Imperial Whitetail brand Sorghum Select from the Whitetail Institute. This blend combines two premium hybrid sorghum varieties to deliver a high-yielding, palatable, nutritious grain crop.

Hunting Adventure: Pursuing the Prince of the Plains

A veteran of many safaris finally hunts the game atop his wish list. Follow along with Scott Haugen as he stalks sable through South Africa.

New for 2026: Armageddon Gear Turkey Chest Rig

Always scrambling to find the right call in one of a thousand pockets? The Armageddon Gear Turkey Chest Rig eliminates that problem by putting everything front and center, exactly where it should be.

First Look: Mossberg Special Edition 590 Bliksem

Mossberg has released its 590 Bliksem, a Special Edition pump-action firearm created in collaboration with Christian Craighead and his brand, Ministry of Defence (MOD). 

What Your Favorite Cartridge Says About You: Part III

Somehow, more than ten years has gone by since we had the second installment in this series. With a multitude of requests for another go-round, I am more than happy to oblige. We’ve had some interesting new developments in the cartridges world in the last decade, and there are some classic which are still being championed. So, with tongue planted firmly in cheek, I present Part III of What Your Favorite Cartridge Says About You.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.