Stettler Recreation Centre parking lot was a frenzy of cars as Friday evening rolled in with the opening of the trade show, Stettler Regional Board of Trade and Community Development’s 36th annual event held over the weekend, April 8-10.
Inside, the crowds were delighted attending an event of such a large scale as they tried to make up their minds about which vendors to visit and how to make the most of what was on offer, from tractors and car dealers to handmade artifacts and fudge, they were spoilt for choice.
“The trade show held this past weekend was an outstanding success,” said project manager Donna Morris. “The show increased in size this year as the RVs were unable to attend, and in light of this, an additional 48 booths were added as well as an entertainment stage and seating area for visitors of all ages to enjoy the talents of many local performers.”
The three-day display showcased the products and services of over 125 exhibitors, the largest increase in the number of booths for several years.
“This is a large increase over past years in terms of attendance,” said Morris. “The weather played a large role in our attendance and this year we were lucky enough to have decent weather for visitors to travel.”
Looking at the sheer multitude of crowds, Alberta’s economic downturn was distant, at least for some time.
The entertainment stage was always busy engaging the crowds with Danceology’s performers, Matthew Clark’s magic tricks or Wm. E. Hay’s improv artists.
Heartland Youth Centre’s kids’ corner, Stettler Adult Learning Centre’s storytime, Amy’s balloon twisting, Sharebear Playschool’s storytime, Medicine River Wildlife Centre’s Otis the Owl and Central Alberta’s rhythmics gymnastics were among the other attractions, alongside Performance Health and Fitness Centre.
“We are quite happy with the overall success of the show and want to thank everyone who took part in some way to help with that success,” added Morris. “We are looking forward to even more new and exciting opportunities for 2017.”
Admission prices remained the same this year, thereby giving the community an opportunity of an affordable family event for the weekend.
Bookings for the 2017 Stettler Trade Show will be open to the public as of June 1, 2016.