INNISFAIL – The crowds came out for the 2018 Innisfail and District Trade Show.
The annual springtime event, hosted by the Innisfail and District Chamber of Commerce, took place April 20 and 21 at the Innisfail Arena.
“It’s been a great weekend,” said Carla Gabert, manager of the Innisfail and District Chamber of Commerce. “Friday night with the barbecue we had a large crowd and we’ve had good attendance on Saturday.
“We sold out (with vendors) approximately two or three weeks ago,” she added, noting more than 100 booths and dozens of vendors took part in the event.
Visitors and local residents enjoyed the sold-out show that included information, products and services from area businesses and organizations, as well as returning features such as A Taste of Innisfail, a children’s play area that included a bouncy house, storytime and crafts for kids.
The show also featured auto row with Fourlane Ford Sales Ltd., Innisfail Chrysler, Palliser Chevrolet and Double D Trailers.
“We’ve had a great variety of booths,” said Gabert. “We also have something that’s unique here too with the tiny homes. They’re a hit (with visitors).”
Gabert said the trade show is a great way to showcase local and area businesses and is thankful for the contributions from everyone.
“We are always very appreciative. We have great support from the businesses as well as the community and our sponsors,” she said.
Michael and Marion McLetchie were two of many local residents enjoying the show on Saturday.
“There’s lots of people here today. There’s tons of information and some interesting things,” said Marion McLetchie. “We try to come here most years.”
McLetchie said it was good to see so many products and services.
“I think it’s great. How do you find out about all these things in Innisfail if you don’t come to something like this?” she added.
Teresa Bauer with home based-business, Go Travel, was a first-time vendor at the trade show and said it was a great event to be a part of.
“It’s nice to see so many people,” said Bauer. “For home-based businesses this is a great way to get your name out there.”
She and business partner Tammy Chamberlain heard about the Innisfail and District Trade Show, its success and high attendance every year.
“We wanted to come out and give it a try,” Bauer concluded.
