HOULTON, Maine — The annual Southern Aroostook Trade Show, sponsored by the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce, returns to the John Millar Civic Center this weekend for two days of exhibits.
“We’re a week later this year, because we did not want to conflict with the Agri-Business Trade Show in Presque Isle,” explained Jane Torres, executive director for the chamber. That event was pushed back due to Easter weekend.
The Houlton event runs Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and costs $3 admission. A $1 off coupon can be found in this week’s issue of the Houlton Pioneer Times.
“Trade shows are a great way for businesses to introduce themselves to the community and to explain to a captive audience all that they have to offer,” Torres said.
The Houlton show typically attracts between 1,500 and 2,000 attendees over a two-day period, depending on the weather. Preparations for the event start a long time before the actual trade show is opened to the public and requires lots of man hours and a dedicated group of professionals invested in making their booth interesting to the viewers.
According to Torres, the trade show has shifted away from having performers play music during the event.
“The vendors told us they could not hear well to talk with the customers, so we are not doing music this year,” she said.
One of the newer exhibits this year is a display by 5K Tent and Event, who is slated to bring a bounce house and inflatable slide for children to enjoy.
The Northern Maine Wood Turners will once again be in attendance, showcasing their wood-making skills for the public. Local resident Cameron Clark will also be doing chainsaw carving.
Patrons can expect to see a redesigned floor plan, to allow more space for vendors to spread their wares, and allow for greater room for people browsing for deals. The Civic Center will be selling concessions throughout the two-day event.
