West Kootenay Trade Show a sell-out
By Kyra Hoggan
The forecast for this weekend in Castlegar holds not just sunny skies and balmy weather, but also fun and excitement with this year’s newly-expanded West Kootenay Trade Show at the Complex.
Chamber of Commerce executive director Tammy Verigin-Burk says every single one of the more-than 130 vendor booths is sold out, with an outrageous range of goods and services to check out, as well as an outdoor food court, entertainment, draws, prizes, and more.
“We have a total of 95 vendors, some of whom have up to 13 booths outside,” she said, explaining the trade show isn’t just in the rink area inside the Complex. “We’re all down the north side of the building and all the way around to the back, where there will be a massive food court.
“Cars, RVs, travel agents, financial planners, realtors , travel agents – you can get your hair cut, buy clothing and jewelry, home goods and garden supplies – it’s all there,” she said.
There will also be draws, demonstrations, give-aways and entertainment.
“The intent of the trade show is to promote local business, but it will also draw people from throughout the region,” she said, adding there’s a multiplier effect with events like these – when out-of-towners come and see the thriving, diverse commercial sector here, they are more likely to want to set up shop here, too – vibrant, bustling shows like this one serve as an excellent advertisement for the city.
“Not only is this an incredible event for all who come to it, it’s an incredible event for economic development in the community.”
Admission is $4 per adult, $10 for a weekend pass, $3 for seniorand students (or $7 for a weekend pass), and free for kids under 10, as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
The trade show hours are Friday, from 5 to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
