Thousands of city residents make it a yearly must-do: it’s the St. Albert Lifestyle Expo and Sale, which brings together business, recreation and family fun in one busy weekend at Servus Credit Union Place. For residents, the event offers great deals and a chance for one-on-one interaction with a sold-out slate of 150 exhibitors from St. Albert and around the Edmonton region.
Need some painting done? A new furnace, perhaps? Maybe some landscaping, financial advice or insurance? It’s all in one space at one time this Friday, April 15 through Sunday, April 17. While thousands are expected to take in the event, it’s as much of a draw for the business community, according to event host, St. Albert Chamber of Commerce and District.
“It’s a huge weekend for us and we feel a lot of excitement in the community,” said David Howe, the chamber’s community development and events coordinator. “And because the economy isn’t ideal, expo goers will see a lot of vendors with special deals, clearance sales and incentives like free estimates. The event is an opportunity for business to meet potential new customers.”
Such exposure is one of the draws for Ross Hodgins, co-owner of St. Albert Honda and RV City. As presenter of this year’s (and next) expo, Hodgins said it’s important for him to create community awareness and appeal to a new clientele, especially since his dealership made the move from Morinville (as Frontier Honda) to the north end of St. Albert several months ago.
“We support the efforts of the Chamber, and the expo offers that networking and community involvement. The Chamber of Commerce and many residents also promote the value of shopping locally, and we like that message too,” said Hodgins, who also hopes to remind expo-goers that RV City is just seven minutes from the edge of town. “With the exchange rate not favorable to U.S. travel, more people are vacationing closer to home. We want to reach more campers, retirees and those interested in the outdoor lifestyle.”
In fact, while St. Albert Honda will have several vehicles on display, RV City is sponsor of Hall 2 with the Outdoor Lifestyle Experience – some 10 tent and travel trailers and motorhomes for outdoor-lovers to browse.
About 14,000 people attended last year’s expo, and organizers hope for even more this year. All the favorites are back, including the St. Albert Idol singing competition, a Taste of St. Albert (food vendors) and the St. Albert Gazette Baby Crawl. CTV’s Josh Klassen hosts the ever-popular race (fastest crawl) of the not-yet-walking set on Sunday at 11:30 a.m., with one-site registration at 11 a.m. A $300 gift basket from St. Albert Honda is first prize, with second place taking a $100 gift card from Season’s Gift Shop. Bring your baby and your camera – this is always a fun time.
Another big draw, the petting zoo and kids play area, is bigger and more interactive than in years past. Howe said the kids’ fun zone will include the anticipated inflatable bouncy equipment, plus carnival games and a kid-friendly performance – Capes and Crowns – Saturday at 11 a.m.
Besides the freebies, candies and other goodies given out by many exhibitors, expo attendees have a chance to win prizes with the ‘stamp around’ sheet. Stamps gathered from various vendors can earn entries for adult and kids prizes, including three $1,000 gift cards from Gemport, and children’s music lessons. And, if none of the shopping or prizes appeal, there’s also a chance to talk politics with St. Albert’s two new MLAs, who will be at Booth 311 through the weekend.
Single admission is $3 (over age 12) or $5 for a weekend pass. Kids under 12 get free admission, as do seniors on Seniors’ Day Friday. The St. Albert Lifestyle Expo and Sale runs Friday, 2-9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-6 pm and Sunday 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.
