Third Annual EXPO Madison

EXPO Madison, a one-day showcase that links local businesses with the community that utilizes their products and services, returns for its third annual event on Saturday, March 17, 2018. More than 60 exhibitors are expected to participate in this year’s EXPO, held in Chambers Gymnasium on the campus of Mars Hill University. Hours are 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Admission is free, as is parking.

Exhibitors include businesses, nonprofit organizations, and local government agencies. Along with displays and presentations, this third year of the EXPO features something new: the opportunity for exhibitors to sell their products at the event. Although most of the exhibitors and vendors are from Madison County, visitors from across Western North Carolina and beyond are invited to see what the county’s businesses have to offer.

The EXPO is a family affair, featuring activities for children, facilitated by Woodson Branch Nature School and Hot Springs Early Learning Center.

“It has been exciting to see the event grow in numbers and scope,” said Callie Wellendorf, chair of the EXPO’s organizing committee and owner of RiverDance Bed and Breakfast in Hot Springs. “EXPO Madison has grown over the past three years in terms of exhibitors, and people who just want to be connected to a wide array of services and products.”

Attendees will be able to register for door prizes, enjoy food from High Ridge Adventures, and participate in a benefit raffle for Beacon of Hope, a Madison County nonprofit which provides food, emergency assistance, a low-cost thrift store, and advocacy to those in need. Proceeds from the raffle will go toward building a new facility for the organization. EXPO attendees may purchase raffle tickets or may bring canned or boxed food items or personal hygiene products to exchange for a raffle ticket.

Presenting sponsors of EXPO Madison are the Madison County Chamber of Commerce, Madison County Economic Development, and Mars Hill University. “Their continued support speaks clearly that the EXPO has strong value, and will continue to be part of the fabric of Madison County,” said Wellendorf.

Platinum sponsors are First Bank (formerly Asheville Savings Bank), Printpack Medical, Advanced Superabrasives, French Broad Adventures, and Lyndsey Simpson. Gold sponsors include Davis Coffee Roasters, Fermenti, Norris Gentry/Madison Early College, and RiverDance/The Lodge at Bear River.

Mars Hill University’s Chambers Gymnasium is located at the corner of Bailey Street and Athletic Street in Mars Hill, off exit 11 on U.S. 19-23/Future I-26.

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