That's too bad. Though I personally would not return to the same line-up as it was this past event, I would if they improve collectively. The most major detraction for me, personally, is this: we as Canadian cannot bring any livestock back. There were also issues that I think should be addressed from the start.
The venue wasn't clearly and properly signed and promoted. We were at the Center Square and didn't see any indication that such and event was even being hosted, whereas other "festivals" and "events" were clearly marked. If it were clearly posted on sign-posts or even sandwich boards through out the area, they may have gotten some impulse attendants. All they had was one lonely banner on the building, facing away from major thorough-fare.
If we had not purchased advance tickets, we wouldn't have thought to even look for it.
We met up with others who have been circling around the Square for a while as well until we were able to find and ask a park staffer for directions.
We Canadians would have made the coral and fish vendors ecstatic if we were able to bring lives stocks back. What with our dollars so high, it would have been just like shopping for clothes!
We spoke with numerous vendors at our after-the-show get-together, and the one thing that they were not aware of was this fact. They were astonished that we would not be able to buy anything, as they were hoping for a huge Canadian turn-out to make their sales a successful venture. And I can see why they would not be back for next year. If the majority of the attendees cannot part-take in the purchasing, then you are only able to get less than 60% of the sales.
We thought that there would be lots more vendors there as well, but sadly, no.
The promoters have done a fair job at organizing the show. It is just the border restrictions that really did the proverbial nail in the coffin. Too bad.
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