91���˵���

LITTLE CURRENT—The biennial Manitoulin Trade Fair was once a staple of Island commerce, running for three decades since its inception in 1989. The Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands resurrected the event in a new format, beginning two years ago as the Home, Cottage & Culinary Show, but changing names to a more familiar Manitoulin Trade Show.

“We felt the Home, Cottage & Culinary Show name was causing some confusion and misconception,” said NEMI events coordinator Lisa Hallaert. “This event will be different from last year, so, we changed the name to the Manitoulin Trade Show.” The former name, Manitoulin Trade Fair remains the property of LAMBAC, the region’s Community Futures Development Corporation.

The three-day event will run from Friday, May 29 to Sunday, May 31 and will feature 44 vendors some have a number of booths. “We have about three-quarters of the tables filled now and about half are new to this year,” said Ms. Hallaert.

“Neil Debassige from Fuel the Fire will be here at 7 pm on the Friday night, talking about hunting and fishing on the Island,” said Ms. Hallaert. “We also have the mayor and MPP Bill Rosenberg for the opening. Doors open at 4 pm Friday, but the grand opening is at 5 pm.”

The organizer noted that the event is growing, and hopes are that it will eventually reach the size of its ancestor, bringing together local businesses, home/cottage vendors and culinary experts. The event showcases new products and services, as well as unique items that Manitoulin businesses have to offer.

Booths will be located both inside in the main ice surface and the outside parking lot of the NEMI Recreation Centre in Little Current. And yes, there will be food vendors offering a host of culinary delights.

The main stage will feature local entertainment, demonstrations, presentations by industry experts and more.