December 4, 2015
Elk Camp, Hunter & Outdoor Christmas Expo Bolt Out of the Chute
MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation kicked off its largest exposition ever on the same day it wrapped up the first day of its Elk Camp national convention in Las Vegas.
“This day has been a long day coming. And we’re thrilled about it,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “This venue allows us to celebrate elk, elk country and conservation with our members and a wide array of like-minded people in town for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR).”
The Hunter & Outdoor Christmas Exposition, presented by Cabela’s, expanded to ten days and teamed up with the Cowboy Christmas Gift Show in the South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The combined event now covers more than 900,000 square feet or roughly the size of 15 and a half football fields.
“For the folks in town for the NFR, hunting, camping and fishing rank as their No. 1 pastime. That's the No. 1 thing these folks do in their free time,” said Steve Decker, RMEF vice president of Marketing. “This is a great opportunity to be in front of so many quality people.”
In addition to exhibitors featuring the best in hunting, optics and other outdoor-related gear and apparel, the expo floor is home to the Wrangler Rodeo Arena which hosts events ranging from miniature bucking bulls to the popular Bullfighters Only competition. It also hosts seven different country music artists on the Cabela’s Live Stage (Booth #1220).
“Our goal remains for this to become the most successful outdoor and hunting-related consumer expo in the United States. We’re one day on our way to doing that,” added Decker.
Elk Camp opening ceremonies included recognition of land projects, Jack Ward Thomas receiving the Wallace Fennel Pate Wildlife Conservation Award, RMEF reaching the milestone of $1 billion in value of its all-time conservation work, an acoustic performance by country music performing artist Tracy Lawrence and an NFR live feed. Upcoming highlights include an address by MeatEater host Steven Rinella, additional award recognition and the always popular Volunteer Fun Night.
Elk Camp is Dec. 3-6 at The Mirage. The Hunter & Outdoor Christmas Exposition runs Dec. 3-12. Admission to the expo is free.