MANSFIELD — The 15th Richland Area Chamber & Economic DevelopmentĀ Business Expo on Thursday will be a celebration three years in the making.
The popular event, cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, comes back to life from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. inside Fairhaven Hall at the Richland County Fairgrounds, 750 N. Home Road.
“We have 100 businesses and non-profits signed up to participate. It’s a sellout once again,” said Angie Fanello, the chamber’s marketing and communications coordinator.
Admission and parking are free and Fanello said organizers hope as many asĀ 1,000 residents attend the expo on the city’s northwest side.
“The Expo is a great way for consumers to interact with businesses and learn more about what they offer,” Fanello said.
The theme in 2022 is “Get in the Game!” and businesses will win prizes for their booths forĀ “Most Creative Booth,” “Best Use of Theme,” and the “People’s Choice.”
The chamber will give free tote bags to the first 600 in attendance. The chamber and individual business will also be offering prizes, samples and giveaways throughout the event.
Fanello said each tote bag will have hand sanitizer, but masks and/or facial coverings are not required at this year’s event.
Participants and those attending are encouraged to bring canned goods to donate during the event, which will be taken to the local Catholic Charities Food Pantry with the assistance of staff at the Graham Auto Mall.
Every attendee who brings a can will receive an entry into a special prize drawing, according to Fanello.
