NRA’s Great American Outdoor Show (GAOS) opens Feb. 7 and runs until Feb. 15 in Harrisburg, Pa. It’s the place to be if you’re aching to see many of the new guns and gear unveiled last month at the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT) in Las Vegas, Nev.
The family-friendly event is much more, though. It’s the world’s largest annual gathering of outdoor enthusiasts, with manufacturers, retailers and companies that cater to virtually every pursuit, passion and activity—even those capable of being enjoyed indoors.
More than 1,000 exhibitors will be at this year’s GAOS, which will occupy 650,000 square feet of the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex. The opportunity to see the latest and greatest gets headlines, but it’s the seminars, activities and celebrities that make the gathering a destination families return to each year.
Some of your favorite outdoor celebrities and influencers will be on hand, holding seminars throughout GAOS. The separate schedule of special events includes the DockDogs Competition, Pennsylvania Lumberjack Championships, Eastern Elk Calling Championships, Kids Casting Contest and more.
The HAWG tank will have regularly scheduled fishing demonstrations throughout the show. Eddie Eagles Kid’s Zone features activities for the entire family and a rock wall for climbing. A 3D Bowhunter Challenge with shooting lanes gives attendees a chance to try before they buy.
The show isn’t just about firearms. Companies that offer RVs, boats, fishing equipment, archery gear, guide services and more will be on hand.
Still haven’t figured out something special for Valentine’s Day? Concerts are always featured during GAOS, but this year it brings Tucker Wetmore—a rapidly rising country western musician whose songs include "Wine Into Whiskey" and "Wind Up Missin' You"—to the stage on Saturday, Feb. 14. On Friday Feb. 13, Zach Williams and Megan Williams will perform.
As always, GAOS is the place to be this month. Unlike SHOT, it’s open to the public, covers a wide variety of pursuits and continues to attract record crowds. There’s something for everyone, even music fans who have yet to schedule something special with their sweetheart this month.
