For nine days in February more than 1,000 shooting, hunting, fishing and other outdoor-related companies will be greeting enthusiasts, making new friends, showcasing their latest offerings and answering questions at the Great American Outdoor Show. It’s the world’s largest, open-to-the-public annual gathering for those with a passion for the outdoors and it takes place at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pa., February 3 to 11.
There’s something for everyone on the 650,000-square-foot space, including outfitters, guides, RVs, boats and much more. Last year the event attracted 200,000 people to the family-friendly gathering.
The schedule is filled with special events, including a kid’s casting contest, DockDogs competition, 3D Bowhunter challenge, NRA Country concert and from February 3 to 7 the Pennsylvania Lumberjack Championships. Some of the gun industry’s finest will be on hand to show their latest products. That list includes Henry Repeating Arms, Mossberg, SIG Sauer, Heckler & Koch, Silencer Central and many more.
The NRA Foundation’s Friends of NRA Banquet takes place Feb. 8 at the venue’s ballroom. Its' evening of entertainment begins with doors opening at 5 p.m. and the chance to win custom firearms, unique merchandise and tailored hunts while enjoying dinner with other Second Amendment enthusiasts. The fundraiser supports national, state and local programs that promote America’s shooting heritage. Individual tickets are $65 and there are numerous table packages available for purchase starting at $1,800 with a choice of a firearm. Hurry, though, they are already on sale and go fast.
Located at Booth 39 in the complex’s main hallway, the NRA Foundation’s Wall of Guns will be open—thanks to Weatherby’s support—during show floor hours throughout the event. At $10 a ticket, a winner is drawn for every 100 tickets sold and the winner may choose a firearm from more than 40 different makes and models. There are several different ticket packages, ranging from $10 to $1,000, some of which include a limited-edition Wall of Guns t-shirt, donated by Nine Line Apparel. All net proceeds from the Wall of Guns benefit The NRA Foundation, the country’s leading charitable organization in support of the shooting sports.
