“We are thrilled with the response we have received from our conservation partners, outfitters and other vendors scheduled to join us,” said Steve Decker, RMEF vice president of Marketing. “Having said that, we since started a waiting list for those who still have an interest in possibly taking part.”
The all-new Hunter Christmas Expo is scheduled for December 4-7, 2014, at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in conjunction with the National Finals Rodeo (NFR). It will take place in the LVCC’s Central Halls while the Cowboy Christmas and Cowboy FanFest will be in the adjacent North Halls. Admission to the Hunter Christmas Expo is free of charge.
Hunter Christmas is presented by Cabela’s and features many other industry leaders including Browning, Buck Knives, Federal Premium, Leupold, Nosler and Remington, to name a few. It will feature the best in firearms, archery, optics, outfitters, and hunting apparel, as well as all things hunting and outdoors to tens of thousands of outdoor enthusiasts. Other expo highlights include a full archery range conducted by PSE, the NASCAR Experience from Nationwide Insurance, the Gun Genie from Gallery of Guns allowing firearm purchases from the show floor, special television coverage by RFD-TV and seminars from top hunting professionals and personalities.
The expo will also feature autograph sessions with rodeo legends spanning three decades. Among those scheduled to take part are Dan Mortensen, Ote Berry and Cody Custer. Mortensen is a six-time Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) saddle bronc world champion (1993-95, ‘97, ‘98 & 2003) as well as the 1997 all-around world champion. Berry racked up four PRCA steer wrestling world titles (1985, ‘90-‘91 & ‘95). Custer won the 1992 PRCA bull riding world championship.
“The response to Hunter Christmas is an indicator of the excitement surrounding this event and the demonstrated commitment of our exhibitor lineup toward the RMEF and our mission to ensure the future of elk and elk country,” added Decker.
The NFR represents one of the largest gatherings of Western lifestyle enthusiasts in the United States. In 2013, the event had a total attendance of more than 176,000 resulting in a non-gaming economic impact of $87.9 million. In addition, the actual number of visitors to Las Vegas during its 10-day run is actually two to three times that number because of all the watch parties and NFR-related activities outside the arena.
RMEF is also hosting its annual national convention, Elk Camp, on December 4-7 at The Mirage in Las Vegas.
About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation:
Founded over 30 years ago, fueled by hunters and a membership of more than 200,000 strong, RMEF has conserved more than 6.5 million acres for elk and other wildlife. RMEF also works to open and improve public access, fund and advocate for science-based resource management, and ensure the future of America’s hunting heritage. Discover why “Hunting Is Conservation™” at www.rmef.org or 800-CALL ELK.