LONGVIEW (KYTX) -- Boats, RVs, camping equipment - you name it - it's all on display at the annual East Texas Outdoor Expo in Longview. CBS 19's Abby Broyles takes us inside the expo and shows us how families can get involved this weekend.
50 vendors set up shop in Longview Friday for the 30th annual East Texas Outdoor Expo.
"We've got 20 or so travel trailers and RVs here inside Maude Cobb and then we have over 40 outside the exhibit hall so there's lots to see," Expo director Mitzi Barnes said.
Organizer Mitzi Barnes calls this weekend the official kickoff of the selling season for those who sell outdoor supplies of all kinds.
"They're bringing out their latest and greatest RVs, travel trailers. Almost every line of boat is pictured here today," Barnes said.
J.D. Shipp is the owner of Shipp marine in Gladewater. His new 2012 line is on display, including the hurricane deck boat, a style he calls ideal for families.
"A hurricane, which is a hybrid between a deck boat and a pontoon boat, puts you in a similar price range as a pontoon boat but you have the performance of a glass hole," Shipp said.
He says that allow enough space for entire families to enjoy the boat together while still being able to pull an adult water skier.
Also at the expo are activities for the kids, from camel rides outside to a bird exhibit and the kids fish tank inside.
The expo will be open all weekend. Organizers say it's a great time to bring out your family.
"There's a lot of great activities for the kids to do, to keep them entertained while mom and dad shop for a new boat or RV," Barnes said.
Johnny Cace's Seafood and Steakhouse is catering the expo all weekend. Doors are open until 8:00 tonight. Activities start again tomorrow morning at 9:00 at the Maude Cobb Convention Center, and Sunday 10:00 to 5:00.
