Just a reminder, if you are in the tri-state area this weekend, you might want to check out Reef-a-Palooza New York that kicks off this Saturday in Secaucus, NJ. RAP has been one of the better industry events over the years and is in its third year in the New York area. Tickets are $20 per day and can be purchased online or at the door (cash only though). If you are on the fence, here are four reasons why you don’t want to pass this up.
The Speakers
Getting some insights into the hobby from speakers is a great way to increase your knowledge, spark some creative ideas and just get a chance to hear passionate people talk about this amazing hobby. RAP always brings together some of the great speakers in the hobby combining speaking-circuit vets with new voices. This year you can see industry maverick Julian Sprung, angelfish guru and all-around aquarium master John Coppolino, artist/activist/aquarist Colin Foord and industry vet Joe Caparatta.
The People
Our non-reefing friends and family can only take so much of our incessant talk about frags, fish and gear. RAP puts on quality events and with the amount of people coming through the doors, it is always a great place to catch up with friends and make new ones. Better yet, grab a few friends and come as a group. There is always so much to see that it’s a great opportunity to introduce kids to the hobby. One look at all the yummy frags, cool equipment and fish, and they’ll be hooked.
The Frags
Hands down one of the best thing about shows is the opportunity to go coral shopping. RAP always seems to bring out the best in the vendors giving you the opportunity to check out cool, unusual and even rare corals in a competitive environment. Make sure to bring along a cooler or other way to bring these home because chances are, you’ll be coming home with at least one.
The Raffle
The chance to walk away with some great gear for a small investment in raffle tickets is always hard to pass up. The RAP raffle will feature great prizes with raffles at the end of each day.
Still not convinced? How about checking out some of the great sights from previous RAP event’s we’ve been to.
