The Halloween & Party Expo heads to its new location in New Orleans, a town known for its incomparable party atmosphere, show organizers are excited to announce that they will be collaborating with Party & Paper Retailer magazine to hold a new and improved industry-‐wide party. The Halloween & Party Expo Kick-‐Off Party will replace both the Expo’s Costume Style Show and PPR’s Industry Gala, while retaining aspects of both of those beloved events.
The party starts at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, the night before the show opens, at Generations Hall, which is located within walking distance to the convention center. This previous sugar refinery built in the early 1820s offers three uniquely decorated rooms with artwork showcasing the history of New Orleans jazz.
“The Expo’s move to New Orleans is more than just a location change; it is a step forward for the industry,” said Jonathan Erwin of the Halloween & Party Expo. “So with that in mind, rather than simply replicate the events we held in Houston, we decided to join forces with Party & Paper Retailer and re-‐imagine an industry-‐wide celebration.
“The Party & Paper Retailer team always throws a great party. Their event has been a fantastic way to start the Expo for years; we are thrilled to be working with them.” Erwin continued. “There is a lot to 2 do in New Orleans, but you won’t want to miss this party.”
The event will combine the best of the Expo’s Costume Style Show and PPR’s Industry Gala, which were both incredibly popular entertainment mainstays in Houston. Emerald City Band will return this year. The party also will feature New-‐Orleans-‐themed entertainers and plenty of great food and drink. Instead of a staged style show, models wearing the latest costumes will mingle among party guests.
“We want to showcase the costumes. But, rather than having the models on stage like we did in previous years, we will have them walking the party, which will allow buyers to see the costumes up close and add to the party’s vibe,” Erwin said. “Partygoers will be able to preview costumes, network with their peers, hit the dance floor and soak in New Orleans food and music in one great event.”
“This is truly the party of the year for this industry, and we will, once again, be pulling out all the stops for the event,” said Matt McCallum of Party & Paper Retailer. “We believe that this year’s will be our biggest and best party yet.”
Attendance for registered buyers is free, with drink tickets included, but make sure to get there on time because event capacity is 1,200. No pre-‐registration is required specifically for the party, but attendees must present their buyer badge for the show to be admitted to the party. Exhibitors are encouraged to attend as sponsors, which will provide them access to VIP access and the chance to have their live models showcase their products.
Mark your calendars for Thursday, February 5 at 7 p.m. for the new combined Halloween & Party Expo Kick-‐Off Party, hosted by Party & Paper Retailer. The event will be held at Generations Hall, one 3 short block from the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
Exhibitors interested in sponsoring the party should call Gavin Cribbs at 616-‐887-‐9008, ext. 109, or email pprads@partypaper.com.
Buyers who haven’t registered to attend the Halloween & Party Expo for FREE yet can do so at www.halloweenpartyexpo.com/buyers. Companies interested in exhibiting or showcasing their products during the Halloween & Party Expo can call 877-‐347-‐3976. But act fast — booth space is already 94 percent filled.
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