Yes, it finally happened, the 66th edition of the Fishersville Antiques Expo. It was 573 days between the closing of the 2019 Fishersville fall show and the 2021 spring show that concluded on May 8. And at the beginning of the year, the possibility of having the spring show looked bleak. Nevertheless, knowing what it takes to pull together this huge show, Ray and Martha Stokes and daughter Lesley, co-owners of Heritage Promotions, began investing their time and resources coupled with an amazing amount of optimism to once again begin laying the groundwork, hopeful that they could bring the twice postponed 66th edition of their antiques extravaganza back to the Augusta Expo in Fishersville, Va. It wasnt an easy task with so much uncertainty, but the show occured and was an incredible success, overflowing with positive comments from the hundreds of dealers and thousands of customers who attended. Ray Stokes, the promotor of the show, said that nearly without exception, the dealers outpoured their gratitude for having the opportunity to set up at a live show again. Quite a few exhibiting dealers shared that they had the best show in many years. The auction market is certainly showing strength, and this energy seems to be carrying over into good levels of business being conducted at shows. One longtime, loyal dealer said it was the best show he had ever had at Fishersville. And it wasnt just that the dealers had great sales over the weekend. Many shared their exhilaration with the friendliness and enthusiasm of the customers, both loyal show-goers as well as new treasure hunters. Many dealers said that the customers were very eager just to be there and seriously shop. But it seems that was a two-way street. One customer who has attended nearly all of these shows in the last 20 years shared with the Stokeses that the excitement of the dealers was obvious at virtually every booth, manifested in their smiles, friendly attitudes, and particularly their willingness to strike a bargain. It made for a great show for everybody. When asked what he thought about the show, another customer simply responded, Well, I didnt see anybody leave empty handed! So, Fishersville #66 finally happened 573 days later. At the end of the day, it wasnt just about antiques and collectibles, dealers and customers, or buying and selling. The show offered much more to everyone who attended, just a little bit of getting back to a sense of normalcy. That was the catalyst for all the smiles, welcoming greetings and friendly conversations, which ultimately resulted in lots of happy dealers and customers alike. Yes, the Fishersville Antiques Expo is back. Back in business and looking forward to the 67th show, which is set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 8 and 9. Hope to see you there. To learn more, call Ray Stokes at 434-846-7452.