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HOME  >   EVENTS  >   CARLISLE SPORTS & OUTDOOR NATIONALS

Carlisle Sports & Outdoor Nationals
Sep 6 - Sep 8, 2013
LOCATION: Carlisle PA FAIRGROUNDS

Adult Admission: Fri.-Sun. $10  
Child Admission: 12 & Under FREE!
Gate Times: Fri. 12pm-6pm / Sat. 9am-6pm / Sun. 9am - 4pm

The Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals will be an event run at Carlisle like no other. Just like our automotive events, the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals is run by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable event manager. What makes this event extra special is that it will be powered by a majority of the Carlisle staff who share a similar passion as you. More than half of the full-time Carlisle staff are outdoor enthusiasts and are excited to work hand in hand with the event manager to make this event the best of it's type around. The Sports and Outdoor Nationals isn't just another event on the schedule, it's a lifestyle for many who will be part of it. This event takes place annually during the first full weekend after Labor Day and will be unlike any other sports and outdoor themed event in the region. The weekend will feature a wide array of interactive and hands on events for enthusiasts of all ages, a swap meet for buying and selling used gear, equipment and apparel as well as a corral that will host everything from ATV's to RV's, boats to the trucks that pull them, campers and more. In addition, there will be safety courses, seminars and more offered, while an off road course is also planned for those wanting to get a little mud on the tires. Whether you hunt, fish, hike, race, camp or just love to enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer, this event is just for you.

Call (717) 243-7855 to Reserve Your Space Today!


COUNTDOWN TO
Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals 2013

Be a Sponsor of the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals Be a Sponsor of the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals
Multiple Opportunities Available for 2013 and Beyond

Does your company want to be front and center, immersed in thousands of sports and outdoor enthusiasts? Do you want your product to be showcased on an 82+ acre facility that is one of the main anchors of economic impact in central Pennsylvania?

If you answered yes to either of those questions, consider being a sponsor for Carlisle's newest venture, the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals. Multiple opportunities exist, from being the title sponsor of the event, to being a midway vending partner. You may simply want to be the presenting sponsor of a specific attraction, display or special guest onsite or being the preferred vendor of certain products.

For sponsor and partnership information, e-mail sponsorship@carlisleevents.com or call 717-243-7855 today.



Be Part of the Outdoors Themed Swap Meet Be Part of the Outdoors Themed Swap Meet
SPECIAL INAUGURAL YEAR PRICING!

Want to be part of a very unique sports and outdoor themed swap meet? If you answered yes, than this is without a doubt something to consider. If you have used or new hunting, fishing and outdoor gear for sale or trade, consider registering for a space. The swap meet will allow for enthusiasts of all skill levels to browse your products and either enhance, replace or replenish their products. Whether you are looking to move a life vest, tree stand, knife sheath, fishing rod, tackle box, trolling motor for your boat or any other product that best fits the outdoor lifestyle, this portion of the weekend is just for you.

We are offering great introductory rates on space! Don’t miss your opportunity to position secure a vendor position at this event for years to come. For more information, contact us at 717-243-7855.



Sell Your Motorized Outdoor Machines in the Corral Sell Your Motorized Outdoor Machines in the Corral
Deal Directly With the Owner for a Unique Buying Experience

Boats, campers, RV's, ATV's, trucks, trailers, snowmobiles and more; these will be available for sale by owner within the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals corral. The corral will contain more than just the aforementioned machines, but if you get what this is all about, then you'll have a great time browsing the area. Filled with new, used and vintage machines, you can deal directly with the owner and make a deal. There is onsite financing as well as notary services, making the transaction that much smoother. Spaces are approximately 10’frontage x 20’ depth and rent for $60 per space for the entire event. For more information, you may contact us at 717-243-7855.



Interactive Seminars Offered at Carlisle Interactive Seminars Offered at Carlisle
Better Your Sports and Outdoor Knowledge

There are so many different options when it comes to being an outdoor enthusiast. With that in mind, this weekend will play host to a plethora of seminars, all free for event attendees. Hone your hunting skills, become a better angler, learn tricks to improve your fly fishing technique and most importantly, a basic wilderness first aid course. There will also be seminars on archery hunting, deer processing, waterfowl hunting and more. A complete run down of all onsite seminars will be available at Guest Services as well as online. Further, when additional activities are announced, they'll be posted here and on the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals Facebook page.



Experience Dog Training Demonstrations Experience Dog Training Demonstrations
See Deutsch Drahthaar Dogs in Action and Learn Tips for Your Pet

The Drahthaar is the most frequently used hunting dog by the hunting establishment in Germany and that is not without reason. The work ethic of the dog is above reproach. They have great endurance, intelligence and obedience skills. This dog is so versatile that it can be used for a full range of tasks. Because of the popularity of the Drahthaar, we're excited to welcome the Verein Deutsch-Drahthaar Group of North America to Carlisle for training demonstrations. This activity gives you a great firsthand look at ways to train your Drahthaar, or other hunting companion.



Big Game Scoring Comes to Carlisle Big Game Scoring Comes to Carlisle
Boone & Crocket Club Expert to Rate Your Trophy for Free

Have you scored a major kill in recent years and you feel that your trophy is worth an official recognition? If so, then the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals have a great opportunity for you and your hard-earned prize. During the event, you are eligible to take part in FREE Big Game scoring. Bob D'Angelo from the Boone & Crocket Club will be at Carlisle on Saturday and Sunday (9/7 and 9/8) of event weekend to officially score big game trophies for the Boone & Crocket Club, Pope & Young Club and the state record book program. The state record scoring will be for deer, bear and elk. Scores are based on inches and/or circumference and will be judged against like breeds of kill. In addition, Bob will have the proper paperwork in hand to enter any trophy that meets the required minimum for each club. Be sure to share this news with your friends so that everyone can be involved with this great interactive experience at Carlisle in 2013. Moreover, if you always wondered what your trophy officially scored, this is a great free opportunity to do so.



Archery Shooting Comes to Carlisle Archery Shooting Comes to Carlisle
Onsite Competitions and a Fun Shoot Highlight Weekend

The Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals will have a lot going during the event weekend. There will be aspects of the event that cater to hunters who use guns, those who fish for their keep and now you can add archery to the fold. No matter your archery skill level, you can participate as part of the fun shoot presented by the State College Archery Club or competition via the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). As part of the set up, there will be 3D targets with the 3D shoot presented by NWTF. Standard targets will be set up at various distances on the course. For a real challenge, those who are part of the competition will be prohibited from using a range finder. With distance and breeze a factor, that will make the battles that much more intense. Participation in the archery competition and fun shoot has an additional fee associated with it. As part of your entry costs, prizes will be available for both the fun shoot and 3D shoot. Experience the outdoors at Carlisle and have some fun along the way.



Enroll in a Hunter's Education Class Enroll in a Hunter's Education Class
Join the PA Game Commission for a Saturday Only Session

There is so much that goes into being a safe hunter. Responsibilities go above and beyond the basics of wearing orange and only aiming at four legged critters. In all seriousness, there is a lot that goes into being a safe, observant and responsible person while in the wilderness. In an effort to further the safety for hunters as a whole, the Pennsylvania Game Commission will be onsite Saturday (9/7) and Sunday (9/8) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to host a hunter's education course. The course will be free and enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels of experience are encouraged to enroll.



Turkey Calling and Owl Hooting Contests at Carlisle Turkey Calling and Owl Hooting Contests at Carlisle
Have Your Call Evaluated by Onsite Judges

Here is one for you and the birds! At the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals, you can participate in a turkey calling and/or owl hooting contests, presented by the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF). Prizes and bragging rights will be up for grabs as you do your thing in front of an expert panel of judges and likeminded enthusiasts. Talk turkey with other foul mouthed attendees who give a hoot as judges evaluate your call, score it and rank you and your competition accordingly. Continuing the great theme of interactivity at Carlisle, be sure to experience the turkey calling and owl hooting competitions. You can also learn a thing or two from your competitors and judges along the way. Good luck and see you at Carlisle in September.

National Wild Turkey Federation 


Showcase Your Fly Casting Skills Showcase Your Fly Casting Skills
Contests to Be Held Daily

There is fishing and then there is fly-fishing. The end result of catching a fish may be the same, but the approach to getting a nibble is much different. If you believe you are skilled at fly-fishing and want to showcase your technique against others like you, consider taking part in the onsite fly casting competition. The process will play out over the course of the weekend, with winners earning recognition among their peers as well as a special award. Best of all, everyone can show off at Carlisle, then travel seven miles to nearby Boiling Springs to fly-fish the Yellow Breeches. Competition registration will take place onsite.



PA State Knife and Tomahawk Championships Come to Carlisle PA State Knife and Tomahawk Championships Come to Carlisle
Watch Experts Throw, Plus You Can Compete too for Prizes

The Pennsylvania Federation of Muzzleloaders and Carlisle Events are pleased to announced that the 2013 PA State Knife and Tomahawk Championships will be held at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds as part of the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals. Watch experts take their best throws as they attempt to be crowned champion.

Multiple qualifying rounds will take place on Friday and Saturday with the championships on Sunday. In addition, there will be a beginners competition where amateur throwers vie for their very own tomahawk.

Qualifying times are below, while the Sunday championship round time is TBD. Further, there will also be a Rendezvous Camp featuring mid-18th through 19th Century era craftsmen. As part of the camp, experience presentations and demonstrations on muzzleloading, powder horn making, log hewing, weaving and more.

Finally, there will be seminars and demonstrations on fire starting with flint and a primitive archery shoot, again backed by the PA Federation of Muzzleloaders. To register for the championships or for more information and any of these activities, email Jack Giblin at bushyrunbat1@gmail.com or call 717-574-6936.

Qualifying Rounds
Friday (1 p.m. to 5 p.m.)
Saturday (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

Championship Round
Sunday (TBD)



Free Hunter Education Classes to be Held at Carlisle Free Hunter Education Classes to be Held at Carlisle
Pennsylvania Game Commission Onsite for a Pair of Courses

Register now to be part of a pair of hunters education courses. The Pennsylvania Game Commission will be at Carlisle as part of the Sports and Outdoor Nationals to offer FREE courses in Hunter-Trapper Education. Courses will take place on Saturday and Sunday and be limited to 60 participants each. Courses will be held at the Carlisle Expo Center and take place each day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Interested enthusiasts can register online now by clicking the links below.



Take a Ride with the Virginia Giant Take a Ride with the Virginia Giant
Ride on the ONLY Truck that Takes You OVER the Cars!

Climb aboard the iconic Virginia Giant Ride Truck for a heart pounding, car crushing, no holds barred edge of your seat ride. Prepare for the ride of your life as the GIANT makes your heart pound and feet sweat with white knuckle car crushing action. This truck is the only one of its type that takes you OVER the cars. Ride, crush, enjoy and repeat!

Be part of the car crushing, jacked up truck riding excitement this summer in Carlisle.



Casting for Kids and Celebrity Casting Contests at Carlisle Casting for Kids and Celebrity Casting Contests at Carlisle
Capital City Bassmasters to Host Event

What is batter, the innocence of youth fishing, or a bunch of "celebrities" who may or may not know what they are doing trying to cast a line? Each would seem to have merit and both will be on display during the event. Join the Capital City Bassmasters for their event as the future of the sports and outdoor world take center stage. In addition, local dignitaries, celebrities and industry specialists will take a turn as part of the celebrity portion of the fun. Be amazed as kids have fun and laugh as the adults do their best to prove they belong. The kids competition is a state qualifier, while the celebrity portion is for charity.

For details on the Capital City Bassmasters and all that they offer, visit their web page today.



Fly Casting Competitions and Demonstrations to Take Place Fly Casting Competitions and Demonstrations to Take Place
Test Your Skill with the CVTU

Did you know that the Fonz, Henry Winkler loves to fly fish? Random, right? Well, he isn't the only one that enjoys it and this very popular form of fishing will be on display. Join enthusiasts and representatives from the Cumberland Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited for both a Fly Fishing competition as well as a Fly Fishing demonstration. If you've ever spent time along the Yellow Breeches in Boiling Springs or fished the waters of Big Sky country, you know how wonderful this activity can be. Visit the CVTU online for details on this great interactive and educational event.



Boat & RV Outfitters Join Carlisle Boat & RV Outfitters Join Carlisle
Carlisle Welcomes On the Water Enthusiasts Along With Campers

The Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals is gearing up to be something special. We welcome our partners bringing you this event. If you are gearing up to spend time on the water or time at camp, we invite you to visit the Boat & RV outfitters attending the Carlisle this weekend.

Boat N RV 


Archery Outfitters Join the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals Archery Outfitters Join the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals
Premier Archery Specialists to be Onsite for Inaugural Event

When the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals launched, the intent was to provide an all encompassing weekend that catered to all aspects of the hobby. The trend continues as Carlisle Events intends to welcome some of the premier archery specialists in the region to Carlisle. Gear up for archery competitions and shoots throughout the weekend as we roll out the welcome mat to some of the best known names in archery. As you make your plans for the event in September, be sure to join us in welcoming our new friends to Carlisle.



Sportsmen's Auction Taking Place at Carlisle Sportsmen's Auction Taking Place at Carlisle
Join the PA Outdoor Writers Association

Be part of the 2013 "Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association Sportsmen's Auction." The auction takes place on Sunday of event weekend and will be held at the grandstand. Auction items will be on display all weekend under the grandstand and then just before the auction on the stage.

This auction uses all proceeds for youth educational programs and youth introductions into the outdoors. Donations are also being sought for auction. This auction is run entirely from donations made by people and business to assist youth education in the outdoors.

For details, contact event manager Scott Amig at 717-243-7855 x121.



Experience Wildlife Courtesy of Bwana Jim Experience Wildlife Courtesy of Bwana Jim
Snakes, Gators and More May Appear

With over 25 years as an animal handler, Bwana Jim and his wife and fellow handler, Linda Moulton, travel the world presenting their unique wildlife show. Bwana Jim specializes in reptiles such as snakes, alligators, turtles and other animals such as armadillos, wallabies and exotic birds.

Experience some of these animals, plus Jim himself at Carlisle this September. We told you the weekend will be interactive and what better way to prove it than with Jim and his critters!



Gun Show to be Held at Carlisle Expo Center Gun Show to be Held at Carlisle Expo Center
Eagle Arms Productions to Host Event

Sports and Outdoor enthusiasts have yet another reason to make Carlisle their go-to destination in September. Eagle Arms Productions has agreed to a partnership with Carlisle Events to host a gun show at the Carlisle Expo Center, located just two blocks from the main gate of the Carlisle Fairgrounds. The gun show will feature guns, ammo and accessories for many makes, models and styles of weaponry. Only materials that are legal within state and federal laws at the time of the event will be for sale, no exceptions.

The gun show is free with a paid admission to the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals and a free shuttle will be available to bring enthusiasts to and from the expo center/fairgrounds.

For more information, email event manager Scott Amig at ScottA@CarlisleEvents.com or call 717-243-7855 x121.



Learn About PA Gun Laws Learn About PA Gun Laws
Experience Seminars with a Local Law Firm

State and Federal firearms laws are complicated. Do you know your rights? The Law Firm of Abom and Kutulakis will be at the Carlisle Sports & Outdoor Nationals prepared to answer your gun law questions. Check the vendor listings on site for locations. Abom and Kutalikis will be hosting a seminar as well. A schedule and more details will be available in advance of the event.



See What Lawn Mowers Can Do on the Grass See What Lawn Mowers Can Do on the Grass
Get a Real Feel Before Buying From a Vendor

Have you asked yourself who buys a new lawn mower? People do it, and that's fine, but statistics may show that many mowers are purchased second hand. When doing so, how do you really know what you are buying? Do you mow the yard of the seller or have them come to your thatch and test mow there? This is all sounds difficult.

At Carlisle, you can broker a deal with a vendor selling mowers and we'll have a special area set up onsite where you can test ride, test cut or test push a lawn mower. We are happy to help make the sale as easy as possible. You can even cut our grass to assure that what you are buying works.



See Gun Dog Demonstrations See Gun Dog Demonstrations
Staton's Gun Dogs Onsite All Weekend

Do you what to know what it takes to get your hunting companion to snare your game? Experts from Staton's Gun Dogs of Greentown, PA will be onsite providing training tips and showcasing some of their dogs. As with all seminars and demonstrations, this will be free with admission to the event itself. Learn how you can have more than just a faithful companion with you when hunting.



Trapping Demonstrations Come to Carlisle Trapping Demonstrations Come to Carlisle
PA Trappers Association to Present Informative Sessions

It's one thing to head out into the wild with the hopes of trapping game. It's another to have the skill set to assure that you do so as accurately as possible. Join the PA Trappers Association throughout the weekend for seminars and demonstrations. They'll highlight what to do and not to do as it relates to trapping game or all sizes. Ask questions, learn tips and more, all for free at Carlisle in September.



Have a Photo Taken with Bigfoot Have a Photo Taken with Bigfoot
Teeters' Taxidermy Presents Sasquatch

Teeter's Taxidermy Studio Inc. presents a unique opportunity to have a photo taken with Bigfoot. The big creature stands tall over crowds and is a great conversation piece. In addition, reps from Teeters' will be onsite to discuss their day to day taxidermy work.

Teeters' Taxidermy Studio combines technical skill with creative artistry for Pennsylvania's hunting and fishing communities. For over fifteen years, they have devoted themselves to creating works of art to preserve memories. Rest assured that whether it's a prized trophy or a beloved pet, they'll only use state-of-the-art techniques to present you with lasting quality. That's the Teeters' promise.

As lifetime members of the Pennsylvania Taxidermy Association, they pride themselves on keeping up with the highest standards in taxidermy and will continue to strive to be the best.

Grab a photo and talk with the experts at the show this year! Please note, touching of the Sasquatch is prohibited.



Multiple Kids Activities Planned Multiple Kids Activities Planned
Fun For All Ages Continues

You can get a hunting license in Pennsylvania at the age of 12 and one for fishing when you turn 16, but having fun has no age restrictions. The Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals offer great fun for enthusiasts of all ages, especially the young ones. Parents are encouraged to bring their child for the following activities:

Hunters Education Courses - PA Game Commission
Interactive Dart System - National Wild Turkey Federation
Youth Archery Shoot - State College Archery Club
Bird House Building - Susquehanna Waterfowlers
Interactive Trout Pond
Fire Starting with Flint - PA Federation of Muzzleloaders
Primitive Archery Shooting - PA Federation of Muzzleloaders
Paint Ball
Animal Show - Bwana Jim's Wildlife Show
Casting Competition - Capital City Bassmasters
...more to come!



Women's Oasis - Quality Items that Women Love Women's Oasis - Quality Items that Women Love
Visit the Oasis for Relaxation, Shopping, and Activities

Ladies and men alike, make a point to stop by the Carlisle Sports and Outdoor Nationals Women’s Oasis tent and visit our amazing vendors, selling items from jewelry and accessories to handmade crafts and beauty products. Plus there are massages, seminars and special services offered by the vendors. The weekend schedule is available at the oasis tent.






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