More than 100 small businesses around town are preparing to meet nearly 2,000 local residents at this year’s Expo, sponsored by the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce. The SCV Chamber Expo will take place along Main Street in Old Town Newhall from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13. Organizers say the annual business-to-consumer expo is the chance for local residents to meet the owners of their favorite local businesses and find a few new favorites, too.

Those who have attended the Business Expo in the past should be prepared for a few changes, however. This year’s event is in partnership with both the Old Town Newhall Association and the City of Santa Clarita in an effort to support both the renovations in Old Town Newhall and to celebrate the opening of the City’s new library. “Old Town Newhall Association and the City of Santa Clarita are both strong supporters of small businesses in Santa Clarita,” said Terri Crain, Executive Director of the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber. “We are excited to team up with them to provide even better exposure of our local business owners to reach residents in the community.”

In addition to businesses, a new Taste of Expo will showcase twenty-five popular local restaurants, too. Restaurants like Salt Creek Grille, Marstons, Chik Fil A, Kona Ice, Kokolita Cakes and more will be lining the streets offering a few tasty local favorites to Chamber members.  “Taste of Expo was a logical addition to our mainline event. Local restaurants need the support of the community as much as other Chamber members,” said Crain. “Offering them a chance to really show-off their best menu items will make Expo an even better, more anticipated local event.”

In addition to eating and mingling with business owners, attendees can also expect some interesting entertainment this year. A sub-eating contest sponsored by Jersey Mike’s Subs will keep the crowd engaged and hungry attendees satisfied. “We are thrilled with the buzz that the sub-eating contest has created so far,” said Expo chairman Chris Donald. “It is expected to be very well-attended.” During both the Business Expo and Taste of Expos, the public will also enjoy live music performances by a variety of bands including Blue Sky, Drop Zone and the Grizwalds.

“We are looking forward to a great day,” said Donald. “Small business is the heart and soul of our community here in Santa Clarita. Expo is one of the best events to help connect our residents to all that we have to offer here.”