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Late Shows And Matinees
Most computer shows take place on the weekend; some are on Saturday, some on Sunday,
and some on both days. There is normally a charge to get into the show, often somewhere
between $5 and $10. Shows that are open both days usually charge once for both days--this
can be a deal if you really need that much time to shop, but more often than not you can
get what you need done in a single day just as easily.
The cost of the show is something to take into account if you are economizing. However,
in almost every case you will save more than the cost of the ticket if you make even one
purchase (unless it is a very inexpensive item).
 Tip: Some companies offer discounts
if you pre-purchase tickets for a number of shows. This may also let you bypass the very
long lines to purchase tickets if you go to a show early in the morning, which in some
ways is even better than the discount!
The time of day that you choose to go to the show is important; the best time depends
on what you are trying to do:
- The Early Birds: Many people want to be the first person on the show floor, and
arrive as early as an hour or more before the doors open. Of course, they end up waiting
in a long line with the other early birds, until the door opens, sometimes in rather
frightful weather. Is it worth it? For most people, it is not, but on occasion, there are
some very good deals offered by vendors with limited stock. If you are there early, you
get first crack at whatever is there. There are also fewer people on the floor, so the
place is less packed and you have more breathing room.
- The Later Birds: Most people go to shows between about 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. As a
consequence, this is also the busiest time of day at the show. Some shows can get quite
crowded, with surprising contests for elbow room around the busier tables! You will also
have a harder time getting attention from harried vendors.
- The "Vultures": Some folk go to shows late in the day, especially on
Sunday of a two-day show. Shows are very taxing on vendors, particularly those who are
coming to the show from a long distance and/or selling heavy or bulky items. On occasion
they may be willing to reduce their prices at the end of the day to reduce inventory and
increase sales for the trip, and as the customer you benefit by "circling" at
the end of the day... The flip side is that some vendors may be out of stock, and you
limit your available time for shopping.
 Next: All
Vendors Are Not Created Equal
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