I've never tried out the machines at the Int'l Quilt Festival, but I have attended numerous time (I only live 2 hours away & have a place to stay while there.) There are numerous machines set up; lots of vendors/sales persons. I have seen "special pricing"; there're called show prices. So, yes, you might want to go prepared to buy. Have fun! Oh, I hope you know you have to stay more than one day, lol.