Houston has the International Quilt Market, which is followed by the International Quilt Festival. Market is as ckcowl describes, a trade show, and not meant for the general public, while Festival is a huge quilt show. Quilts Inc. produces both of these, as well as a Market in Pittsburgh and a Festival in Chicago, and Quilt/Knit/Stitch coming up in Portland. Quilting is a huge BUSINESS and many groups take part.