our area supports at least 2 local shop hops (different sets of shops) in the spring. This year I did 12 shops (out of 15) i none day! 12hrs!! could hardly walk afterward and glad I didn't drive! Anyway, the R by R is in the summer and think it does bring in to the local shops visitors that are traveling and willing to drive a little out of the way for it. I personally only collect license plats as I find way too many of the patterns include applique and embroidery--neither of which I enjoy doing much!