Each spring, the Gorham Business Exchange holds the Annual GBE Marketplace at USM. The event draws thousands of shoppers who come to see goods and services offered by member businesses. Marketplace is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year on April 1 from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at the USM Costello Field House on the Gorham campus.

While many of the favorites will be in attendance, there will be some changes; most noticeably, the layout of vendor booths in a horseshoe fashion to provide better visibility for all and the addition of a mini Farmer’s Market. Cash prizes will be given out every 20 year anniversary.

The mission of Marketplace is to showcase quality products and services available in Gorham. Shoppers can sample food from area eateries, enjoy local talent, sign up for vendors’ prizes, and have a chance to win cash prizes.

Admission is free and there will be approximately 60 booths representing all kinds of businesses who offer products and services to Gorham.

Various forms of entertainment will be provided including bounce houses, games for the kids, dance and jukado performances, a concert by the Gorham Community Chorus, and a presentation of “Magic on the Move” by Phil Smith.

The Gorham Food Pantry will be collecting items and cash donations again this year. The current needs are: dry cereal/flavored oatmeal, canned plain tomato sauce, cream soups, toothbrushes, toothpaste, liquid dish detergent, jelly (squeeze is best), kids snacks, bottled fruit juices, snack sized fruit juices, canned pears or peaches, and boxed potato mixes.

For more information including vendor registration, click here.