The hottest ticket in town is free.

"Our phones are ringing constantly with people wanting information about the show, wanting to purchase tickets to come to the show and register as an attendee to come see the event," said Tanya Hulbert, show manager for the 2017 Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show.

The show is sold out to exhibitors but the public is still welcome. The show starts Wednesday, June 7 in Weyburn and anybody can get into the show by registering at the  gate. Hulbert said they are noticing a spike in interest this year as the industry rebounds.

"Usually we get about 5,000 attendees from, mostly, western Canada, the United States and we do get some foreigners. Very few, but every year we are always surprised when some show up," she said.

All of those guests fill up the city's hotels and restaurants and use other businesses.

"The economic impact is huge for the City of Weyburn," said Hulbert. "It's just an influx of people into the city which I know means sometimes hassle for the people who live here on a day-to-day basis but what it brings in economic value is invaluable."

The biennial industry show is a huge draw not just for those working and servicing the oil and gas sector but, in the past, has attracted politicians from many levels of governments as well. Hulbert said they are hoping for political guests again.

"We've made a request to Premier Brad Wall that we're hoping he can attend and we know Minister (Dustin) Duncan will be in attendance as well as many other members of parliament who are coming to see what the industry is for Saskatchewan." 

An Oilmen's Golf Tournament is set for Tuesday (June 6) but most of the events take place Wednesday. There will be a luncheon at noon sponsored by Gilliss Oil Tools which will feature a guest speaker, and the Oil and Gas Recognition Awards. The Oilman of the Year and Hall of Fame Inductees will be presented at the end of the luncheon. That evening, starting at 7 p.m., there is a prime rib dinner sponsored by the City of Weyburn and the SE Saskatchewan Oilman of the Year Awards will be presented by the Weyburn Oilshow Board after supper.

Events wrap up Thursday, June 8 with a luncheon. John Gormley will be the guest speaker. CLICK HERE to see the full schedule and other details.

All of the proceeds from the show will be used to upgrade and maintain city facilities used by the biennial oil and gas show. Previous years have paid for improvements to Crescent Point Place, Tom Zandee Arena, the Weyburn Golf Club, fencing and a stage for the Weyburn Agricultural Society grounds and more.

While exhibitors continue arriving and setting up, Fifth Avenue NW will be closed to traffic. It is expected to reopen on Wednesday.