Unpacking Repticon Johnson City: Big Fun at a Small Show

Lisa Parker

Hey everyone, welcome back to Repticon Reptile Shows! It's Lisa here, and I am so excited about today's episode because, honestly, Johnson City always feels like this close-knit family get-together, you know? Even if you don’t know anyone when you walk in, you’re welcomed right into that friendly, buzzing energy. If you haven’t marked your calendars yet, Repticon Johnson City is set for November 22nd and 23rd, 2025, right inside the Holiday Inn at 101 West Springbrook Drive. I mean, is there a more convenient spot for an expo?

Jay Tacey

Yeah, Lisa, and the thing about Johnson City—just to chime in—is that, even though it’s not one of our huge shows, it really punches above its weight in terms of atmosphere. The whole event just feels so much more accessible, especially if it’s your first time or you’re coming with little ones. There’s just something about that scale—it’s personal. You can actually get to know the vendors, not just sprint from booth to booth, right?

Guy Mc Farlane

Absolutely, Jay. These regional shows have a way of fostering genuine, relaxed conversations, not just the transactional stuff. You don’t get lost in the crowd—you get time to explore, ask thoughtful questions, and really get that hands-on learning. That sort of vibe is pretty special in the expo circuit.

Lisa Parker

Oh, for sure, and the layout of the Taylor Ballroom makes a bigger difference than people realize. I’ll never forget last year—one of the vendors joked that between the easy flow and clear sight lines, it’s basically impossible for attendees not to wander back for a second look, or even a third! And, as a show manager, I love that you can see parents chatting with breeders while their kids are up front pointing at a Pacman frog, or—with my favorite memory—a group of folks literally sitting on the floor asking questions about enclosure heating. Where else does that happen?

Michael Arnold

Lisa, that’s the sweet spot for families and newcomers. There’s just no substitute for these laid-back, open settings—if you want to learn, if you want real advice, there’s so much less pressure. It makes it way less intimidating, especially for people taking their first leap into reptile keeping.

Lisa Parker

Oh, you’re not wrong, Michael! But really, that’s the heartbeat of Johnson City’s show—plenty of space to actually slow down, enjoy yourself, and connect with the people and animals that brought you in the door. We say it every episode, but if you want the full experience: don’t just walk—talk. Ask questions, hear stories, and take advantage of the friendly, hands-on approach you often can only find at these smaller expos.

Jay Tacey

Alright, shifting gears a bit—let’s shine the spotlight on Dreamz Pet & Exotics, one of the absolute standouts at Johnson City. Now, these folks have been in the game for, what, over two decades—working the exotic pet industry and building relationships across Tennessee and the surrounding region. Their table always has a wild mix: dart frogs, Pacman frogs, hognose snakes, milks, kings, some beautiful ball pythons... it’s that classic “something for everybody” approach, you know?

Lisa Parker

And it’s not just the variety, Jay. Their whole thing is matching people with, well, their dream pet—hence the name. I can tell you from managing plenty of floor plans, Dreamz is one of those vendors where you see an entire family stopping by, not just to look, but to ask “Would this one be a good fit for us?” They go out of their way to educate, guide, and never rush a decision. I think the owner sums it up best—if you leave with an animal, or just info, as long as it’s a positive experience, they’re happy.

Jay Tacey

That focus on the long game really stands out to me. Honestly, it reminds me of my zoo days—back when we’d spend an extra hour just answering a kid’s question about why a snake flicks its tongue, or showing how to mist a frog enclosure. Dreamz really hits that sweet spot: pairing real, hands-on education with animal welfare, making sure people go home prepared, not just excited. It’s the kind of stuff that leads to healthier pets for years, not returns or heartbreak two months later.

Michael Arnold

There’s something to be said for that, Jay. The hobby is so much healthier when there’s that personal guidance, and Dreamz brings that in spades. I’ve watched them talk a first-time keeper through not just the basics, but some of those “what if” questions you don’t even think to Google, right? It’s why they’ve got such a loyal following in the region. And I love that, even on social media, you see them answering questions in the comments—really fostering community, not just transactions.

Guy Mc Farlane

That individualized approach matters, especially for families at a show like Johnson City. We’ve discussed before, like with Cinderella Dragons back in Knoxville, how this hands-on, supportive attitude leads to better animal care overall. It’s a reminder that a vendor’s responsibility doesn’t end at the table—education should always travel home with the new pet. Dreamz seems to live that philosophy every time.

Lisa Parker

Speaking of vendors that make an impression, let’s talk about Gecko Overload and Mid Florida Displays—both are can’t-miss at Johnson City. If you’ve got a gecko lover in the family, Gecko Overload is the place to start. They’re based in South Carolina, and their table is always teeming with New Caledonian geckos—crested, gargoyles, the whole lineup. What stands out, for me, are their 3D-printed habitat accessories: feeding ledges, playful decor, you name it. It’s this mix of quality animals and that artistic, creative twist, which, let’s be honest, can turn a reptile setup into a conversation piece.

Jay Tacey

That accessory game is no joke, either. The way they blend husbandry needs with some genuine creativity—I mean, it’s not just functional, it sparks curiosity. Plus, their reputation stretches beyond just fancy enclosures; they’ve got a track record of solid shipping methods, attention to detail, and supporting customers with all the little questions that pop up after the show. It’s a good example of how the hobby grows—not just by breeding rare animals, but by inspiring people to embrace the whole keeping experience.

Michael Arnold

I totally agree, and honestly, this is where I get a little nostalgic. My boys still bring up that crested gecko we got from Gecko Overload a couple years back—probably the most photographed animal in our home, not even kidding. But it’s not just about the animal, right? We ended up grabbing some of those 3D-printed accessories, and that led to all these fun weekend projects as a family—designing a habitat that’s safe, clean, and, well, kind of cool-looking. That’s an experience you don’t get with a tank off the shelf at a big box store.

Guy Mc Farlane

And that brings us nicely to Mid Florida Displays. Their PVC enclosures and racks are next-level for anyone who wants to move beyond starter tanks. I mean, these setups are thoughtfully designed—radiant heat, locking doors for security, modular sizes, LED lights—honestly, it’s the sort of gear I wish more people knew about, because a quality enclosure is sometimes the difference between thriving and just surviving for a reptile. Careful investment here shows up in the health of the animal long-term.

Michael Arnold

Yeah, and, uh, to echo something we touched on in our Costa Mesa and Knoxville episodes—no matter what animal you fall in love with at the show, getting the right home set up is half the hobby. Mid Florida’s products are, in my opinion, rock solid whether you’re setting up for a gecko, a snake, or even, say, a dart frog—that modular design ends up being so adaptable.

Lisa Parker

Couldn’t agree more, Michael. For folks coming to Johnson City, my advice is: swing by both these booths. Even if you’re not buying a new animal, the ideas, products, and community you’ll find there can totally level up how you do reptile keeping at home. That goes for newbies and old timers alike.

Jay Tacey

Well said, Lisa. And I think that’s a great note to wrap on. Whether you’re coming for the animals, the enclosures, or just to catch that friendly Johnson City vibe—it’s all waiting for you later this November. Can’t wait to see everyone there, new faces and regulars alike.

Lisa Parker

Alright, that’s a wrap for today’s episode. Thanks for hanging out, everyone—go say hi if you see us at the show! Michael, Guy, Jay—it’s always a pleasure talking reptiles with you.

Michael Arnold

You too, Lisa. Looking forward to more stories from the road and, uh, hopefully fewer snack line debates in the future. See everyone in Johnson City!

Guy Mc Farlane

Cheers, everyone. Bring your questions, bring your curiosity—we’ll catch you at the next show!

Jay Tacey

Take care, all. And remember: ask