This weekend's Black Hills Home Show will exhibit more than 500 vendor booths, an event record, according to sponsors.

The Rapid City-based Black Hills Home Builders Association stages the annual event. Show chairman Chad Lewis said the emphasis this year will be on energy efficiency, environmentally friendly, "green" technology and ways to save money.

Also, there will be detailed information about the new $8,000 federal tax credit available to homebuyers.

Other seminar topics include home financing, energy-efficient replacement windows, spa maintenance and "aging-in-place" strategies - ways to design, remodel or outfit a home to allow older residents to live independently longer.

Children attending the show can win free prizes (including toy hard hats, while supplies last) and participate in such activities as a toy fishing contest. In addition, the Shriners will be entertaining children.

Shuttle-bus transportation will be available in parking lots near the civic center on all three days of the Black Hills Home Show.

2009 Black Hills Home Show

When: Noon to 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 pm. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Where: Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, Rapid City.

How much: $5; children to age 12, free.