(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Colorado Auctioneers Association annual convention returns to Colorado Springs for the first time in more than 25 years, and the public is invited to come see and participate in this unique and fun business skill. Mike Heitmann, the association's president, says the public is invited to attend a number of events being held at the Antlers Hotel in Downtown Colorado Springs from Thursday, Jan. 9, through Sunday, Jan. 12. Student auctioneers will hone their skills and sell items beginning at noon on Thursday in the Future Farmers of America Auction. It's free to the public, who are encouraged to attend and support the youngsters, said Heitmann, who sat down with Matt Meister in the studio on Wednesday. "It's a preliminary event ahead of their finals which will be held at their (FFA) convention," said Heitmann. "That will run until about 4 p.m." Thursday evening features a free concert from the Jason Wulf Band. The Colorado Springs group features classic red dirt Texas country music. The concert is scheduled to start at 8 pm. FREE EVENTS FRIDAY EVENING Kids Auction State Ringman Championship Junior Bid Calling Championship CAA Fun Auction FREE EVENTS SATURDAY EVENING State Auctioneer Championship Prelims Novice Bid Calling Championship State Auctioneer Championship Finals & Awards Both nights have a dinner that is available for purchase. Click on the links above to learn more about the Colorado Auctioneers Association and the convention being hosted in Colorado Springs.