I'm planning to attend. Not that anyone knows me, but I'll add that GearFest is a great time, for anyone who hasn't been. The workshops are informative and inspiring (especially Craig's -- I hope they get you a bigger room this year, since sometimes it's standing-room only). You get to see and test lots of gear you might not normally see. And there are some great deals, too -- sometimes better than you can get online on sale (and I'm one of those who waits for the best deals to buy). And did I mention it's free? Also, if you have a music-related business, the hotel and travel and food are tax write-offs as business expenses (and the mileage reimbursement is nice -- my company pays the maximum allowed).
It's an 11-hour drive for me, from Arkansas, but it's definitely worth it. A friend goes with me each year, and we create the most epic road trip soundtrack ever. And we'll go through Chicago on the way back for some deep-dish pizza... :) We split the trip back into 2 days, given the extra driving, which enables us to have BBQ in St. Louis the next day. Might as well make the most of the trip!
Then when we get home, we're inspired to make more music.