One Chamber staff member said the early inquiries are a sign that interest in the program may be strong this year. Although the deadline for listing property is July 25, applying now may give homeowners a chance to work out an arrangement much sooner.

Officials are urging homeowners interested in renting out their homes to stop by the Chamber offices, 100 North Cannon Blvd., and pick up an application.

The private rentals have become a Celebration tradition. Local residents interested in earning extra money either leave town or move in with nearby relatives during the show so that they can rent their homes to horse show visitors. Others may simply rent rooms. In some cases, the same families have been renting to the same visitors for years.

The Chamber serves as a clearinghouse for the process; those who want to make their homes available fill out an application, pay a $30 administrative fee and are placed on a list. The Chamber can then refer visitors to homeowners based on the number of bedrooms, what size beds, and so on. The homeowner can specify whether or not children, smoking, indoor pets or outdoor pets are allowed. The Chamber is not involved in pricing, listing rental prices or making any financial arrangements between the renter and the homeowner. The renter contacts homeowners directly and the parties work out those prices on their own.

For more information about the program, contact the Chamber at 684-3482.