An expanded Brazilian presence and a record number of exhibitors are making the 15th annual Expolit-the largest trade fair in the country for the Spanish Christian literature and music industry-the biggest ever, according to Program Director Marie Tamayo.

“It's looking great,” said Tamayo from Miami, where the event kicks off today and runs through May 22. “We've opened the second floor of the (Sheraton Mart Plaza Hotel) to the Music and Media Hall with over 200 exhibitors, including about six from Brazil, using over 400 booth spaces.”

Booksellers, publishers, distributors and musicians from across the U.S. and Latin America will take part in Expolit, with 5,000 local residents expected daily to view the exhibits and attend nine evening concerts.

Expolit Exhibitors Coordinator Wendy Rodríguez said the Music and Media Hall is “sold out, with a waiting list, and only a few spots left on the first floor.” Floor space is up 20% from last year.

Tamayo said this year's theme, “Reaching the World-One Event at a Time,” was selected because “Christians have been called to preach and take the gospel to the ends of their world, utilizing all of their talents.”

Expolit begins this evening with the Noche de Gala, featuring a “musical parade” with some 15 soloists and groups performing one number each. Brazilian Night is set for Friday evening. Some of the event's key speakers will include Fred Stoeker, John Hagee and Reinhard Bonnke. Argentine evangelist Dante Gebel will preach at Tuesday's closing celebration, which will feature the premiere of the film, Versión de Vida (version of life).

Expolit will also provide numerous educational opportunities such as the School of Booksellers, the School for Writers and dozens of workshops and seminars.