Red Deer had a whole lot of lovin’ for the world’s most taboo subject.

About 10,000 visitors flocked to the third annual Taboo Naughty but Nice Sex Show, where they learned some creative ways to be in the bedroom.

About 70 exhibitors promoted everything from tarot reading and limousine rides to body painting and bed sheets at Westerner Park’s Parkland Pavilion on the weekend.

In one corner of the dimly lit space, a long-haired woman with knee-high black boots slithered down a vertical pole on stage.

A crowd of spectators watched quietly, sometimes cheering at the prompting of the announcer.

Shannen Wolodko, 31, of Red Deer stood some distance away with a friend. She’s been to every show since it debuted in 2006 and says there’s one reason why she likes to attend.

“We love sex!” said Wolodko, chuckling.

She was also happy to pay $40 to have her nipple pierced, something she’s been wanting to do for a long time.

Lindsie Wright was showing the OhMiBod vibrator that, when hooked up to an iPod, pulsates to the music.

“People are blown away with how technology has evolved,” said Wright of Regina-based Industrial Luv Inc.

Melanie Griffin of Calgary was advertising various sexual aids through Bedroom Antics, a home party company.

“A lot of people are embarrassed to walk into a store — ‘what if someone sees me,’ ” said Griffin. “This way you can have a bunch of your girlfriends in, have some giggles and a couple bottles of wine, and purchase some things you are curious about.”

Still, she believes the best lovemaking involves having great chemistry and compatibility with your partner.

“These products will only enhance your sex life,” Griffin said.

Carissa Baktay, 21, performed her first public pole dance in front of a largely youthful crowd.

“At first, it was intimidating but then it was liberating because you’re around like-minded people,” said Baktay, who is with Calgary-based Pole Junkies. “People cheer and you don’t have to take off your clothes.”

One of the more educational parts of the show centred on breast cancer research and support.

Allan Levy of Thornhill, Ont., was selling his specially designed pink key chains and flashlights, with proceeds going to the Rethink Breast Cancer charity.

“We like coming to the sex shows because people are very down-to-earth,” said Levy, who runs Cause and Affect, a business that helps raise money for different charities. “We always get a warm reception.”

Show director Darryl Rosengreen, who runs five other shows across Western Canada, vowed to return next year.

He said the three-day show keeps getting bigger and better with more exhibitors on hand.

And he’s glad to see Central Albertans are embracing the “sexy” trade show, which ended on Sunday.

“It’s all about fun and exploring your wild side,” Rosengreen said.

Contact Laura Tester at ltester@reddeeradvocate.com