Being asked to be at a small town festival with very limited buyers, pay for the "opportunity" to haul a machine in, and have an employee take time away from other personal time activities is a big request.

Talking crap about a business that passes on such offer shows a level of rudeness as well.  Almost feels like a shake down.  "Pay to be here or else"

Comparing a small town festival to a major farm show that is attended by thousands of potential buyers is also a unique take.