Excitement is building as the 2025 Home and Garden Show, the largest of its kind ever staged in Ottawa, opens its doors from March 20-23 at the EY Centre. With over 400 exhibitors participating, this year's event promises to showcase a diverse range of products and ideas, reflecting the latest trends in home improvement, gardening, and sustainable living.
Show manager Chris Cigos proudly declared, "Our 44th edition is officially the largest in its history," highlighting the overwhelming demand from vendors this year. Rob Johnstone, general manager of Expo Media, confirmed that the spring show has historically been the most popular of the three annual events held, and this year is no exception. Last year’s event attracted more than 30,000 visitors, and the team is optimistic that attendance will match or exceed that this year.
The show will feature numerous attractions, including stunning garden displays assembled by Landscape Ontario, aptly titled Living Landscapes. Visitors can expect to wander through these exceptional displays, which compete for the coveted People’s Choice Award. "People love coming in and smelling the tulips… it makes them feel like spring’s right around the corner," said Ed Hansen, president of Landscape Ontario and founder of Ottawa’s Hansen Lawn & Garden.
The Perth Brewery Beer Garden adds a community feel to the event, offering live music from Zachary Martin Music and expert presentations on gardening and home improvement topics. In addition to the garden displays, attendees will have the opportunity to tour two model homes: one presented by Hydro Ottawa and another by Quebec-based Boreal.
The interactive eco-home by Hydro Ottawa, launched last summer at the Ottawa International Airport, is designed to educate visitors on sustainable energy solutions. "The goal of the home is to educate and inspire residents on their journey towards a more sustainable energy future," said Hydro Ottawa spokesperson Susan Fekete, highlighting features such as renewable energy systems and government incentives for green technologies.
Boreal's contribution will be a miniature version of their prefabricated homes, which utilize an innovative thermalog construction method. According to spokesperson Anwar Essa, this method integrates insulation within wood—offering both a modern aesthetic and exceptional energy efficiency. "You’d never know how much insulation is in this building," he added, showcasing Boreal's unique approach to sustainable home design.
This year’s event will also host an impressive lineup of expert speakers sharing their knowledge on various topics. The panel discussing renovation strategies for health and comfort features representatives from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association alongside eco-conscious renovators from RND Construction, The Conscious Builder, and Lagois Design-Build-Renovate.
In the gardening realm, plant specialist Lana Doss from Ritchie Feed & Seed will offer insights into creating a biodiverse outdoor space. Additionally, a dedicated panel, organized by All Things Home, will discuss maximizing outdoor spaces, featuring industry leaders like Ed Hansen of Landscape Ontario and Ben Stapper of Wild Ridge Landscapes.
For those interested in hands-on gardening advice, the Master Gardeners of Ottawa-Carleton will share tips on starting plants from seeds and saving seeds. Outdoor decor enthusiasts can learn from designer Sue Pitchforth of Decor Therapy Plus about infusing personality into their outdoor areas. A discussion on natural living features representatives from REWILD Landscapes and the Urban Gardener, who will present practical methods for incorporating nature back into local spaces.
Amsted Design-Build’s director Lindsay Haley will also reveal the latest renovation trends shaping the industry during the event.
The show kicks off on Thursday, and attendees can explore all the offerings from noon until 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday—perfect for anyone looking to revamp their homes.
Entry costs $14 for adults and $13 for seniors and youth aged 13-17, with free admission for children under 12. Special pricing is available with $5 entry for seniors on Thursday and free passes for first responders on Friday (ID required). Online admission is also discounted after 4 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.
Parking at the EY Centre is priced at $10, and with public transport links nearby, including a Light Rail Transit stop right beside the building, getting to the event is convenient.
As spring rolls in, the 2025 Home and Garden Show not only promises to be a source of inspiration for home improvement enthusiasts but also a gathering of community spirit, knowledge sharing, and sustainable design innovations, making it a landmark event in Ottawa's cultural calendar.
