WATERLOO, Iowa — In the depths of winter when “every mile feels like two,” the annual Eastern Iowa Home and Landscaping Show is a sign spring can’t be far off.
The 62nd annual event opens Friday at the Five Sullivan Brothers Convention Center and runs through Sunday. Nearly 175 exhibitors are expected to participate, displaying the latest ideas and products for home, lawn and garden. Co-sponsored by the Waterloo Exchange Club and Iowa Show Productions Inc., it is the club’s annual fundraiser.
Barb Miller of Iowa Show Productions expects between 6,000 and 8,000 people will come through the show.
“Hopefully, we’ve had the snowstorm of the winter last week, and we won’t have to worry too much about weather. People look forward to the show because it gives them a touch of spring. Some people like to browse and see what’s new. Some people come because they already have a project in mind and it allows them to talk to several different contractors in a short period of time. Others just like to come through and see what’s new,” she said.
And, she added, “People want to come out and support the Exchange Club that helps children in the community through their programs.”
Exhibits will include new home contractors, remodeling experts, home entertainment, landscaping experts and kitchen specialists. Experts will be on hand with energy saving solutions and creative options for the home. Consumers can shop for lighting, plumbing, real estate, painting, flooring, windows, doors, siding, hot tubs, fireplaces, sunrooms, grills, lawn care equipment and much more.
A number of exhibitors are collaborating on exhibits, including a furnished Styrofoam house by Darin Dietz. After a year’s absence, the American Society of Interior Designers will return with two room displays. Katie Bell will show a contemporary bathroom, and Jim Aronson will present a sitting room with Oriental-eclectic style.
“It’s exciting to have them back. The public looks forward to seeing those displays,” Miller said.
Landscaped gardens, grills and energy-saving ideas also will be featured. There will be free seminars featured daily.
Hours are 3 to 9 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $6 for adults and free for youth 12 and younger.
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