Even though it might not feel like in parts of Ontario, it’s officially spring, and that means it’s time to start planning for cottage season.
Whether you own one, are looking to buy one, or just like dreaming about sitting on the dock at one, the Spring Cottage Life Show is back this year to help guide you through every aspect of the cottage lifestyle.
Running March 21 – 24 at the International Centre in Mississauga, Ont., this year’s show is packed with more than 500 exhibitors showcasing everything from furniture and water toys, to boats and docks.
Visitors will also be able to speak with builders, contractors, and realtors, and get information on cottage rentals, unique building products, and eco-friendly solutions.
If you want to hear from an TV personality or other cottage expert, there is also a main stage lineup with talks and presentations from the likes of Frankie Flowers, Mike Holmes Jr., Sherry Holmes, and the editor of Cottage Life magazine, Michelle Kelly. Check the event website for the full lineup and schedule of guests.
Other highlights from the 2024 Spring Cottage Life Show include:
Cottage Real Estate Centre
Looking for land for a new build, a turnkey rental, or a cozy cabin ready to renovate? The Cottage Real Estate Centre is a one-stop shop where you can meet realtors and discover listings from all over Ontario.
Cottage Kitchen
From easy breakfast bakes to dockside grilling and filleting your freshly caught fish, the Cottage Kitchen is cooking up fun and easy meals that are perfect for a relaxing summer day. Don’t miss demonstrations by:
- Chef, TV host and cookbook author, Jo Lusted
- BBQ connoisseur Brian Misko, House of Q
- Thomas Armstrong, Director of Culinary Experience, Glen Drummond Farm
- Executive Chef Christian Pritchard, Aurora Foods
- Scott Gardner, associate editor Outdoor Canada magazine
Brush up on DIY skills at the Cottage Life Workshop
Master cottage builders and carpenters Wayne Lennox and Brian Halbot will answer build and maintenance questions as they demonstrate how to build a pergola with a swing. Plus, enter for a chance to win one!
Explore the Great Outdoors
Get up close and personal with the night sky in the inflatable planetarium. Learn about stars, constellations, planets, moons, comets and galaxies visible from cottage country and beyond.
Plus, learn about the rehabilitation efforts of Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary and find out how to distinguish between Ontario’s semi-aquatic species.
A Taste of Summer…
No cottage trip is complete without a stop at Kawartha Dairy. Enjoy a sneak peek of three brand new flavours from the cottage country staple at the Cottage Life Booth: Dockside Cappuccino, Grape and Nanaimo Bar.
Looking for the best butter tarts, chip trucks and hidden gems? Cottage Life magazine’s editorial team will be onsite to share their cottage expertise, answer visitor questions and highlight the best destinations to visit in cottage country.
General Store & Trading Post
Browse the best handcrafted, artisanal and niche Canadian-made goods, including ironwork, art, décor, tasty treats and one-of-a-kind gifts.
Cottage Life Dock Party
The popular social hub of the show is serving up refreshing beers from all over cottage country, including: Muskoka Brewery, Cowbell Brewing, Bobcaygeon Brewery. Wines from Dark Horse Winery and vodka from SocialLite will also be available. Sit back, relax and plug in at a charging station. Beverage purchases support Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary.
General admission tickets to the 2024 Spring Cottage Life Show are $23, plus tax. Tickets for seniors (65+) are $19, youth (11-17) are $11, children (4-11) are $9, and infants are free. A weekend Flex Pass is also available for $29. Parking at the event is free. To purchase tickets, visit unitytickets.com.
For more information on the 2024 Spring Cottage Life Show, visit shows.cottagelife.com.
If you’re looking for tees and hats for cottage and camping season, check out our line of Northern Sunshine Tees.
