PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Today’s warm weather isn’t the only indication that spring has arrived, as Friday marks the grand opening of the 31st annual Home & Garden Show at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

Home & Garden Show Executive Director John DeSantis describes this year’s show as bigger and better than last year’s, featuring 1,500 exhibits spread across nine acres within the Convention Center.

“We have everything, all the latest, the newest, the latest trends. You can meet with interior designers, bring your color swatches. There’s just so much to do here,” said DeSantis.

As always, he advises people to give themselves plenty of time.

He recommends three to four hours for couples. If you are coming with your family, there is plenty to keep kids occupied, especially at the Children’s Village, so DeSantis says four to five hours should be enough time.

DeSantis encourages people to wear comfortable shoes (no heels!) and to take advantage of all-day parking at Heinz Field for only $6. There are free shuttles that run continuously during show hours that will take you right from the stadium to the Convention Center doors.

For people who would prefer to come when it is less crowded, weekdays are always an option. You get the same experience no matter what day you come, as the exhibits do not change.

DeSantis says, however, that the weekends are always fun and even when it is very busy, there is a lot of room to move around.

“One of the things that is most interesting at the show is this is where you run into your neighbors, the folks from church, the teacher from school, the other kids from your kid’s classroom. You really do see everybody, especially when you’re here on the weekends.”

Not only can you look for ideas for your home, but you can sign up to win a $50,000 home makeover.

DeSantis says that the Princess Diana exhibit is the star of the show this year. This huge display features a collection of 10 of Diana’s spectacular gowns and is included with your show admission ticket.

Other show presenters include the Renegade Gardener Don Engebretson, who will be in the Garden Pavillion among the two acres of exhibits devoted to just the outdoors.

Several acres are also dedicated to construction and remodeling, kitchen and cooking, as well as home interiors.

If you need to rest your feet and want to grab a bite to eat, the Crawford Grill will be hosting a live jazz band every day at the show. The Crawford Grill has a French theme this year and you can even register to win a trip to Paris!

You will never be at a loss for something to do at this year’s Home & Garden Show, so pull on your comfortable sneakers and head on down.

The Home and Garden Show runs from March 2 to 11. It is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

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