Spring is definitely in the air as evidenced by the turnout for the 16th annual Home and Renovation Show.
Executive officer Rhonda Williams of the South Okanagan Canadian Home Builders’ Association estimated 3,800 people attended the event at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre last weekend.
“It’s really been a fantastic turnout,” she said on the show’s final day. “The weather is sunny and bright, there’s no snow. It’s too soon to be out in the garden but people are starting to think about it.
“We have everything from builders, roofing and siding, windows and doors, painting and decorating landscaping to hot tubs and patio furniture — it really is one-stop shopping.”
The not-for-profit organization is made up of builders, suppliers, sub-trades and other professionals.
The show is held annually to raise money for the CHBA’s work which includes monitoring regulatory environment and housing markets.
“It’s (association) truly a dynamic force that benefits both the members and the housing consumers … and ultimately our society at large,” said Williams.
A total of 159 exhibitors set up shop at this year’s event — the majority of which were from the South Okanagan.
According to Williams, while not everybody purchases a product or service during the show, many get ideas for the future and have the contact numbers when they are ready to make the investment.
“Like I mentioned before this is one-stop shopping,” she said. “I also think people like to pick things up sometimes rather than just looking at them online, and this is where they can certainly do that. A picture doesn’t always work.”
As in the past the event is also a social occasion. Seven booths are also provided to local charities by the association.
“It’s something we are very pleased to give back to the community,” said the executive officer.
Best overall booth this year was the B.A. Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre display and raffle ticket winners were Ron Smith (garden shed and tools) Jenine Nicholas (Lennox air conditioner) and Hugh Dunlop (courtyard patio).