Whether you live in the west or east coast, there is a tradeshow full of design inspiration near you. Attending a design show is a great opportunity to chat with industry experts, learn about design trends, and educate yourself on new product technologies and innovations. Here are just some of the shows to watch out for in 2023.

Interior Design Shows

IDS Toronto is Canada’s largest interior design tradeshow, featuring the latest products, furniture, industry expert speakers and education opportunities and avant-garde design concepts. It takes place every January in Toronto, but if you missed it, that’s okay! Here are some of the many local interior design shows happening across the country this year:

Victoria – March 9 & 10 – VIDEX

Quebec City – April – DesignEx Quebec

Ottawa – April – DesignEx Ottawa

Kelowna – May 11 – ODEX Okanagan

Montreal – May – DesignEx Montreal

Niagara – June – Destination DesignEx

New Brunswick / Newfoundland – June – DesignEx East Coast

Vancouver – September 21 – 24 – IDS Vancouver

Builder Shows

Builder tradeshows are a great opportunity to learn about trends in building construction and materials. And it’s not just for builders! Exhibitors have much to share with interior designers:

Vancouver – Feb 15 & 16 – BuildEx

Home Shows

Although predominantly catering to homeowners and individuals looking for renovation resources, Home Shows feature lots of design and décor inspiration, as well as opportunities to network with industry experts and trades. And don’t forget to schedule time to attend the many speaker presentations, often featuring industry celebrities.

Mississauga – February 3 – Home & Reno Show

Toronto – March 10 – 19 – Toronto Home Shows

Vancouver – March 16 – 17 – BC Home & Garden Show

Mississauga – March 23 – 26 – Cottage Life Show

Ottawa – March 23 – 26 – Ottawa Home & Garden Show

Vancouver – September 28 – October 1 – Vancouver Fall Home Show

Calgary – September 29 – October 1 – Calgary Fall Home Show

Community Home Shows

Lastly, local community home shows are a great place to start your design marketing journey. Hosting a booth or small table at your local show is a great opportunity for designers to meet home owners and potentially future clients. There are too many local events to list in this blog. So, make sure to search out local home shows happening in your area now; knowing the event dates in advance will help you reach out and secure a spot with the organizers.

Happy planning!

Written by DDA Member and Designer Account Executive Sherwin-Williams Canada, Elizabeth Raczkiewicz