The RI Home Show, organized by the RI Builders Association (RIBA), returns to the Rhode Island Convention Center on April 3-6. The public home show—the only locally organized home show in the Ocean State—offers a unique marketplace experience for both homeowners and consumers all under one roof.
The RI Home Show, 64 years and counting, is the largest and longest running exhibition of its kind in Southern New England. It is also considered to be one of thebest in the country. "This year's attendees will enjoy many new and inspiring attractions," said RIBA executive director John Marcantonio.
2,000 s/f Model House
For the third consecutive year, visitors will have a one-of-a-kind extraordinary exhibit to stimulate their imaginations: a full-sized house that will be constructed on-site in only three days leading up to the show. The fully furnished and decorated house is a collaborative effort among RIBA, CRM Modular Homes, White House decorator Karen Corinha, and Cabot House Furniture.
Over 10,000 individuals explored last year's house; only this time, it will be double in size and for sale!
New 'Ultimate Edible Landscape'
An array of vegetables, fruits, flowers and herbs located on the model house's landscape, this "kitchen garden" will help attendees "spring" into season. The inspiring and practical micro-farm plot, assembled by the RI Nursery and Landscape Association (RINLA) and Arnold Lumber, offers visitors the chance to think "outside the box"—or perhaps more appropriately, "outside the home"—by freshening their own landscapes with this latest, aesthetically pleasing gardening trend. A spectacular patio and Tuscan Fireplace provided by Arnold Lumber are also part of the landscape.
New Energy Expo
Sponsored by
National Grid and the RI Energy Efficiency Resource Management Council, attendees will have access to free seminars, hands-on demonstrations, and an opportunity to learn about energy-saving products and services from 100 energy efficiency vendors. Additionally, a lucky patron will walk away with a $5,000 Energy Home Makeover.
Exhibitors
Hundreds of company representatives will be on-hand to help invigorate imaginations and transform home improvement visions into reality. Exhibitors include a diverse list of area businesses representing numerous products and services that include builders, remodelers, kitchen and bath specialists, landscaping, home security, furnishing, flooring, appliances, and many more. "The RI Home Show is an amazing experience that will provide attendees many ideas and inspiration," said Marcantonio.
Boston Red Sox World Series Trophies
The RI Home Show will give Red Sox nation reason to cheer the evening before the team's home opener. On April 3 from 7:30 - 9:00pm, attendees will have the chance to have their picture taken alongside the Boston Red Sox World Series trophies, which will be located in the Energy Expo section.
Seminars, Cooking Demonstrations, Giveaways, and Kids Activities
On all four days, attendees will have access to free educational seminars on interior design, landscape and gardening, and energy. Additionally, RI Home Show-goers can enjoy entertaining cooking demonstrations by Chef Frank Terranova from the popular NBC10 'Cooking With Class' show, Chef Linkie Marais—Season 8 'Food Network Star' finalist, and many local proprietors.
There will be plenty of raffles and giveaways—in addition to the $5,000 Energy Home Makeover, prizes include a seven-night trip to Bermuda for two. Four Apple iPad minis are up for grabs as part of the RI Home Show's Instagram contest.
Kids won't leave empty-handed—taking home tricks learned from a Duncan YoYo Master Eric Giradi and balloons created from the Guinness World Record Holding balloon artist Lon Cerel, who has been voted as "Rhode Island's Best Party Entertainment" for three consecutive years. Those twelve and under can spin a colorful wheel for a chance to win a new bike or toy. Children can explore the Kids' Energy Corner, a part of The RI Home Show's new Energy Expo.
Admission and Showtimes
Tickets can be purchased at the door: Adults: $10 / Seniors: $8 (free admission for children 15 and under)
For more information about the 2014 RI Home Show and schedule, please visit ribahomeshow.com and facebook.com/RIBAHomeShow.