The much-anticipated Seasons Christmas Show is set to return for its milestone 20th anniversary, bringing festive inspiration and practical DIY magic to holiday enthusiasts across the Greater Toronto Area. The event runs from Friday, November 14 to Sunday, November 16 at the International Centre in Mississauga.
Expert DIY Decorating Ideas
Television and media personality Jennifer Valentyne will be a featured expert at the show, sharing her clever techniques for transforming budget-friendly finds and everyday household items into enchanting holiday centrepieces and table décor.
One of Valentyne's standout creations is an edible strawberry tree. To make it, place a foam cone on a cake tray, wrap it in cellophane, and use toothpicks to cover it entirely with fresh strawberries, working from the bottom up. Tuck fresh mint leaves into the gaps for vibrant green accents. Just before serving, a light sprinkle of icing sugar creates a perfect snowy effect.
For a sparkling floral display, Valentyne suggests a glowing centrepiece. Take two clear glass vases—one slightly smaller than the other—place the smaller inside the larger, and wrap battery-powered twinkle lights around the inner vase. Fill the space between with gold or silver ornaments, then add water and your favourite flowers to the centre vase.
Another festive idea is a candy cane vase. Simply line a clear glass vase with red and white candy canes, place a smaller vase inside, add water, and arrange red roses with baby's breath for a merry touch.
Valentyne also recommends creating tree-shaped candles by soaking taper candles in hot water for ten minutes to soften the wax, then gently carving them into tree shapes with a small paring knife.
Greenery and Cozy Touches
Home and lifestyle expert Sarah Gunn, founder of the online shop Gunn & Co., emphasizes starting with greenery to instantly add a cozy, woodland charm to your home. She notes that high-quality faux greenery is often mistaken for the real thing.
Gunn advises making the fireplace mantel a focal point by draping greenery across it and letting it cascade over the edges. Create a lush garland by layering several branches and incorporating natural elements like pinecones, berries, or ornaments for a fresh look each year.
She also encourages using wreaths beyond the front door, suggesting they be hung on cabinet doors, walls, or layered over mirrors to spread festive cheer throughout the home. For holiday hosting, a simple sprig of greenery like juniper placed on each napkin and tied with a name card adds a beautiful, personal touch to the table.
Dual Show Experience
Adding to the experience, the Fall Cottage Life Show will run concurrently at the same venue. This 21st annual event is Canada's largest cottage and outdoor living exhibition, featuring over 200 brands and experts offering services and advice on everything from cottage building and buying to succession planning and creating a retirement-ready retreat.
Admission provides access to both the Seasons Christmas Show and the Fall Cottage Life Show. The Christmas show will feature a Makeful Market for locally-made gifts, a Make & Take Workshop for creating seasonal décor, a Polar Bar for refreshing beverages, and holiday-inspired presentations on the Seasons Stage.
The Fall Cottage Life Show's Main Stage will host experts, including members of the Cottage Life magazine's editorial team. Editor Michelle Kelly will share insights on managing invasive species in cottage country.
Tickets for both shows are available for a single admission price through seasonsshow.com and cottagelife.com/shows.
