The 41^st Annual Michiana Home Show opens Friday evening.

“We’ve got 180, 190 different companies, most of them local,” said Michiana Home Show Promoter Mel Wood.

Companies are showcasing everything from kitchens, baths and bedrooms, to outdoor patios.

“For most of them this is their biggest advertising push of the year,” Wood explained.

Kenton Hostetler, Vice President of Crystal Valley Comfort has a booth every year.

“A lot of people are starting to think about the air conditioning season. So it’s a great time for us,” Hostetler said.

Organizers said this year’s show, shows a major resurgence in Michiana business.

“The biggest thing is the vendors and builders are really starting to come back from the recession of ‘08,” Wood went on.

They’ve seen a spike in outdoor renovations.

Wood said, “It’s not just the patio. It’s the patio. It’s the furniture. It’s the fire pit.”

And there has been more contracting work to update homes throughout Michiana.

“That’s a sign that all of our economy around here is getting better,” said Wood.

At least 7,000 people are expected to tour the show throughout the weekend.

The Michiana Home Show runs March 11, 12, and 13^th.

Friday, March 11^th 5-9 p.m.

Saturday, March 12^th 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Sunday, March 13^th Noon - 5 p.m.

General admission: $8

Seniors, 65 and older: $7

Children, 12 and under: Free