Now that the calendar has officially welcomed spring, the Orangeville Lions Club has a special way of encouraging everyone to start thinking spring.

The ninth annual Spring Home and Garden Show will open its doors this weekend at the Orangeville fairgrounds, located on the Fifth Line of Mono, 1.5 kilometres east of Highway 10.

"We should see upwards of 7,000 people," said Ken Machan, chairman of the event, adding: "It is a very popular show."

Plans for the big show are being finalized with an expected 184 booths and 109 exhibitions on display.

Both exhibit halls and the banquet facilities will be used to accommodate all of the exhibitors.

A wide variety of displays will entice visitors to start thinking ahead, because springlike temperatures are just around the corner and the show may be a good time to get a great deal on some needed items.

The show is the Lions Club's largest fundraiser of the year and proceeds will support community initiatives. Proceeds from last year's show, for example, went toward the ophthalmology project at the Headwaters Health Care Centre.

There is no admission charge and the doors will be open on Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m to 4 p.m.

The Lions Club is an international service organization now in 197 countries around the world, its members serving as leaders in the local community by raising funds for projects and community initiatives.

Orangeville Lions have served the needs of this community for more than 50 years.

Anyone interested in becoming a member is encouraged to speak to any Lions member.

The club meets at the Legion Hall in Orangeville on the second and fourth Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m.