As the cold winter grip starts to loosen, green-thumbed Minnesotans are eagerly awaiting the return of the Minneapolis Home + Garden Show. This year's highly anticipated event, running from February 25th to March 1st, promises to be a veritable oasis of inspiration for those seeking to transform their outdoor living spaces into havens of relaxation and wellness.
From Lush Tropical Arches to Maintenance-Free Backyard Oases
One of the standout features of the 2026 show is the captivating Idea Home, which this year embraces the theme of "Country Club Living." Designed by a collaborative team of industry experts, the Idea Home will showcase the latest trends in outdoor design, including a seamless integration of swimming pools, saunas, and even golf simulators. According to the show's organizers, the goal is to inspire visitors to rethink their backyards as extensions of their homes, where relaxation and recreation can coexist in perfect harmony.
But the real showstopper might just be the stunning Living Arch created by the local plant enthusiasts at Lost in the Forrest. This verdant, walkthrough installation will transport visitors to a lush, tropical oasis, offering a moment of tranquility before they dive into the bustling show floor.
Embracing Effortless Luxury and Wellness-Focused Design
The theme of effortless outdoor living is echoed throughout the show's feature gardens and backyard displays. Landscapes Plus, a longtime exhibitor, is showcasing their expertise in creating turnkey, low-maintenance outdoor spaces that prioritize wellness and relaxation. From soothing saunas and dual-temp swim spas to lush, evergreen-anchored landscapes, their Backyard Lounge exhibit aims to demonstrate how homeowners can elevate their outdoor experiences without added complexity.
What this really means is a shift away from the high-maintenance gardens of the past and towards a more holistic, lifestyle-focused approach to outdoor living. As Warren Johnson of Landscapes Plus explains, "These aren't just upgrades but extensions of how people want to live now: with less upkeep and more intention and play."
Bringing the Indoors Out and the Outdoors In
The bigger picture here is a growing recognition that our homes and gardens are inextricably linked, and that the boundaries between the two are becoming increasingly blurred. From the cyclamens and other houseplants that can thrive in outdoor settings to the must-do gardening tasks for the season, the 2026 Minneapolis Home + Garden Show is poised to inspire a holistic approach to living that seamlessly integrates the indoors and outdoors.
So whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a budding plant enthusiast, this year's show promises to be a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration for creating the ultimate outdoor oasis. With a focus on effortless luxury, wellness, and the blending of interior and exterior spaces, the Minneapolis Home + Garden Show is set to redefine what it means to live in harmony with nature.