Gear up for cottaging this weekend at the Cottage Life Show in Mississauga

With spring already here and summer right around the corner, many Ontarians are getting ready for weekends away at the cottage.

To kick off the season, the annual Cottage Life show is happening at the International Centre at 6900 Airport Rd. in Mississauga this weekend.

This year's theme focuses on ecofriendly living to preserve the natural beauty of cottage country.

"This summer it's Canada's 150th birthday and we want everyone to think about the legacy we're leaving future generations," said Michelle Kelly, editor-in-chief of Cottage Life Magazine.

Some of the activities you'll find at the event are Tree Planting 101 and how to pick the right type of vegetation for the area.

"We know that the bee population is in dire need," said Kelly. "Planting a pollinator garden with wildflowers will attract bees to your property."

Members from the Nature Conservancy of Canada will be at the show to help people find the best pollinating plants that are native to Ontario.

The event is the largest one-stop cottage destination that boasts 600 exhibitors.

A crowd favourite is the wildlife exhibit featuring animals, such as beavers, that are found in cottage country.

Attendees can take pictures and learn how to help maintain the animals' natural habitat.

The show runs from March 31 until April 2.