#USA #Chicago #Chicago Auto Show #Chi-Town Alley #Fast and Furious

2026 Chicago Auto Show: Elevating the Auto Experience

The Chicago Auto Show is set to bring an exhilarating experience to attendees in 2026, showcasing a blend of exciting new and familiar specialty exhibits that cater to car lovers of all backgrounds. From fervent enthusiasts to families seeking enjoyable activities, this year's show promises something for everyone.

A New Addition: Chi-Town Alley

One of the standout features for 2026 is Chi-Town Alley, a vibrant, immersive area designed to highlight the essence of Chicago's car culture. This innovative exhibit provides a platform for local automotive enthusiasts to showcase their passion through performance cars and unique custom builds. It’s more than just a display; Chi-Town Alley is a celebration of creativity in the city’s diverse automotive communities.

To kick off this special area, the show organizers have launched the Chi-Town Alley Showcase, a competition inviting car enthusiasts to submit 60-second videos featuring their vehicles. This initiative attracted over 50 participants, and six winners were selected to showcase their cars prominently throughout the show, with attendees voting on their favorite.

Additionally, attendees will have the chance to meet Sung Kang, renowned star from the Fast & Furious franchise, who will provide an exclusive sneak peek of his forthcoming film, DRIFTER. In Chi-Town Alley, fans can view two versions of the film’s hero car, a Toyota Corolla AE86, while delving into the excitement of drifting culture.

Family Zone: Fun for All Ages

The Chicago Auto Show ensures family participation with the return of the Family Zone, a dedicated space crafted for visitors of all ages. This exciting area features a wealth of interactive activities that parents and children can enjoy together, such as a Power Wheels track, racing simulators, and a play area curated by the Chicago Children’s Museum.

Among the highlights of the Family Zone is Britax, a renowned leader in child safety, which will provide an educational booth featuring hands-on car seat demonstrations and kid-friendly activities. Visitors will have a chance to learn about the new Galaxy360™ slim rotating convertible car seat while enjoying engaging giveaways and family-friendly activities over the weekend.

Overlanding Chicago: Adventure Awaits

Making a triumphant return this year is Overlanding Chicago, which successfully debuted in 2025. This exhibit invites visitors to explore outdoor lifestyles and overlanding adventures, showcasing specialized vehicles, off-road accessories, and various upfitting vendors. What was once new is now expanded, with a deeper emphasis on hands-on demonstrations and educational opportunities that engage adventure-seekers.

Big names like Chevrolet, Honda, Jeep, and Ram will take part in this year’s exhibit along with additional overlanding vendors, allowing attendees to discover a wealth of information about outdoor vehicle modifications and accessories. Stellantis will add to the experience by displaying a Ram 1500 wrapped in celebratory graphics, commending America’s automotive history as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

A Rich Legacy

As the Chicago Auto Show gears up for another remarkable edition, it’s essential to recognize its historic significance—first held in 1901, it has evolved into the longest-running auto exposition in North America. Produced by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, the show has a rich legacy that continues to draw attendees eager to celebrate the automotive world.

Tickets for the 2026 Chicago Auto Show are now available at ChicagoAutoShow.com. The event runs from February 7 to 16 at McCormick Place, with gates opening daily at 10 a.m. Admission prices are set at $20 for adults, $15 for seniors aged 62 and over, and $15 for children aged 4-12, while kids aged three and under can enter for free.

For more details or to purchase tickets, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the excitement and innovation that the Chicago Auto Show has to offer!