OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CHICAGO AUTOMOBILE TRADE ASSOCIATION

Pub. 2 2024-2025 Issue 2

2025 Chicago Auto Show Dates and Event Highlights

2025 Public Show Dates: Feb. 8-17 at McCormick Place

Chicago-AutoShow-Hi-Res

The 117th edition of the Chicago Auto Show will be held Feb. 8-17 at McCormick Place. Showgoers can once again expect an engaging show with the latest new vehicles, outdoor ride-and-drives and indoor test tracks, including the return of Chicago Drives Electric, a one-stop shop for electric vehicle ride-alongs and education.

“The Chicago Auto Show is a cherished winter tradition, and we can’t wait to once again welcome attendees to experience the thrill of the latest technology and safety features of today’s cars, trucks and SUVs,” said Chicago Auto Show Chairwoman Kelly Webb Roberts. “The vehicle offerings on the show floor are more diverse now than ever before. So, whether you’re looking for a sporty sedan, full-sized family car, electrified vehicle, off-roading wheels, luxury ride or something in between, you will certainly find it at the show.”

The Chicago Drives Electric indoor EV test track will return, expanding from one track to two and providing attendees the opportunity to get inside the latest EVs to experience the power of electrified vehicles. In addition to the ride-alongs, consumers may visit the EV education hub to learn more about pressing EV topics, including at-home charging, range anxiety, maintenance and associated EV ownership costs.

During the 2024 Chicago Auto Show, 71% of attendees who test drove or rode along in an EV at the show cited that their experience improved their opinion of owning an EV, and 53% of attendees who experienced an EV at the show said they were now more likely to purchase an electric vehicle.

“Based on the research, we learned that once people experience an EV, they feel more comfortable with the idea of owning one,” said Chicago Auto Show General Manager Jennifer Morand. “We look forward to bringing this popular, educational and hands-on experience back indoors to the Chicago Auto Show. In 2025, attendees will encounter more brands and models added to two EV test tracks, allowing consumers to cross-shop and experience a wide range of EVs all in one location.”

Special Themed Days and Events

The 2025 show is bringing back special themed days and events, including:

  • Toyota Miles Per Hour Run on Sunday, Feb. 9: Runners can experience the auto show via a 2.4-mile loop inside McCormick Place before the event doors open to the public.
  • First Responders & Military Appreciation Day on Tuesday, Feb. 11: Present your badge or military ID for free entry. Guests who accompany first responders or military personnel on this day receive a voucher for $5 off adult admission.
  • Automotive Career Day on Wednesday, Feb. 12: Students of all ages are encouraged to come learn more about various careers within the automotive industry through a series of presentations and activations. A special $10 ticket price is offered for advanced sales.
  • Chicago Auto Show Food Drive on Wednesday-Friday, Feb. 12-14: Bring three cans of food for A Safe Haven’s Food Bank and get a $5 voucher off adult admission.
  • Chicago Friday Night Flights on Friday, Feb. 14: Experience a one‑of‑a‑kind indoor craft beer sampling event, along with full access to the show.

Introducing New and Exciting Experiences

New and exciting experiences at the 2025 show will include:

  • Overlanding Chicago is a space dedicated to overlanding and outdoor lifestyle. This new area on the show floor is expected to draw a unique crowd of showgoers looking to explore a life outside the urban jungle with their vehicles. With a focus on the overlanding lifestyle, the space will feature manufacturer displays of specialty vehicles, vehicle upfitting vendors, off-road accessories and much more. Plus, there will be a dedicated space focusing on demonstrations, education and specific product features.
  • Family Zone is an exciting, dedicated area on the show floor designed for families and aimed at entertaining children aged 2-16. This safe and fun environment allows kids to enjoy themselves while being immersed in the auto show experience.
  • Exclusive VIP Tours of the show floor are led in person by the best and brightest in the automotive industry. Four specialty tours will be offered, allowing guests to find a tour that matches their preferred interests. The 60-minute tours will be focused on family vehicles, SUV and outdoor vehicles, electrified vehicles and auto enthusiasts. VIP tours will only be offered on Friday, Feb. 7, and will include an extended opportunity for an exclusive look at the show floor before it opens to the public. A limited number of tickets for the tours, each offered twice, are available for pre-purchase at ChicagoAutoShow.com.

“The Chicago Auto Show is always designed with consumers at the heart of everything we do,” said Morand. “From hands-on experiences to showcasing the most innovative advancements in the industry, the show is all about connecting people with the technology and vehicles that are shaping the future. This year’s show is a testament to our commitment to delivering a dynamic and engaging experience for every attendee.”

First Look for Charity Gala

The show’s 2025 Media Preview will be held Feb. 6-7, and its black-tie charity gala, First Look for Charity, will be held the evening of Friday, Feb. 7, at McCormick Place. Since its inception, First Look for Charity has raised more than $63 million for local charities, positively impacting individuals in the Chicagoland community. Attendees can once again expect an evening of gourmet food, beverages, musical entertainment and even the chance to win a brand-new 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV or a 2025 Hyundai Palisade, all while supporting those in need. Tickets and more information for First Look for Charity can be found at FirstLookforCharity.org.

Tickets on Sale Now

Tickets to the 2025 Chicago Auto Show are currently on sale at ChicagoAutoShow.com. The 2025 show runs from Feb. 8-17 at McCormick Place and opens to the public daily at 10 a.m. Adult ticket prices are $17; seniors ages 62 and older are $12; children ages 4-12 are $12; kids ages 3 and younger are free. Show hours vary by day, so please check the site for details.

To purchase tickets or for more information, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com.

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