2026 Washington DC Auto Show

The Washington, D.C. Auto Show returns to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center from January 23 to February 1, 2026, with hundreds of production and concept vehicles across brand pavilions and specialty exhibits.

Public highlights include indoor displays, the outdoor DC eDrives Ride & Drive, ART-of-Motion installations, and manufacturer activations across a central downtown venue with Metro access.

A large, public auto show focused on new production models, EV test drives, and manufacturer exhibits at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

What makes it worth the trip:

• Wide model coverage from major brands and concept reveals in a compact downtown venue.
• Outdoor Ride & Drive (DC eDrives) lets you test EVs and hybrids on a supervised course.
• Easy transit access: Mt Vernon Sq 7th St–Convention Center Metro is nearby and downtown hotels are within walking distance.

Best way to experience it:

Buy a one-day ticket through the show’s official partner (Eventim), arrive mid-morning on weekend days to see displays before peak crowds, and plan the Ride & Drive early since slots can fill. Allocate at least half a day to walk pavilions and visit manufacturer presentations.

Good to know:

• Entrance typically closes one hour before published daily closing times.
• Official ticketing is through Eventim; the show warns against third-party sellers.

• Great if you want hands-on EV test drives without going to a dealership.
• Great if you enjoy seeing the latest production launches and concept cars in one place.
• Great if you like a compact, transit-accessible show that’s easy to walk in a day.
• Maybe skip if you prefer small, local car meets or track-focused motorsport events.