If you’re in the market for a new ride or you’re just a car enthusiast in general, it’s time to get geared up for the Columbus International Auto Show.
The annual car show, which runs Thursday through Sunday, is presented by Huntington and will be held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N. High St.
In addition to the newest models from more than 30 manufacturers, the Columbus Automobile Dealers Association will bring the latest interactive technologies in automotives.
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The car show, which returned last year after being canceled for three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will display road machines ranging from luxury sports cars to SUVs and crossovers to the most practical of sedans.
There’s guaranteed to be something for every age including kids’ activities, test-drives, contests and giveaways and much more. So if you’re planning to cruise into the auto show, here are some things to know before you go.
What are the best times for the 2024 car show?
Noon to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
How much is the car show admission?
Tickets for those age 10 and older are $10 online and $12 at the box office; $6 at the box office for students with student ID; and $8 at the box office for those 65 and older; children 9 and younger are free when accompanied by an adult.
Healthcare workers and teachers will receive two free tickets to the auto show with a valid employee ID.
What will some of the major car show attractions?
During the show, guests will be allowed to hop into the driver’s seat of one of Honda’s newest models and take it for a spin through Downtown. Other highlights will include:
- Columbus Crew players signing autographs at 2 p.m. Sunday.
- Subaru Loves Pets — Since Subaru of America began this adoption event in 2018, more than 1,200 pets have been adopted and countless local shelters supported.
- Kids PitStop with a bounce house and obstacle course; also, face painting and a balloon artist will be at the show from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
- Photo scavenger hunt
- Social media selfie contest
Will there be a big giveaway this year?
Attendees can register to win a new Honda Motocompacto electric scooter courtesy of the Central Ohio Honda Dealers. Visit columbusautoshow.com (under “Attractions”) for official contest rules.
I like fast, flashy cars. Will the car show feature any?
Of course! Zoom on down to Luxury Lane and park yourself at Dreamers Alley to check out Lamborghinis, Ferraris and more.
Can I sit inside the cars on the show floor?
Most of the manufacturers encourage this. However, some of the more exotic cars and concept vehicles will be locked and only for show.
Where to park your car while you look at other cars?
There’s plenty of parking outside the Convention Center. To view a list of parking garages in the surrounding area, go to bit.ly/3T5AZoS. Pre-purchasing your parking to secure the Columbus Auto Show rate is recommended.
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When is the charity gala?
Area dealers will continue their tradition of giving back to the community with the Columbus Auto Show Charity Gala, which will take place from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday. Since 2008, the event has raised more than $1.8 million in donations to local charities. Benefiting from this year’s gala will be the Brian Muha Foundation, Dreams on Horseback, NC4K, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio and the Unverferth House. Tickets cost $300 and can be purchased online at columbusautoshow.com.
What if I get hungry or thirsty during the car show?
There are concessions in the halls of the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The nearby Downtown and Short North areas also have many great dining choices. Remember to get your hand stamped when leaving if you plan to return to the auto show after grabbing a bite.
Guests are not permitted to bring outside alcohol into the Convention Center, but there will be places to buy alcoholic beverages inside the show.
How do I pay for things at the auto show?
The Convention Center itself is a cashless facility, including all concessions and in-lane parking transactions. However, inside the venue, there may be individual contracted vendors and outlets who, at their discretion, may accept cash.
Where can I get more info?
For more details about the Columbus International Auto Show, including a Frequently Asked Questions section, go to columbusautoshow.com.