Chicago Auto Show 2026 officially opens to public at McCormick Place on Saturday

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The longest-running auto show in America is back, in its 118th year!

The 2026 Chicago Auto Show officially opened to the public on Saturday. Guests were treated to an exclusive First Look for Charity on Friday night, before Saturday's main event.

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The doors to McCormick Place officially opened at 10 a.m. That's where you will find the latest models, EVs, indoor tracks and other exhibits for car enthusiasts.

But before all of the fun gets underway on Saturday, ABC7 took a look back at a very special tradition at the Chicago Auto Show: First Look for Charity. It is a black-tie event that raises so much money for local charities.

SEE ALSO | Chicago Auto Show 2026 at McCormick Place, Feb. 7-16: Hours, ticket prices and more

In fact, the Chicago Auto Show's general manager says it is the largest local single-day fundraiser for the city of Chicago. It regularly generates more than $2 million for 18 different charities in the area. It is often referred to as "adult prom" or "car prom," because everyone is all dressed up.

The Chicago Auto Show will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday at McCormick Place. But there is plenty of time to swing by the show, as it runs until Monday, Feb. 16.

If you plan to go to the show, public transit is recommended. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for kids and seniors, and toddlers 3 and under are free. Discount coupons are available at your local auto dealer.

ABC7 is a proud sponsor of the event. You can tune into our Chicago Auto Show special at 6 p.m. Saturday on ABC7 and wherever you stream.