The 5 Must-See St. Louis Car Shows In 2026: Dates, Venues, And Featured Vehicles
The St. Louis car show scene is roaring into 2026 with a packed schedule, headlined by the massive St. Louis Auto Show and a historic celebration for the Route 66 Centennial. As of today, December 23, 2025, the most anticipated events are locked in, offering enthusiasts everything from the latest new car models and high-performance vehicles to rare classic cars and custom trucks. The city of St. Louis, Missouri, is a major hub for automotive culture, and the upcoming year promises a diverse lineup of events for every type of gearhead, whether you’re shopping for a new SUV or admiring vintage iron.
The premier event remains the annual St. Louis Auto Show, an expansive four-day experience hosted by the Missouri Automobile Dealers Association (MADA). This article provides the definitive guide to the biggest and best car shows coming to the Gateway City in 2026, complete with dates, locations, and the unique attractions that make each event a must-attend for auto fans.
The Definitive Guide to the 2026 St. Louis Auto Show
The St. Louis Auto Show is the region's largest automotive event, transforming the heart of downtown into a massive showcase of the industry's newest offerings. Held annually in the winter, the 2026 edition is set to be a spectacular display.
Key Dates and Venue for the Main Event
- Event: St. Louis Auto Show
- Dates: Thursday, January 22 – Sunday, January 25, 2026
- Venue: America's Center & The Dome (701 Convention Plaza, St. Louis, MO)
- Host: Missouri Automobile Dealers Association (MADA)
This massive indoor venue provides the perfect setting to explore hundreds of vehicles from over 25 different manufacturers, all under one roof. The show is a non-selling environment, meaning you can comfortably check out the latest technology and designs without the pressure of a dealership salesperson.
Featured Attractions and Vehicle Exhibits
The St. Louis Auto Show is far more than just rows of cars; it’s an interactive automotive experience. Attendees can expect a vast array of vehicles, including nearly 400-500 new cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. The focus is on the current and upcoming model years, giving consumers a first-hand look at the latest advancements in automotive engineering.
Attractions for the 2026 show are slated to include several high-energy and family-friendly zones:
- Drifting Exhibition: A popular feature allowing attendees to witness the skill and adrenaline of controlled drifting, often featuring professional drivers and cars like the #FUNHAVERS.
- FREE Kids Zone: A dedicated area for younger enthusiasts, sponsored by entities like the Mid America Chevy Dealers, ensuring the event is fun for the entire family.
- Pet Adoptions: A unique addition that combines community outreach with the automotive passion.
- Luxury and Concept Cars: Historically, the show has featured rare concept cars that showcase future design trends, such as the memorable 12-cylinder Cadillac Solitaire and the pivoting-canopied Plymouth Slingshot from past years. Expect to see a dedicated area for high-performance cars and exotic vehicles.
The event serves as the ultimate "test drive" preview, allowing you to sit in, touch, and compare models like the newest Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota RAV4, and luxury sedans from brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW side-by-side.
Ticket Information and Senior Discounts
While official face-value ticket prices for 2026 are often released closer to the event, general admission is typically affordable. Secondary market prices currently show a wide range, but the show is known for its value.
A notable deal for the St. Louis Auto Show is the special discount for seniors. On Friday only, seniors aged 60 and over can enjoy a discounted ticket price of $7 if purchased through the show box office, making it a budget-friendly outing for older enthusiasts.
Classic Car Shows and Unique Automotive Events in 2026
Beyond the main auto show, St. Louis and its surrounding areas host several niche events catering to specific automotive interests, particularly classic car enthusiasts.
1. The Route 66 Centennial Celebration (April 30 – May 5, 2026)
The year 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the legendary Route 66, and St. Louis is a key city for the centennial celebration. A week-long event is scheduled to take place at the Missouri History Museum in Forest Park, focusing heavily on the Mother Road's automotive history. This celebration will feature numerous classic car shows, vintage RV exhibits, and a showcase of the vehicles that defined the American road trip.
Expect to see beautifully restored vehicles from the 1930s to the 1960s, including iconic models like the Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, and various vintage trucks. The event in Forest Park will be a prime location to experience the nostalgia of Route 66.
2. Route 66 Corvette Club "Salute To The Troops" Show (May 9, 2026)
Dedicated to the legendary American sports car, the Route 66 Corvette Club hosts a major annual event. In 2026, their "Salute To The Troops" Corvette Show is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2026. This specialty show is a must-visit for fans of the Corvette, featuring every generation from the classic C1 to the latest C8 models. These club-run events offer a deeper dive into specific marques and often include highly customized and rare vehicles.
3. Lucas Alvarez Car and Truck Show (February 7, 2026)
For those interested in community-focused custom and classic vehicles, the "Lucas Alvarez Car and Truck Show" is a notable event. It is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, as part of the Saint Louis Community Festival at the St. Louis Catholic Church. These local shows are excellent places to see unique custom builds, hot rods, and meticulously restored classic trucks that represent the local St. Louis automotive scene.
Why St. Louis is a Premier Destination for Car Enthusiasts
St. Louis's rich automotive history and strategic location make it an ideal spot for major car events. The city was once a significant manufacturing center, with plants producing vehicles for brands like Ford and General Motors. This legacy contributes to a strong local culture of vehicle restoration and customization.
The Missouri Automobile Dealers Association (MADA), which hosts the main auto show, has deep roots in the state's commercial history, with many dealerships being family-owned for multiple generations. This strong foundation ensures that the St. Louis Auto Show remains a professional, well-organized, and comprehensive event that truly showcases the best of the automotive world.
Whether you are a serious buyer looking to compare the latest SUVs and pickup trucks, a classic car fan chasing the nostalgia of Route 66, or a family looking for a fun winter weekend activity, the 2026 St. Louis car show calendar is loaded with events to satisfy your curiosity and passion for all things automotive.
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