Chicago Auto Show opened with Media Day last Thursday at McCormick Place. Running through February 17, attendance is expected to top 250,000.
Debuting in 1901, the CAS is the largest auto show in North America. Having 117 editions, it has been held more times than any other auto exposition on the continent.
Produced by Chicago Automobile Trade Association, the nation's oldest and largest metropolitan dealer organization, CAS features about 1,000 vehicles from more than two dozen manufacturers including cars, trucks, SUVs, concept cars and more. There are also special themed vehicles like a Chicago Cubs minivan, one of the most popular selfie spots.
There are several special days, such as First Responders/Military Appreciation Day, Chicago Auto Show Food Drive and Friday Night Flights Craft Beer Tasting. There are also events including performances by 7th Heaven and DJ Dragan Trajkovski, Wheel of Fortune auditions and test drives.
Because there is so much to see, I always go a few days. I also like experiencing the opposites of calmness on Media Day and the charged atmosphere on public days.