The Ottawa Gatineau International Auto Show is returning to Ottawa with nearly 300 vehicles, making it the place for potential buyers or straight-up car enthusiasts to see and compare what’s on the market.
Auto sales hit record numbers in 2013, eclipsing a previous record in 2002, and up four percent across Canada from the year before. In other words, Canadians are in the mood to shop—good news for the 30 manufacturers on display at the Ottawa Convention Centre from March 20 to 23, Thursday to Sunday.
This will be the show’s biggest year ever with several feature areas.
“Luxury Lane” will showcase some of the world’s finest cars, including first-time appearances by the uber-luxurious Rolls Royce Wraith, a Bentley Flying Spur, and a hand-built, bespoke Aston Martin Vanquish.
Practical folks and the green-inclined can get up to speed on the most energy-efficient vehicles at the “Drive Green Expo and Auto Annex.”
The expanded “Aftermarket Showcase” will have more than 24 exhibits displaying performance wheels, automotive accessories, and materials to help set up your own garage, and “Performance Alley” will have everything needed to enhance your car’s performance.
While you are there, you can enter to win a 2014 Mini Cooper, the use of a new Land Rover Evoque for a year, or get out of traffic all together with a seven-day Caribbean cruise.
Thursday, March 20, is “Armed Forces and First Responders Day,” offering special rates in recognition of the men and women of Canada’s armed forces and those employed by National Defence and Ottawa’s first responders including fire, police, paramedics, and the RCMP.
Friday is the official “Cruising the Capital by Day and Night,” where you are invited to spend the day or night downtown checking out the sights as well as the Auto Show.
Saturday and Sunday are family days where the kids will have a chance to meet and play with Marvel characters Spiderman and Ironman.
The Auto Show opens 10 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m., Thursday to Saturday, and at 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Tickets are $16.00 for general admission, $14 for seniors, $11 for youth, $6 for children, and $35.00 for a family pass, which includes two adults and two children ages 6 to 12. Find special rates for general admission and seniors online at AutoShowOttawa.com. CAA members can show their card and save $3 at the door.
For more information, please visit AutoShowOttawa.com
