PEORIA, Ill. — For the first time in 31 years, the Central Illinois Auto Show is being held in January.
Mike Bowermaster, General Manager of Bob Lindsey Honda, said it is exciting to host the event earlier in the year.
“The goal of that was to have it where people are more available. Because in April we were competing with spring break and vacations, nice weather, and sports,” Bowermaster said.
Vehicles from 33 dealers are gathered at the Peoria Civic Center for the show.
“It’s a great place to see 300 cars inside, in a nice climate control area.From the weather, it sounds like a good place to be inside,” Bowermaster said.
Besides checking out vehicles, there are other family friendly events going on at the show.
“As always we have a lot of family fun things going on from Spider-Man to Captain America, to a magic show, to bouncers for the kids, also there is a remote control track,” Bowermaster said.
Other events for kids include face-painting and seeing look-a-like Batman and friends, and also Mickey and Minnie Mouse.
Bowermaster said it is important to be a family friendly event where people can browse.
“We have also product specialists from the manufacturers talking about new technology and a lot of those things,” Bowermaster said. “I believe it’s just a great day to spend out here because the kids can keep busy doing things while the parents can go out and look at cars.”
Bowermaster said the Auto Show is also a great opportunity for the dealers.
“It gives us a chance to showcase our models. But, also look around ourselves and see what’s new. A lot of new technology, a lot of new vehicles, and this is a great opportunity to see it in one place,” Bowermaster said.
The show opens at noon on Friday and ends at 8:00 p.m. Then on Saturday, doors open at 11:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m. Sunday will be the last day for the show from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Friday is Senior Day, tickets are half price for Mature Adults ages 60+. Family Day is on Sunday where two adults and two children or more get in for $8 for the whole family.
Admission for adults ages 16 and older is $5, and ages 15 and younger is free with a paid adult.
