Want a fun way to start the new year? The San Diego International Auto Show rolls into the waterfront from December 31, 2026, to January 3, 2027. It puts hundreds of new cars, trucks, and SUVs under one roof. Families, car fans, and shoppers all find something to enjoy.
This guide covers dates, hours, tickets, vehicles, and planning tips. Additionally, it explains how to save money and skip long lines. Read on, and plan your visit with confidence.
Quick Facts at a Glance
Here is a snapshot before we dive into the details.
| Detail | Information |
| Event dates | December 31, 2026 to January 3, 2027 |
| Venue | San Diego Convention Center, 111 W. Harbor Drive |
| Ticket sales | Online only through the official website |
| Adult ticket | $18 |
| Parking | Nearby garages and lots; trolley also available |
| Best for | Families, EV shoppers, truck buyers, and classic car fans |
Dates, Hours and Venue
Show Dates and Daily Hours
The show runs four days. It opens on New Year’s Eve and closes on the first Sunday of 2027. Doors open at 10 a.m. every day. However, closing times change, so check the table below.
| Day | Date | Hours |
| Thursday | December 31, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
| Friday | January 1, 2027 | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| Saturday | January 2, 2027 | 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| Sunday | January 3, 2027 | 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
The entrance closes one hour before the posted closing time. Therefore, arrive early if you want to see everything. Plan at least three hours for a relaxed visit.
Where the Show Takes Place
The event fills the San Diego Convention Center. The building sits right on the bay, next to the Gaslamp Quarter and the Embarcadero. Visitors can walk to restaurants, hotels, and the waterfront before or after the show.
The organizers run the show each year. The National City Automobile Dealers Association is the group behind it, and local dealers play a big part. As a result, you meet real dealership staff who know the San Diego market.
Tickets and Prices
Ticket Types
Fans buy tickets online only. Digital tickets carry no extra service fees, according to the official site. You can print your ticket or show it on your phone at the door.
| Ticket Type | Price | Notes |
| Adult (ages 13 to 61) | $18 | General admission |
| Senior (ages 62 and up) | $15 | General admission |
| Military (active duty with ID) | $15 | One ticket per ID |
| Child (ages 7 to 12) | $12 | General admission |
| Child (ages 6 and under) | Free | With a paying adult |
These prices match the current listing for the 2027 dates. However, organizers can change them. Therefore, confirm the final prices before you buy.
Family Day and Military Savings
Family Day gives parents a nice break. Children 12 and under enter free with a paying adult. The official page lists Family Day on a Sunday, but its dates are a little unclear. Because the show ends on Sunday, January 3, check the website for the exact day.
Military guests can also save. Last year, local Toyota dealers handed out free tickets to current and retired service members. Ask your nearest dealer whether a similar offer returns this year.
When Do Tickets Go on Sale?
The website says sales open soon, but it gives no firm date. Sign up for updates on the official site. In addition, follow the show on social media. Early buyers avoid the line at the door and feel less rushed on busy days.
Cars and Exhibits to Expect
Organizers have not released the full 2027 list yet. However, last year’s show gives a good preview. Expect a similar mix of brands, new models, and hands-on fun.
New Models and Major Brands
Last year, Cadillac, Ford, Toyota, and VinFast filled large display areas. Stellantis brought Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, and Ram. Visitors saw debuts and models that had not reached showrooms yet.
You can climb into most vehicles. Sit in the driver seat, test the screens, and check the cargo space. Moreover, sales staff can answer questions without any pressure.
Electric Avenue and the EV Test Track
Electric vehicles remain a big draw. And electric Avenue brought nearly every participating brand together in one spot. Shoppers compared range, charging, and price side by side.
The EV test track let guests ride in electric models from Cadillac and Ford. Similarly, street drives let visitors take a short trip in vehicles from VinFast, Stellantis, and Toyota. These drives work well for first-time EV buyers.
Trucks, SUVs, Hybrids and Sports Cars
Pickups and SUVs always pack the floor. Hybrids and crossovers sit close by. Meanwhile, sports cars add some excitement for fans who just want to look.
Classic Cars and the Mobility Zone
Classic cars give the show a nostalgic feel. Past events also featured a Mobility Zone with safety technology demos. These displays show how new driver-assist systems work.
| Attraction | What You Can Do |
| Electric Avenue | Compare electric models from many brands |
| EV Test Track | Ride in an electric vehicle |
| Street Drives | Take a short drive in new models |
| Classic Cars | Admire vintage favorites |
| Mobility Zone | See safety and driver-assist demos |
Suggested Schedule and Planning Guide
The exact stage schedule is not public yet. Still, you can build a smart plan around the hours above.
Best Time to Visit
| Day | Crowd Level | Why Visit |
| Thursday, December 31 | Moderate | Short day, so fewer people stay late |
| Friday, January 1 | High | Holiday crowds, but long evening hours |
| Saturday, January 2 | Highest | Great energy, yet busy aisles |
| Sunday, January 3 | Moderate to high | Family-friendly, with an earlier close |
If you hate crowds, pick Thursday morning or Friday night. Saturday afternoon gets the busiest. On the other hand, the buzz can be fun if you enjoy a lively crowd.
A Simple Three-Hour Plan
- First hour: Walk the main halls and see the brands you care about most.
- Second hour: Visit Electric Avenue and book any test rides or drives.
- Third hour: Check out classic cars, take photos, and grab a snack.
Planning for New Year’s Eve
The show closes at 6 p.m. on December 31. That leaves time for dinner and midnight plans downtown. Therefore, book restaurants early. Downtown fills quickly on New Year’s Eve.
Getting There, Parking and Visitor Tips
Parking and Public Transit
Parking details for the 2027 event are not posted yet. Nearby garages and lots usually serve the convention center. Prices rise during big events, so arrive early.
Public transit offers a stress-free option. The San Diego Trolley stops close to the building. In addition, buses run through downtown. Because New Year’s weekend brings heavy traffic, many visitors choose the trolley.
What to Bring
- Your digital or printed ticket
- A charged phone and a small power bank
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light jacket, since the halls can feel cool
- A photo ID if you want the military price
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Visit
- Buy tickets online before you go.
- Arrive within the first hour for smaller crowds.
- Make a short list of vehicles you want to see.
- Take photos of window stickers to compare prices later.
- Ask about financing offers and trade-in values.
- Take breaks, because the halls are large.
Where to Eat and Stay Nearby
The Gaslamp Quarter offers dozens of restaurants within walking distance. Seaport Village sits along the water for a scenic stroll. Furthermore, many downtown hotels are only a few blocks away. Book early, because New Year’s weekend sells out fast.
Should You Buy a Car at the Show?
You can, but you do not have to. Many guests use the event for research only. You compare models, meet dealers, and collect quotes. Then you decide at your own pace. Shoppers who plan to buy often find special offers for show visitors.
Smart Shopping Tips for Car Buyers
Many guests come to buy, not just to look. A little prep goes a long way. First, set a budget before you arrive. Next, pick two or three models that fit your needs. Then compare them in person.
Compare Gas, Hybrid and Electric Models
The show makes this easy. You can sit in a gas truck, a hybrid SUV, and an electric sedan within minutes. Notice the seat comfort, cargo room, and screen layout. Ask about fuel costs and charging at home. In addition, ask about tax credits and local rebates, since the rules change often.
Questions to Ask the Sales Team
- What is the total price, including fees and taxes?
- Do you offer a special deal for show visitors?
- How long is the warranty, and what does it cover?
- What are the monthly costs with different loan terms?
- How soon can I get this model?
Write down the answers. Later, you can compare offers at home without any rush.
Family and Accessibility Tips
Kids enjoy the show, but a long day can wear them out. Therefore, bring snacks, and plan short breaks. A stroller helps for little ones. Also, set a meeting spot in case someone wanders off.
Guests who need extra help should contact the organizers before the visit. The convention center has elevators, wide aisles, and accessible restrooms. Still, call ahead to confirm services such as wheelchair access or seating. That way, you avoid surprises on a busy day.
Make a Day of It in San Diego
The show is only one reason to visit downtown. The waterfront offers a lovely walk. Petco Park sits a few blocks away, and the USS Midway Museum floats nearby. Balboa Park lies a short ride from the convention center. Because the weather stays mild in winter, outdoor plans work well.
If you stay overnight, ask your hotel about shuttle service. Some hotels near the bay offer a free ride on busy weekends. Additionally, a short rideshare trip can save your feet after a long day.
Conclusion
The San Diego International Auto Show is a great way to begin 2027. It runs from December 31, 2026, to January 3, 2027, at the San Diego Convention Center. Adult tickets cost $18, and kids, seniors, and military guests get lower prices. Expect new models, Electric Avenue, test drives, classic cars, and plenty of family fun.
To sum up, buy tickets online, arrive early, and use the trolley if you can. Finally, check the official website for the latest news before you go. See you on the show floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the 2027 show?
It runs from December 31, 2026, through January 3, 2027.
2. Where does it take place?
It takes place at the San Diego Convention Center in downtown San Diego.
3. How much does a ticket cost?
Adults pay $18. Seniors and military pay $15. Children ages 7 to 12 pay $12. Children 6 and under enter free.
4. Can I buy tickets at the door?
The official site says tickets sell online only. Therefore, buy before you arrive.
5. What are the opening hours?
Doors open at 10 a.m. daily. The show closes at 6 p.m. on Thursday and Sunday and at 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
6. Is there a Family Day?
Yes. Children 12 and under enter free with a paying adult. Check the website for the exact day.
7. Which brands will attend?
Organizers have not shared the final list. Last year, Toyota, Ford, Cadillac, VinFast, and Stellantis brands took part.
8. Can I test drive a car?
Past shows offered street drives and an EV test track. Expect something similar, but confirm details closer to the date.
9. Where should I park?
Nearby garages and lots serve the venue. However, the trolley often saves time and money.
10. Is the show good for kids?
Yes. Kids love sitting in cars and trucks. Younger children enter free or at a low price.
