CHI-TOWN ALLEY RETURNS TO THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW, INVITING LOCAL ENTHUSIASTS TO ENTER 2027 SHOWCASE CONTEST

CHICAGO, Nov. 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Following a successful debut that brought Chicago's automotive culture to center stage, Chi-Town Alley is returning for year two at the 2027 Chicago Auto Show. The popular lifestyle exhibit will once again transform a section of the show floor into a vibrant showcase of the people, vehicles and communities that make Chicagoland's car scene so unique.

Making its debut at the 2026 Chicago Auto Show, Chi-Town Alley quickly established itself as a destination for enthusiasts and attendees alike, featuring everything from exotic and performance vehicles to JDM imports, lowriders, classic cars and custom builds. The exhibit created a dedicated space for local automotive communities to share their passion, connect with fellow enthusiasts and introduce the public to the creativity and individuality behind Chicago's car culture.

"Chi-Town Alley brought a new dimension to the Chicago Auto Show last year," said Jim OBrill, vice president, marketing & operations at the Chicago Auto Show. "The response from attendees and the automotive community showed the passion that exists for Chicago's car culture and the value of giving local enthusiasts a platform to share their vehicles and stories. We are excited to bring it back and build on that success in 2027."

The impact of Chi-Town Alley extended well beyond the show floor, generating significant media attention and social media engagement for participating vehicle owners. The exposure also created opportunities beyond the Chicago Auto Show; two vehicles featured in the Chi-Town Alley Showcase were invited to display at the renowned SEMA Show in Las Vegas, highlighting the talent and creativity of Chicagoland's automotive community on a national stage.

The Chi-Town Alley Showcase contest is returning for 2027. Local car enthusiasts are encouraged to apply for the opportunity to share their story and have their vehicle featured inside Chi-Town Alley during the Chicago Auto Show, taking place Feb. 13-21, 2027, at McCormick Place.

Whether it's a restored classic, custom build, performance machine or a ride with a story to tell, enthusiasts are encouraged to submit a 60-second video showcasing their vehicle and explaining why it deserves a spot in Chi-Town Alley.

The final winner will be chosen by attendee voting during the show, making it a true celebration of the community behind Chicagoland's car scene. Submissions for the contest close Monday, Dec. 7, 2026, with finalists announced mid-December. To enter the Chi-Town Alley Showcase contest, visit https://chitownalleyshowcase2027.shortstack.page/s4rNBQ and complete the online entry form.

"The best part of Chi-Town Alley is that the cars are only half the story," said OBrill. "Behind every build is a person, a passion and a reason that car means something to them. We want to hear those stories. Whether you've spent years building your dream car or created something that turns heads every time you pull up, we want you to throw your hat in the ring. This is your chance to put your ride on the map."

The 2027 Chicago Auto Show public event will take place Feb. 13-21 at McCormick Place. The First Look for Charity black-tie gala will be held the evening of Feb. 12. For more information, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com.

About the Chicago Auto Show

First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the nation's longest-running auto exposition in North America. The show is produced by the Chicagoland's new-car dealer association, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, which has staged the show since 1935. The 2027 public show is Feb. 13-21 at McCormick Place. For more information and the latest updates, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com.

About the Chicago Automobile Trade Association

Founded in 1904 and located in Oakbrook Terrace, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is comprised of more than 400 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group's dealer members employ approximately 19,000 people across the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world-famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information, please visit www.CATA.info.

SOURCE Chicago Auto Show