The Discover Boating Mid-Atlantic Boat Show 2026 runs February 5-8, 2026, at the Charlotte Convention Center. This is a great show to attend if you want to compare boats, talk with dealers about pricing, and check out boating gear in the same visit.
What Can You Do At The Discover Boating Mid-Atlantic Boat Show 2026?
Expect a mix of boat shopping and hands-on experiences:
- Walk through new boats and compare layouts side by side
- Browse boating gear and accessories, then talk with local dealers about packages and availability
- Catch show features like the Opening Night Dock Party and Discover Boating Lake Life Lounge
- Sit in on educational sessions at Fred's Shed focused on ownership, maintenance, and boat basics
Where Can You Buy Tickets For The Mid-Atlantic Boat Show 2026?
Discover Boating Mid-Atlantic Boat Show tickets are available online and onsite at the Charlotte Convention Center.
How much are Discover Boating Mid-Atlantic Boat Show tickets?
Adults are $10 online and $12 onsite. Kids 12 and under are free with a paid adult.
Is there a discount day?
Yes, there's $5 admission after 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, when purchased online.
Seniors (62 and older): $9 admission on Thursday, February 5 only (adult rates apply Friday-Sunday)
What does a boat show ticket include?
Each ticket includes entry for the single day purchased. Concessions and merchandise are available for purchase.
When Is The Mid-Atlantic Boat Show, And What Are The Hours?
February 5-8, 2026, on the following dates:
- Thursday, Feb 5: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Friday, Feb 6: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday, Feb 7: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Sunday, Feb 8: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where Is The Charlotte Convention Center, And What's The Best Way To Get There?
Location: Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S College St, Charlotte, NC 28202-1827.
Driving and parking: The show notes multiple covered garages in the convention district, with daily parking costs typically ranging from $8 to $20. The NASCAR Hall of Fame garage is directly attached to the Convention Center.
If you'd rather skip parking, the show recommends the Lynx Blue Line. The Convention Center sits between Brooklyn Village Station and 3rd St/Convention Center Station.
Read Next: North Carolina Boating Guide
What Are The Top Features Of The Discover Boating Mid-Atlantic Boat Show?
The official 2026 features list highlights a few can't-miss stops.
Opening Night Dock Party and $5 admission: Thursday night kicks off with the show's Dock Party, plus $5 online tickets after 5 p.m.
Discover Boating Lake Life Lounge: The show's new Lake Life Lounge is set up as a place to take a break, check out deck furniture, and catch live acoustic music during select show hours.
Fred's Shed How-To Center, presented by Progressive®: Fred's Shed is a hands-on how-to area where you can ask questions and pick up practical maintenance and ownership tips.
If you like planning your day around sessions, the posted schedule includes topics like:
- Boater basics and essential skills
- Electronics Q&A
- Prop selection
- Basic motor maintenance
- Winterization and off-season storage
Discover Boating Mid-Atlantic Boat Show Guide: Quick FAQ
Is the Mid-Atlantic Boat Show family-friendly?
Yes, and kids 12 and under get free admission with a paid adult.
Can you get on the boats at the Mid-Atlantic Boat Show?
Yes, you can board the boats, although restrictions can vary by exhibitor.
How much is parking at the Charlotte Convention Center for the Mid-Atlantic Boat Show?
The show website lists nearby covered garage parking generally ranging from $8 to $20, and notes that it does not validate parking.
Originally published in January 2025. Updated in January 2026.
