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It's Boat Show Season! Here's What To Know & Where To Go

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St. Charles Boat Show

Boat show season has officially arrived, and for boating fans, that means winter weekends filled with shiny new boats, marine gear, and planning for the next season on the water.

From regional shows to world-class events, several major boat shows are scheduled for early 2026. Two of the biggest Midwest stops are hosted by the Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers Association, drawing boating fans from across the region.

Here's where to attend shows this year...

Kansas City Boat & Fishing Show

When: January 8–11, 2026

Where: Kansas City Convention Center (Bartle Hall), 301 West 13th Street, Kansas City, MO

This show combines boats, fishing, and outdoor lifestyle exhibits. Attendees can browse a wide range of boats, check out fishing gear and accessories, explore camping and paddlesports displays, and attend seminars on boating safety, fishing tips, and conservation. Interactive attractions like a petting are also featured and great for kids.

Hours:

Thursday: Noon–7 p.m.

Friday: Noon–7 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Admission is $15 for adults, with youth 16 and under free.

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Lake Of The Ozarks Dealers & More:

Overland Park Boat Show

When: February 19–22, 2026

Where: Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Blvd., Overland Park, KS

Presented by the Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers Association, this is one of the premier Midwest boat shows, featuring top marine dealers from the Lake of the Ozarks. Shoppers can explore a wide selection of recreational boats and talk directly with dealers who specialize in boating at the Lake.

Hours:

Thursday: 2–9 p.m.

Friday: Noon–9 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Admission is $14 for adults, $8 for kids 6-12 years old, and free for those 5 and under. 

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St. Charles Boat Show

Presented by the Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers Association

When: March 5–8, 2026

Where: St. Charles Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, St. Charles, MO

Presented by the Lake of the Ozarks Marine Dealers Association, this is the largest recreational boat show in the St. Louis area, bringing together Lake of the Ozarks marine dealers in one place. The show features cruisers, runabouts, performance boats, tritoons, ski boats, personal watercraft, docks, lifts, and boating accessories.

Hours:

Thursday: 2–9 p.m.

Friday: Noon–9 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Admission is $14 for adults, $8 for kids 6-12 years old, and free for those 5 and under. 

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Outside Missouri:

Discover Boating Chicago Boat Show

When: January 28–February 1, 2026

Where: Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont, IL

One of the largest indoor boat shows in the country, this event features a massive selection of boats, hands-on attractions, and family-friendly activities. It’s geared toward everyone from first-time buyers to experienced boaters.

Hours:

Wednesday: 2–8 p.m.

Thursday: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

Friday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

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BONUS: The Miami International Boat Show

When: February 11–15, 2026

Where: Multiple locations throughout Miami, Florida

A perfect reason to visit Miami!

The Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show is the largest boat and yacht show in the world. It showcases everything from kayaks to superyachts, with indoor exhibits and large in-water displays spread across several Miami locations.

Hours:

Wednesday: Noon–7 p.m.

Thursday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Friday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

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These shows are the perfect opportunity to shed the winter blues and dream of what's ahead for the 2026 boating season! 

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