CHARLOTTE, N.C.—January 21, 2026—The 2026 Discover Boating® Mid-Atlantic Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive®, returns to the Charlotte Convention Center February 5–8, 2026, bringing four days of the biggest and best boat shopping opportunities, education and lake-life fun as Charlotte’s favorite winter boating tradition continues in its 54th year.
With more than 400 new boats on display and for sale, along with hands-on experiences and expert advice for every type of boater, the Mid-Atlantic Boat Show offers a one-stop destination to browse, compare and take advantage of exclusive show-only deals to get ready for life on the water.
Building on a long-standing tradition, this year’s show introduces fresh features, live entertainment and interactive experiences inspired by the Carolina boating lifestyle—making it a must-attend event for first-time buyers, seasoned boaters and families alike.
2026 FEATURES INCLUDE:
- Opening Night Dock Party (Thursday, Feb. 5): Kick off the weekend early at the first annual Dock Party on the show floor featuring fun giveaways, live music from Preston Beckett, and new and improved food and beverage offerings, as attendees get their first look at the latest boats and show specials.
- $5 After 5 Admission (Online Only): Tickets are half off—just $5—when purchased online after 5 PM on Thursday, making it the perfect post-work outing to explore what’s new, connect with fellow boaters and celebrate the start of boating season.
- New! Discover Boating Lake Life Lounge: Step into a summer-inspired retreat inside the convention center, complete with premium, relaxed seating and laid-back lake vibes, ideal for resting your feet, meeting friends or planning your next day on the water.
- New! Live Acoustic Music by Preston Beckett: A Carolina-based acoustic artist and longtime member of the recreational boating community, Preston Beckett will deliver solo performances that bring a relaxed soundtrack to the show.
- Live Performance Schedule: Thursday, Friday and Saturday: 3:15 PM–7:15 PM
- New! Lake Wylie Race Team 44 Exhibit: Attendees who enter at the South College Street Entrancewill be welcomed to this year’s show with an eye-catching visual as Lake Wylie Race Team 44 showcases its 39-foot offshore racing boat, celebrating the excitement of competitive racing.
- About the Team: Lake Wylie Race Team 44 proudly represents the Carolinas on the offshore racing circuit and most recently competed at the Race World Offshore Southernmost Continental Championship in Key West, Florida.
- Fred’s Shed How-To Center Presented by Progressive®: Get expert advice, maintenance tips and hands-on troubleshooting from seasoned pros. Whether you’re new to boating or a lifelong enthusiast, Fred’s Shed offers something for every skill level.
WHAT: Discover Boating® Mid-Atlantic Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive®
WHEN: Thursday, February 5 – Sunday, February 8, 2026
WHERE: Charlotte Convention Center — Halls A, B and C, 501 S College St, Charlotte, NC
TICKETS: $10 online; $12 on-site for adults and children over 12. Kids 12 and under attend free
- $5 After 5 – Thursday, Feb. 5 only (online only)
INFO: Visit MidAtlanticBoatShow.com and follow on Facebook and Instagram @MidAtlanticBoatShow @DiscoverBoating
ON-SITE CONTACT: Kaci Pollack, 678-895-4488
VISUALS: Hundreds of boats, Opening Night Dock Party, Lake Life Lounge, live acoustic music, Fred’s Shed demos, race boat display and vibrant show-floor scenes.
Discover Boating boat shows are owned and produced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), in partnership with Progressive® Insurance. The NMMA is the leading trade organization for the North American recreational boating industry and largest producer of boat and sport shows in the U.S., which connects the recreational boating industry with the boating consumer year-round through Discover Boating.
Progressive Insurance® makes it easy to understand, buy and use car insurance, home insurance, and other protection needs. Progressive offers choices so consumers can reach us however it's most convenient for them — online at progressive.com, by phone at 1-800-PROGRESSIVE, via the Progressive mobile app, or in-person with a local agent.