The third time's the charm. The D.C. Auto Show has rescheduled for January 2022.
After being postponed twice due to COVID-19, it looks like the D.C. Auto Show has officially been canceled. Organizers halted the breaks on the 2021 event as the city faces the ongoing pandemic crisis and the uncertainty surrounding a formal reopening. The 10-day show is hosted at the Walter E. White Convention Center and draws thousands of visitors each year.
In a statement on Wednesday, CEO John O'Donnell said organizers tried their best to create a safe experience, but current conditions were ultimately not ideal for an event of its size. Considering it's the largest indoor gathering to take place in DC, the move is unsurprising and necessary for public health.
"Unfortunately, there is simply too much ongoing uncertainty about when the District will be able to safely host large indoor events again. We truly wish that cancellation wasn't necessary, but we know that this decision is in the best interests of all those who make The Washington, D.C. Auto Show the great event that it is," he said.
Courtesy of D.C. Auto Show (Facebook)
The auto show was initially scheduled for January 29, 2021, and then March 26 before being scrapped altogether. But event organizers are busy at work preparing for next year's showcase, which is slated for January 21-30, 2022.
While the news is undoubtedly disappointing for car enthusiasts, O'Donnell is certain that "an invigorating, exciting auto show" is possible for the next year ahead.
"We can't wait to bring the latest and greatest developments in the auto industry to downtown D.C. next January. In the meantime, we hope everyone takes great care to stay safe and healthy as we get through this crisis."
Additionally, a TV special on the auto show is also in the works, with plans of premiering in May. No details have been confirmed yet, so keep your eyes peeled. In the meantime, we'll be crossing our fingers that 2022 goes off without a hitch!
Have you attended the D.C. Auto Show before? Are you planning on going to the 2022 event? Join the discussion with a comment.
