A show built on cars, community and giving back

The North Carolina International Auto Expo brings the newest vehicles, family entertainment and local businesses together under one roof in Raleigh, and turns every visit into support for neighbors in need.

Jim Graham BuildingN.C. State Fairgrounds
1025 Blue Ridge Road
Raleigh, NC 27607
4 daysof show hours each February
$150,000+donated to local charities in five years
30+organizations that benefit from the Expo
Freeparking for every guest

Who we are

The NC International Auto Expo is the annual auto show of the Wake County New Vehicle Dealers Association. Local dealers and manufacturers join together to present the latest cars, trucks and SUVs in the Jim Graham Building at the N.C. State Fairgrounds, so that shoppers can compare many brands in one place without driving from lot to lot.

The Expo is more than a showroom. Visitors find family fun with Scooby-Doo, a Classic Car Show at Dorton Arena, safety information from the North Carolina Highway Patrol, live radio broadcasts and an exhibitor area full of local businesses. It is designed to be a day out for everyone, whether you plan to buy a vehicle or just enjoy looking.

Just as important, the show has a purpose. Over the last five years it has donated more than $150,000 to the organizations listed on our Charities page. The Wake County New Vehicle Dealers Association is proud to keep giving back to our communities and to help those in need.

Our mission

To give visitors an easy, friendly and honest place to explore new vehicles, and to use the success of the show to support the people and organizations that make our community stronger.

Our promise

Affordable admission, free parking and a welcoming atmosphere for every age. Tickets are sold on site, prices are simple and children under 6 are always free.

Our community

Dealers, exhibitors, public safety partners and charities work side by side. Each one adds something valuable, and together they make the Expo a true neighborhood event.

What you will find at the Expo

New vehicles

Manufacturers and dealers display their latest models so that you can sit inside, compare features and ask questions. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, GM Experience the Drive also lets you feel how vehicles handle on the road.

Family fun

Family Fun with Scooby-Doo gives children a reason to be excited, and the low ticket prices make the show easy to enjoy as a group. Preteens pay only $4 and children under 6 are free.

Classic cars

On Saturday and Sunday, the Classic Car Show at Dorton Arena brings restored vehicles and their proud owners to the fairgrounds. It is a favorite stop for enthusiasts of every generation.

Vendors and partners

Exhibitors such as Ray Price Harley-Davidson, Bath Fitter, LeafFilter, WakeMed, Verizon Wireless, US Home Exteriors, Hutch Construction and Vacation Village Resorts offer products and services beyond the world of cars.

Public safety

The North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Wake County Sheriff and the Raleigh Police Department take part in the show, and Run for Our Heroes honors our fallen officers.

Live radio

Local stations including WPTF, 94.7 QDR, 96rock, Pulse 102 and WYMY 102.9 broadcast live from the show during the four days, adding energy to the floor.

The Expo at a glance

Show hours

Thursday 12 PM to 9 PM, Friday 10 AM to 9 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 9 PM and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM.

Admission

Adults 13 to 60 pay $6, over 60 pay $5, ages 6 to 12 pay $4 and children under 6 are free.

Tickets

No advance ticket sales. Tickets are available at the Box Office kiosks outside the Jim Graham Building during the show.

Parking

Free for all guests. Follow the signs and the parking attendants at the N.C. State Fairgrounds.

Getting here

Easy access from I-440, I-40, Blue Ridge Road, N.C. Highway 54 (Hillsborough Street) and Edwards Mill Road.

Questions

Email [email protected] and our team will be glad to help you plan your visit.

$150,000+donated in the last five years

Giving back is why we do this

Every year, the Expo supports organizations that serve children, families, patients, students and first responders. Recipients include the Alexander Family YMCA, Hospice of Wake County, Make-a-Wish Foundation of ENC, the Boys and Girls Club of Wake County, the Salvation Army, Wake Technical CC Foundation and many more.

When you buy a ticket and enjoy the show, you become part of that effort. Thank you for helping us make a difference close to home.

Frequently asked questions

Who organizes the NC International Auto Expo?

The show is presented by the Wake County New Vehicle Dealers Association.

Where is the Expo held?

At the Jim Graham Building, N.C. State Fairgrounds, 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh, NC 27607.

Can I buy tickets in advance?

No. There are no advance ticket sales. Tickets are sold at the Box Office kiosks outside the Jim Graham Building during the show.

Is the show suitable for children?

Yes. Children under 6 are free, preteens pay $4, and family entertainment such as Scooby-Doo is part of the program.

Do I have to pay for parking?

No. Parking is free for every guest.

How can I contact the team?

Send an email to [email protected] with any questions about the show.

Come and see it for yourself

Explore the vehicles, meet our partners and enjoy a day that supports the community. If you have any questions, we would love to hear from you.

[email protected]