LAS VEGAS (Feb. 4, 2026) – The Las Vegas Convention Center buzzed with activity yet again on Wednesday, as NADA Show 2026 steered through a second productive day of education, meetings and inspiration. One look at the world-class roster of attendees, exhibitors and speakers, and it’s clear why the event is known as the “automotive industry event of the year.”
Jon Dorenbos, former NFL player and world-class magician, took to the Main Stage for the first session of the day, wowing attendees with a keynote presentation that was equal parts funny, informative and inspiring, as he shared a moving personal story about resilience and triumph against a variety of challenges.
NADA President and CEO Mike Stanton and 2025 NADA Chairman Tom Castriota also appeared in the day’s opening session. “What a year it has been for us as NADA and for you in the audience,” Castriota told attendees, noting what he’s learned over the past year. “I gained a lot of insight. But one truth became more apparent than anything else: dealers are America. We are woven — or to put it another way — we are rooted in every community. We are the DNA of this country. We’re in every community, almost every congressional district. We’re big and we’re small. We’re blue and we’re red. But what unites us far more than what divides us is [that] we have the same purpose, the same values and commitment to the people we serve.”
Stanton struck a similarly positive tone. “2025 was an incredible year for dealers, for state and metro dealer associations and the NADA, especially in terms of public policy wins,” he said. “Working together, that’s what makes us successful.”
Stanton underscored the importance of staying involved. “We need to continue to lean into or start relationships with our elected officials,” he explained. “If you are engaged, thank you. If not, now is the time and NADA is here to help.”
Soon after, the Expo officially opened, with a record-breaking 600-plus exhibitors ready to connect with attendees. NADA Show remains the industry’s most powerful platform for innovation, connection and growth — and that was apparent from the networking that took place with key decision-makers throughout the day on the Expo floor.
Knowledge Powered by Experts
From informative Live Stage sessions to the Dealer Learning Labs and EV Solutions Center, attendees found lots of opportunities to learn from the latest insight on emerging trends and technologies. Wednesday was jam-packed with workshops, educational sessions, peer-to-peer Exchange roundtables and presentations by legendary figures from the business world.
There was no shortage of collaboration, questioning and knowledge-sharing as NADA experts and industry leaders joined fast-paced, informative sessions. Wednesday’s Live Stage programming included presentations by National Digital Titling Clearinghouse (NDTC)/CHAMP Titles, CarRx Connected Dealer Services and Affinitiv, and became especially lively during the fourth annual Exhibitor Pitch Competition, during which 10 industry innovators shared their ideas, with DAS Technology named the winner.
In addition, the Spotlight Series shared still more inspiration with “20 Group Best Ideas,” a perennial favorite session that provided innovative, field-tested ideas from NADA 20 Groups — moderated by NADA dealership management consultants Joe Akers and Debbie Letcher.
Franchise meetings on Wednesday brought together franchisees for Cadillac, Ford, Infiniti, Mercedes and Volkswagen.
On Wednesday night, NADA Academy alumni joined emerging leaders for The Guilded Garage, an invitation-only reception that took place at the 1923 Prohibition Bar, an atmospheric speakeasy-style venue at the Venetian Hotel.
Looking Ahead to Day 3
Day three of NADA Show promises plenty of opportunities for learning, networking and strategizing for success.
Former sports agent, author and podcaster Molly Fletcher will take to the Main Stage on Thursday morning, ready to share insights about what drives top leaders to succeed. Arriving when the doors open at 8:30am is highly recommended for what is sure to be a well-attended event — especially since incoming 2026 NADA Chairman Rob Cochran will also address the audience and the TIME Dealer of the Year award will be presented.
NADA Show excitement continues on Thursday with more workshops and Exchanges — addressing topics including NextGen dealers, workforce development and building lifetime loyalty, to name a few. The day’s Spotlight Series session, titled “The Resilient Dealer: Past Proof, Future Promise,” explores the importance of resilience in the face of external and internal pressures. The Dealer Learning Lab (located at booth #8233N) will host a variety of sessions as well, while the Product Discovery Stage, located at booth #2117W, will provide fast demos and practical solutions throughout the day.
Franchise meetings on Thursday include Buick-GMC, Lincoln, Mini, Alfa Romeo, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Subaru and BMW.
Attendees may also want to stop by the OPENLANE booth (#1511W) on Thursday at noon to participate in the annual NADA Foundation auction that benefits Canine Companions. Participants have a chance to win a VIP package to the 2026 Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Didn’t make it to Las Vegas this year? Don’t worry, live coverage continues via the NADA Show Livestream.
Missed the first day? Read a recap of day one.
