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The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) show in New Orleans is continuing despite a rare winter storm that has disrupted travel. The event, held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, is expected to attract over 22,000 visitors, making it a significant boost for the local economy. However, the closure of Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport has posed challenges for attendees.
The convention, originally scheduled to start on Thursday (January 23), has adjusted its schedule due to the weather. Thursday's events, including the official opening, have been moved to Friday. The show will feature seminars and keynote speakers such as comedian Frank Caliendo Jr. and former Duke University basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski.
According to NOLA.com, Cox Automotive, one of the major exhibitors, managed to set up ahead of the storm. The convention center's incident management team has been working closely with NADA to accommodate changes.
Despite the weather, NADA President Mike Stanton expressed optimism about attendance, noting that few attendees have canceled. Stanton encouraged attendees to download the NADA Show mobile app for the latest updates on schedules and events.
The show, which runs through Sunday (January 26), is crucial for New Orleans, filling a typically quiet period with activity. The event is part of a long-standing tradition, with NADA including New Orleans in its rotation for half a century.