Atlanta, GA, January 8, 2026
The Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show is showcasing the latest in marine recreation at the Georgia World Congress Center. This event underscores community involvement and local commerce, featuring hundreds of boats and a variety of engaging activities for attendees. From interactive exhibits to educational seminars, the show aims to inspire both seasoned boaters and newcomers alike. It not only promotes boating culture but also contributes significantly to the local economy by supporting businesses and creating jobs.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta Boat Show: Dive into Innovation & Community Growth
Atlanta is currently hosting the 2026 Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show, a premier event that not only showcases the latest in marine recreation but also highlights the spirit of individual initiative and community engagement in our vibrant city. Docked at the Georgia World Congress Center until January 11, 2026, this gathering exemplifies how private partnerships and a proactive citizenry can drive local commerce and foster shared interests.
The success of events like the Atlanta Boat Show is a testament to the organizational capabilities and collaborative efforts within our community. It underscores the benefits of a system that allows local organizers and businesses to thrive, attracting visitors and stimulating economic activity. The Georgia World Congress Center, a cornerstone of Atlanta’s event landscape, plays a pivotal role in this, providing world-class facilities that bolster tourism and contribute significantly to Georgia’s economic, intellectual, and cultural vibrancy. This synergy between venue, organizers, and attendees creates a dynamic environment where passion for the open water translates into tangible civic and economic advantages.
A Hub for Boating Enthusiasts and Newcomers Alike
The 2026 Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show, in partnership with Progressive®, is recognized as the region’s largest and longest-running boating event, making it a key destination for both seasoned captains and aspiring first-timers. Held in Hall B of the Georgia World Congress Center, the show offers a comprehensive look at the boating lifestyle, featuring hundreds of new boats on display, including pontoons, center consoles, bowriders, and personal watercraft. With over 400 boats available for viewing, it serves as a convenient central point for boat shopping in Atlanta, particularly for those who frequent Georgia’s popular lakes like Lanier and Allatoona, or enjoy the state’s coastline.
Engaging Activities for Every Interest
The show’s organizers have curated a diverse array of features designed to educate, entertain, and inspire attendees of all ages. For those looking to enjoy the experience beyond boat shopping, the Discover Boating Lake Life Lounge offers a lake-themed space for relaxation, complete with live music performed by the Britt Black Band, and various games. A unique Surfing Simulator provides an opportunity for visitors to test their balance on an indoor surfing experience without getting wet.
Aspiring anglers can enhance their skills at the Let’s Go Fishing Center and Bass Tub Demos, where professional anglers showcase casting and baiting techniques in a 5,000-gallon aquarium, demonstrating how fish react in real-time. For practical boat maintenance and repair advice, the Fred’s Shed How-to Center, presented by Progressive®, provides step-by-step guidance from tech experts on engines, systems, and DIY boat care.
Cultivating Skills and Community Involvement
Beyond entertainment, the show places a strong emphasis on education and personal development. A series of safety seminars, presented by North Georgia Boating Adventures, are available, offering valuable insights into boating basics, safety tips, and tech tutorials, aimed at making boating simpler and safer. These educational programs underscore the commitment to responsible recreation and the fostering of individual competence on the water. Furthermore, a dedicated Career Day offers attendees a chance to explore career opportunities within the marine industry, connecting individuals with potential pathways for professional growth.
The event also caters to families with a dedicated Kids’ Zone, featuring activities such as face painting, crafts like a Bracelet & Keychain Bar, and Minnow Racing, ensuring a fun experience for younger attendees. On Thursday and Friday, a special “$5 After 5” admission allows for discounted entry after 5 PM, accompanied by happy hour specials, making it accessible for those looking to unwind after their workday. For the closing day, a Family Day Pass is available online, offering an affordable option for two adults and two children under 17.
The Economic Current and Future of Boating
The Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show is more than just a showcase; it’s a significant contributor to the regional economy. Historically, boat retailers and manufacturers attribute a substantial portion of their annual sales, often between 30% to 50%, to boat shows. This event serves as a crucial marketplace, driving sales and supporting numerous businesses. The Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA), as the venue host, actively works to drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life for Georgians, with its operations bolstering tourism and creating jobs throughout the state.
Recreational boating, as an industry, has a considerable impact on Georgia, generating over $7.8 billion in annual economic activity and supporting more than 27,000 jobs across the state. While the marine industry has seen some shifts, demand for boating remains strong, partly due to an influx of first-time buyers in recent years. Emerging trends in the recreational boating market include advancements in marine technology such as joystick docking controls, automatic trim, digital throttles, integrated tech for phone connectivity, and remote vessel monitoring. The industry is also seeing the rise of AI-assisted features, including object detection, navigation support, and predictive maintenance, all aimed at making boating easier and safer for everyone. Dealers are adapting by expanding marketing efforts, hosting more events, and leveraging AI tools to improve communication and stay competitive in a dynamic market. This focus on innovation and accessibility ensures that the boating lifestyle remains vibrant and attainable for a broader audience.
Conclusion
The 2026 Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show stands as a clear example of how private enterprise and community initiatives can coalesce to create a beneficial and engaging event. By providing a platform for commerce, education, and shared leisure, it reinforces the value of individual achievement and civic engagement in fostering local growth. We encourage all residents to explore the diverse opportunities presented by local events, supporting Atlanta’s dynamic economy and enriching our collective community spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What are the dates for the 2026 Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show?
- The 2026 Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show is docking January 8–11, 2026.
- Where is the Atlanta Boat Show located?
- The show is located at the Georgia World Congress Center, Hall B, in Atlanta, GA.
- What kinds of boats can visitors expect to see at the show?
- Visitors can expect to see hundreds of new boats on display, including pontoons, center consoles, bowriders, and personal watercraft.
- Are there any special discounts for admission?
- Yes, on Thursday and Friday, admission drops to $5 after 5 pm, offering happy hour specials.
- What educational opportunities are available at the show?
- The show offers boating education and safety seminars, including “Boating 101” sessions and tech tutorials.
- What is the economic impact of recreational boating in Georgia?
- Recreational boating in Georgia has over $7.8 billion in annual economic impact and supports over 27,000 jobs.
- What is the ticket price for adults and children?
- Current ticket prices for the 2026 show are $15 online, $17 at the event site for Adult tickets (13+). Children 12 and under are free with a paid adult.
Key Features of the 2026 Discover Boating Atlanta Boat Show
| Feature Category | Specific Features | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Event Information | Dates | January 8–11, 2026 |
| Location | Georgia World Congress Center, Hall B, Atlanta, GA | |
| Boat Displays | Number of Boats | Over 400 boats on display |
| Types of Boats | Pontoons, center consoles, bowriders, personal watercraft, and more | |
| Interactive Experiences | Discover Boating Lake Life Lounge | Relaxed, lake-themed lounge with live music and games |
| Surfing Simulator | Indoor surfing experience | |
| Let’s Go Fishing Center and Bass Tub Demos | Professional anglers demonstrating techniques in a 5,000-gallon aquarium | |
| Education & Skills | Fred’s Shed How-to Center | DIY boat care, engine, and system maintenance advice |
| Safety Seminars | Boating basics, safety tips, and tech tutorials | |
| Career Day | Opportunities to explore marine industry professions | |
| Family Fun | Kids’ Zone | Face painting, crafts, Minnow Racing |
| Special Offers | $5 After 5 Admission | Discounted admission on Thursday and Friday after 5 pm with happy hour specials |
| Family Day Pass | Available online for two adults and two children under 17 on the last day | |
| Economic Impact (Georgia) | Annual Economic Impact | Over $7.8 billion from recreational boating |
| Jobs Supported | Over 27,000 jobs in recreational boating |
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Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
