1. Washington Auto Show
#1 Trade Show & Convention
President Obama stopped by this year's expo, which showcases the automobile industry before Congress, federal agencies, and other visitors. Next: February 1-10, 2013
President Obama stopped by this year's expo, which showcases the automobile industry before Congress, federal agencies, and other visitors. Next: February 1-10, 2013
Photo:Â Tony Brown/imijphoto.com for BizBash
2. NBC Health and Fitness Expo
#2 Trade Show & Convention
The 19th run of the expo began with Zumba instead of a ribbon cutting and upgraded the acoustics for its panel discussions to improve the experience for its 85,000 attendees. Next: March 16-17, 2013
The 19th run of the expo began with Zumba instead of a ribbon cutting and upgraded the acoustics for its panel discussions to improve the experience for its 85,000 attendees. Next: March 16-17, 2013
Photo:Â Tony Brown/imijphoto.com for BizBash
3. Washington Home and Garden Show
#3 Trade Show & Convention
Ty Pennington of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition was a highlight of the show in 2012, the first edition produced by Marketplace Events. Next: March 22-24, 2013
Ty Pennington of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition was a highlight of the show in 2012, the first edition produced by Marketplace Events. Next: March 22-24, 2013
Photo: Garrett James
4. Washington D.C. Travel & Adventure Show
#5 Trade Show & Convention
More than 17,000 people attended the 2012 show, a 15 percent increase, and about 200 exhibitors had booths. Next: March 9-10, 2013
More than 17,000 people attended the 2012 show, a 15 percent increase, and about 200 exhibitors had booths. Next: March 9-10, 2013
Photo: Courtesy of Travel & Adventure Show
9. Progressive International Motorcycle Show
#10 Trade Show & Convention (new to the list)
The show draws more than 20,000 motorcycle enthusiasts to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Next year the show will include events such as a digital Kawasaki Design-A-Bike, a stunt show from the Smage Brothers of America's Got Talent, and "Just for Women" gatherings and seminars. Next: January 4-6, 2013
The show draws more than 20,000 motorcycle enthusiasts to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Next year the show will include events such as a digital Kawasaki Design-A-Bike, a stunt show from the Smage Brothers of America's Got Talent, and "Just for Women" gatherings and seminars. Next: January 4-6, 2013
Photo: Erik Oginski
2. Chicago Air and Water Show
#3 Festival
The iconic local tradition—scored with the sounds of thrillingly loud engines—lures two million spectators to the lakefront. In the corporate hospitality area of the Chicago Air and Water Show, companies such as Shell and Boeing host parties. Next: August 18-19, 2012
The iconic local tradition—scored with the sounds of thrillingly loud engines—lures two million spectators to the lakefront. In the corporate hospitality area of the Chicago Air and Water Show, companies such as Shell and Boeing host parties. Next: August 18-19, 2012
Photo: Courtesy of City of Chicago
9. Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show
#9 Trade Show & Convention
The Midwest’s largest show of its kind, Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show, drew 35,400 attendees and was sponsored by Progressive insurance this year. Attractions included scuba demos and a catch-and-release trout pond for kids. Next: January 9-13, 2013
The Midwest’s largest show of its kind, Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show, drew 35,400 attendees and was sponsored by Progressive insurance this year. Attractions included scuba demos and a catch-and-release trout pond for kids. Next: January 9-13, 2013
Photo: Courtesy of the Chicago Boat, Sports & RV Show
5. America’s Beauty Show
#5 Trade Show & Convention (up from #6)
This year the beauty-focused show drew 50,000 industry pros and included appearances by industry stars like Tabatha Coffey. Next: March 9-11, 2013
This year the beauty-focused show drew 50,000 industry pros and included appearances by industry stars like Tabatha Coffey. Next: March 9-11, 2013
Photo: BABAK for 2012 America's Beauty Show
