The Chicago Auto Show is back. The 2021 Summer Edition is a bit different. Running for five days at McCormick Place West and adjacent Indiana Avenue, it is slightly condensed in duration and size but not in excitement. Since the 2020 CAS was the last major auto show last year, it is fitting the 2021 CAS Summer Edition is one of the first to return.

Debuting in 1901 and produced by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association since 1935, the CAS is the largest auto show and has run more times than any other show in North America. Even with this slightly scaled-down version, it still occupies 500,000 square feet at McCormick Place West, with another 100,000 square feet of exhibits, test drives and more outside.

The 2021 CAS Media Preview started with an outdoor breakfast featuring Connie’s Pizza, Andy’s Frozen Custard and Smoke Daddy. The Freddie Dixon Blues Band created a lively vibe with their tunes. I talked automobiles with media members and show officials while enjoying a beautiful morning.

From there we were escorted around the show floor. Media Day was a bit more rigidly structured than usual. While we did not have freedom to wander on our own, there were several organized presentations. We still had the chance to talk to automobile company representatives.

There was an incredible vibe throughout the day. The outdoor element is a fun addition not very practical for the usual wintertime show. I have never seen media folks happier. The 2021 CAS seems to signify the long-awaited return to normalcy. I had such fun, I plan on returning this weekend with friends.

— John Wroblewski, writer