January officially signals the start of boat show season, and for watercraft enthusiasts, it’s one of the best ways to get a firsthand look at what’s coming in the new year. Yamaha recently reminded fans that Discover Boating has events lined up across the country, making it easy to see the newest WaveRunners, ask questions, and get a feel for the 2026 lineup.
Boat shows are more than just a chance to ogle the latest models—they’re an opportunity. If you’re in the market for a new WaveRunner, or just curious about what’s new, shows let you compare models side by side in a no-pressure environment. Many dealers attending these events also bring leftover units from the previous model year, often with enticing discounts. Even if you’re not planning to buy, you can climb aboard, test the ergonomics, and see what changes Yamaha and other manufacturers have made.
The 2026 season promises to be exciting. Yamaha isn’t alone: other manufacturers are expected to unveil updates to their personal watercraft lines, giving visitors a sneak peek at performance tweaks, tech upgrades, and styling changes. It’s a chance to see, feel, and interact with models before they hit dealer floors, which is invaluable for anyone making a serious purchasing decision—or just dreaming about their next adventure on the water.
Here’s a snapshot of the January schedule for those ready to plan their first show:
Early January
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Boston, MA — Jan 7–11
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Charlotte County, FL — Jan 8–11
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Atlanta, GA — Jan 8–11
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Oklahoma — Jan 9–11
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Daytona, FL — Jan 9–11
Mid-January
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Cleveland, OH — Jan 15–18
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St. Petersburg, FL — Jan 15–18
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Stuart, FL — Jan 16–18
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Huntsville, AL — Jan 17–19
Late January
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New York, NY — Jan 21–25
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Minneapolis, MN — Jan 22–25
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Chicagoland, IL — Jan 22–25
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Cincinnati, OH — Jan 23–25 & Jan 28–Feb 1
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Chicago, IL — Jan 28–Feb 1
For full 2026 boat show guides and detailed schedules, Discover Boating has you covered: Atlanta Boat Show Guide | 2026 Boat Shows Guide
Whether you’re hunting for a deal on last year’s model, comparing the newest technology, or just soaking in the watercraft atmosphere, boat shows are a great way to kick off the year.
