Orlando auto show opens Thanksgiving Day

Looking for something to do on Thanksgiving before or after your holiday meal?

The 2016-model Central Florida International Auto Show is open from noon until 9 p.m. at the Orange County Convention Center.

The annual show, which lasts through Sunday, features new cars, SUVs and trucks, as well as high-end exotic, classic and muscle cars and vintage motorcycles. Alternative-fuel vehicles, hybrids and electric cars also will be on display.

Fifteen manufacturers are scheduled to offer test drives outside the convention center, and visitors will be able to drive a Jeep on an off-road test track inside the building, show spokeswoman Shelbi Okumura said.

A display of emergency vehicles, including a 1929 fire engine and ladder truck from the Winter Park Fire Department, a Crimeline racing boat and an ambulance, will be featured in a “hometown heroes” area.

Drivers 16 years and older can try their hand in a go-kart-style vehicle that simulates impaired driving over an obstacle course. Police also will demonstrate field sobriety tests using special goggles, and give away free bicycle lights.

The show, sponsored by the Central Florida Auto Dealers Association, also will include a display of automotive careers and local schools that offer training.

Visitors can snap a selfie with their dream car and post it to Orlando Auto Show social-media accounts on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to be eligible to win a gift card.

Friday through Sunday, children’s activities are expected to include a mini-test track, face painting and a bungee trampoline.

On Sunday — family day — the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Sanford will visit with lizards, owls and snakes. Children 12 and younger get in free that day only when accompanied by an adult.

For more information, go autoshoworlando.com.

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