CHICAGO - Chicago's McCormick Place will host the Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show Wednesday through Jan. 18.

Billed as the largest show of its kind in the Midwest, expect hundreds of boats and RVs to be on display. With the economic downturn in full swing, visitors should expect some deals, too.

The show also hosts specialty booths manned by dealers selling marine accessories and agents ready to book your travel plans.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association produces the annual Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoors Show. NMMA is the leading association representing the $37.5 billion per year recreational boating industry.

According to NMMA, its member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, accessories and gear used by boaters and anglers in the U.S.

"In its 79th year, the Chicago Boat, RV & Outdoor Show continues to provide visitors with the unique opportunity in the middle of winter to experience all the outdoors has to offer and gear up for summer fun," said show manager Keith Ogulnick. "Whether you come to view the latest products, or take advantage of the family friendly features, this five-day event showcases hundreds of retailers and manufacturers under one roof offering the best bargains of the season."

As a sign of the times, the show is implementing an Affordability Pavilion to showcase examples of pontoons, fishing boats, runabouts, bowriders and a wide selection of RVs that can be financed for $300 or less per month. Organizers are aware three out of four boat owners have household incomes under $100,000. More than nine out of 10 boats on the water are 26 feet long or less.

"When you break down the costs associated with boating and RVing, most people are surprised to learn that both are affordable and convenient activities to connect with your family and friends," Ogulnick said. "Creating memories on the road and water is achievable for most budgets, and this show provides a great opportunity for visitors to get the best deals we've seen in years."

Giveaways include a Discover Boating branded water bottle to the first 150 adults to enter the show on Thursday, which is Discover Boating Day; free coffee mugs to the first 150 on Friday, Marquis Yachts Day; free Gulp plastic Minnow Power Baits and a spool of fishing line to the first 200 children ages 18 and younger on Saturday, Berkley Day; and a free Water Saving Shower Timer to the first 2,300 adults on Jan. 18, which is Shedd Aquarium Day.

Enter to win boats, a kayak, sailing classes on Lake Michigan or a wakeboarding package.

In addition to the Affordability Pavilion, a new feature is the Green Boating Zone, which will offer eco-friendly boating tips, best practices and technologies.

Miss GEICO, the world's fastest offshore racing boat, will be displayed. The catamaran can reach speeds up to 185 mph.

Compete in the Power Boat Docking Challenge where contestants maneuver radio-controlled boats.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 18. The location is McCormick Place North Building.

Adult admission is $10. Children 13-15 are $4. Children 12 and younger are admitted free.

For more information about the NMMA, visit www.NMMA.org.