I think we can all agree that Detroit in January can look butt ugly. The first day after a snowfall is pretty. But then the traffic returns, the snow turns grey and black, and we all look miserable.

One one hand, the auto show in January does help boost business in a month where it wouldn't see as much.

However on the other, the auto show in October would bring attention to Detroit when it "looks good". April thru October is the best time to visit but I can't think of a major "anchor" festival that would bring a national or international spotlight to the city. Most of our festivals, Pride, Jazz, etc are regional and Movement while attended by people from all over the world, isn't covered in the way the auto show is.

But then again, if the Tigs make the WS eventually, as another posted mentioned, hotel space will be a major issue.