The car show is a summertime tradition if you love autos. Shows around America put on display the best classic cars, new innovations and sometimes a little extra oomph with rides, games and activities for the whole family to enjoy. You might say a good car show gives car lovers the ride of their life. If you’re anything like us, you’ll take a cross country escape to see a great car show.
Below we’ve collected our summer car show bucket list. Find one near you, or hop in the car for a road trip to the ultimate car destination.
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When: July 15, 2016
Where: Cocheo Park, Lompoc, CA
Why: A Texas-themed car show in California? It’s happening. An awesome car show and good BBQ are a match made in heaven. If you’ve ever wondered what a cow pie toss consists of, they have one. They even hold a silent auction where all proceeds go to Operation Kids’ Christmas. There’s no better way to enjoy a car show than with a little bit of charity.
Good Guys 29th Pacific Northwest Nationals
When: July 29 – 31, 2016
Where: Washington State Fair Events Center, Puyallup, WA
Why: There are over 2,500 classics, hot rods, custom cars and muscle cars to ogle over in this 3 day event. Plus there’s plenty for the kids, including an awesome Kid’s Zone with arts and crafts, games and a sweet model make and take where you can turn your kid into a gearhead with model car building.
Chicago RidgeFest Car & Bike Show
When: July 31, 2016
Where: Chicago Ridge Village Hall, Chicago Ridge, IL
Why: They’ve got awards galore for several awesome categories going back all the way to car’s built before 1949 till today. They didn’t forget the motorcycles either. Best part? It’s free for spectators, and there is plenty of fun for the whole family, from a carnival and food trucks for the kids to a beer garden for the adults.
Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
When: August 21, 2016
Where: The Lodge at pebble Beach, Pebble Beach, CA
Why: These cars are the cream of the crop, which is why the admittance price is the priciest on our list, coming in at $375 for general admission. Not the best choice for young kids, but if you appreciate the integrity and beauty of classic cars, this event is not to be missed.
When: August 29-20, 2016
Where: Locations throughout Detroit, MI
Why: This is the ultimate car cruise in the place American classics were built: Detroit. Although the official car show takes place in Birmingham, there are plenty of activities for the whole fam over the two day celebration. They’ve got radio broadcasts, an inflatable kid’s fun zone, street dancing, parades and more. Definitely worth the trip!
Dead Man’s Curve: The Wild Hot Rod Weekend
When: Sept 1 – 4, 2016
Where: The Sheraton Mahwah in Mahwah, NJ
Why: If you’re a fan of the pre-1972 hot rod, look no further. This weekend event is the perfect way to cool down after August. They’ll have over 25 bands performing and hot rods galore, both custom and classic. You can bring the whole family and make it a mini-vacation, since it already takes place in a hotel.
We hope we spared you some planning when lining up your car shows calendar this summer. Your favorite didn’t make the list? Let us know about it on our Facebook page. We’re always looking for a new car show to cruise by.
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