A Muscle Car Calendar by Mike Savage
For muscle car enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like the rumble of a V8 engine and the sight of classic American steel on display.
Muscle car fans often get together in one-off group events or car club gatherings. But these national, annual events are a must for any fan of the sport.
From coast to coast, the United States hosts numerous events celebrating these powerful machines.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to the most exciting muscle car events across the country.
Major Annual Shows
Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals (MCACN)
Location: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago, IL
Date: November 2025
Highlights: The largest indoor muscle car show in the country, featuring over 500 vehicles, including rare vintage models and concours-quality restorations
Special Features: “Barn Finds” display, restoration seminars, and celebrity appearances
Location: Carlisle Fairgrounds, Carlisle, PA
Date: July 2025
Highlights: The largest Mopar event in the world, showcasing everything from classic Chargers to modern Challengers
Special Features: Drag racing competitions, burnout contests, and swap meet
Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction
Location: WestWorld, Scottsdale, AZ
Date: January 2025
Highlights: Premier auction event featuring hundreds of collector cars
Special Features: Live TV coverage, automotive lifestyle exhibits, and manufacturer displays
Regional Drag Racing Series
Southeast Muscle Car Challenge
Location: Multiple venues across FL, GA, and AL
Schedule:
- Atlanta Dragway: June 2025
- Gainesville Raceway: August 2025
- South Georgia Motorsports Park: October 2025
Midwest Street Car Nationals
Location: Various tracks in IL, IN, and OH
Running Schedule: Monthly events from May through September 2025
Categories: Street legal muscle cars, pro street, and exhibition classes
Cruise Events and Road Tours
Hot Rod Power Tour
Date: June 2025
Route: Seven cities across the eastern United States
Features: Daily cruise events, performance demonstrations, and vendor showcases
Route 66 Mother Road Festival
Location: Springfield, IL
Date: September 2025
Highlights: Classic car cruise, burnout competition, and live entertainment
Local Car Club Events
Weekly Cruise Nights
Many cities host regular muscle car gatherings.
Some notable ones include:
- Woodward Dream Cruise (Detroit area) – Every Saturday during summer
- Bob’s Big Boy Classic Car Show (Los Angeles) – Every Friday night
- Sonic Drive-In Cruise Nights (Various locations nationwide)
Tips for Attendees
- Registration: Many major events require pre-registration. Book early as premier shows often sell out.
- Lodging: Reserve hotels well in advance, especially for multi-day events.
- Things to Bring:
- Sunscreen and water for outdoor events
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera
- Cash for vendors and food
- Folding chairs for longer events
Event Categories
Show Classes
Most major events categorize vehicles by:
- Year of manufacture
- Make and model
- Original vs. Modified
- Competition level (Street class, Pro class, etc.)
Common Competition Categories
- Best in Show
- People’s Choice
- Best Interior
- Best Paint
- Best Engine Bay
- Best Modified
- Best Original
Whether you’re a dedicated collector or simply an enthusiast, America’s muscle car events offer something for everyone. From high-stakes auctions to laid-back cruise nights, these gatherings celebrate the rich history and ongoing legacy of American muscle cars.
Remember to check event websites regularly for updates on dates, registration requirements, and special features. And always verify information with official event organizers before making travel plans.
ABOUT MIKE SAVAGE OF NEW CANAAN, CT
Michael Savage from New Canaan is the Founder of 1-800Accountant that helps businesses with their accounting services and needs through cutting-edge technology and customer support. He runs the company alongside CEO Brendon Pack.
In his spare time, he and his wife also spearhead the Savage-Rivera foundation to help impoverished families in Honduras.