Best Car Meets and Events in the U.S. (2025 List) for Enthusiasts and Collectors

Best Car Meets and Events in the U.S. (2025 List) for Enthusiasts and Collectors

Car meets and events bring together automotive enthusiasts from every corner of the hobby—whether you’re passionate about vintage classics, cutting-edge electric vehicles, or high-performance muscle cars. The United States hosts an incredible variety of car shows and gatherings throughout 2025, ranging from massive industry expos to intimate local cruise-ins. These events offer unique opportunities to view rare automobiles, connect with fellow collectors, learn about the latest automotive technology, and immerse yourself in car culture.

From coast to coast, automotive events cater to every interest and budget. Major metropolitan shows in Detroit, Chicago, and Los Angeles showcase manufacturer debuts and concept vehicles, while specialty gatherings celebrate everything from hot rods to hypercars. Planning ahead ensures you maximize your experience, whether you’re attending as a spectator, exhibitor, or bidder.

Major Auto Shows: Industry Showcases and New Vehicle Debuts

Detroit Auto Show (North American International Auto Show)

The Detroit Auto Show kicks off the automotive year in January, maintaining its position as one of the world’s most prestigious automotive exhibitions. First held in 1907, it’s one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious auto shows, renowned for debuting iconic vehicles. The 2025 show emphasizes electric vehicle innovations and autonomous driving technology, with primary attractions including multiple world debuts from major manufacturers and an expanded electric vehicle test track.

Detroit’s rich automotive heritage makes this event particularly significant for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. The show provides an early look at what manufacturers will bring to market throughout the year, making it essential viewing for anyone serious about staying current with automotive trends.

Chicago Auto Show

The Chicago Auto Show celebrates its 116th year from February 10 to February 19, 2025. As North America’s largest auto show, the Chicago event utilizes over one million square feet of exhibition space and features an enhanced indoor test track system and expanded EV education center. The 2025 Chicago Auto Show features more than 20 of the world’s top automakers, who will show off their latest production vehicles and concept cars.

The Chicago Auto Show showcases over 1,000 vehicles alongside special events, making it an ideal destination for families and serious car buyers. The sheer scale of the exhibition means you’ll find everything from economy vehicles to exotic supercars under one roof. With a vast array of vehicles and interactive exhibits, it’s a great option for families and car enthusiasts alike.

Los Angeles Auto Show

The LA Auto Show closes out the major show calendar and continues its focus on green technology and luxury vehicles, with the 2025 event featuring an expanded zero-emission vehicle test track and new luxury vehicle pavilion. Organizers highlight L.A.’s status as the car-buying and EV capital of the United States, emphasizing the event’s longstanding history as a showcase for the latest automotive technology and its vibrant celebrity-backed car culture.

Los Angeles represents the perfect venue for electric vehicle debuts and luxury brand showcases, given the region’s affluent demographics and progressive environmental policies. The show typically takes place in late November, providing a West Coast bookend to the automotive show season.

Premier Classic and Collector Car Events

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is an annual automotive event held on the Pebble Beach Golf Links in Pebble Beach, California, widely considered the most prestigious car show in the world and the pinnacle Concours d’Elegance competition worldwide. The 74th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance was on August 17, 2025, with the 75th anniversary event scheduled for August 16, 2026.

This year, 229 cars—including 55 international entries from 22 countries and 174 US entries from 31 states—pulled onto the competition field. A Concours d’Elegance is an event open to both prewar and postwar collector cars in which they are judged for authenticity, function, history, and style, with classes commonly arranged by type, marque, coachbuilder, country of origin, or time period.

Many collectors spend years and hundreds of thousands of dollars purchasing and restoring a car in hopes of being chosen to participate. The event is part of Monterey Car Week, which includes multiple auctions, driving tours, and related automotive celebrations throughout the Monterey Peninsula. From August 14 through 17, the Monterey Peninsula will again be the epicenter of automotive enthusiasm.

Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance

Held in March, the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance is a prestigious event that showcases the elegance and artistry of rare and classic automobiles, with the picturesque setting and charitable focus making it a unique and worthwhile experience. The Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance is a showcase of more than 300 classic and exotic cars from around the world, set against the backdrop of the luxurious Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island, with activities including auctions, vehicle showcases, and driving courses.

This East Coast concours has built a reputation for celebrating automotive history while maintaining an approachable atmosphere. The event attracts serious collectors and casual enthusiasts alike, offering a more intimate alternative to the larger West Coast gatherings.

Barrett-Jackson Auctions

Barrett-Jackson, The World’s Greatest Collector Car Auctions, hosts its annual Scottsdale Auction, January 18-26 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. Welcoming over 500,000 attendees per year, Barrett-Jackson produces live collector car auctions in Scottsdale, Arizona; Palm Beach, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; and New Orleans, Louisiana.

The Palm Beach auction runs April 24-26, 2025, while Barrett-Jackson’s Scottsdale Fall Auction takes place October 15-18. These events combine high-stakes auctions with automotive lifestyle experiences, including thrill rides, exhibitor marketplaces, and live entertainment. Barrett-Jackson features live television coverage of their events on FYI and The HISTORY Channel, as well as all the cars, all the time via their produced livestream.

At the 2023 Scottsdale Auction, Barrett-Jackson achieved an impressive milestone: surpassing the $150-million mark raised for various charitable causes, with every dollar generated from the sale of charity cars going directly to the designated organizations as Barrett-Jackson waives all fees and commissions.

Enthusiast and Specialty Events

SEMA Show

The SEMA Show will take place from November 4-7, 2025 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Specialty Equipment Market Association show remains the ultimate event for automotive customization and aftermarket innovations, with the 2025 show featuring expanded electric vehicle modification exhibits and new pavilions dedicated to advanced driver assistance systems modifications.

The SEMA Show is one of the largest trade shows in the world, with about 160,000 industry attendees from around the world, with about eight out of 10 attendees coming from the US and the rest being international attendees from over 140 countries. There will be over 2,200 exhibitors displaying at the show, with all halls combined having 4.6 million square feet of exhibit space.

The SEMA Show is a trade-only event and only open to the general public on Friday, November 6th. The 2025 SEMA Fest lineup features Queens of the Stone Age, The Black Crowes and Neon Trees as well as pulse pounding automotive features, taking place Friday, November 7 in the Bronze Lot of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association Events

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, the world’s largest hot-rodding association, produces 15 events spanning across the country to bring America’s Favorite Car Show back to many of the same premium venues and markets as 2024. Goodguys bookends their 42nd season at WestWorld of Scottsdale in Arizona by kicking off with the 15th FiTech Fuel Injection Nationals presented by Grundy Insurance on March 14-16 and ending the season on November 21-23 with the 28th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals.

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association is the world’s largest hot rodding association with over 70,000 active members worldwide, with events featuring thousands of candy colored hot rods and customs, tricked out trucks, mighty muscle cars and regal classics sprawled throughout venues such as lush fairgrounds, super speedways and large outdoor stadiums.

Key 2025 Goodguys events include the Del Mar Nationals (April 4-6), Nashville Nationals (May 16-18), Summit Racing Nationals in Columbus (July 11-13), and the West Coast Nationals in Pleasanton (August 22-24). Goodguys’ popular three-event summer swing commences the 4th of July weekend in Des Moines, Iowa, for the 34th Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals and includes a spectacular Saturday night fireworks display.

Woodward Dream Cruise

Woodward Dream Cruise in Detroit, MI is the world’s largest one-day automotive event, during which more than 1 million people flock to view 50,000 classic cars, originating as a small fundraiser event in the mid-90s and now evolved into a massive appreciation event for classic car culture and the Detroit Automotive Scene. This year’s event takes place on August 16th 2025.

The world’s largest one-day automotive event spans 16 miles of historic Woodward Avenue, with the 2025 event anticipating over 40,000 classic cars and more than 1.5 million attendees, with new additions including expanded entertainment zones and manufacturer showcase areas. The cruise celebrates Detroit’s automotive heritage and American muscle car culture with a festival atmosphere featuring live music, food, and entertainment.

Hot August Nights

Hot August Nights in Reno Nevada is a week long automotive festival and beloved local tradition, with the event being a celebration of classic cars that evokes feelings of nostalgia and leans into rock ‘n’ roll culture, running since 1986 and featuring car cruises, drag race events, and live entertainment. This year’s event runs from August 1st through the 10th, with the grand finale closing ceremonies on the 10th.

There are auctions, meet and greets, a swap meet, drag races, and competitive car showings all week long. The event attracts vintage hot rod and muscle car enthusiasts from across the country, creating a nostalgic celebration of 1950s and 1960s automotive culture combined with period-appropriate music and entertainment.

What to Expect at Car Events: Features and Experiences

Judging, Awards, and Competitions

Most car shows feature judged competitions where experts evaluate vehicles based on originality, authenticity, restoration quality, and historical accuracy. Award categories vary by event but typically include Best of Show, Best in Class, and People’s Choice awards. At concours events, judging is particularly rigorous, with teams of specialists examining every detail of a vehicle’s presentation.

Competitions add excitement and prestige to events. Owners invest considerable time and resources preparing their vehicles for judging, and winning a major award can significantly increase a car’s value and the owner’s reputation within the collector community. Many events also feature custom build competitions, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of professional builders and passionate hobbyists.

Vendor Marketplaces and Swap Meets

Car events typically feature extensive vendor areas where you can purchase automotive parts, accessories, tools, memorabilia, and collectibles. These marketplaces range from professional retailers showcasing the latest products to individual sellers offering rare vintage parts and barn-find treasures. Swap meets provide opportunities to find hard-to-locate components for restoration projects at negotiable prices.

Beyond parts, vendor areas often include automotive art, apparel, detailing products, and lifestyle merchandise. Many vendors are knowledgeable enthusiasts themselves, happy to share advice on restoration techniques, maintenance tips, and product recommendations. Food vendors and concessions ensure you won’t go hungry during long days of exploring.

Interactive Experiences and Entertainment

Modern car events offer much more than static displays. Many shows feature test drive opportunities, allowing attendees to experience new vehicles firsthand. Thrill rides with professional drivers provide adrenaline-pumping experiences in high-performance vehicles. Autocross competitions, drag racing exhibitions, and driving demonstrations add dynamic elements to the festivities.

Family-friendly activities make these events accessible to all ages. Kids’ zones, live music, celebrity appearances, and educational exhibits ensure there’s entertainment beyond the automobiles. Raffles and charity auctions support worthy causes while giving attendees chances to win prizes. Evening events, parties, and networking opportunities allow enthusiasts to connect in social settings.

Planning Your Visit: Essential Tips for Attendees

Registration and Ticketing

Most major car events require advance registration, whether you’re attending as a spectator, exhibitor, or bidder. Popular events like the Detroit Auto Show, Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, and SEMA often sell out or have limited tickets, especially for exclusive exhibits and auctions. Early registration often provides cost savings and access to special perks like VIP experiences, guided tours, or exclusive viewing hours.

If you’re planning to display your vehicle, research eligibility requirements carefully. Many shows have specific criteria regarding vehicle age, condition, and type. Application deadlines can be months in advance, particularly for prestigious concours events. Registration fees vary widely depending on the event type and your level of participation.

Accommodation and Travel

Major car shows often attract thousands of attendees, which means hotels and other accommodations fill up quickly. Book lodging as early as possible, especially for events in smaller markets or during peak tourist seasons. Consider staying slightly outside the immediate event area for better rates and availability, but verify transportation options to the venue.

If you’re transporting a vehicle to an event, plan logistics well in advance. Professional auto transport services can safely deliver collector cars to shows, particularly valuable or non-running vehicles. For drivable cars, many enthusiasts organize group cruises to events, turning the journey into part of the experience. Verify parking arrangements at the venue, as some locations charge fees or have limited space.

What to Bring and Wear

Prepare for long days on your feet by wearing comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Outdoor events require sun protection including hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, though most venues have water stations and beverage vendors. Many events have clear bag policies for security, so check restrictions before packing.

Bring cash for vendors who may not accept cards, though most major events are increasingly cashless. A portable phone charger ensures you can capture photos and access event apps throughout the day. If you’re serious about photography, verify camera policies, as some events restrict professional equipment or video recording. Bring business cards if you’re networking, and consider a small notebook for jotting down information about vehicles or contacts.

Maximizing Your Experience

Arrive early to beat crowds and secure good parking. Many events offer special early-entry tickets that provide quieter viewing conditions and better photography opportunities. Download event apps for schedules, maps, and real-time updates on activities. Prioritize must-see vehicles or exhibits, but leave time for spontaneous discoveries.

Respect event rules and vehicle owners. Never touch cars without permission, stay behind barriers, and follow photography guidelines. If you’re interested in a particular vehicle, politely approach the owner during appropriate times—many enthusiasts enjoy discussing their cars. Take breaks to rest and refuel; trying to see everything without pacing yourself leads to exhaustion and diminished enjoyment.

Network with fellow enthusiasts by striking up conversations and exchanging contact information. Car events attract people with diverse knowledge and connections who can become valuable resources. Attend seminars, panel discussions, and special presentations to deepen your automotive knowledge. Many events offer educational content that’s as valuable as the vehicle displays.

Regional and Local Car Meets

Beyond major national events, countless regional and local car meets occur throughout the year. These grassroots gatherings often take place in parking lots, parks, or community spaces, providing accessible entry points for newcomers to car culture. Local cruise-ins, Cars and Coffee events, and brand-specific meetups create regular opportunities to connect with nearby enthusiasts.

Regional shows often focus on specific themes or marques. VW and Audi gatherings, Mustang clubs, Corvette conventions, and import tuner meets cater to particular automotive subcultures. These specialized events foster tight-knit communities where participants share technical knowledge, parts sources, and modification ideas. The informal atmosphere encourages participation from enthusiasts at all experience levels.

Many cities host weekly or monthly cruise nights during warmer months. These casual gatherings require no registration or fees—simply show up with your vehicle and enjoy the camaraderie. Local car clubs organize charity drives, poker runs, and group cruises that combine automotive passion with community service. Check social media, automotive forums, and local club websites to discover events in your area.

Emerging Trends in Car Events for 2025

Electric Vehicle Integration: Every major show has significantly expanded its electric vehicle presence, reflecting the market’s continued shift toward electrification. Manufacturers are using car shows to debut new EV models, showcase charging infrastructure, and educate consumers about electric mobility. Dedicated EV pavilions and test drive opportunities allow attendees to experience the latest battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Autonomous vehicle technology features prominently at 2025 events, with demonstrations of advanced driver assistance systems and fully autonomous prototypes. Interactive exhibits explain the sensors, software, and artificial intelligence powering self-driving capabilities. As these technologies transition from concept to production, car shows provide crucial public education and hands-on experiences.

Sustainability initiatives are increasingly visible at automotive events. Organizers are implementing eco-friendly practices including waste reduction, renewable energy, and carbon offset programs. Shows highlight sustainable materials, manufacturing processes, and lifecycle considerations. This reflects both industry priorities and consumer interest in environmental responsibility.

Digital integration enhances the physical event experience. Augmented reality displays, virtual vehicle configurators, and interactive touchscreens provide immersive ways to explore vehicles and technology. Event apps offer personalized schedules, navigation, and social features. Live streaming and social media integration extend event reach beyond physical attendees, creating global communities around local gatherings.

Industry and Professional Events

While consumer-focused shows dominate the calendar, industry professionals have dedicated events for networking, education, and business development. The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Show is a flagship event for dealership professionals, with workshops, keynote speakers, and a massive expo floor where attendees can gain insights into the latest industry trends, innovative dealership technologies, and best practices for business growth.

Trade shows focus on specific industry segments including collision repair, automotive aftermarket, fleet management, and commercial vehicles. These events provide opportunities to discover new products, negotiate supplier relationships, and stay current with regulatory changes. Educational sessions cover topics from digital marketing to service department efficiency.

Many industry events are closed to the general public, requiring professional credentials for admission. However, some offer limited public access days or enthusiast programs. If you’re considering an automotive career or business, attending industry events provides valuable insights into the commercial side of car culture.

Making the Most of Car Event Season

The 2025 automotive event calendar offers unprecedented variety and accessibility. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of concours competitions, the energy of hot rod gatherings, the innovation of industry shows, or the community of local meets, there’s an event perfectly suited to your interests. Strategic planning allows you to experience multiple events throughout the year, building connections and deepening your automotive knowledge.

Consider creating an annual event calendar highlighting your must-attend shows. Balance major destination events with local gatherings to maintain engagement without breaking the budget. Join clubs and online communities to stay informed about new events and last-minute opportunities. Many enthusiasts plan vacations around major car weeks, combining automotive passion with travel and leisure.

If you own a collector or custom vehicle, consider participating as an exhibitor. Displaying your car provides recognition for your efforts, opportunities to share your knowledge, and connections with fellow owners. The preparation process—detailing, documentation, and presentation—deepens your appreciation for your vehicle and the broader automotive community.

Car events serve multiple purposes beyond entertainment. They preserve automotive history by celebrating classic vehicles and the craftspeople who restore them. They drive innovation by showcasing emerging technologies and design directions. They build communities by connecting people who share automotive passion. And they inspire the next generation of enthusiasts, engineers, and entrepreneurs who will shape the future of mobility.

As you explore the diverse landscape of American car culture in 2025, remember that every event—from the most prestigious concours to the humblest parking lot gathering—contributes to the rich tapestry of automotive enthusiasm. The vehicles are spectacular, but the people, stories, and shared experiences make these events truly memorable. Get out there, explore new shows, revisit old favorites, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of automotive events.

External Resources for Car Enthusiasts

For comprehensive information about automotive history and collector car values, visit the Hagerty Drivers Club, which offers valuation tools, insurance, and extensive editorial content. The Hemmings Motor News provides classifieds, event calendars, and resources for classic car enthusiasts. For technical information and restoration guidance, SEMA offers industry research and educational materials. Automotive journalism from Car and Driver and Road & Track keeps you informed about new vehicles, industry trends, and event coverage throughout the year.