If you’re a car enthusiast, then you probably look forward to the start of the car show season. Most shows in the D.C. area are in the summer and fall, and most organizers and enthusiastic attendees bring a “rain or shine” attitude.
Much of the fun comes from taking a road trip in your own car and making the journey to a show to commune with fellow roadsters. Hot rods and classics usually make up the day’s fare, with a palpable excitement of owners proudly displaying their waxed and polished prized possessions: restored and new cars, limited edition makes and models.
To supplement your taste for cruising and viewing, here’s a comprehensive list of all the best car shows in the D. C. area you’ll want to put on this year’s calendar.
Warrenton Moose Lodge Charity Car, Truck, and Bike Show
Date: May 14
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: 6415 Colonial Road, Warrenton, Virginia
You can get into Warrenton’s Moose Lodge Car Show even if you don’t know the secret moose handshake! All you need is the love of automobiles and a charitable heart. Entry fee is $15 for all cars, but attendance is free. The show includes top trophies, prize raffles, with all proceeds going to the local charities. For questions, contact micapps@aol.com.
Greater Warrenton Chamber of Commerce 20th Annual Father’s Day Car Show
Date: June 19
Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: 70 Main Street, Suite 23, Warrenton, Virginia
After the Moose Lodge Charity Show, swing by your dad’s place and take him for a ride to Warrenton’s 20th Annual Father’s Day Car Show. The event is put on by the Chamber of Commerce, and they’re sure to make the 20th celebration a special experience for dear old dad. The show includes 22 categories of winners and a “best of show” prize. Contact the Warrenton’s Chamber for more info.
Herndon Rotary Club Classic Car Show
Date: September 11
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: 777 Lynn St, Herndon, Virginia
If you’re driving through Herndon in September, you’ll definitely want to stop by the Herndon Rotary Club Classic Car and Bike Show. The show has a long history, like the Rotary Club itself, of bringing joy to folks all around the world. Here’s a schedule of events so you can make the most of your time.
41st Edgar Rohr Memorial Antique Car Meet
Date: September 17
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William St., Manassas, Virginia
This popular antique car show has more than 50 categories for your refurbished rust bucket to compete in. There’s also a farmer’s market, flea market and barbecue from legendary vendor 29 Diner. All “antique” vehicles must be a quarter of a century older or older, so there will be tons of variety for classic cars enthusiast. People drive from all over to see these meticulously restored classics. Contact: Scott Patton (703) 474-6909 for more info.
The Rockabilly Hot Rod Rumble
Date: October 8
Time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Location: 2400 Airport Ave, Fredericksburg, Virginia
While the title alone is probably enough to entice you to attend, there’s plenty more to the Rockabilly Hot Rod Rumble, like food, vendor prizes, and rockabilly DJ for your aural delights. There are also six rockabilly bands that will play and even a pinup girl contest. The show’s takes place in the beautiful and historic town of Fredericksburg, located about 50 miles south of Washington, D.C.
Katie’s Cars and Coffee
Date: Saturdays in April through October
Time: 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Location: 760 Walker Rd, Great Falls, Virginia
That’s no typo: 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.! If you’re an early riser and want to experience a car show like no other, then make your way to Katie’s Cars and Coffee. You won’t even need a cup of java because the roar of the engines will be enough to rev yours. If you’re going to show your car, you need to be there early, or as Katie herself says, “God-awful early.” The show’s a real hoot and holler, attracting some amazing vehicles and car owners who love to share and network with their fellow enthusiasts. Think “Cheers” at a car show instead of a bar.
Washington Auto Show
Date: January 27 through February 5
Time: All day
Location: 801 Mt. Vernon Pl, Washington, D.C. Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Start 2017 off right by attending the Washington Auto Show, one of the largest auto events to come to the D.C. area. The show includes all types of cars, from luxury and exotic to hybrid and concept – a true car show for the serious-minded. Including special guests like the NFL cheerleaders and WWE superstars, it’s a must-see-to-believe event that’ll reinvigorate your love for the automobile by mixing nostalgia with the possibilities of the future.
Get to planning your road show trip now. Visit Hendrick Honda Woodbridge today to see the latest affordable and stylish models.