Car shows, also known as “auto shows” or “motor shows,” have annually been a staple event to every gearhead, car dealer, and manufacturer. But as Covid-19 swept the nation, car shows, like virtually every other in-person event, were canceled. In the meantime, gearheads were the real winners: gaining more time to expand their car knowledge and expertise. People tinkered with car parts in their garage, purchased automotive upgrades, and restored hobbies.
Now, over two years later, car shows are back on the rise, especially here in the Grand Canyon State. At Performance Muffler, we’re true car lovers and a garage for people who “get it,” so needless to say we’ve been around the block for our fair share of car shows. That’s why we’re going to offer the current top 5 car shows in Arizona. If you’re a car show veteran or yet to attend your first show, you’ll enjoy any event on this list.
What Is a Car Show and How Does It Work?
As a brief summary, let’s establish what a car show is. A car show is a public exhibition where a large number of automobiles are featured. Some cars are classics, others are current models, and often new ideas or products are showcased. There are speakers, unveilings, walkthroughs of models, miscellaneous activities, and plenty of food. They make great events to learn about different types of cars while enjoying a fun, exciting activity.
4th Annual Hogs & Hot Rods of Arizona Show & Shine
Saturday, May 28th at 8:00 AM
1101 S. Woodland Rd. Lakeside, AZ
In this fun for the whole family show, you’re invited to “put on your grass skirts and your best Hawaiin shirt” to see all automotive make and models. Plus, there’s food and crafts along with games and music. Hogs & Hot Rods of Arizona is the organizer, and all proceeds will benefit local non-profits (which will be announced at the show) and scholarships.
5th Annual 21st Century Car Show
Saturday, June 4th at 10:00 AM
117 W. Goodwin St. Prescott, AZ
This show’s claim to fame is that it’s Arizona’s only exclusively modern automotive event organizer. It puts a modern flare on a vintage spirit with vehicles from the year 2000 and newer only. With entry, you’ll get a custom printed dash plaque, 21st century car show synch-style bag, and much more.
Marana’s Star-Spangled Spectacular Car Show
Sunday, July 3rd at 5:00 PM
7548 North Silverbell Rd. Tucson, AZ
The Star-Spangled Spectacular will make your Fourth of July weekend. More than just a car show, it includes fireworks, a splash pad, the Jesse Colt Band, OnesAll band, an instrument petting zoo, and more. This is a show for gearheads and the entire family.
CarLife Car Show at First Christian Church Scottsdale
Saturday, October 23rd at 2:00 PM
7405 E McDonald Dr. Scottsdale, AZ
Where the Car Community comes together to help those in need is the motto for this philanthropic car show. 100% of the proceeds go to Scottsdale organizations who help those in need of food, clothing, and shelter in the Scottsdale community. Other activities include kids games, food and drink sales, auction, artists-market, pumpkin sales, and more! You can learn more on First Christian Church Scottsdale’s website.
Goodguys 25th Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals
Friday, November 18th to Sunday, November 20th at 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (except on Sunday, ending at 3:00 PM)
16601 N Pima Rd. Scottsdale, AZ
Where the 25th Speedway Motors car show stands out is that it’s an entire weekend affair! Three days of fun for members and car owners or spectators. The show features over 3,000 rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and trucks through 1997, burn out competition, model/pedal car show, a kids zone, and more. Make your plans to head on out to the “Valley of Sun” in Scottsdale for this season-ending event.
Final Thoughts
With the return of in-person events and after years of staying in to work on your car, enjoy your 2022 even more by attending one (or a few) car shows. Arizona, with its beauty and reputation for the automotive stretch of Route 66, has plenty of great car shows to offer for gearheads, first timers, and families.
About Performance Muffler
Founded in 2007, Performance Muffler has been a top custom exhaust shop in the Phoenix area for 15 years. We specialize in exhaust repairs and replacements, catalytic converter services, cat-back exhaust systems, and more.
Contact us for a free quote today, or browse our blog for automotive tips and insight.