Heritage & Horsepower

The 5 Top Car Shows in Texas You Don't Want to Miss

Written by HotRod Collection | Jul 28, 2025 2:00:00 PM

From legendary nationals to community-driven cruise-ins, Texas consistently delivers events that thrill serious collectors, passionate drivers, and automotive enthusiasts alike. Mark your calendar, fuel up your ride, and get ready for these can't-miss shows!

Yellow Rose Classic Car Show 

Arlington (Aug 9–10, 2025)

Held at the Arlington Expo Center, the Yellow Rose Classic is a two-day showcase celebrating classic American automobiles, muscle cars, and collector-grade rides from the ’50s through the late ’80s. This event attracts both local collectors and serious buyers with a vendor row, live music, and meticulously judged trophy awards.

Pistons at the Park

Austin (Aug 3, 2025)

Set on Austin’s scenic greenbelt, Pistons at the Park offers an engaging blend of traditional hot rods, custom builds, and vintage cars. It’s as much a community festival as a car show, featuring local bands, food trucks, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for connecting with fellow enthusiasts and collectors.

Hot Rod Night at Top Notch

Hutto (Aug 9, 2025)

Hosted at the famous Top Notch Hamburgers, this monthly meet-up shines a spotlight on local hot rods and custom builds under iconic neon lights. The laid-back, evening atmosphere is perfect for casual networking and enjoying classic Americana with a side of burgers and shakes.

Goodguys 32nd Summit Racing Lone Star Nationals

Fort Worth (Sept 26–28, 2025)

This premier automotive event at Texas Motor Speedway brings together over 2,500 investment-grade hot rods, muscle cars, street rods, and custom builds from across the country. With attractions like autocross competitions, drag racing exhibitions, extensive vendor midways, and high-energy entertainment, this is a marquee weekend for collectors and builders alike.

Classic & Culture Cruisin’ Sundays

Fort Worth (4th Sunday monthly)

Held at Streetside Classics, Classic & Culture Cruisin’ Sundays offer collectors and casual enthusiasts a chance to enjoy a curated selection of classic and exotic rides in a relaxed environment. It’s a perfect low-pressure meet-up for networking, casual car talk, and exploring potential additions to your collection.

Why These Matter for Collectors & Enthusiasts

  • Regional Reach: Events stretch from Austin’s vibrant streets to Fort Worth’s bustling hubs, attracting serious builders and collectors statewide.

  • Collector-Grade Quality: Premier shows like Goodguys Nationals feature some of the nation’s rarest and highest-quality classic and performance cars.

  • Community Connections: Smaller shows offer intimate settings ideal for building relationships and spotting potential investment vehicles.

Final Gear Check 

  • Prep your ride! Shine that chrome, check the tire pressure, sync your playlist!

  • Book lodging early, especially for big events in Arlington and Fort Worth.

  • Go ready: photos, business cards, collector’s eye, and maybe a swap‑meet deal or two.

Curious about custom builds? Want help buying, selling, trading before these events? HotRod Collection TX–FL–AZ has you covered: we own every vehicle outright, cherry‑picked for collector quality. No consignment hassle, just premium classic cars ready to cruise into their next chapter.

Got a garage full of greatness? Let’s talk. Call or text 802‑HOT‑RODS (802‑468‑7637) We buy cool cars and collections.