The year 2025 is set to be an exhilarating time for hot rod enthusiasts, with a diverse array of events scheduled across the United States. From the historic streets of Detroit to the sun-soaked avenues of California, these gatherings celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant culture of hot rodding. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, these events offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of custom cars, innovative designs, and passionate communities. Mark your calendars and prepare to experience the artistry and engineering that define the hot rod scene in 2025.
Here are some of the top hot rod events to look forward to:
Grand National Roadster Show
Dates: January 31 – February 2, 2025
Location: Pomona, California
Celebrating its 75th anniversary, this is the world's longest-running indoor car show, featuring over 500 show vehicles competing for awards, including the prestigious America's Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) award.
Detroit Autorama
Dates: February 28 – March 2, 2025
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Known as 'America's Greatest Hot Rod Show,' Detroit Autorama showcases custom cars and hot rods and is home to the esteemed Don Ridler Memorial Award, presented to the best in show.
Goodguys 15th FiTech Fuel Injection Spring Nationals
Dates: March 14 – 16, 2025
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Part of the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association's 2025 event schedule, this show features a wide array of hot rods, customs, classics, and muscle cars, along with vendor exhibits and live entertainment.
Hot Rod Power Tour 2025
Dates: June 7 – 13, 2025
Location: Various cities across the USA
An annual road trip that brings together thousands of hot rod enthusiasts, featuring a week-long journey through multiple states with car shows, drag races, and live music at each stop.
Goodguys 27th Summit Racing Nationals
Dates: July 11 – 13, 2025
Location: Columbus, Ohio
One of the largest events in the Goodguys calendar, showcasing over 6,000 hot rods, customs, classics, and muscle cars, along with autocross competitions and a massive swap meet.
Hot August Nights
Dates: August 3 – 10, 2025
Location: Reno, Nevada
A week-long celebration of classic cars and rock 'n' roll, featuring car parades, drag races, live music, and hundreds of classic cars on display throughout the city.
Goodguys 38th West Coast Nationals
Dates: August 22 – 24, 2025
Location: Pleasanton, California
Known as the 'Crown Jewel' of Goodguys events, this show features thousands of hot rods, customs, classics, and muscle cars, along with vendor exhibits, swap meets, and live entertainment.
Goodguys 24th Meguiar’s Del Mar Nationals
Dates: April 4 – 6, 2025
Location: Del Mar, California
This event showcases a vast array of hot rods, customs, classics, and muscle cars, along with vendor exhibits, swap meets, and live entertainment.
Goodguys 19th BASF Nashville Nationals
Dates: May 16 – 18, 2025
Location: Lebanon, Tennessee
Held at the Nashville Superspeedway, this event features thousands of vehicles, autocross competitions, and a variety of automotive attractions.
MSRA Back to the 50’s
Dates: June 20-22, 2025
Location: St. Paul, Minnesota
The premiere event in Minnesota for over 50 years the Minnesota Street Rod Association hosts 10,000 plus participants covering the entire Minnesota State Fairgrounds.
Goodguys 34th Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals
Dates: July 4 – 6, 2025
Location: Des Moines, Iowa
One of the largest events in the Goodguys calendar, featuring over 4,000 hot rods, customs, classics, and muscle cars, along with live entertainment and a fireworks show.
Goodguys 27th Griot’s Garage Colorado Nationals
Dates: September 5 – 7, 2025
Location: Loveland, Colorado
This event showcases a wide variety of vehicles, autocross competitions, and a large swap meet, set against the