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10 Best Auto Shows in North Carolina!

nc auto shows

North Carolina’s auto shows attract hundreds of thousands of car spectators, collectors, and enthusiasts who enjoy viewing spectacular displays of interesting automobiles of all types. These auto shows feature a diverse assortment of vehicle makes and models from the latest to vintage classics. There’s no shortage of fine automobiles and family-friendly fun at North Carolina’s best auto shows, which feature activities like cruise-ins, swap meets, and more.


Charlotte AutoFair, Monroe, NC

The Charlotte Auto Fair is held at the Charlotte Motor Speedway and draws in over 150,000 over this four day show. This famous event has been thrilling car collectors and enthusiasts for over 35 years each April and September. There’s a collector car flea market, car corral, and so much to explore at this beloved event.

North Carolina International Auto Expo, Raleigh, NC

Held at the Raleigh Convention Center each September, the North Carolina International Auto Expo is a three-day event displaying the newest cars, trucks, and SUVs in all makes and models. This exciting event attracts thousands of attendees who desire to experience the latest in automotive technology, test drive new vehicles, and speak with manufacturer’s reps.

Highlands Motoring Festival, Highlands, NC

The Highlands Motoring Festival is a four-day event showcasing classic cars at a summer resort village. Held each June this beloved festival features seven events including a parade, two curated drives, two car shows, and evening social events. It’s the must-visit summer destination for classic car enthusiasts.

GoodGuys Car Show, Raleigh, NC

This Goodguys Car Show is a three-day event held at the State Fairgrounds each April. Spectators gather to check the finest rides in the Carolina’s and beyond. This fantastic show features over 2,000 rods, classics, customs, muscle cars, and trucks through ’97. There’s also a burn out competition, swap meet, and activities for all ages.

Lowrider Times C.C. Car Show, Pittsboro, NC

All makes and models are welcome at the Lowrider Times C.C. Car Show, held at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center. This annual car show offers a competition, vendors, live stage music performance, and more in a family-friendly atmosphere. Bring your ride and check out the other cars!

Hot Nights Cool Rides Car Show, Forest City, NC

For over 30 years, the Hot Nights Cool Rides Car Show has been held in the town of Forest City. This outdoor auto event takes place in August and features a free cruise-in and concert on Main Street, which closes down for everyone but show cars. Attendees can also enjoy food from truck vendors and Main Street restaurants. There’s also a trophy ceremony held for the award-winning vehicles.

British Car Show, Dobson, NC

The British Car Show is known for having the largest display of vintage British automobiles in the Southeast. Held on the grounds of Shelton Vineyards, this unique show features a display of more than 200 vehicles including Jaguars, Austin Healeys, MG's, Bentleys, Triumphs, and more. Spectators are welcome to bring lawn chairs or blankets, sip some wine, and enjoy the beautiful cars.

Winter Volksfest, Raleigh, NC

The Winter Volksfest is an indoor car show and swap meet featuring over 200 Volkswagen show cars and dozens of vendors. It takes place at the NC State Fairgrounds in conjunction with the Southeast Eurofest. Show participants enjoy camping and RV hookups plus complimentary goodies.

Hot Nights Hot Cars Cruise-In, Pilot Mountain, NC

Each month from September to October, the Hot Nights Hot Cars Cruise-In’s provide old-fashioned family-friendly fun with an open street cruise-in, food and beverages, and world-class live beach music entertainment in downtown Pilot Mountain. These events are free and offer 50/50 cash drawings, local wines from nearby vineyards, and plenty of opportunities to mingle with car enthusiasts.

Emerald Isle Car Show, Emerald Isle, NC

The Emerald Isle Car Show features over 100 vehicles of all years, makes, and models on display at the Western Ocean Regional Access in Emerald Isle. This family-friendly event is free to attend and helps benefit the local police department’s “Shop With A Cop” initiative. There’s trophy awards, raffles, and live music at this special event.

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