What To Know About Entering Your First Classic Car Show

A classic car show is an excellent opportunity to showcase your beloved vintage vehicle, meet other car enthusiasts, and even win some prize money! Our guide below explains the key things you need to know about entering your first classic car show.

Clean It Inside and Out

A classic car show is the time for your vintage vehicle to shine—literally and figuratively. You can’t show up to a classic car gathering with a dusty or smudged car, so now’s the time to clean it as thoroughly as possible.

Judges will evaluate your car by its appearance inside and out, so don’t forget to polish the upholstery and dashboard. It’s also wise to bring cleaning supplies with you to the show in case you spot a fingerprint smudge or dust accumulating on your vehicle’s pristine paint job.

Consider Transportation to the Show

Classic car owners can’t overlook getting their model to the car show, either. While you can drive it to the show, you’ll want to arrange some transportation for the vintage vehicle if you want to keep its appearance as fresh and clean as possible.

A trailer is a solid and affordable option, but ensure you have a solid cover over the vehicle to protect it. Better yet, an enclosed trailer offers the best protection from the elements and is the most secure if you’ll be traveling a great distance.

Familiarize Yourself With the Show’s Schedule

It’s best to know the event’s schedule inside and out when entering your first classic car show. What time does the show begin, and what time do entrants have to be there?

All the other entrants, judges, and things going on can feel overwhelming for newcomers when you arrive at your first show, so having a thorough understanding of the show and where you and your car need to be can make things much easier.

Getting there early is also best to give yourself more time to set up your car and familiarize yourself with the registration process and event details. Ask someone you know—a fellow classic car club member, an auto enthusiast friend—for any tips they have for a new car show entrant.

Share Your Story and Engage With Other Enthusiasts

Once you’re finally at the car show and the event has begun, ensure you engage with fellow attendees, owners, and enthusiasts. After all, the whole point of a car show is for classic car enthusiasts to gather and share stories and admire each other’s handiwork.

Bring before and after pictures and documentation to show your work if you’ve restored your car. The car is your pride and joy—now’s the time to share that passion with other like-minded car lovers!

Find Show-Worthy Cars at Ideal Classic Cars

Ideal Classic Cars can help if you want to add to your collection or finally find a classic car worthy of bringing to a show! Our selection of custom classic cars spans all eras of automotive history with models worldwide. Browse our inventory online or stop by our showroom for the ideal classic car.