Guide to Car Shows in Texas
Starting in March of 2006, Texas is the place to be for car shows. From charity events to Concours d’Elegance to antique traders to swap meets, Texas as it all, and enthusiasts from far and wide come together to talk shop and show off their engines. No expense is spared for these high-energy events, and cold beer is always available from street cart vendors. Every year, my family travels from our home in Oklahoma to Texas for the biggest events, as do many residents of Oklahoma, Arkansas, New Mexico, and Louisiana.
The 2006 schedule is proving a more exciting year for car shows than 2005, with more than twenty events already planned throughout the year. More are sure to crop up as organizations get ready to host new events and the excitement builds for car enthusiasts. Here are some of the bigger events.
10th Annual Haskell Volunteer Fire Department Car Show
Where: Haskell, TX
When: March 18, 2006; 8AM – 4PM
Cost: $20/car
More Information: Randy Shaw; haskellfdcarshow@hotmail.com; (940) 864-2023
For the tenth year in a row, the Haskell Volunteer Fire Department is hosting this radical car show to raise money for their firefighting efforts. Spectators can watch for free while car owners show off their stuff, and the local businesses open their doors with sales, clearances, and door prizes for everyone.
21st Annual Dogwood Trails Car Show
Where: Palestine, Texas
When: March 18, 2006; 10AM – 3PM
Cost: $20.00 on the day of the show; $15.00 for pre-registration
More Information: Gary Whitten; gjchevy@dctexas.net; http://www.carsofpalestine.com
The Annual Dogwood Trails festival is a big deal in Texas, and always draws an enormous crowd. The car show is held on the day of the parade, March 18, and everyone is invited to join in the fun. All cars are welcome from 1920’s models to 2000 vehicles, and there will be at least 42 awards distributed among more than 20 classes.
MotorMet Car & Bike Show
Where: Houston, Texas
When: April 8, 2006; 8AM – 4PM; The Metropolitan Baptist Church, 13000 Jones Road
Cost: $25.00/vehicle
More Information: Michael Dale; madale315@hotmail.com; www.metmen.org
The Metropolitan Baptist Church is hosting the 2nd annual MotorMet Car and Bike Show, which is anticipated to more than double its attendance from last year. Both cars and bikes are welcome, and the awards presentation will take place at 3PM. The event is free for spectators, and there will be free food and drinks for everyone attending!
Castroville’s 2nd Annual Car Show & Swap Meet
Where: Castroville, Texas
When: April 23, 2006; 9AM – 4PM
Cost: $20 for pre-registration; $25 at the gate
More Information: Betty Morales; (888) 876-7348 X 225
Just ten short miles from San Antonio, Castroville is home to the second annual Car Show & Swap Meet, which is scheduled to take place at the Reata Chevrolet-Buick-Pontiac. Vendors are welcome at a charge of $25.00/booth, and all pre-registered applicants will receive a complimentary t-shirt and cap.
Deja Blue Car Show
Where: Nacocdoches, Texas
When: June 10, 2006; 8AM – 3PM
Cost: $10/category
More Information: Ken Thompson; meandkt@cox-internet.com
This is one of Texas’ most famous car shows, and it is also one of the oldest. Featuring live bands, contests, booths, and a carnival, this is a great place to take the family for an exciting summer day.
10th Annual All Ford Classic Car & Truck Show
Where: San Antonio, Texas
When: June 25, 2006
Cost: $15 (must pre-register)
More Information: CarCruiseNites@HotMail.com; http://clubs.hemmings.com/alamochaptertexasfords/
Cruise Nights Courthouse Square
Where: Decatur, Texas
When: August 5, 2006; 4PM – 7PM
Cost: $10/exhibitor
More Information: genie@auvenshine.com; www.wcaac.com
This event always feels more for the spectator than for the exhibitor. The streets in downtown Decatur are closed to all thru traffic, and the shops stay open late for guests. It’s a big family night, and crowds of people can be seen walking around downtown, perusing the shops, and talking animatedly amongst themselves.
Super Chevy Show
Where: Marion, Texas
When: September 29 – October 1, 2006
Cost: between $45 & $75
More Information: Paul Meikle, paul@superchevyshow.com, www.superchevyshow.com, (800) 692-6230
If you love Chevy’s, then you will love this show! One of the largest car events in Texas, the Super Chevy Show has been running for 26 years this September, and will always be known for the fantastic displays of Nitro Coupes. For the entire event, spectators can pay a one-time fee of $32 and get in on all the action.
