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The 7 Must-See Car Shows In Oklahoma City, OK: 2026 Ultimate Enthusiast Guide

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Oklahoma City (OKC) is a powerhouse for automotive enthusiasts, hosting a vibrant calendar of events that range from massive international auto shows to intimate, monthly cruise-ins. As of December 26, 2025, the schedule for 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the best years yet for hot rods, classic cars, muscle machines, and the latest new models, confirming OKC's status as a major hub for car culture in the Midwest.

Whether you're looking to spend a weekend admiring custom paint jobs, searching for that rare vintage part, or simply enjoying a Saturday morning with a cup of coffee and hundreds of fellow gearheads, the Oklahoma City metro area offers a diverse lineup of automotive experiences. Get ready to mark your calendars for these essential car shows and events.

The Premier Annual Automotive Events in Oklahoma City for 2026

The OKC calendar is anchored by several major annual events that draw exhibitors and spectators from across the country. These multi-day shows are mandatory stops for any serious car enthusiast.

1. The Darryl Starbird National Rod & Custom Car Show

The name Darryl Starbird is synonymous with custom car culture, and his annual show is a historic event that has been running for over six decades. This show is the pinnacle for fans of hot rods, custom cars, and kustoms.

  • What to Expect: Hundreds of the finest custom vehicles, including many "bubble-top" show cars that Starbird is famous for, competing for major awards. It’s a true celebration of automotive artistry and craftsmanship.
  • 2026 Date: The event is typically held in February, with the 62nd Annual show scheduled for Friday, February 20, 2026, and running through the weekend.
  • Venue: Tulsa, OK, but it draws a massive crowd from the OKC metro area and is considered the region's top custom car event.
  • Topical Authority Entity: Rod & Custom Car Show, Kustoms, Bubble Tops, Darryl Starbird.

2. The OKC Auto Show at the Oklahoma State Fair

This is the largest event in the state for new car buyers and enthusiasts who want to see the latest models from major manufacturers. The OKC Auto Show is held concurrently with the annual Oklahoma State Fair, making it a massive dual attraction.

  • What to Expect: A sprawling exhibition of new cars, trucks, and SUVs from domestic and international brands. It’s a chance to sit in the newest models, compare features, and check out concept vehicles.
  • 2026 Date: The Oklahoma State Fair is scheduled for September 17-27, 2026, and the Auto Show will run throughout this period.
  • Venue: The Bennett Event Center at the OKC Fairgrounds (OKC Fair Park).
  • Topical Authority Entity: New Model Showcases, Concept Vehicles, Oklahoma State Fair, Bennett Event Center.

3. Thundertats Car Show and Expo

For those who prefer a show with a bit of a rebellious edge, the Thundertats Expo combines a car show with a tattoo convention, piercings, contests, and other entertainment. This event offers a unique blend of body art and automotive art, attracting a different crowd than the traditional shows.

  • What to Expect: A mix of custom motorcycles, unique lowriders, and highly modified vehicles alongside tattoo artists from across the region.
  • 2026 Date: The three-day pass event is scheduled for July 17-19, 2026.
  • Venue: OKC Fair Park.
  • Topical Authority Entity: Custom Motorcycles, Lowriders, Tattoo Convention, OKC Fair Park.

The Best Recurring & Specialty Car Meetups

While the annual blockbusters get the headlines, the backbone of the OKC car community is the collection of regular, community-focused meetups and specialty club events. These are perfect for getting your automotive fix year-round.

4. Cars and Coffee OKC (The Monthly Tradition)

Cars and Coffee OKC is arguably the most popular recurring car event in the metro area. It’s an informal, family-friendly gathering that takes place on the first Saturday of nearly every month, regardless of the season.

  • What to Expect: A massive, diverse turnout of everything from exotic supercars and pristine classic cars to vintage muscle cars and meticulously maintained daily drivers. The atmosphere is relaxed, focused entirely on the passion for vehicles.
  • 2026 Schedule: The event is scheduled to continue its tradition, with the January 3rd, 2026, event already on the calendar.
  • Venue: Locations rotate but frequently include large parking areas such as Remington Park or Life.Church OKC.
  • Topical Authority Entity: Exotic Supercars, Vintage Muscle Cars, Remington Park, Life.Church OKC.

5. Tri-City Cruisers Cruise In

For a classic, small-town cruise-in feel just outside the main metro area, the Tri-City Cruisers event is a favorite. This is the perfect spot to see traditional hot rods and street rods in a nostalgic setting.

  • What to Expect: A true cruise-in atmosphere, where participants park their cars and socialize. It’s a great spot for enthusiasts who love the 1950s and 60s era of American automobiles.
  • Schedule: First Saturday of each month, 6 pm - 9 pm, year-round (weather permitting).
  • Venue: Sonic/Arby's in Tri-City (Newcastle, OK).
  • Topical Authority Entity: Street Rods, Cruise-In, Tri-City Cruisers, Newcastle OK.

6. Oklahoma Mustang Club’s Hot Summer Days

While the 2025 event for the Oklahoma Mustang Club's Hot Summer Days show has passed (July 26, 2025), this annual open car show is a staple of the OKC calendar and is expected to return in late July 2026. This is the definitive show for fans of the iconic Ford Mustang.

  • What to Expect: Hundreds of Mustangs from every generation, from early models to the latest S650 chassis. The show is open to all cars, but the Mustang presence is dominant.
  • Venue: Historically held at locations like Certifit in Oklahoma City.
  • Topical Authority Entity: Ford Mustang, Oklahoma Mustang Club, Open Car Show, S650 Chassis.

7. Heartland Cruise Car Show

Affiliated with the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, the Heartland Cruise Car Show is a two-day event that celebrates the spirit of the open road and the vehicles that defined it. This event is a great draw for fans of Route 66 history and Americana.

  • What to Expect: A family-friendly event featuring a variety of automobiles, often with a focus on vehicles that would have traveled the historic Route 66. It’s a perfect blend of history and horsepower.
  • 2026 Date: Friday, June 19, 2026, to Saturday, June 20, 2026.
  • Topical Authority Entity: Route 66 Association, Heartland Cruise, Americana, Vintage Auto Shows.

Tips for Attending Oklahoma City Car Shows

Attending a car show in the OKC area is a fantastic experience, but a little preparation can make it even better. The local car scene is welcoming and passionate.

Navigating OKC Car Show Venues

Most major events are held at the OKC Fair Park complex, which includes the Bennett Event Center and surrounding parking lots. For these large shows, arrive early to secure the best parking and beat the crowds, especially for popular events like the OKC Auto Show.

Connecting with the Local Car Community

Oklahoma City has a deep bench of local clubs that host shows and cruises. Look for groups like the Central Oklahoma MOPAR Association, the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, and the Oklahoma Mustang Club. Attending a monthly Coffee and Cars OKC event is the easiest way to meet members of these communities and get the inside scoop on pop-up events and weekly cruises.

The Types of Vehicles You'll See

OKC’s car culture is incredibly diverse. You will see everything from highly specialized exotic cars and Italian supercars to American-made classic trucks and meticulously restored vintage automobiles. The emphasis on hot rods and custom vehicles, thanks to the influence of shows like Darryl Starbird's, is particularly strong in Oklahoma.

Make sure to check local listings and the websites for major organizers like the Oklahoma State Fair and the specific car clubs as the dates for late 2026 approach. The OKC car show scene is constantly evolving, but the passion for all things automotive remains a powerful, year-round draw.

The 7 Must-See Car Shows in Oklahoma City, OK: 2026 Ultimate Enthusiast Guide
car shows in oklahoma city ok
car shows in oklahoma city ok

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