RIDE-CT – Classic Cars Celebrating Classic Cars in Connecticut
HARWINTON, CT – This morning was a bit atypical as six shows were added to the 2026 Car Show Calendar on RIDE-CT. The usual number of daily additions is maybe only one or two. With the end of the car show season on the horizon, though, last minute entries are being added at growing pace. Keeping up has become an increasing challenge. Heck, one show that got added to the calendar today happened yesterday. It somehow snuck past me.
The goal here is to compile the most comprehensive list of car shows, cruises and other car events in the state,. The response to that effort has been positive this year with nearly 100,000 views, according to Google Analytics. That certainly suggests that the goal is being attained. Thanks to everyone who has helped spread the word about the calendar.
As of of this morning, a total of 366 car shows have or will have been staged across the state by the time classic cars get put away for winter. That’s a close approximation as some small, inadequately promoted shows inevitably get overlooked. Regardless, that give or take number of 365 shows certainly has to be a record.
And more shows will no doubt be added in the remaining days and weeks of the car show season.
What was especially noticeable while doing this morning’s update, which saw two shows being added on Sept. 13, was that Sept. 13 date. It now ranks as the busiest car show day of the year with 15 shows scheduled. There are shows everywhere from Brooklyn to Thomaston, Deep River to Newtown, and Ellington to West Haven. Add in shows on Sept. 11 and 12 and the weekend total hits 19.
The next weekend is even busier with 20 shows – nine on Sept. 19 and 11 on Sept. 20.
The unanswered question isn’t what the year-end show total will be, rather what’s breaking point for owners? Is there a limit to how many shows can be accommodated before interest starts to slacken?
(Car show photos by Bud Wilkinson.)
Updated at 11:30 a.m. on Sept. 5.
