Stories
May 28, 2026
Know Before You Go: Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show Returns June 6
The 2026 Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show returns Saturday, June 6, bringing a full day of vintage vehicles, live music, the Farmers Market and family-friendly fun to downtown. Whether you’re a longtime car enthusiast or just looking for a fun Saturday outing, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Event Details
The Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Vandergriff Town Center in the heart of Downtown Arlington. Admission is free and open to the public.
Visitors can expect an impressive lineup of classic and antique vehicles from across the decades, including restored cruisers, custom builds and timeless showpieces. Awards for Top 10 vehicles, Mayor’s Choice, People’s Choice and other specialty categories will be presented at 2:15 p.m.
What You’ll Find at the Event
The car show is more than just a lineup of incredible vehicles. Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy:
- Live music and DJs
- A dedicated kids activity area
- Local vendors and food trucks at the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market
- Shopping, dining and entertainment throughout downtown
Last year’s event featured more than 200 classic cars and thousands of visitors, making it one of Downtown Arlington’s signature community events.
Event Schedule
Main Stage
9:00 a.m. — DJ Gurrl
12:00 p.m. — Goodtimes Chorus, sponsored by Legendz Classic Barbershop
12:45 p.m. — Jacob Serrano performance sponsored by Cafe Americana
1:00 p.m. — People’s Choice voting closes
2:15 p.m. — Awards Ceremony at DREAM Park
DREAM Park
9:00 a.m. — DJ Dakota Jimenez
2:15 p.m. — Awards Ceremony
People’s Choice Voting
Attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite vehicle during the event as part of the annual People’s Choice Award. Be sure to note the registration number of your favorite car, you'll need it to vote for them at the event! Voting will remain open until 1:30 p.m., with the winner announced during the Awards Ceremony at 2:15 p.m.
Meet the Emcee
This year’s Awards Ceremony will be emceed by Caroline Vandergriff, great-granddaughter of W.T. “Hooker” Vandergriff, who opened a Chevrolet dealership at North Center Street and Division in 1937, where the car show takes place today.
Parking & Arrival Tips
Downtown Arlington is expected to be busy throughout the day, so arriving early is encouraged.
Public parking is available throughout Downtown Arlington near the event area in public lots and the 101 Center parking garage. Visitors should plan for increased traffic and road closures in the surrounding downtown blocks during event hours.
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and water are recommended for spending the day exploring the event and surrounding businesses.
Make a Full Day of It
While you’re downtown, grab coffee, lunch or dinner from some of Downtown Arlington’s favorite local spots. The entire district is walkable with the closest spots being Hurtado Barbecue, Tipsy Oak, Arlington Coffee Roasters, Grease Monkey, Mellow Mushroom and much more. Newly added restaurants in the area include Acapulquito Taqueria Bar & Grill, Mama Cuca’s Mexican Cuisine and Rocketbelly.
You can also shop local vendors and lunch options at the Downtown Arlington Farmers Market while enjoying the show. The market runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Here you’ll find a variety of refreshments, baked goods, handmade crafts, and extra food trucks.
Bringing a Car to the Show?
Vehicle registration is open for classic cars built in 1980 or earlier. All participants must preregister by Thursday, June 4 at noon. For public safety, no walk-up entries will be accepted on the day of the event. Registration fees benefit the Arlington Police Foundation.
First responders, veterans and seniors are invited to register for FREE. Contact damc@downtownarlington.org or call 817-303-2800 for your promo code.
See You Downtown
From polished chrome and roaring engines to local food, live music and family fun, the Downtown Arlington Classic Car Show is shaping up to be another annual highlight of the summer.