Orange County is the perfect place to cruise around in a classic car – especially on PCH. Fortunately there are annual events around the county giving you the chance to show off your ride or check out what others are driving. Even if you’re into more modern cars, Orange County has you covered.
Surf City Garage Car Show
Where: Surf City Garage, 5872 Engineer Dr., Huntington Beach
When: Sunday, August 25
Cost: Free for spectators and $40 for participants
In its fifth year, this annual car show features something for the whole family. Ever want to know what it’s like to drive in a NASCAR race? Surf City Garage Car Show features a full-sized NASCAR simulator. Various car demonstrations will also be available as well as a raffle and DJ. All proceeds will go to muscular dystrophy research and City of Hope. :: surfcitygarage.com
The Great Labor Day Cruise
Where: OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa
When: Friday, August 30 through Sunday, September 1
Cost: $15 per day for general admission and $45 a day for participants
Located at the OC Fair & Event Center, the 33rd annual Great Labor Day Cruise is for those who want to show off their cars while driving them around a 1.25-mile route. :: occa-inc.com
Coastline Car Classic
Where: Big Corona del Mar State Beach
When: Sunday, September 8
Cost: $15 at the gate or $10 pre-sale for general admission and $40 for participants
The 10th annual Coastline Classic takes place along the waters of Corona del Mar. With all profits going to the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation, the event will feature live entertainment, food and beverages, public beach access for the day, and a vehicle awards presentation. Over 150 cars will be available for the judged event, which will be emceed by automotive commentators Dave Kunz from KABC and Art Gould from KPFK.
:: cdmchamber.com
Cruisin’ For A Cure
Where: OC Fair & Event Center
When: Saturday, September 28
Cost: $15 for spectators and $40 for participants who buy in advance
A car show with a purpose, Cruisin’ For A Cure is all about raising money and awareness for prostate cancer. All money raised from attendance and donations goes straight to City of Hope’s prostate cancer research. Free PSA tests will also be available for all attendees. Of course, Cruisin’ For A Cure will also have a sizeable number of cars on display.
:: cruisinforacure.com
Orange County International Auto Show
Where: Anaheim Convention Center, 800 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim
When: Thursday, October 3 to Sunday, October 6
Cost: $12 for adults, $10 for military and seniors, and children are free
Maybe you don’t have a car to show off or are tired of classic cars and want to see the latest and the greatest. Then this show could be just the thing. Featuring over a hundred cars for attendees to test drive, the event lets car makers show off their latest models. High-end exotic vehicles will be on the show floor from car manufacturers like Rolls-Royce, Porsche, Spyker, and Lotus. The convention will also be featuring Camp Jeep off-road test track. :: motortrendautoshows.com
