As the temperatures rise (Well, not today!) and car enthusiasts bring their prized machines out of winter storage, excitement is already building for one of the newest events of the season: the annual Monadnock Cars & Culture Car Show. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a weekend cruiser, or someone who simply appreciates great automotive design, this year’s event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. (Be looking for bikes and trucks! And maybe tractors!)
You know I love car shows, and you know I love cars. So, in November, I wrote an article about kids and car shows and said, “I need to do one of these.”
A few conversations later, and I was on my way. Bringing my grandson Jacob, and friend Kevin Barnes, owner of Alternative Detailing Solutions along with me.
May 17th, 2026 at the Cheshire Fairgrounds in Swanzey NH
A Celebration of Automotive Culture
I love autos and automotive technology! I grew up on what are called classics, though my first car was a 1936 Chevy Master Deluxe. And so many of the things we see in newer cars came about because of racing and innovation.
And to me, automotive culture is one of the most amazing things in the world. My hope for this show is that we have an impressive mix of vehicles, from gleaming classics, crazy builds, the newest in cars, bikes, and motorcycles. When people ask me what car I like, I think “all” is the answer. For me, if a Ferrari showed up alongside a Duesenberg or a Rio, that would be awesome. Old Harleys, BSAs, and Triumphs…too cool. A 40s Power wagon or a Peterbilt build. Crazy!
What You’ll Find at This Year’s Event
Expect a dynamic lineup of exhibits and activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages. Some of the standout attractions include:
- Featured Vehicles & Exhibits
I want people to be able to get up close to rare classics, awesome high-performance builds, custom restorations, and brand‑new models making their first appearance. I hope have some special displays and themed sections that will give enthusiasts plenty to explore.
- Demonstrations & Showcases
I put this in because if someone shows up to demo an engine rebuild, thinking it’s better than chainsaw bears!
- Special Guests
I am not sure what will happen, but I am working on it. And if you have thoughts, let me know!
Community Connections
MACC poster
For me, car shows are more than a gathering of vehicles—they’re a celebration of the people who love them. Local car clubs, manufacturers, artisans, and vendors will all have a strong presence this year, offering everything from parts and accessories to custom artwork and memorabilia.
Car show folks are awesome! I have seen so many cool things happen at car shows. Family cars, people helping others, and more.
Part of what we plan is to support PN4UINC, an area 501(c)3 nonprofit, by donating a portion of proceeds to help them as they promote positive events and work to provide positivity and resilience education to students in collaboration with WiseNest.
A Full Day of Activities
Beyond the incredible vehicles on display, visitors can enjoy a variety of scheduled events, including:
- Award ceremonies celebrating craftsmanship, originality, and style
- Quality food trucks and vendors
- Kids’ activities and family-friendly programming
There truly will be something for everyone.
How to Take Part
Interested in showcasing your own vehicle? Exhibitor and vendor registration details will be available online, along with deadlines and fee information. Car owners of all makes and models are encouraged to participate—and early registration is typically recommended!
General admission tickets, VIP packages, and early-bird deals will also be available. Whether you’re attending for a few hours or making a weekend of it, securing tickets ahead of time is the fastest way to skip the lines and dive straight into the action.
Don’t Miss It
So, mark your calendar and get ready for some fun
Mark your calendar and prepare for an unforgettable celebration of automotive passion this May. With an incredible lineup of cars, community activities, and family‑friendly experiences, the show is gearing up to be the must‑attend event of the season.
