Chatham-Kent is affectionately known as the "Canada's Classic Car Capitol", and rightly so!
We encourage you to take advantage of the many classic car events to attend from May to September!
May
RetroFest (May 24, 25)
Chatham-Kent's Classic Car season kicks off annually with Retrofest. This premiere event attracts thousands of classic car enthusiasts annually to downtown Chatham all weekend long seeing the downtown filled with hundreds of cars on King Street West and surrounding side roads Saturday morning until 4:00 pm. Visitors are encouraged to head to Tecumseh Park where vendors, rides and retro-fun filled activities take place Friday and Saturday.
June
Tilbury Lions Classic Car, Truck, Tractor & Bike Show (June 1)
This year marks the first ever Classic Car show in Tilbury. Bring the family to enjoy Enjoy classic cars, trucks, tractors & bikes along with live entertainment along with food and refreshments.
Blenheim Classics Auto Show (June 22)
Downtown Blenheim is home to more than one hundred classic and vintage cars every year in June. From 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, classic car buffs can revel in the incredible sights of a variety of models from 1980 on lined up and down the streets. While the road is closed, it's a great time to visit the area merchants as well, and even take a break for a bite to eat. Don't forget, car owners love to talk about their pride and joy, so don't be shy to capture a photo with favourite and rarely seen vehicles. The Blenheim Classics Auto Show also features a Friday cruise night.
Erieau Boulevard of Dreams (June 23)
It's a feast for the eyes in Erieau as vehicles of all makes and models take centre stage. More than a hundred classics and their owners are on hand for viewing. This year, the Erieau Boulevard of Dreams will feature a fish fry and music during the event from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm to entertain the crowds. Visitors can then take advantage of the many eateries and shops along with the beach, creating the perfect pre-summer day along Lake Erie and Rondeau Bay.
Wheatley Fish Fest Classic Car Show (June 30)
Back again is the Wheatley Fish Fest Classic Car Show. Enjoy live music, food vendors and classic cars during this annual event. Cars will be lined up along Talbot Street West for your viewing pleasure.
July
Wildwood By the Lake Car and Bike Show (July 6)
Annually, this show boasts the best display of hot rods along the water featuring a wide variety of makes, models and years from the classics to the brand new. This show runs from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and is free to attend. - 12443 Rose Beach Line, Morpeth
Merlin Legion Antique Car, Motorcycle & Vintage Tractor Show (July 21)
The small village of Merlin is transformed into a classic car mecca one day of the year, and visitors will not be disappointed. Based at the Merlin Legion on Stanley Street, this show runs from 10am to 3pm with much fanfare featuring vintage cars, trucks, tractors and motorcycles. Live music, 50/50 draws and a traditional "Merlicken Chicken Dinner" will be served at 5:00 pm.
Ridgetown Rotary Antique Car Show (July 14)
Enjoy antique cars, trucks, motorcycles and tractors all at Watson Grove Park in Ridgetown. The show runs from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm and is a $3 donation, kids 12 and under get in for free. Proceeds benefit "End Polio Now."
August
East Kent Vintage Equipment Show (Date TBD)
A show for all ages featuring children's activities, live threshing, harvest and plowing demos. This show also features vintage machinery and sawmill working demos. Vintage car displays and a Tractor Drive In in the country are among the highlights of this event.
Bothwell Old Autos Car Show (August 9-10)
Enjoy two days of car show fun in Bothwell's Victoria Park, beginning with an Automotive Swap Meet on Friday Night. On Saturday, enjoy one of Canada's largest displays of more than 1,200 vehicles. Families will also find food and entertainment available.
WAMBO (Wallaceburg Antique Motor and Boat Outing - August 9-10)
Wallaceburg plays host to Canada's largest and foremost antique transportation show featuring more than 500 displays of cars, fire trucks, boats, motorcycles and airplanes. The arrival of the boats of the Sydenham River is a sight not to miss, while there are plenty of things for families on both days including activities, entertainment and a toy and model show
September
Thamesville Crossroads (September 14)
Classic Car show in downtown Thamesville hosted by Thamesville Sertoma Club. This show features close to one hundred vintage and classic vehicles lining the side streets of Thamesville. Come out and enjoy the day with car enthusiasts, vendors, businesses, hosting organizations and volunteers.
East Kent Hot Rods for Hospice (September 21)
Bring the family for a fall day of fun in Ridgetown at Ridgetown College where more than 350 classic car, motorcycles and tractors will be on display. You'll also enjoy kids activities and entertainment on-site.
