We've been helping Australians for 100 years

NRMA Insurance blog

Classic car road trip: shows to see this spring and summer

By Lana Monteleone
19 October, 2026
3 min
WRITTEN BY HUMANS

We help you buckle up for a calendar full of classic car shows this spring and summer.

Share this story:

Tell it to me quick

  • Classic car shows invite motoring enthusiasts across the nation to marvel at models from bygone eras.
  • Live music, food trucks, coffee vans and other entertainment often accompany the display vehicles.
  • Some car shows, like Summernats 39 and Repco Motorvation 40, also offer on-site camping options.

There's something special about classic cars when the sun is shining. The backdrop of a clear blue sky and dry road gives the paintwork that extra glossy pop, turning heads and attracting people of all ages to marvel at the automotive artistry of bygone eras. In spring and summer, car shows can't be beaten. Collections of lovingly restored cars, vans and utes are put on show, often accompanied by food trucks, live music and special demonstrations. Whether you plan on entering your own classic car for an exhibit or simply want to spectate, car shows make for a perfect day of entertainment. Here, we list out just a few of the events you could explore as the weather warms up.

Muscle on the Mountain | QLD

Muscle on the Mountain is a much-anticipated yearly event, and after being postponed earlier this year due to wet weather, it's one worth adding to the calendar. Hosted once again at the Maleny Showgrounds on the Sunshine Coast, this event proudly raises money to support the Prostate Cancer Foundation. The day includes a host of muscle cars on display, people's choice awards, lucky car prizes, coffee vans, food trucks and more.

When: Sunday 1 November 2026
Time: 7am - 1pm
Website: https://www.facebook.com/muscleonthemountain

Berry Motorfair | NSW

Cruise down to the picturesque grounds of Coolangatta Estate Winery for the Berry Motorfair. The event - which raises funds for charities including Lifeline Australia - brings together a collection of over 100 classic cars. From Italian exotica and Aussie muscle cars to track-day specials and classic German precision, this event has something for every car enthusiast. There'll also be food trucks, live music and charity auctions to boot.

When: Sunday 8 November 2026
Time: 10am - 2pm
Website: https://berrymotorfair.com/

Yankalilla Classic Motor Show | SA

Fancy a road trip to the Fleurieu Peninsula? In between visits to cellar doors and stunning beaches, make sure to stop by at the Yankalilla Showgrounds for a celebration of motoring history. Admire timeless coupes, classic kombis and bold muscle cars to your heart's content. There'll also be live music, food and a fully stocked bar. Bringing the kids? There's the Route 5203 activity for them to enjoy too.

When: Sunday 15 November 2026
Time: 11am - 3pm
Website: https://www.visitfleurieucoast.com.au/yankalilla-classic-motor-show-2026

Summernats 39 | ACT

This event is simply massive. Four action packed days promise cruise events, Show 'n' Shine displays, Hot Wheels Stunt Shows and more. But it's not just the cars that draw a crowd. Got a mullet? Show it off at the Mulletfest. Got a tattoo you consider a masterpiece? Bare it with pride at the Body Art Nationals. There's even an Aerobatic Stunt Show set to shred the skies. With on-site camping options also available, you can settle in for the lot. This is one you won't want to miss.

When: Thursday 7 - Sunday 10 January 2027
Website: https://summernats.com.au

Repco Motorvation 40 | WA

Buckle up for three days of motoring mayhem. The Repco Motorvation 40 arrives at the Perth Motorplex in January to celebrate 40 years with a full-throttle program of events. Visit the burnout battleground for some tyre-drying action, admire polished-to-perfection classics at the Elite Marquee, or get your adrenaline pumping watching the controlled chaos of the Drag & Roll racing and Skid Row events. Like Summernats 39, this event also offers on-site camping, so call your mates, pack your car and get set for a spectacular horsepower party in the west!

When: Friday 29 - Sunday 31 January 2027
Website: https://motorvation.com.au/

Picnic at Hanging Rock Car Show | VIC

Mark your calendars for a swoon-worthy affair celebrating the 40th anniversary of the annual Picnic at Hanging Rock Car Show, fittingly falling on Valentine's Day. One of Victoria's largest single-day motoring exhibitions, the event welcomes vehicles of all makes, models and styles near Woodend in the Macedon Ranges. Head down for a vibrant display of vintage classics, vendor stalls, entertainment and more.

When: Sunday 14 February 2027
Time: 8am - 3pm
Website: https://mradmc.com.au/picnic-at-hanging-rock/

SPINOUT Rock 'n' Roll festival | NSW

Are you a lover of nostalgia looking for a finger poppin' time? Then pack the car ─ and your dancing shoes ─ for a trip to Camden Village for the SPINOUT Rock 'n' Roll festival. Three days of dancing, markets, vintage fashion and community celebration await, and amongst it all is the car show on the Saturday. Admire the hot rods and chrome classics of the ‘50s and ‘60s and share your passion with other classic-car enthusiasts.

When: Friday 19 - Sunday 21 February 2027
Website: https://spinoutfestivalcamden.com.au/

Helping you protect a classic

NRMA Insurance offers specialised cover ideal for classic or vintage vehicles. Check if your car is eligible today.

Footnotes

Information is current as at the date of publication and may be subject to change. All content on the NRMA Insurance Blog is intended to be general in nature and does not constitute and is not intended to be professional advice. It does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. References to third-party organisations, products, services or brands on the NRMA Insurance Blog are for informational purposes only and do not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by NRMA Insurance, unless expressly stated otherwise.

Tags

Guide Events Classic cars Road trip

Related articles

  • 02 December, 2025
    On the road | NRMA Insurance Blog

    Agreed vs market value

    Read article
    Guide Car Insurance
  • 02 April, 2026
    On the road | NRMA Insurance Blog

    Ways to beat the fuel price hike

    Read article
    Pricing Car
  • 24 June, 2026
    On the road | NRMA Insurance Blog

    Ways you could save on car insurance

    Read article
    Guide Car Insurance