• CARLISLE PA FAIRGROUNDS • Come to the largest all-Ford show in the world which features Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Euro Fords on the 3,200+ National Parts Depot showfield.
Come to the largest all-Ford show in the world which features Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Euro Fords on the 3,200+ National Parts Depot Showfield. Ford Cars, Trucks and performance products will be on-site with offerings ranging from installations to special displays. Cars, parts, tools, memorabilia, collectibles and more will be for sale in the world's largest Ford Automotive Flea Market, as well as the latest and greatest products within the Manufacturers Midway.
Save 10% on 2021 Ford Nationals Showfield Registration
Save Time and Money: Details Below
Pre-Register before the Gate-N-Go deadline of Monday, May 3rdto save 10%!
Pre-Register before the Gate-N-Go deadline of Monday, May 3rd to save 10%! Why wait in line and lose time that you could be spending on grounds enjoying the event? Register today via Gate-N-Go to save 10%.
When you Gate-N-Go, we'll send you all applicable paperwork in advance. This way, you can affix your window sticker at home and drive right onto the grounds and immediately begin having a great time.
Even if you miss the 10% savings and Gate-N-Go deadline, you can still pre-register. Pre-registration remains available until show week. When you pre-register, you cruise up to the Showfield Registration office, bypass one line, pick up your packet and return to your car. Place the registration on your window and you and your guest can cruise onsite with minimal delay.
After the May 3rd Gate-N-Go Deadline is up, the only price for registration is full price. Why pay full price when you pay a discounted rate AND have your materials mailed to you in advance. Register TODAY and save!
Baja to Daytona, Broncos to Lincolns, and everything in between!
Join us in June as we celebrate everything Stroppe! From the Stroppe Baja Broncos to the Lincoln and Mercury Stroppe racecars of old.
Join us in June as we celebrate everything Stroppe! From the Stroppe Baja Broncos to the Lincoln and Mercury Stroppe racecars of old. Bill Stroppe managed, campaigned and built some of the most famous Ford’s of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. His west coast brand of Ford performance brought names like Big Oly and Parnelli Jones to the lime light. This year at the Ford Nationals we will have a great Stroppe display inside and outside Building T. We have some surprises that you will not want to miss in this display.
Have a Stroppe built vehicle and want to be a part of the display? Apply today at CarlisleFeatures.com
Want to participate with your Stroppe vehicle on the showfield? Register for the Showfield HERE
Join us in June as we celebrate the 1971-1973 Mustangs
2021 marks the 50th birthday of what some call the Clydesdales or Big Horses of the Mustang years, the 1971 to 1973 models. Undeniably these were some
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2021 marks the 50th birthday of what some call the Clydesdales or Big Horses of the Mustang years, the 1971 to 1973 models. Undeniably these were some of the biggest, heaviest and most “styled” Mustangs ever selling around 410,000 over their three years. Join us this June as we celebrate these historic years! We'll highlight the Showfield classes for these models as well as have a special display inside Building T to show off some of the coolest and/or some of the unique ones.
Have a ’71-’73 with a cool story? Maybe it was a barn find? Maybe it is super rare? Maybe it is a low mileage survivor or cool custom? Apply today at CarlisleFeatures.com
Join Us in 2021 for the Carlisle Ford Nationals Comic Car Con
A Celebration of Ford Comic, TV and Movie Cars
This year the star cars come to the Carlisle Ford Nationals in June! See your favorite Comic, TV, and Movie cars pop off the pages or out of the screen and into one of our displays in Building T at the show.
Cars have always been recognized as the stars here at Carlisle. This year the star cars come to the Carlisle Ford Nationals in June! See your favorite Comic, TV, and Movie cars pop off the pages or out of the screen and into one of our displays in Building T at the show. We are still gathering cars for our list of cars on display. Have a unique TV, Movie, or Comic car? Want to have it on display for the show? Apply today at CarlisleFeatures.com.
Join Us as we Celebrate Ford's First Subcompact Vehicle
Join us in June as we celebrate this historic vehicle! Not only will we celebrate the Ford Pinto but also it’s Mercury sister, the Mercury Bobcat.
In 1971 Ford Motor Company introduced their first subcompact vehicle here in North America. Made in three body styles, a sedan, a hatchback, and a wagon, there were over 3 million made between 1971 to 1980. Join us in June as we celebrate this historic vehicle! Not only will we celebrate the Ford Pinto but also it’s Mercury sister, the Mercury Bobcat. We will have a special display in Building T featuring the Pinto as well as highlighting the Pinto showfield nearby!
Vendor spaces available, space discounts may apply. Call today!
The Ford Nationals Automotive Flea Market is a great place to sell the parts, accessories, automotive memorabilia and literature that have been collecting
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The Ford Nationals Automotive Flea Market is a great place to sell the parts, accessories, automotive memorabilia and literature that have been collecting dust in your garage. Put your parts in front of thousands of Ford enthusiasts and buyers. Connect with Carlisle Events today to see if you qualify for vendor discounts.
New and existing ones may qualify for the following:
• Early bird renewal discount of 5%
• Multi-show discounts up to 10%
• Free space opportunities; buy 2 get 1 free or…
• Buy 1 space, get 1 free
• Free specialty listing
Over 250 Ford cars and trucks are annually available for sale in the Ford Nationals Car Corral.
Over 250 Ford cars and trucks are annually available for sale in the Ford Nationals Car Corral. The best part about the car corral is that you can meet with the seller, drive the vehicle, negotiate your own price and see and touch the car in person. Services including notary, financing, insurance and temporary tags are available right in the car corral.
Purchase Single Day Tickets, a Weekend Pass or a Season Pass
Tickets are cheaper online and that means the money you save can be used in the automotive flea market or can help you buy a car within the car corral.
For decades, buying a ticket to a car show at Carlisle meant arriving the day of, pulling out your wallet and paying cash at the gate. While that still is an option, you can plan ahead and purchase your tickets ONLINE! When you purchase tickets online, you’ll receive a confirmation e-mail with a bar code. This code will be scanned at the gate for access. It’s that simple! Oh, did we mention that tickets are cheaper online and that means the money you save can be used in the automotive flea market or can help you buy a car within the car corral. Buy now with total confidence and enjoy the show!
Attention Car Clubs – Compete To See Who is the Largest
Will Your Club Measure Up? Take the Club Challenge
In addition to the competition among the cars on the Ford Nationals NPD Showfield, there is a battle between clubs to see who has the most cars registered!
In addition to the competition among the cars on the Ford Nationals NPD Showfield, there is a battle between clubs to see who has the most cars registered. As a bonus, we offer the use of a 20’ X 20’ tent to those clubs who register 25 vehicles or more. These tents are a great place to take a break and they make a great club headquarters for the weekend. Larger clubs may be eligible for a bigger tent.
Congratulations to our 2020 Club Challenge Winners!
1 - Focus Rising ‐ 145
2 - Venom Invasion - 121
3 - Mustang Club of Central PA - 97
To become an Officially Recognized Club, you must first fill out an Application Form.
To learn more about our club program, visit the Club Relations Page.
Plan your theme and your decorations well for the show because there are a host of clubs vying for the honor.
The Coolest Club award is based on the premise of your club tent being THE PLACE to be. Plan your theme and your decorations well for the show because there are a host of clubs vying for the honor.
At the 2020 Ford Nationals, the Coolest Club Hangout was sponsored by the Ford Performance Group and the winner was chosen by John Clor.
Congratulations to our 2020 Coolest Club Winner!
Beltway Mustang Club
To become an Officially Recognized Club, you must first fill out an Application Form.
To learn more about our club program, visit the Club Relations Page.
Register your Hurst, Pettys Garage, Hennessey and MORE!
In 2020, we introduced an all-new class for the emerging Specialty Builder brands of Ford vehicles and plan to continue that in 2021. Class 140 is home to those specialty built enthusiast vehicles. We are excited to see this class continue to grow!
With the popularity of many Ford products from the likes of Roush, Saleen and Shelby it only makes sense that other companies would get in on the action as well! The likes of Hurst, Pettys Garage, Tuscany, Hennessey and more are specialty builders set on providing you, the enthusiast, an awesome vehicle. So why not show them off at the Ford Nationals? In 2020, we introduced an all-new class for the emerging Specialty Builder brands of Ford vehicles and plan to continue that in 2021. Class 140 is home to those specialty built enthusiast vehicles. We are excited to see this class continue to grow!
Have a Hurst, Pettys Garage, Tuscany, Hennessey, or other specialty builder produced Ford vehicle? Register it today in this all new class at the Carlisle Registration Store!
Experience the Annual Ford Nationals Select Display
Unique Showcase Features Unique Ford Branded Cars or Trucks
This display is positioned within Building Y and features 12-14 cars that are unique to the history of the Ford brand.
Annually, the Carlisle Ford Nationals host a display dubbed the Ford Nationals Select. Launched in 2015, this display is positioned within Building Y and features 12-14 cars that are unique to the history of the Ford Brand. Each car will be numbered and receive a commemorative plaque to mark their inclusion in the display. In addition, banners will hang from the rafters akin to what sports teams do, logging the history of the Ford Nationals Select.
On Friday and Saturday of event weekend all eyes will be on you and your car. Don't miss this cool competition as cars will start in a line on the track and roar as they accelerate. This will also be judged but take note, the best overall sound will take home the prize, not necessarily the loudest.
Ready, Set, Go! Car owners have the chance to showcase just what their car sounds like in a standalone environment. Now, you don’t have to rev your engine just to turn heads. On Friday and Saturday of event weekend all eyes will be on you and your car. Don't miss this cool competition as cars will start in a line on the track and roar as they accelerate. This will also be judged but take note, the best overall sound will take home the prize, not necessarily the loudest.
The contest consists of two rounds, with each round hosting 20 cars. Cars will be accepted for sign-up on a first come first served basis and we do expect each round to be filled so please sign up early. The qualifying round will take place on Friday afternoon at 3PM and second qualifying round will begin on Saturday morning at 9AM. From the two rounds we will select a number of cars to move on to the finale on Saturday Afternoon. The list of who qualified for the finale will be posted at 11AM on Saturday at the Guest Services Building near the Grandstand. The finale will then begin at 3PM on Saturday. You must participate in a qualifying round to have a chance to participate in the finale!
The Exhaust Competiton is FREE but you MUST be registered on the Showfield to be eligible to participate! Sign up in Guest Services starting on Friday at 7AM. You may only signup for one qualifying round!
Congratulations to our 2020 Rolling Exhaust Contest Winners:
1st- Jeremy Sperlein- 2016 Mustang GT
2nd- Dave Sheppard- 2009 Shelby GT500 KR
3rd- John Kiger- 2014 Roush Mustang
Carlisle Ford Nationals offers opportunity for Ford fans to see products, vehicles and hear from the minds behind the machines with in depth with stories behind the development of the newest and exciting Ford products.
Carlisle Ford Nationals offers opportunity for Ford fans to see products, vehicles and hear from the minds behind the machines with in depth with stories behind the development of the newest and exciting Ford products.
Is your company interested in showcasing your vehicle? If so, reach out to Ken Appell at kena@carlisleevents.com for more information!
Team Shelby will once again make Carlisle Ford Nationals their final stop on their Team Shelby East Coast Grand Nationals event.
Team Shelby will once again make Carlisle Ford Nationals their final stop on their Team Shelby East Coast Grand Nationals event. The Team Shelby East Coast Nationals will begin at the Pocono Raceway on Thursday and have an array of activities. Then on Friday, they'll caravan their way to Carlisle Ford Nationals for the weekend.
Registration for the East Coast Grand Nationals has not opened yet. However, you can begin the process by registering for Carlisle Ford Nationals at the Carlisle Registration Store. Please remember to select "Team Shelby" as your club when registering.
Join Gateway Classic Mustang for Autocross Ridealongs
Get Introduced to the Sport with Gateway Classic Mustang at Carlisle
Gateway Classic Mustang will host FREE ridealong sessions between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Carlisle Events is pleased to welcome back to the Carlisle Ford Nationals Gateway Mustang of Missouri to the Carlisle Ford Nationals. Gateway is sponsoring the autocross track and it will be known all weekend as the Gateway Classic Mustang Autocross Track. Best of all, Gateway Classic Mustang will host FREE ridealong sessions between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Call it autocross 101, because with Gateway's professional drivers behind the wheel, you can experience first-hand what going fast is all about! Further, while you're at the track, be sure to sign up to receive the latest information from Gateway Classic Mustang via their e-news service.
Take it to the Track with the Autocross Real Street Shootout
See what your Car Can do on the Carlisle Course
Be sure to participate in the Autocross Real Street Shootout, taking place Friday of event weekend.
This year, be sure to participate in the Autocross Real Street Shootout, taking place Friday of event weekend. It will begin with check-in at 5PM followed by a driver's meeting. At the conclusion of the meeting, a team of judges will evaluate each car for appearance and build quality. After all of the cars have been judged, they will go through a tech inspection and at 6PM, as the sun goes down, the lights come on and the cars will compete on the track. This FREE activity is being supported by Gateway Classic Mustang. It's fast, it's furious and it's fun!
If you think you and your car have what it takes to compete in the shootout, signup for the contest at Guest Services starting at 7AM on Friday. This activity is a first come, first serve basis, so be sure to sign-up when you get here! The winner will receive a plaque and the Top Three finishers will each get a cash payout! If you want to have some fun on the track, this is your chance…and it’s FREE!!
Participants must have a registered (and street legal) car on the Ford Nationals showfield, be 18 years of age or older and have a valid license and insurance. Participants are REQUIRED to bring their own helmets for safety. You will be unable to participate if you don't have one.
*Due to safety concerns, stock height SUVS and trucks may be excluded from the contest.
Congratulations to our top three in 2020.
1 - Don Slevia- 2016 Ford Mustang
2 - Chad Englert - 2013 Ford Mustang
3 - Troy Krieger- 2020 Shelby GT500
Collect 2021 Ford Nationals Stickers Through Social Stops
Participate in the Social Stops at the event for special anniversary stickers!
We're taking you on a "Social Stop" Scavenger Hunt at Carlisle Ford Nationals. Once completed you'll receive the special anniversary display stickers for 2021! The rules are easy, just follow the steps below...
We're taking you on a "Social Stop" Scavenger Hunt at Carlisle Ford Nationals. Once completed you'll receive the special anniversary display stickers for 2021! The rules are easy, just follow the steps below...
Step 1: Obtain an Event Guide, which has an event map in the center. These are located at Guest Services OR you can download the FREE Carlisle Events App (for Apple & Android phones), to have everything right on your phone!
Step 2: Figure out what and where the special displays are located. There's a total of 5 special displays aka "Social Stops." HINT: Some of the displays may NOT be in a building!
Step 3: When you've found a Social Stop sign, you'll know that's where the special display is. Simply take a picture/video of the cars in the display. Get creative and have fun with your content. We certainly approve taking selfies!
Step 4: When you've taken pictures of all the displays (or the ones that you'd like a sticker for), post your pictures on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) using the hashtag #FordCarlisle and tag Carlisle Ford Nationals if applicable.
Step 5: Once posted, stop in at the Guest Services "Information Desk" and show us your post! When we see your post we will hand you the Special Anniversary stickers that you've taken photos of.
You may complete the Scavenger Hunt once per day to receive the Special Anniversary Stickers. We know you'll love the stickers but hope you'll also have a fun time participating in the Scavenger Hunt!
A&A Auto Stores, the Official Performance Parts Installer of Carlisle Events, will be offering performance exhaust installations from the top manufactures.
If you're not exhausted when you leave the Carlisle Ford Nationals, it's your own fault! A&A Auto Stores, the Official Performance Parts Installer of Carlisle Events, will be offering performance exhaust installations from the top manufactures. Don’t miss this opportunity to GET EXHAUSTED at Carlisle!
Call Lewis today to schedule your appointment and make your Ford sound great! Reach out now via phone at 570-313-0325 or by e-mail at customercare@aaautostores.com
If you missed A&A at the show, be sure to visit them ONLINE today for more information about their products, locations and more!
Get your Ford tuned at this year’s Carlisle Ford Nationals!
VMP Performance has been in the Ford performance market for over 10 years. VMP was started by Justin Starkey in 1999 when he bought his first Mustang. VMP Performance has grown to include many different parts and accessories. VMP's main focus is EFI tuning, both mail-order tuning and dyno-tuning. VMP uses the most up to date SCT, HP Tuners and COBB software / hardware and the highest quality equipment on their mobile dyno to provide you with the best possible tune. VMP has nearly $100,000 invested in our dyno-tuning operation, between dyno equipment, computers, and software. VMP has mail order tuned over 1000 vehicles and dynotuned over 1000 vehicles on our Mobile Dyno-Jet 224x Mobile Dyno. Justin Starkey, VMP's tuner and owner, worked at SCT for nearly a year as part of the technical support staff. He still enjoys a close relationship with SCT. Justin's extensive knowledge base and industry contacts, coupled with many thousands of hours of research and development on our dyno allows us to give you the best possible mail order and dyno tunes. VMP specializes in custom tuning for the Ford family of vehicles. They custom tune all OBD2 Ford vehicles. Get your Ford tuned at this year’s Carlisle Ford Nationals.
The onsite Carlisle Autocross allows drivers to run the road course and compare their times to each other. Registration is required and the fun takes place Sunday only.
The only thing better than a show-ready Ford is a show-ready Ford on the race track! The onsite Carlisle Autocross allows drivers to run the road course and compare their times to each other. Registration is required and the fun takes place Sunday only. The charge for each vehicle entry is $20. Enthusiasts are able to make 3 timed runs. Times are provided to compare with other drivers. You aren't driving for an award, rather bragging rights are up for grabs.
Participants must have a registered (and street legal) car on the Ford Nationals showfield, be 18 years of age or older and have a valid license and insurance. Participants are REQUIRED to bring their own helmets for safety. You will be unable to participate if you don't have one.
*Due to safety concerns, stock height SUVS and trucks may be excluded from autocross.
The Historic Vehicle Association Comes to Carlisle
National Organization Presents 'National Automotive Heritage Award'
There are lots of classics onsite during event weekend but only ONE will win a special award from the Historic Vehicle Association, or HVA
There are lots of classics onsite during event weekend but only one will win a special award from the Historic Vehicle Association, or HVA. Once again this year, the HVA recognizes the importance of event weekend and those who take part in it. Their 'National Automotive Heritage Award' is a movement designed to collect, preserve and share stories that celebrate the automobile’s historic impact on modern culture and the lives of everyday people. The movement aims to show the automobile's significance to the American experience through member-submitted stories and photographs, as well as curated films and personal documentaries.
Congratulations to the 2019 winner(s), Chase VanDyne and his 1970 Mustang Boss 302.
The Art of FOMOCO – Automotive Artist David Snyder
A Fantastic Display of FOMOCO and Automotive Art Available in Building T
You'll witness first hand, as Dave demonstrates his artistic ability as he works on new paintings.
David Snyder returns to Carlisle to feature his display of automotive art featuring products produced by FOMOCO. David displays his portfolio of automotive art work in Building T. Attendees can stop by to meet Dave and his wife. Plus, you'll witness first hand, as Dave demonstrates his artistic ability as he works on new paintings. David Snyder Car Art Online
Women's Oasis – Quality Items for the Non-Automotive Audience
Visit the Oasis for Relaxation, Shopping, and Activities
Join our amazing vendors and artisans selling items such as handmade crafts, jewelry and accessories, kitchen must-haves, unique clothing, treats to temp you, scents to relax you, beauty products and so much more!
Carlisle Events hasn’t forgotten that sometimes it’s nice to take a break from automotive shopping. Join our amazing vendors and artisans selling items such as handmade crafts, jewelry and accessories, kitchen must-haves, unique clothing, treats to temp you, scents to relax you, beauty products and so much more! Done shopping? The tent is also home to some incredibly, and often tasty, seminars and special services offered by the vendors. And best of all…it’s always 5:00 at the Oasis Tiki bar!
The weekend schedule is featured in the event directory as is the exact location for the Oasis. If you're a regular at Carlisle, be sure to check the map, as Oasis locations may vary based on event.
Camp with Carlisle Events to Maximize Your Event Experience
Camp and be Walking Distance from Carlisle Ford Nationals
For the Carlisle Ford Nationals, camping is located off-site in the Clay Street parking area. The best way to find out complete details per show is to call Carlisle Events at 717-243-7855.
Carlisle Events promotes multiple events annually and many of them have a footprint to host you and your camper, RV or tent. Rates vary by event, but if you’re a collector car enthusiast and enjoy spending your non-show hours in something other than a hotel, consider camping at Carlisle. You’ll be positioned conveniently close to the excitement of the day. All camping is dry camping – no hook ups. With paid admission campers do have 24 hour access to the bath houses located at the Carlisle Fairgrounds.
Ultimately, prices, availability and amenities vary per show. For the Carlisle Ford Nationals, camping is located off-site in the Clay Street parking area.
More Camping Information
The best way to find out complete details per show is to call Carlisle Events at 717-243-7855 or email info@carlisleevents.com.
Join Carlisle on Sunday at 11AM to Honor Winning Vehicles
Whether it’s for bragging rights, showing your ride to the Blue Oval faithful, or a photo for your display, the Carlisle Events Award Parade is a must-do for winners and spectators alike.
Whether it’s for bragging rights, showing your ride to the Blue Oval faithful, or a photo for your display, the Carlisle Events Award Parade is a must-do for winners and spectators alike. Professional photography is available at the parade ceremony and available on-site for purchase. Awards are presented Sunday at 11:00 AM during the Awards Parade in front of the stage.
If you cannot attend the parade, your award can be picked up Sunday between 9:00-11:00 AM. Carlisle Events will no longer provide shipping of awards at no cost. After the show you may pick up your award during regular business hours at the fairgrounds or we will ship awards for $15 each. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and hope you will join us on Sunday in celebrating the vehicles that are honored as winners.
Unique Ford "Extras" on Carlisle Overstock Ebay Store
From Diecast to Banners and More!
Are you looking for some items that you may have seen at the event? Well, we may have you covered on our eBay store, Carlisle Overstock!
Are you looking for some items that you may have seen at the event? Well, we may have you covered on our eBay store, Carlisle Overstock! Here we list any "extras" that were available at the events. Items range from special display banners and license plates to unique show diecast and stickers! You never know what you may find...
Carlisle Events Works to Support Project SHARE During 2021 Events Season and Offers an Outlet for Donations and More
Car show season at Carlisle runs April through October and while it may feel like a normal level of fun at the venue, the reality is, there are still
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Car show season at Carlisle runs April through October and while it may feel like a normal level of fun at the venue, the reality is, there are still many local businesses and people who need support. As a way to give back and offer thanks to a community that has long supported Carlisle Events, we’re hosting donation stations and encouraging you to give at events this year. Your efforts will support Project SHARE of Carlisle, an agency that works to serve those in need by way of their food pantry through their vision statement “Nourishing Our Community…Awakening Hope!”
Running now through the conclusion of Fall Carlisle (October 3), donation bins will be positioned near the entry gates of the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds during car show event weekends. Donations of healthy, pantry staple items are encouraged. Suggested items include canned fruit with no added sugar, low sodium canned vegetables, whole grains (like whole wheat pasta, brown rice and oatmeal), canned tuna and low sodium beans. In addition, financial donations may be processed through their website or even more conveniently by TEXT by texting the words CARLISLE EVENTS (case does not matter) to 44321. You will then be able to select your support level to help nourish our community.
Learn more about Project SHARE, how you can donate and more via their web page which is linked below. We thank you in advance for your support.
Your Owner’s Manual to all Things Carlisle During Event Weekend
Available for Free Download on iTunes and NOW Google Play
Have you ever walked the grounds at Carlisle, lost beyond belief and wondering where your favorite show cars are, or how to find that vendor you’re looking for? Carlisle Events has figured out a way to solve your navigational challenges via the Carlisle Events app. Available for FREE download on the iTunes store AND Google Play store, the app is your on the go tool kit for all things Carlisle Events! Find vendors, check out the event schedule, interact on social media, buy tickets, get directions and review the event guide! Know before you go and with this app, you’ll never be lost at your car show of choice again!
Also available, the Carlisle Auctions app. This app allows you to stay current with Carlisle Auctions! View consignments, search for cars and get the details on all the great vehicles being offered at Carlisle Auctions. Plus, during live auction hours, you can review the run list and even watch a LIVE web stream of the fun. Download the Carlisle Events and Carlisle Auctions apps today and we’ll see you at the show!
Handy Tips for a Successful Trip Through the Automotive Flea Market
FREE Taxi Service and Parts Hauling Help Get You From A to B at Carlisle
The Carlisle PA Fairgrounds is a large footprint that can be a challenge at times, even for the most experienced attendee. 82 acres, 16+ miles of paved roadway, vendors and cars everywhere…it’s easy to understand how you may start wondering to yourself “where did I see that part or car I want to buy?” “How do I get my purchase from its space to my truck?” “How am I going to do this?”
The Carlisle PA Fairgrounds is a large footprint that can be a challenge at times, even for the most experienced attendee. 82 acres, 16+ miles of paved roadway, vendors and cars everywhere…it’s easy to understand how you may start wondering to yourself “where did I see that part or car I want to buy?” “How do I get my purchase from its space to my truck?” “How am I going to do this?”
Never fear, because we’ve compiled a helpful list of ways that enhance your on-site experience at Carlisle! Thanks for joining us and enjoy your time at the show!
BRING CASH - The more the better. It’s hard to negotiate a deal without being able to pay.
WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES - It’s a lot of walking.
SUN BLOCK/DRINK LIQUIDS - You’ll be in the sun all day. It’s important to protect yourself and stay hydrated, especially if your weekend outdoors is your first prolonged exposure to the sun for the year.
REMEMBER THE SPACE - Take a picture of the space location or write it down. Every space at Carlisle has a disk to designate the space. Look down and you’ll see the space marker. Write down the letter and number. Don’t try to remember the space or the surrounding area. You’ll spend the rest of the day looking for it.
COME EARLY - Rare parts and great deals typically happen for the first person to find them. Set up day(s) and the first day of the event are for the serious shoppers.
ACT FAST - If you see a great deal, grab it. If you plan to come back later, it will probably be gone.
NEGOTIATE - It’s a flea market so don’t be afraid to make a REASONABLE offer.
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED - Chances are good that you will find something you weren’t planning to find, so keep your eyes open.
LOOK EVERYWHERE - Even if you are looking for parts for your brand of vehicle, don’t walk past the vendor selling parts for other models or generations just because you assume there’s no way the vendor has what you want. Give their space a look too. They might not only have it, it may be cheap since it’s not what they typically sell.
USE THE CARLISLE EVENTS APP - Use the FREE Carlisle Events app to easily find your way back to a vendor (if you know the row and space). You can also use it to check activity schedules, register for other events, connect with fellow enthusiasts via social media, browse a digital copy of the event guide and more.
STAY LATE – There are always deals at Carlisle, but sometimes the best ones happen early on day 1 of a show, or late on its final day.Vendors are typically more willing to negotiate when they are packing up – especially large items.
BRING A SHOPPING LIST - Our memories aren’t as good as we think. Write it down. You can even make a list on your phone. Take pictures of what you need.
BRING A BAG, CART, ETC. - Parts will get heavy so have a way to carry your purchases. Ask the seller if you can leave heavy parts until later.
HAVE IT HAULED - Carlisle Events offers FREE* parts hauling. Keep that in mind if you’re looking at an engine, transmission, truck bed, etc.
FREE TAXI SERVICE – Need to get from point A to point B but don’t feel like walking it? Carlisle Events offers a FREE* taxi service. Dial 717-960-6429 to secure a ride.
ASK! - If someone has parts for a vehicle but not the ones you need, ask if the seller has it. It might still be in his truck or at home. Even if he doesn’t, he might know someone who does.
KNOW THE VALUE - Do some homework on the parts you’re looking for so you know if the price is a good deal.
AVOID THE CROWDS - When you arrive, go to an out-of-the-way area to start rather than following the herd.
WALK IT ALL - Don’t miss any rows. The Carlisle Fairgrounds isn’t a perfect grid so make sure you hit every row and space.
ADVERTISE - Wear a hat, shirt or signboard that spotlights what you’re looking for. It just might create a conversation, especially if what you’re searching for is obscure and/or rare.
*While parts hauling and taxi service are free, donations are graciously accepted. Donated money goes directly to the Chip Miller Amyloidosis Foundation.
Free Admission with Event Ticket during Rear View Mirror Sunday
Bought a Ticket for the Event? Bring it Back on Sunday and Get In for FREE
Enjoy the final moments and aspects of what surely was an amazing event weekend. Gates open at 7AM to start shopping for last minute deals from remaining vendors.
Enjoy the final moments and aspects of what surely was an amazing event weekend. Gates open at 7AM to start shopping for last minute deals from remaining vendors.
Activities begin at 9AM with the posting of Showfield award winners. Event winners will have the opportunity to participate in the winners parade! Showing off their big win!
Sunday at Carlisle offers FREE parking in any Carlisle operated parking lot. Additionally, if you had purchased an event ticket from a prior day, bring it back in on Sunday and get in for FREE (or pay regular admission without an event ticket from prior day)!
Sunday's will operate as follows:
Gates Open at 7AM
Buildings T, Y & Z Open at 7AM
Guest Services Opens at 9AM
Vendor Services Opens at 8AM
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