Since 1990, Auto Mania has taken place at the Allentown Fairgrounds in eastern Pennsylvania.  Under the guidance of Carlisle Events, Auto Mania has proven to be a the “little event that could” every January at the Agri-Plex facility.  Not only is it indoors and heated, the unmatched power and resources offered by Carlisle Events and its team help make the weekend a great way to start the Pennsylvania- based schedule for Carlisle Events and the Miller families. 

As the first date on the 2020 Carlisle Events season schedule, Auto Mania was a great starting point for those looking to pick up automotive pieces and parts, restoration items, collectibles, merchandise, memorabilia and more.  The outdoor vendor footprint, which has grown exponentially in the past few years, continued its expansion for 2020.   Playing perfectly into the weather for the weekend, a few of the outdoor vendors even had heaters, gloves, hats and scarfs for sale.   

For anyone at the event who was there when gates opened at 12 p.m. Friday, it was clear and obvious that excitement for the three-day affair was running high.   The line stretched around the building and once inside, guests were shoulder to shoulder and aisles were packed with enthusiasts.  The weekend turnout, despite some unsavory weather on Saturday, offered an overall solid result for all involved…including an uptick in gate over 2019’s offering.

To say that one day stood above another shopping wise is a tough call, because with such an influx of guests throughout the weekend, every day was THE day for shopping and camaraderie in Allentown!   For the throngs of guests who made the trip, Auto Mania was the best outlet for parts buying, picking, flipping and just a generally fun time out of the house.  The event wrapped at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 19 with guests taking one final shot at deals within the automotive flea market and one last chance to connect with old friends before saying goodbye until “the next time.” 

Speaking of next time, Auto Mania 2021 takes place January 15-17.  The buzz is so strong with this event among vendors that a large chunk of available spaces were renewed during the 2020 event weekend as everyone anticipates next year’s offering.  In the meanwhile, Carlisle Events next event weekend comes in one month as staff travel to Lakeland, Florida for Winter AutoFest Lakeland.  That event runs February 21-23 at the SUN ‘n FUN Expo Campus and hosts an automotive flea market and car corral, plus a two-day collector car auction powered by Carlisle Auctions.  There’s a big car show theme destined to take over the facility.  This year, the NCRS brings its winter regional meet to the event, plus the Imperial Mustang Club of Polk County returns with its Mustangs and Mustangs show.  There’s a Corvette showcase and all-new for Lakeland, a Mopar showcase.  With special guests, displays and seminars planned, a trip to Florida in February isn’t a bad idea. 

As for the aforementioned auction, Carlisle Auctions anticipates 400+ consignments and boasts its exciting FREE UNLESS SOLD guarantee.  In addition, buyers and sellers can enjoy live auction entertainment and other great conveniences related to being part of a Carlisle Auction.  A complete rundown of this event and others are available online at www.CarlisleEvents.com or www.CarlisleAuctions.com.