2022 at Carlisle was a record-setting affair, not just for other car shows, but for the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals.  For the first-time ever, the show car count during Chrysler weekend climbed above 3,000 and with displays, features, and draw of the automotive flea market, 2023 should be yet another one for the history books of Mopar lovers.  This year’s Carlisle Chrysler Nationals is July 14-16 and with three days of excitement, the question lately has been…will it all fit on the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds?  Yes…yes it will, but seeing is most definitely believing.  The event is more than a car show, it’s a reunion of sorts for like-minded friends and family.

Despite the three promoted dates, the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals actually starts, somewhat unofficially, on July 13 with a kick-off party at the neighboring Carlisle Expo Center hosted by the Mopar Rebellion Car Club.  The party starts in the late afternoon/early evening and is FREE for all to attend.  There is a DJ, grilled food for sale, and some other fun elements, but more than anything else, it’s a way to “toe dip” into the automotive excitement planned for the weekend. 

At 7 a.m. on the 14^th, all Hell(cat) breaks loose, with an influx of guests from around the world.  Of course, many of the Showfield show cars and trucks are worth everyone’s time and attention, but along the way, guests will be wowed by the special themed displays.  For this year, those themes focus on the Malaise Era, High School Mopars, 1973 50^th Anniversary, and a general Featured Vehicle Display.  In addition, the Mopar Survivors Tent is back as is Herb McCandless with a tent display of some of his prized rides.

Beyond seeing the cars at Carlisle, there’s a chance to enjoy some track activities for an adrenaline fix and an automotive flea market for parts shopping, too.  The track fun includes a rolling burnout and donut contest presented by Atturo Tires, and the Real Street Shootout (autocross).  There are more wheels in motion by way of impromptu parades on the grounds, which helps bring the cars to the people, no matter where they are on grounds. 

As the automotive flea market goes, there isn’t one bigger for Mopar enthusiasts than the one at Carlisle.  A quarter of the southern portion of the grounds is filled from east fence line to west with car parts, merchandise, collectibles, and memorabilia.  Parts are both NOS and OEM used, giving buyer and seller alike more options than anyone could possibly imagine.  Mix that in with the midway and it’s clear to see why shopping at Carlisle is a must-do for any, make that every, Mopar enthusiast.

The cars may be the stars, but there are some other special guests at Carlisle, too.  In addition to the aforementioned Herb McCandless, the Ramchargers, and Golden Commandos are back, too.  Also planned for 2023 are Linda Vaughn, Butch Leal, Paul Rossi, members of the “Missile” race team, Dave Rea, and Claudia Abel (Ms. Direct Connection).

The Carlisle Chrysler Nationals is actively taking registrations for the Showfield, vendor registrations for the automotive flea market, and selling discounted spectator tickets in advance of the July 14-16 offering.  Please note, vending spaces are sold out currently due to demand.  Learn more about the competitions, special displays, purchase discounted spectator admission tickets, and get involved today by calling 717-243-7855 or online at CarlisleEvents.com.