Carlisle Events is iconic in that the company brand has been part of automotive circles since 1974.  While that may be the case for the Miller families and their company, something more iconic is the Ford brand, which has a history dating to 1903 with Henry Ford.  Fast forward to 2024 and each brand showcases significant milestones.  At this year’s Carlisle Ford Nationals (May 31-June 2), not only is it about 50 years of Carlisle Events, but it’ll be about 70 years of the Y-Block AND 30 years dedicated to car clubs that are passionate about both the event, and Ford Motor Company.

Gates open at 7 AM daily for the annual showcase of all things Ford and this year, the National Parts Depot Showfield hosts a Y-Block Reunion.  From 1954-1964, Ford’s Y-Block engine sales dominated the V8 market.  Popular in Fords and Mercurys of the time, it replaced the Flat Head as the engine of choice for enthusiasts.  Fast forward to late May and guests can count on a great display tent on the north side of the grounds hosting a selected group of those awesome Fords.  

In addition to the Y-Block Reunion, modern Ford fans can count on two new Showfield classics specific to RTR vehicles.  RTR owners are cut from a different cloth and no doubt have a special piece of engineering parked in their garage.  Starting this year, the National Parts Depot Showfield will expand its class offerings to include Class 190 (all RTR Mustangs) and Class 195 (all RTR vehicles/Non-Mustang).  2024 and beyond will be THE time to show off the raw emotion that comes with owning an RTR and what better place to do so than the Carlisle Ford Nationals.  This display, and others previously announced, are still actively accepting submissions for consideration at CarlisleEvents.com.  The submission process is ongoing into at least the first quarter of 2024.  Apply today for display consideration.

No one element of the Carlisle Ford Nationals would be possible without dedicated owners and fans of all things Blue Oval.  Dating to the first-ever Ford Nationals in 1995 and ever since, there are car clubs who call Carlisle home and have done so for nearly 30 years.  In fact, this year, as part of the Carlisle 50^th honors, Ford weekend will recognize “Charter” Carlisle Ford Nationals car clubs.  This special ceremony is planned for Friday, May 31 at the stage (time TBD).  Showgoers are encouraged to stop by the stage to see some of the enthusiasts/clubs who have been part of the Ford fun since day one!

Mix the Y-Block display in with club honors and previously announced themes, and that will make Carlisle the center of the Ford universe for three days only starting May 31.  Don’t have something that fits the bill for a featured display, but own a show vehicle?  Showfield registration is open now.  Full details on the event, links to purchase tickets, and more are available at CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855 today.