The Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and Carlisle Expo Center once again served as the epicenter of the automotive world; with Spring Carlisle and its accompanying two-day classic and collector car auction drawing the attention of thousands  Combined, the events, April 22-26 (Spring Carlisle) and the auction (April 23-24) welcomed nearly 100,000 guests from around the world as they bought, sold and traded all things automotive. 

As the traditional season opener since 1977, Spring Carlisle delivered in all the ways possible, including long lines of anxious shoppers well before the 7 AM daily start time at the fairgrounds and top-dollar sales at the auction.  The fairgrounds were filled with activity as vendors, collectors, and hobbyists converged to take part in one of the world’s premier automotive gatherings.

Great weather Wednesday through Saturday morning helped drive steady attendance and consistent traffic across the automotive flea market, car corral, and Manufacturers Midway.  Best of all, Carlisle vendors reported strong engagement as parts, memorabilia, collectibles, and vehicles moved throughout the weekend, while attendees continued to find everything from restoration necessities to one-of-a-kind automotive treasures.

The ARMO Hot Products Showcase by the stage was a popular destination for show-goers too, as some of the hottest and newest products coming to market were on display direct from the SEMA show in Las Vegas.  Making their East Coast debut, these products were the talk of the tent and are no-doubt part of someone’s “gotta have it” wish list.

A major feature of the week was the two-day collector car auction powered by Carlisle Auctions, which saw a 63% sell through rate and totaled $5.3 million in total sales.  The top-4 selling cars totaled $431.920 and beyond that, nearly $43,000 in charitable dollars came in, including just over $36,000 for the Fund the Firehouse program. 

Spring Carlisle 2026 once again proved why it remains a cornerstone of the automotive hobby calendar.  From first-time visitors to seasoned collectors, the event delivered on days of deals, discoveries, and shared passion.  Another great showcase for attendees to enjoy was a one-day only display by way of the America 250 PA experiential mobile unit.  This traveling museum offered photo ops, interactive trivia, prizes and more on Wednesday the 22^nd.

Carlisle Events now turns its attention to the remainder of its 2026 car specific events, including the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals car show (May 15-16).  The next Spring Carlisle offering is scheduled for April 21-25, 2027, with the auction happening April 22-23.  Details on all upcoming events, as well as the ability to purchase discounted spectator tickets in advance, are available at CarlisleEvents.com.