Since its inception in 1995, the Carlisle Ford Nationals has proven year after year that it and the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds are the ultimate destination for Ford enthusiasts from around the world.  Whether attending as a spectator to enjoy the sights and sounds, a vendor selling Ford parts and products, or a participant on the National Parts Depot Showfield, the chance to see and be seen each June in Carlisle has become a rite of passage for thousands.   In fact, this year’s show car turnout was 3,538 during the June 5-7, 2026 event weekend.  That makes this not only the second largest Ford Nationals of all time, but the second biggest specialty car show ever held at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds, just behind the 2024 Ford Nationals total of 3,572.

There were countless reasons for people to come to Carlisle.  Sure, there were track activities and special guests, but there was also an amazing collection of anniversary displays and showcases.  From the east side of the grounds to the west, multiple display buildings, tents, and the Showfield itself brought together some of the best vehicles Ford has ever produced.

Highlights included a 60^th Anniversary Bronco Showcase, celebrating the past, present, and future of the iconic SUV; a 50^th Anniversary celebration of the Starsky & Hutch Torino, featuring three screen-used vehicles, nearly two dozen additional examples on the Showfield, and one of the stars of the television series, Antonio Fargas, who portrayed Huggy Bear.  There were also displays commemorating the legacies of Roush and the Ford Taurus.

Inside Building Y, the Carlisle Select display featured a Robert Yates Racing Ford Taurus once driven by NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Jarrett.   Nearby, attendees could also enjoy a collection of IMSA-series Ford Taurus race cars, as well as the famous Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-themed Taurus.

Beyond the cars and displays, vendors offered something for everyone through both the automotive flea market and the Manufacturers Midway.  Buyers and sellers traveled from near and far to take part.  The Midway hosted industry leaders including Ford, RTR Vehicles, Shelby American, KTL Restorations, Fathouse Performance, Saleen and many more key players within the hobby.  From engines and wheels to restoration parts and custom accessories, enthusiasts had no shortage of products to explore.  Many of the Midway partners also participated in stage presentations and walk-arounds, showcasing specific details about their products, builds, and designs while giving guests an opportunity to ask questions, learn more, and take photos.

The action didn't stop when the vehicles were parked.  The grounds came alive with pop-up parades, a rolling exhaust contest, a rolling burnout and donut competition presented by RTR Vehicles plus drift exhibitions by Formula Drift Pro Ben Hobson as well as the Jacks and Jokers Drift Team.  Speaking of parades, the annual Downtown Carlisle Ford Parade, Park, and Party went off without a hitch Saturday night, much to the delight of the Carlisle and Ford communities who came together to welcome the rides into town.  By the time the final cars rolled off the grounds on Sunday afternoon, many attendees were already making plans to return.  In fact, numerous guests secured their vendor spaces or Showfield registrations for the 2027 Carlisle Ford Nationals before even leaving town.

While the 2026 event is now in the books, planning is already underway for 2027.  Mark your calendars for June 4-6, 2027, as the Carlisle Ford Nationals returns with even more of what enthusiasts love—Ford vehicles, track activities, parades, special displays, and much more.  Featured displays/anniversaries include the 70^th anniversary of Edsel, 60^th Anniversary of the Shelby GT500, 60^th Anniversary of the Mercury Cougar, Muscle Mustangs and Fast Fords reunion, and a Ford Heavy Truck reunion.  To register for the 2027 Carlisle Ford Nationals, call 717-243-7855 or visit CarlisleEvents.com for event details, spectator admission information, and more.