What to Expect

The Iola Car Show & Swap Meet is set to take place in Iola, Wisconsin, from July 9 to July 11, 2026. This multi-day event combines a comprehensive car show with a large swap meet, offering attendees the chance to view a wide array of vehicles and search for automotive parts and memorabilia. Expect a bustling atmosphere with fellow enthusiasts.

Tips for Attending

Plan Your Visit

As a multi-day event, consider planning which days you'll attend and what you hope to see or find. The event runs from July 9 through July 11, 2026, in Iola, Wisconsin. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended for navigating the show grounds and swap meet areas.

Be Prepared for the Elements

Taking place in July, the weather in Wisconsin can be warm. Dress in layers, wear a hat, and stay hydrated throughout the day. Sunscreen is also advisable for extended outdoor exposure.

Swap Meet Strategy

For those focused on the swap meet, arriving early can provide the best selection of parts and unique finds. Bringing cash in various denominations is often beneficial for vendor purchases, as not all sellers may accept electronic payments.

Is it Worth It?

The Iola Car Show & Swap Meet is an excellent fit for dedicated car enthusiasts, collectors, and individuals actively seeking specific automotive parts or unique memorabilia. If you enjoy large outdoor events, the camaraderie of fellow gearheads, and the thrill of discovering rare items, this event offers a rich experience over several days. It's also suitable for families looking for an engaging summer activity centered around automotive history and culture.

Conversely, this event may not be a great fit for those with little interest in cars or automotive parts, individuals who prefer smaller, quieter gatherings, or those who are sensitive to large crowds and potentially warm summer weather. If you're not prepared for extensive walking and browsing, the scale of the event might be overwhelming.

Special Guest Appearances

Derek Bieri

Derek Bieri, the face of Vice Grip Garage, is a fan-favorite YouTube creator known for reviving long-forgotten vehicles and driving them home against all odds. This marks his 4th year appearing at our show, and his hands-on, down-to-earth love of classic cars keeps crowds coming back for more!​

Patrick Duffy & Linda Purl

Patrick Duffy and Linda Purl are beloved television and film actors, best known for iconic roles in series like Dallas and Happy Days, along with decades of work on stage and screen. Appearing together, they bring classic star power and timeless Hollywood charm to the show.​

Shaun Umscheid

Shaun Umscheid—better known as the “What? Nooo Waaay!” guy—is a viral car-show personality famous for his over-the-top reactions to incredible builds. His genuine excitement and big-energy enthusiasm have made him a fan favorite across the car community.​

Emily & Aaron Reeves

Emily and Aaron Reeves of Flying Sparks Garage have been staples of the car show for several years, known for their hands-on builds, metal fabrication, and down-to-earth garage know-how. Their craftsmanship, humor, and genuine love of cars make them a longtime fan favorite year after year!

FAQ

When is the Iola Car Show & Swap Meet?

The event takes place from July 9 to July 11, 2026.

Where is the event located?

It is held in Iola, Wisconsin.

What kind of event is it?

It is a multi-day car show combined with a large swap meet, featuring a wide range of vehicles and automotive parts for sale.

Automotive Events Near Iola, WI

Held in Iola, WI, Iola Car Show & Swap Meet attracts enthusiasts from around Wisconsin and continues to pull interest from drivers in surrounding communities. Whether you're coming from Manawa, WI just minutes away, Scandinavia, WI to the south, and Ogdensburg, WI further southeast, this event is well within easy driving distance. Nearby cities such as Big Falls, WI, Amherst Junction, WI, Nelsonville, WI, and Rosholt, WI regularly add to the event’s draw and help make it a regional destination. For anyone looking for car shows near Royalton, WI, Amherst, WI, Tigerton, WI, and Marion, WI, Iola Car Show & Swap Meet in Iola stands out as a worthwhile local event to watch.