Rose Festival Car Show
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[ Credit to Junkyard Digs for making us aware of this event. ] 

What to Expect

The 15th Annual State Center Car Show is a key highlight of the 68th Annual State Center Rose Festival, taking place on Saturday, June 20, 2026. Located in the heart of downtown State Center, IA, with expanded exhibition space on Main Street and 1st Ave South, this event showcases a diverse collection of cars and trucks.

Attendees can look forward to a full day of automotive excitement.

Registration for exhibitors runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, followed by participant judging from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The show features a variety of awards, including Top 50, Best in Show ($500), Best Engine ($100), Best Paint ($100), Best Interior ($100), and Best Motorcycle ($100). A major draw is the 2nd Annual Burn Out Pit, offering thrilling action. Beyond the vehicles, the event is complemented by typical Rose Festival market stands, providing a festive atmosphere for all ages.

Tips for Attending

• Arrive Early: To get the best viewing spots and experience the full range of vehicles, consider arriving closer to the 10:00 AM start for registration and early viewing.
• Check for Updates: For the latest information on exhibitor and general admission details, monitor the official State Center Car Show Facebook page.
• Explore the Festival: The car show is part of the broader 68th Annual State Center Rose Festival (June 18–21), so plan to explore the market stands and other festival activities in downtown State Center.
• Be Prepared for Crowds: As a popular festival highlight, expect a lively atmosphere and potential crowds, especially around popular exhibits and the Burn Out Pit.

Is it Worth It?

The State Center Car Show is an excellent fit for car and truck enthusiasts who appreciate a wide array of vehicles, from classics to custom builds.

If you enjoy competitive judging, the excitement of a Burn Out Pit, and a vibrant festival atmosphere, this event offers a robust experience.

It's also a great option for families looking for an engaging outing with plenty to see and do, combining automotive passion with local festival charm.

This event might be less ideal for those seeking a quiet, purely static display of vehicles without the accompanying sounds and energy of a festival.

Individuals sensitive to loud noises, such as those from the Burn Out Pit, or who prefer smaller, more intimate car gatherings, might find the larger festival setting and energetic activities less appealing.

FAQ

When and where is the State Center Car Show held?

The 15th Annual State Center Car Show takes place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in the heart of downtown State Center, IA, with exhibition space on Main Street and 1st Ave South.

What are the main activities and times?

Exhibitor registration runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, followed by participant judging from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM. The event also features a 2nd Annual Burn Out Pit and various awards.

What kind of vehicles will be on display?

The show features a diverse range of cars and trucks, with awards for categories like Best in Show, Best Engine, Best Paint, Best Interior, and Best Motorcycle.

Is there an admission fee?

General admission details are not specified. It is recommended to check the official State Center Car Show Facebook page for the latest information.

Is this part of a larger festival?

Yes, the car show is a major highlight of the 68th Annual State Center Rose Festival, which runs from June 18–21.

Nearby Car Shows in State Center, IA

Rose Festival Car Show in State Center, Iowa draws enthusiasts from across iowa, making it a strong choice for car lovers in nearby communities. Whether you're coming from Haverhill, IA just minutes away, Rhodes, IA to the south, and Laurel, IA further southeast, this event is well within easy driving distance. Attendees also travel from neighboring towns like State Center, IA, Colo, IA, Saint Anthony, IA, and Collins, IA, which gives this event real regional reach. If you're searching for car shows near Albion, IA, Zearing, IA, Baxter, IA, and Nevada, IA, Rose Festival Car Show in State Center is one of the standout automotive events in the area.