Car Shows

Grand National Roadster Show 2024

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GM Scene Magazine®

O'Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show 2024

Though there are many car shows on the planet, every one of them pales in comparison to the history and prestige of the Grand National Roadster Show. Held on February 2nd-4th, 2024 at the Fairplex in Pomona, CA, the 74th annual O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show hosted hundreds of the nation’s finest hot rods, customs, lowriders, muscle cars, trucks, and even motorcycles took center stage in a symphony of horsepower and craftsmanship. The grounds, littered with glittering chrome and paint from these top-notch custom rides, set the stage for the weekend, which was a thrilling ode to automotive excellence and innovation.

As the gates swung open on that crisp but dry February day, enthusiasts were greeted by a dazzling array of meticulously crafted vehicles. The excitement was intense, and the crowd’s collective gasp echoed through the halls as they laid eyes on the sheer artistry on display. The heartbeat of the event is the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) competition, which celebrates jaw-dropping design to traditional rides. With previous winners like George Barris and Boyd Coddington, the battle for the title is always strong. Winning the award also comes with some prizes like getting your name engraved on the coveted 9-foot-tall trophy and a cash award of $12,500.

Amidst the sea of sparkling engines and gleaming metal, the Al Slonaker Memorial Award contenders lined up, each vehicle telling a unique story of passion and ingenuity. The feature building echoed with the high-horsepower salute to “Street Machines: Then & Now,” a captivating journey through the evolution of powerful vehicles from 1955 to the present. In this building, there was even a three-day Camaro Build by Orange County Hot Rods that transformed a family heirloom into a cutting-edge pro touring street machine.

Beyond the exhibition halls, the Grand Daddy Drive-In brought the excitement outdoors, where hot rods, muscle cars, and classics vied for attention and the chance to take home a coveted award. The three-day Cruise-In offered enthusiasts the perfect platform to showcase their rides, share stories, and revel in the collective passion for all things automotive. The event wasn’t just about cars; it was a celebration of culture, history, and the indomitable spirit of hot rodding. The Suede Palace transported attendees back in time, offering a nostalgic haven for those enamored with the ‘40s-’60s aesthetic.

In the spirit of giving back, the Pinstriper Charity Auction added a heartwarming touch to the weekend. Talented pinstripers turned ordinary items into unique works of art, with all proceeds benefiting Teen Challenge of Southern California. The event embodied not just a passion for cars but a sense of community and philanthropy.

As the daylight faded on the final day of the Grand National Roadster Show, the memories of shiny engines, gleaming chrome, and the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts lingered in the air. The 74th edition had not only lived up to its legacy but had surpassed expectations, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who reveled in the excitement of this automotive extravaganza.

GM Scene Magazine®