Bigger is indeed better and with the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals, guests get the best of the automotive world, literally and figuratively. The 2017 offering runs May 19-21 and this year, Korean cars take center stage. With a showfield parked by country of origin, the 82-acre around the world adventure has something for everyone. From drifting to autocross, burnouts and beauty, seminars, parts shopping and more, Import & Performance weekend isn’t just about classic cars, it’s about classy cars.

One of the best parts about 2017 at Carlisle is that guests may be featured on national TV. Via enthusiast and host Joey Limongelli, Velocity Channel cameras will be onsite filming an all-new show called Legends of Design. The show will highlight the tasteful automotive designs of the import world throughout the years and guests just might find their 15 minutes of fame because of it. Special displays are always a draw too and on-site, guests will see ones dedicated to wagons of the import and performance world, luxury cars and even trucks. There’s also a race prepared vehicle display which is a nice compliment to the autocross and drifting that keeps guests going fast all weekend.

Of course, there are awards available, not just for those showing, but for those who attend as spectators. eJudged.com hosts drive through judging for registered showfield members, while the Passport Program offers all guests a chance to walk the grounds and tour the automotive world, all while getting their special passport booklet stamped. In the end, they’ll get an award too via prizes donated from local businesses.

Aside from the cars and those who show them, this event would be nothing without its passionate base of vendors. From kit car vendors to those selling pieces, parts and collectibles geared to the import lovers, enthusiasts of this show should know that there is no better place to show a car, build a car or find pieces for a car than the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals.

Complete event details are available at www.CarlisleEvents.com. There, specific event activities are listed, there are links to register a car, become a vendor, buy single day or full weekend passes, hotel information and so much more.

Is it possible to make the world’s largest all-Ford event even bigger? In short, yes…yes, it is! The 2017 Carlisle Ford Nationals promise even more cars, more people and more excitement as part of the show that runs June 2-4. Presented this year by Meguiar’s, Ford weekend will pack the National Parts Depot Showfield with 100+ years of automotive history. In addition to the cars and trucks on display, Ford Motor Company brings some of its top products (and people) to Carlisle as well.

Where does one start when trying to talk about what the Carlisle Ford Nationals weekend is all about? Should it be the FREE test drives as part of the ride and drive experience at the Carlisle Expo Center? Should it be the massive showfield that hosts nearly 3,300 cars and trucks? How about the massive swap meet and Manufactures Midway area where thousands of original parts and aftermarket accessories are available for Fords of all eras? What about the special displays or even the downtown Ford parade and street party? See, there isn’t just one thing that draws over 50,000 people to Carlisle; it’s ALL things that draw people to Carlisle.

2017 features multiple displays and brand showcases that make this year’s show extra special. Taking center stage will two 100-year features; one focused on Ford Trucks, the other on Lincoln. Ford weekend also spotlights 60 years of the Edsel as well as 50 years for the GT500 and Cougar. As part of the Cougar fun, guests can see the first-ever Cougar produced. There’s even an E and F code reunion too.

The product walk-arounds from Ford are unmatched as well, with some of the most important people in the company talking to guests about what went into the cars and trucks that are on display or coming onto the market in the coming months and maybe best of all, Ford product experts will be positioned within the Ford Performance Garage taking care of installs, all with the car owner enjoys the show.

Even more aspects of Ford weekend will be announced in the coming weeks and months via the Carlisle Events social media channels and at www.CarlisleEvents.com. While on the web, there are links available to register for the show, buy single day or weekend passes, register to become a vendor and more. It all gets underway June 2 in America’s Automotive Hometown, Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

For the second time in as many February’s, Carlisle Events brought its unique brand of classic car entertainment to central Florida. The event, known as Winter Florida AutoFest Lakeland packed the spacious SUN ‘n FUN campus for four days of family fun. Backed by a two-day car show, a two-day collector car auction and four fun filled days of all things automotive, guests from around the region converged on the grounds. In addition to the awesome array of classic cars and collectibles onsite, Winter AutoFest welcomed Butch Patrick to the show. Butch played Eddie Munster on the iconic ‘60s TV show The Munsters.

In all, the weekend was yet another success for Carlisle Events. From the time the gates opened on Thursday until final load out Sunday, the place was bustling with enthusiasts and families of all ages. Another great feature of the show was the aeronautical nod to what SUN ‘n FUN is all about; aviation. Guests could take Bi-plane rides and hop into a Bell helicopter and see the show from high above! Along with the plane rides, there were two P-51 Mustangs on-site to accompany the nearly 200 car Mustangs and Mustangs car show, plus the SUN ‘n FUN food vendors were busy too. After all, an automotive appetite wasn’t the only thing that needed satisfied for the 40,000+ guests that passed through the gates.

While set up day on Wednesday transitioned into show day on Thursday, the event didn’t fully pick up until Friday when Carlisle Auctions presented its sold-out collector car auction. For two days, collector car lovers were in their own kind of utopia, as the live auction action played out right in front of them. Carlisle Auctions did nearly $3 million in sales, with 401 consignments crossing the block. This number surpasses the totals from February of 2016 and proves once more that the collector hobby is vibrant and stronger than ever.

With this event a wrap, Carlisle Events and Carlisle Auctions turns their collective attention to its “home schedule” and Spring Carlisle. The annual spring event at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds runs April 19-23, with a newly expanded three-day collector car auction at the adjacent Carlisle Expo Center. Carlisle Events and Carlisle Auctions returns to Lakeland for Fall AutoFest later in the year. The fall show wraps the season November 10-12, 2017.

Carlisle Auctions has been moving cars across central Florida auction blocks for half a decade and following its most recent offering as part of Winter AutoFest in Lakeland, results show that the Carlisle Auctions brand and its widely popular events are here to stay! For two days, February 24-25 at the SUN n’ FUN Campus, a small army of Carlisle Auctions’ staffers played host to over 400 classics and thousands of enthusiasts. The auction, as has been the case with EVERY Carlisle Auction, not just those in Florida, was a smashing success.

The auction commenced just after 10 a.m. on Friday the 24th with the first of what appeared to be nearly 100 years of automotive history crossing the block. In addition to classic cars and trucks, merchandise and memorabilia were made available too. As the transactions keep the auction team and bidders busy, the day 1 high seller brought in $42,800. This top ride was a 1935 Auburn Boat Tail Speedster replica and was ultimately the 5th highest selling car of the entire weekend.

As Friday transitioned into Saturday, the auction’s heavy hitting consignments made their way into the arena. Top selling cars included a 1936 Auburn 850Y Supercharged Convertible ($107,800), 2015 Dodge Challenger Hellcat ($56,800), 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe ($51,200) and a 1962 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible ($51,300). Of those four, plus the previously referenced Speedster, the top five cars totaled $309,900. All sales totals include applicable fees.

One of the best parts about the auction overall wasn’t the fact that over 400 cars crossed the block or even the nearly $3 million in sales, it was the increased bidder totals. While anyone who registers to consign with Carlisle Auctions is also granted a bidder pass, hundreds more paid $100 each to be part of the fun and take their chance at owning their first or next classic car. This enthusiasm assured that the 2017 Winter AutoFest auction was the best-ever from a participation stand point and ranks within the top 5 all-time for Carlisle Auctions within the Sunshine State.

With the Winter AutoFest auction in the bag, Carlisle Auctions turns its attention to its first Pennsylvania based auction of 2017. The Carlisle Auctions team is back in action for three jam packed days at the Carlisle Expo Center as part of Spring Carlisle. The newly expanded three-day offering runs April 20-22 and the ability to register as a bidder or consign a car to the auction is available now. Complete details on how to get involved, plus full auction results from Winter AutoFest can be found at www.CarlisleAuctions.com or by calling 717-960-6400.

50! It’s not just the number of states that make up the United States of America. 50 is also the anniversary milestone being celebrated in 2017 by the Camaro and Firebird. As part of this special celebration, Camaro Central & Firebird Central in association with Carlisle Events and the Carlisle Chevrolet Nationals are hosting a dual 50th Anniversary bash at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds June 23-25, 2017.

The weekend showcase doesn’t just tout some of the best from Chevy and Pontiac, it welcomes a top industry vendor in Camaro Central & Firebird Central as presenting sponsor of the celebration and displays. Speaking of displays, the show will offer a Camaro and Firebird display like no other ever put together. Featured will be a timeline display showcasing preserved and restored Camaros and Firebirds throughout the years, including the first ever Camaro! Also, showcased will be modified and custom builds such as Quality Custom Rides’ V12 Camaro owned by Mike Heim. Heim’s car stole the show at SEMA in the fall of 2016 and now it’s making the short trip from Lancaster, Pennsylvania to Carlisle to steal the show once more. Featured along with the modified builds and preserved vehicles will be a few Camaro and Firebird race cars including the Blue Maxi Camaro and a Players Challenge Camaro.

In addition, there will be Camaros and Firebirds in the always popular Solid Lifter Showroom. This display historically brings some top of the line vehicles to a special display in Building Y. SLS is made possible by the Super Car Workshop.

If showing is more of a priority than seeing, the National Parts Depot Showfield hosts more than 30 Camaro and Firebird clubs in attendance and offers an opportunity for Camaro and Firebird owners to share their passion as well.

Guests coming to Carlisle that have a need for speed can take their Camaro, Firebird or any other registered car for that matter to the autocross track or register for a 3-minute thrill of a lifetime as part of the burnout contest.

Finally, NHRA Hall of Famer Bruce Larson is back at Carlisle after a year away to offer Nitrofest to the thousands in attendance with Larson’s USA 1 Top Fuel racer.

All told, this year’s Carlisle Chevrolet Nationals promises to be better than ever, with guests and participants from far and wide. Between the midway, swap meet, car corral, adrenaline based activities and of course the great display of classic and modern show cars, what’s not to see?

Single day and weekend passes for Chevy weekend are available online now at www.CarlisleEvents.com. That web page is also THE source for complete event details, including links to register a show car, become a vendor and more. It all starts June 23 in Carlisle!

A Camaro by itself, one just off the assembly line, can offer its owner power, style and performance without much additional effort. These streetable rides are not uncommon on the National Parts Depot showfield at the Carlisle Chevrolet Nationals. Along with those daily drivers, the grounds have even more cars, Camaros or otherwise that have seen many an aftermarket upgrade. Basically, every car at Carlisle turns heads, but none will turn more heads than a special V12 Camaro that will be part of the indoor Building T display. That’s right, a 12-cylinder car is coming to Carlisle in June and for just the price of admission, it can be seen all weekend.

The V12 is owned by Mike Heim of Quality Custom Rides. Heim is a regionally local Pennsylvanian, and he is bringing the V12 to the Carlisle Chevrolet Nationals after a smashing debut at SEMA in the fall of 2016. While guests will want to see the entire car, the engine itself will be getting a bulk of the attention. This massive power source was designed by Matt and Shane Corish of V12LS.com. The Australian based team debuted this car with Mike at SEMA last fall and it stole the show; so much so that articles are still being written about it months later.

The first-gen Camaro has seen not only its engine bay modified to house the wicked V12, but the car itself has been chopped, its rockers shortened and floor moved up. Heim even diligently worked to add suicide doors and take over an inch out of the roof, giving the car a look not seen on an F-Body car in some time, if ever. All this engineering excellence will stand front and center June 23-25 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and not only will the car be at Carlisle, so will Heim. Guests can see him, ask questions and pick his brain about the time, money and efforts that went into this car. And oh by the way, if any car lover happens to want one of their own, a production/short block version of the V12 will be available starting this year for around $35,000 per engine and a turn key version would see pricing determined by the specific build requests of the customer.

“I was approached by the V12LS guys looking for a car to put a V12LS motor in for a test mule,” said Heim. “The only car I had was my own Camaro that I was working on and since I own a shop, I don't get a lot of time to work on my own projects,” continued Heim. “This is a car I have had for almost 30 years now (the first car I ever bought) and the design that went into this project was one I drew up in 1991, but never had time to actually work on. This motor was the push I needed to get my butt in gear and finish it,” added Heim. “They came to my shop and saw the car and asked if we could get it to SEMA. That was December 2015 and we got it there by October 2016. Showing it to the public at Carlisle would be great during the 50th anniversary of the Camaro. I am a first-generation nut and the timing couldn't be more perfect!”

Single day and weekend passes for Chevy weekend are available online now at www.CarlisleEvents.com. That web page is also THE source for complete event details, including links to register a show car, become a vendor and more. It all starts June 23 in Carlisle!

The Hasbro brand is known for its hugely successful line of toys and in some cases, the movies and/or TV shows those toys have spawned. One such toy line and franchise is Transformers. In 2017, the Carlisle Truck Nationals will showcase an Optimus Prime fan-built replica truck, August 4-6 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds as part of the annual event. The Optimus Prime fan-built replica will be part of the Big Rig showcase this summer and it’s something no one should miss out on. In front of this summer's international release of the next Transformers movie, fans of the franchise and truck weekend alike should make plans to be at Carlisle!

Approved as an official replica by Hasbro, the truck is a 2017 Western Star 5700 XE. When it started on the factory floor, its one and only purpose was to become an Optimus Prime replica. Its highly-customized look makes it true to what was seen on the big screen as part of Transformers 4 and will closely resemble its official counterpart for this summer's Transformers 5 movie. Artists and fabricators from around the country were involved to assure no detail was missed. Counting this replica, there are only three Optimus Prime trucks in existence built with this design. Basically, the chances of ever seeing this type of truck in person are slim so, coming to Carlisle in August is a must do for everyone!

In addition to seeing the rig, guests will have a chance to sit in the driver's seat and snap a photo too. While the experience of the truck is free, an additional fee for photos and up close experiences with the truck may apply. Regardless, Truck Nationals guests should make a point to attend and see the truck; after all it’s an experience that just might transform their life!

Complete details on the truck nationals can be found at www.CarlisleEvents.com. In addition, links are active online today to register a truck for the event, purchase day or weekend passes or to simply sign up to be a vendor at the show. With monster trucks, big rigs, lowered and lifted trucks, plus a kid’s zone with family fun all around, the 2017 Carlisle Truck Nationals is a weekend not to be missed.

Two times a year Carlisle Auctions does business in central Florida and judging by the success of these two events, maybe two just isn’t enough. The Pennsylvania based auction team returns to Lakeland and the SUN ‘n FUN campus as part of Winter Florida AutoFest for two-days only, February 24-25. The collector car auction offers more than just classic cars, there are trucks, motor coaches, collectibles and more; all available to the highest bidder. Best of all, demand to be involved is such that the Carlisle Auctions’ streak of sold out consignment lots continues, in fact every Carlisle Auction ever produced in Florida has sold out!

As sold out numbers go, the two-day auction hosts over 400 available lots and items up for bid are an automotive time capsule. At least 100 years of machinery will move and the auction is ultimately a great way for someone to either add to an already impressive classic car collection or maybe just serve as a way to jump start a newbie into the hobby. Regardless, demand is high; meaning the quality and quantity of consignments continues to increase. Also increasing is demand to be part of the fun as a bidder and that trend is proving once more to be true with a jump in pre-event bidder registration. Better yet, a 50% off bidder’s discount package is available by using the promo code 2-Bid when registering. This discount is available now through February 24 by calling 717-960-6400.

With over 400 consignments, it’s impossible to mention all of them, but a pair that stand head and shoulders above the rest are a 1937 Ford Woodie and a 1974 Pontiac Trans Am. The Woodie is blue on the outside with a tan interior and is powered by a 350-cubic inch engine. With an immaculate restoration under its belt, it’s perfect for cruising due to its IFS chassis, full custom interior, AC, power steering and power breaks. Not to be out done, the ’74 Trans Am is a powerhouse waiting to be opened up on one of Florida’s many great highways. Painted Buccaneer Red with an amazing white interior, the screaming chicken on the hood lets everyone know what this car is all about. This car is original all around, with just 44,000 miles on the engine/drive train and nearly everything that makes this car go and be what it is…yep, also original!

Many more of the 400+ consignments are available for review at www.CarlisleAuctions.com. This web page is also home base for all things related to this and any of Carlisle Auctions other three events. Learn about the FREE UNLESS SOLD guarantee, how to get involved with an upcoming event and more. FINALLY, given that Winter Lakeland consignments are some of the strongest ever, bidders are encouraged to continue pre-registering for the weekend. This event truly does offer more cars, more people and even more excitement and it all starts February 23 with Carlisle Auctions and Carlisle Events at Winter Florida AutoFest in Lakeland.

It’s car show season at Carlisle! The 2017 Carlisle Events season schedule is two events in and with 10 remaining; the real fun starts April 19 as Spring Carlisle takes over the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds. This five-day extravaganza welcomes 100,000 guests from around the world, all looking for something, be it automotive related or collectible. Spring Carlisle runs April 19-23 and includes the always popular swap meet, a car corral and a three-day collector car auction, powered once more by Carlisle Auctions.

It all gets underway on the 19th. While this is the official first day of the show, it also serves as a load in/set up day for vendors. The 8,100 spaces available on grounds will come to life with everything from the simple to the exotic. If X marks the spot still means something to enthusiasts who love to hunt and pick, then Spring Carlisle has an X at every turn. Hidden gems, treasures collectibles, hard to find items; it all adorns the grounds at Carlisle. Some of those gems are part of the general swap meet, others within the North Side Collectors Corner; which by popular demand returns for 2017. Combine that with 100 years of automotive history available for sale within the car corral and even some future classics and daily drivers within the Daily Driver Blow Out, and Spring Carlisle really does have it all.

Day two of Spring weekend is also the start of the collector car auction. ALL NEW for 2017, Carlisle Auctions presents a three-day auction. The auction starts mid-afternoon on April 20 and 21, with a morning start time on April 22. Over 400 consignments, plus memorabilia/collectibles will cross the block and via the Carlisle Auctions FREE UNLESS SOLD guarantee.

Spring Carlisle also hosts FREE metal fabrication seminars on the stage. Presented by Steve Mercurio of Pro Metal Shop, the seminars are a great way for the DIY enthusiast to learn the simplest ways to work with metal. Mercurio will be doing his thing all weekend long, so anyone wondering by is invited to stop in for a quick tutorial/Q&A session.

Another great event aspect is the ARMO Hot Products Showcase. See in person the latest and greatest products coming onto the market with ARMO and talk to their product EXPERTS about how what they are showcasing and how it can work for any vehicle from today or yesterday.

Ultimately, an automotive utopia like Spring Carlisle happens just once a year and demand for the action is very high. Weekend and single day tickets are available online via www.CarlisleEvents.com. In addition, the Carlisle Events web page also offers complete event information, contact information and more. Finally, auction details on the three-day Spring Carlisle Auction can be found at www.CarlisleAuctions.com.

It’s becoming a bit of a tradition for the team at Carlisle Events to not only showcase classic cars as part of its AutoFest events in Lakeland, Florida, but to also bring some of TV’s most iconic stars to town too. The trend continues February 23-26 at the SUN ‘n FUN campus with the addition of Butch Patrick to event weekend. Patrick, who played little Eddie Munster on the ‘60s TV show The Munsters will be on hand all weekend to meet fans, sign autographs and more.

As mentioned above, Patrick is best known as Eddie Munster from the CBS comedy that ran from 1964-1966. He reprised the role for a 1966 feature film and also starred as Mark on the ABC Saturday morning series, Lidsville from 1971-1973. It’s his Munsters career that endeared him to millions though and it’s that role and its corresponding popularity that brings him to Lakeland.

"I was just happy to be part of a TV show that has such a timeless following,” said Patrick from his home in Florida. “People today really seem to enjoy nostalgic shows with real family values even if it’s a family of lovable monsters."

In addition to Patrick himself, he’s bringing with him a handful of ghoulishly unique cars. The Munster’s themed display not only includes Patrick, but the Munster Koach and Dragula tribute cars, the ORIGINAL 1964 Barris/Von Dutch chain link Schwinn Stingray Bike and other Munsters props, including a Munsters go-cart, baseball bat, Wolf Wolf, miniature spot and street signs.

An autograph for any item brought to the event is $20. In addition, Patrick and his team will have items for sale, including photos, shirts and photo ops with the famed rides that are part of his display. Prices will vary and will be listed at his onsite location. Posed photos are included for free with the purchase of any item from him or with the purchase of an autograph.

Winter AutoFest itself isn’t just about this special guest, but also about a swap meet, car corral, two-day collector car auction and car show. 100 years of automotive history will be on display and the event is unlike anything else in the region, plus it’s affordable family fun. Adult tickets are $10 per day, kids 12 and under are free and complete details are available at www.CarlisleEvents.com.

When the calendar flipped from 2016 to 2017, the Carlisle Events web page began a brief three week countdown until the first event of the year. That event, Auto Mania at the Allentown Fairgrounds, has come and gone and the power of heat in the middle of winter, combined with the passion of thousands of automotive enthusiasts helped once again to make this event PA’s biggest and best indoor, heated swap meet.

From the time the gates opened at noon on January 20 through final load out on Sunday, January 22, the Ag Hall complex was packed. Between the automotive and collectible items for sale and the neighboring farmer’s market, everyone was treated, in one way or another, to a deal at every turn. From toy trains to vintage signs, classic cars, an Amish prayer buggy, traffic lights, emblems and more, Auto Mania offered the perfect cure for every ailing car guy (and gal) who was sick of the winter temps. For an event that doesn’t officially have a car corral, even that feature was bustling. One vendor had such a great weekend that he flipped two cars Friday, then came back the next day with even more inventory.

Saturday was THE day for Auto Mania. Gone was the distraction of a presidential inauguration, the chance for any adverse weather and any real excuse as to why one would not attend the event. Given the full day of fun, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday drew guests from far and wide. New York, Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and other neighboring states were represented and not only was the main floor footprint hopping, the adjacent hall with body kits, classic cars for sale, shirts, banners and other automotive themed pieces and parts was too. Even the outside vending space was busy, with this year’s footprint two, maybe even three times bigger than in years past. In fact, demand was such that every available space, indoors and out was spoken for.

Sunday helped wrap the weekend and guests that came had one final shot at deals within the swap meet and one last chance to connect with old friends before saying goodbye until “the next time.”

Speaking of the next time, Carlisle Events' next offering comes in one month as staff travel to Lakeland, Florida for Winter Florida AutoFest. That event runs February 23-25 and hosts not only a swap meet and car corral, but a two-day collector car auction AND car show too. There’s unique displays, Air & Coach Concours and more. The auction boasts Carlisle's exciting FREE UNLESS SOLD guarantee as well as other great conveniences related to being part of a Carlisle Auction. A complete rundown of this event and others that follow it are available online via the Carlisle Events’ web page; www.CarlisleEvents.com.

Supply and demand is a powerful dynamic and for 2017, Carlisle Auctions is reacting to the demand by upping its supply. As part of this year’s schedule, the Carlisle Auction team is expanding its auction events at Spring and Fall Carlisle. Instead of two-day auctions running Thursday and Friday, the new format offers auction excitement at the Carlisle Expo Center on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. With the expansion, Carlisle Auctions will professionally showcase even more cars, more people and more excitement.

Spring Carlisle itself runs April 19-23 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and its auction offering, powered by Carlisle Auctions, takes place April 20-22. In addition, Fall Carlisle spans September 27-October 1, while the auction is September 28-30. Both Carlisle-based auctions take place at the Carlisle Expo Center, located at 100 K St. in Carlisle, just one block west of the fairgrounds.

The ALL-NEW three-day format means that cars and collectibles will still cross the block starting at approximately 3 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, but with the added third day, Saturday of auction weekend will also feature available lots. The Saturday auction commences at 10 a.m. With the added day, more cars will be consigned too. Additional consignments also make for an overall better quality event, which in turn, affords the chance for even more bidders to come to the table. Best of all, it’s done via Carlisle Auctions FREE UNLESS SOLD guarantee.

“We are thrilled to be expanding to a three-day format for our upcoming Spring Carlisle Auction,” said Director of Auction Operations Tony Cline. “Fall Carlisle 2016 was our most successful auction ever in quality of consignment, volume and bidder registration. Because of that, we now feel it is the perfect time to move forward with expanded offerings.”

Carlisle Auctions 2017 campaign kicks off in February with a two-day auction in Lakeland, Florida as part of Winter AutoFest. The Spring and Fall events are on the horizon and the auction team is currently accepting consignments for those events. Finally, the auction season concludes in November with a return to Lakeland for Fall AutoFest. This event, much like its sister show in February is a two-day auction. Complete details on Carlisle Auctions can be found at www.CarlisleAuctions.com or by calling 717-960-6400.

The 2017 season is right around the corner for Carlisle Events and as the new year commences, one thing is certain; the automotive excitement at Carlisle will be bigger and better than ever. That statement has never been truer than with the Carlisle Ford Nationals. This annual early June show packs in over 50,000 guests and over 3,000 show cars, plus it showcases 100+ years of Ford history. All-new for 2017, the Carlisle Ford Nationals will be presented by Meguiar’s.

Meguiar’s is a car care products company based in California that has been long time supporters of Carlisle Events and all of its shows for more than 20 years. Annually positioned on the Manufacturers Midway, the Meguiar’s display rig has what’s considered by most to be a permanent spot on the grounds; almost as permanent as the grandstand, stage and showfield that surround it. The rig, flanked by amazing show cars, showcases some of the finest car care products on the planet and with their enhanced involvement in 2017 at the Carlisle Ford Nationals, the footprint and involvement will be bigger and better than ever.

“Meguiar’s is proud to partner with Carlisle Events for the Ford Nationals in 2017,” said Manager, Event Marketing and Motorsports, Tony D’Amato. “We trust Carlisle to produce an event that our brand is proud to be associated with and we also believe that this partnership can strengthen an already thriving event.,” continued D’Amato. “Meguiar’s is looking forward to this wonderful and exciting event.”

“Meguiar’s is one of the preeminent brands in the car world,” added Jim Vinarski, Director of Business and Event Development for Carlisle Events. “They have a full line of high quality products designed to help car enthusiasts pursue their passion. We consider it an honor that Meguiar’s has chosen our Ford Nationals to partner with and support the thousands of automotive enthusiasts who will come to the show in June,” concluded Vinarski.

The 2017 Carlisle Ford Nationals plan to shatter last year’s mark of registered cars with continued and unmatched representation from Ford at the show, the annual downtown parade and street party, a special 50th Anniversary showcase of the GT500 as well as the Cougar and a 100-year display of the elegant Lincoln. The Cougar display plays host to the first-ever Cougar produced and decades of Lincolns will adorn the grounds too. Combine that with every other car and truck on the grounds and guest will find themselves immersed in automotive history – over 100 acres of it. There is a burnout contest, FREE test drives from Ford, a beauty contest, autocross, a massive swap meet, car corral, parts installs and so much more; all starting June 2.

Carlisle opens its season January 20 with a three-day indoor swap meet in Allentown, Pennsylvania followed by a four-day extravaganza in Lakeland, Florida. The “home based” schedule commences with Spring Carlisle on April 19 and the Meguiar’s backed Carlisle Ford Nationals run June 2-4. Complete Ford Nationals and Carlisle Events season details, including links to buy event tickets, weekend or season passes or register for the showfield are available online at www.CarlisleEvents.com or by calling 717-243-7855.

Country music frequently sings about trucks and some very popular athletes and TV personalities have taken turns promoting the benefits of driving and owning a truck. Why? Because trucks help make the country go round. There’s a rugged impression of truck owners and who doesn’t love, as one time Ford pitch man Toby Keith sang about, a “Big Ol Truck?” For 2017, multiple truck brands are celebrating 100 years, but only one of those brands will be showcased at the Carlisle Ford Nationals presented by Meguiar’s AND Carlisle Truck Nationals. From June 2-4 and again from August 4-6, Carlisle Events presents 100 years of the Ford Truck.

It all starts in June with the Carlisle Ford Nationals. This event historically hosts over 50,000 guests and some 3,000+ Fords spanning automotive production. Nearly 40% of the field boasts the Mustang, but the remainder is a wide mix of all things Ford and this year, the remaining 60% will have an increased focus on the Ford Truck. A special invitational display is planned, where truck owners will be showcased and be eligible for special awards too. Ford weekend also welcomes trucks to participate in the always popular burnout and downtown parade and street party. With 100 years of history available the anticipated showcase should be vast.

Two months after the trucks depart Ford weekend, many more return for the Carlisle Truck Nationals. Truck weekend is August 4-6 and hosts over 2,000 trucks, including custom vans, haulers, big rigs and more. The Ford honors continue at the truck show with similar, yet different invitational displays featuring Ford trucks. You can expect to see Ford trucks represented throughout the event to include the manufacture midway, monster trucks shows, rides and from enthusiast clubs around the field. The event also features truck specific competitions including drop and drag, burnouts, low truck limbo and a high truck contest.

Together, both shows will focus on thousands of trucks spanning a century of production. Plans are in the works for truck specific guests, engineers, seminars, installs, product showcases and more.

“This will be a spectacular showcase of all things Ford Truck at Carlisle in 2017,” noted Ed Scholly, event manager of the Carlisle Truck Nationals. “Trucks of all sizes help move America and the Ford brand has historically produced some of the most reliable and unique trucks ever. The combination of Ford’s elegance and the love of the truck will make these two events something to experience in person.”

Registration is ongoing now for the Carlisle Ford Nationals and Carlisle Truck Nationals. In addition, special showfield discounts are available through the Gate-N-Go deadline and there is even an additional savings via multiple show and multi vehicle registrations too, so Ford truck owners can join us for both events. For Ford Nationals weekend, the Gate-N-Go deadline is May 1, while Truck Nationals discounts run through July 3. Online ticketing is also available for anyone looking to secure a day or weekend pass in advance of the shows. Complete information is available now at www.CarlisleEvents.com.

TV cameras and TV hosts have become the norm at Carlisle rather than the exception as of late and that trend continues in 2017 as part of the Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals. This year’s Import & Performance weekend runs May 19-21 at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds and features Korean cars, while also showcasing some of the best vintage imports, tuners and performance sport compacts from around the world. While 20,000+ guests and nearly 2,000 cars are anticipated, what is confirmed is that joining them in May will be a production team representing Discovery’s Velocity Channel.
This is not the first time Carlisle has been seen via Velocity, but it’ll be the first time in quite some time that the Import & Performance event gets its turn in the spotlight. The new program, entitled Legends of the Design, will air later in the fall and be comprised of 10 episodes filmed at shows around the country. Of those 10, one, maybe two of them will be set in Carlisle.

Legends of the Design is co-hosted by author and car collector “GT Joey” Limongelli as well as Maria Prekeges and will give those showing and attending at Carlisle their chance for 15 minutes of fame and to be able to brag that their car is now “as seen on TV.” Joey, Maria and the crew will scour the Carlisle grounds looking for cars that highlight amazing designs of the import world. Not only will the cameras flock to these showfield gems, Joey and Maria will speak with owners and enthusiast to better educate viewers on overall design and features. In addition, Joey and Maria will go the extra step, breaking down the who, what, where and why of the car design and its features.

A show like this is a perfect fit for the mixed audience of people and cars that come to Carlisle. According to Joey himself, Carlisle was a must for this upcoming season.

“I’m excited because I’ve been coming to this event for 20 years and I could not think of a better launching point for this all-new TV series,” noted “GT Joey”.”
“The filming of this new show puts our weekend of international automotive excitement on display for the entire world to see…literally,” said event manager Ken Appell. “It is exciting to see this attention brought to such a diverse market and to work with such a professional host as “GT Joey.”

The Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals is currently accepting registrations for the 2017 event. Be it showfield, vendor inquiries or the purchase of single day or weekend tickets, complete details are available by calling 717-243-7855 or online at www.CarlisleEvents.com.

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Carlisle Events is a partner or producer of 12 annual collector car and truck events. Events are held at the Carlisle PA Fairgrounds (Carlisle, PA), Allentown Fairgrounds (Allentown, PA) and the SUN ‘n FUN Campus (Lakeland, FL). The season schedule includes five automotive swap meets of varying size, four auctions, as well as individual specialty shows featuring Hurst branded machines, Corvettes, Fords, GMs, Chryslers, trucks, imports, tuners and performance sport compacts. Founded in 1974 by friends Bill Miller and Chip Miller, events hosted at Carlisle attract more than a half a million enthusiasts annually from all corners of the globe. More information is available via www.CarlisleEvents.com or www.CarlisleAuctions.com.
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February in Florida is an amazing time of year. The weather is perfect, there’s an increase in population due to snow bird migration and maybe best of all, Carlisle Events arrives in Lakeland to offer its unique brand of automotive entertainment via Winter AutoFest. This year’s winter offering takes place February 23-26 at the SUN ‘n FUN campus and showcases a two-day collector car show, two-day classic car auction and overall, four days of automotive excellence.

The event is the second such automotive weekend for Carlisle Events, but the first car show spectacular for a company that historically promotes some of the largest automotive events of their type in the world. February 23, 2017 not only serves as day one of the four-day show, it’s the day where vendors, guests and special showcases load in, set up and prepare for a weekend like no other in the region. There are daily flyovers by classic aircraft, including during the national anthem, a salute and recognition of service members, family entertainment via the Wild Wheels Thrill Arena, helicopter and airplane rides, a motor pool showcase and free DNA kits for parents/kids via the Lakeland Police Department, awesome food and so much more.

What draws guests to Winter AutoFest though, is the ability to see, hear, smell and possibly own a piece of automotive history. With guests’ onsite, Friday and Saturday come to life on campus with the car show and the auction. The car show is open to all types of vehicles; from classic to current, all cars, trucks, motorcycles and really, anything with a wheel and engine are encouraged to participate. There is a car club element that welcomes enthusiasts to enjoy the show with their car club friends, “celebrity judging” with awards offered daily, unmatched camaraderie and some of the best rides the Sunshine State has to offer.

Another great anchor to the weekend is the auction, powered by Carlisle Auctions. The Carlisle Auctions’ FREE UNLESS SOLD guarantee continues to pack this two-day offering with high quality collectibles and sells out from a consignment stand point annually. Over 400 lots cross the auction block and each are priced to sell, allowing the vast bidder gallery the chance to add to a personal collection or start one with the simple nod of a head and the slamming of the gavel.

This is the ultimate event to experience for any gear head and it’s affordable to boot. A single day ticket is just $10, a weekend pass is $30, car show registration is $35 (good for the entire weekend plus it covers a guest/passenger too) and auction packages vary. Contact Carlisle Events today at 717-243-7855 or Carlisle Auctions at 717-960-6400. Finally, complete event information is available at www.CarlisleEvents.com or www.CarlisleAuctions.com.