Driven to Connect: Your Guide to Automotive Events in Elkhart & Beyond

In Northern Indiana, cars are more than a way to get from point A to point B—they’re a passion, a lifestyle, and a powerful way to connect with the community. At Lochmandy Motors, we’re proud to be at the heart of Elkhart’s thriving automotive scene, where chrome gleams, engines roar, and enthusiasts of all kinds gather to celebrate the drive.

Whether you’re showing off your classic muscle car, sipping coffee while admiring custom builds, or taking in a parade of vintage icons, this is your guide to automotive events worth experiencing—from our own backyard to regional showcases that deserve a road trip.

 Spring Fling: Kick Off the Season in Style

Each spring, the Saturday after Mother’s Day marks the unofficial start of show season in Elkhart with our annual Spring Fling & Classic Car Show. Hosted at Lochmandy Motors, this all-makes, all-models event is open to anyone who wants to show off their ride—and admire others.

Picture this: rows of beautifully restored classics, custom hot rods, and modern performance machines lined up under sunny skies, with music, food trucks, and friendly conversation all around. It’s a welcoming, high-energy event that brings together collectors, families, and first-time car show guests alike.

 Cars & Coffee: Casual Meets for Serious Enthusiasts

Throughout the year, we host Cars & Coffee events across various Lochmandy dealership locations. These relaxed morning gatherings are the perfect excuse to fire up your weekend toy and cruise in for a cup of joe.

There’s no registration, no entry fee—just a shared love for vehicles and a welcoming space to swap stories, get inspired, and start the day right. Exotic owners, Mopar fans, vintage collectors, and daily drivers all mix together at these laid-back meetups. Stay tuned to our social media for upcoming dates and locations.

 BooFest: Where Jeeps Meet Tricks and Treats

Held annually on the Saturday before Halloween, BooFest is one of our most anticipated events of the year—especially for Jeep lovers. Co-hosted with the Michiana Jeep Club, BooFest transforms our dealership grounds into a fall festival complete with:

• Live Jeep obstacle course demos
• Trunk-or-treat stations
• Costumed show vehicles
• Food trucks and vendors
• Kid-friendly games and giveaways

Whether you’re behind the wheel of a Wrangler or pushing a stroller dressed as a mini Batmobile, BooFest is the perfect mix of horsepower and holiday spirit.

 Partnering with Passion: Clubs We Support

 Michiana Jeep Club

Lochmandy Motors is proud to host the Michiana Jeep Club’s monthly meetings at our Elkhart service department (every second Monday at 6:30 PM). This energetic, inclusive group welcomes all Jeep owners—from daily drivers to fully tricked-out off-roaders.

In addition to BooFest, they also coordinate annual events like the Jeep Jamboree, trail rides, charity poker runs, and social gatherings throughout the year. If you’re into Jeeps, this is your tribe.

 Local Mopar Enthusiasts

You’ll often spot Mopar fans showing off their Chargers, Challengers, and Cudas at Spring Fling or Cars & Coffee. The passion runs deep—expect burnout tales, restoration tips, and plenty of HEMI rumble.

 Elkhart’s Automotive Highlights

 Elkhart Auto Fest

Held each summer at the Omega Event Center, this open-format show welcomes all collector cars—no registration required. Each year features a special theme (like “Year of the Pontiac”), plus food trucks, music, and a strong local turnout.
 elkhartautofest.com

 Gateway Mile Auto Fest

Downtown Elkhart transforms into car-central each summer, starting with a Friday night cruise and continuing with a full Saturday street show. Expect hundreds of classic and modern vehicles, vendor booths, and a high-energy festival vibe.
 dodowntownelkhart.com

 Classic Car Cruise-In at the 4-H Fair

A local favorite during the Elkhart County 4-H Fair in Goshen, the Classic Car Cruise-In caps off the week with a huge display of vintage rides in a nostalgic fairground setting.
 4hfair.org

 Michiana Auto Mania

This high-octane event at the RV/MH Hall of Fame features burnout pits, monster truck rides, vendor markets, and a massive vehicle showcase. It’s part festival, part adrenaline rush, and all about car culture.
 michiana-automania.com

 Road-Worthy Adventures: Must-See Regional Events

 Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival

Just southeast of Elkhart, Auburn hosts one of the most prestigious vintage car festivals in the Midwest. The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival, held each year before Labor Day, features auctions, a parade of classics, a black-tie gala, and a club show in historic Eckhart Park.
 acdfestival.org

 Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb

Every fall, the town of Newport, Indiana hosts this one-of-a-kind event featuring timed hill climbs by vintage vehicles. The festival also includes a parade, flea market, car show, and tons of family-friendly fun.
 newporthillclimb.com

 Detroit Autorama

Held annually in late winter, Detroit Autorama is a bucket-list event for hot rod fans and custom car builders. With 800+ vehicles and the legendary Ridler Award at stake, it’s one of the most respected shows in the country.
 autorama.com

 Lochmandy Motors: Your Local Garage, Showroom, and Starting Line

Whether you’re prepping a car for show season, looking for your next ride, or just want to stay connected with the local scene, Lochmandy Motors is here to help.

•  Browse inventory: lochmandy.com
•  View used vehicle specials: Used Vehicle Deals
•  Schedule service or detailing: Service Center
•  Join an event or club—no invite needed

 See You at the Show

From dealership-hosted celebrations to iconic regional festivals, Northern Indiana is a powerhouse of automotive pride. So fire up your engine, mark your calendar, and join us for a season of community, craftsmanship, and car culture.

Let’s make every season a car season—together.